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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Detroit

Authentic bars

A neighborhood bar with a genuine, unpretentious character is where the evening belongs.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Medusa Cucina Siciliana image 1
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Sicilian restaurant

Sicilian restaurant offers an intimate yet lively atmosphere with stylish modern decor and a large bar. The space features authentic Mediterranean vibes and a cannoli cart that adds a unique touch to dessert. Music spans multiple genres, enhancing a warm and inviting dining experience.

Dishes show authentic flavors with fresh ingredients and careful execution. Pasta cooks perfectly with rich, traditional taste. Dessert features an authentic strolling cannoli cart that highlights the experience.

Large bar offers plenty of space. Mixologists show strong skill with cocktails. Staff provide personalized attention even when busy.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Sicilian flavors, bold and rooted in tradition."

"The Arancini here make you feel so welcomed and loved by the staff."

"The custom cocktails here are delicious and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant features a private dining room for events and celebrations.

3

Expect a diverse menu with authentic Sicilian dishes made from in-house ingredients.

02
The Lone Goat image 1

Pub combines authentic English atmosphere with an upscale sports bar vibe and dark, snug seating. Dart boards upstairs add a casual game element. Loud music often fills the space, making conversation difficult at times.

Authentic English pub atmosphere shines through with cool interior decor and a vibe that matches classic Irish beer spots. The setting feels genuine and true to its roots.

Sports bar atmosphere blends with an upscale feel and authentic English pub vibe. The Fish and Chips and pub cheese stand out, with lively service even when busy.

People are saying

"It's a cozy pub with an authentic English and Irish feel."

"This bar has such a cozy, authentic pub atmosphere."

"The decor and atmosphere here feel so authentic."

Good to know

1

The lunch special includes a burger or fish sandwich, fries, and a soft drink for $10.

2

The location is convenient for pregame gatherings before Lions and Tigers games.

3

They often run out of popular menu items like chowder and bangers and mash.

03
Jacoby's image 1
German restaurant

Historic bar with shiny wood decor and a speakeasy upstairs creates a nostalgic vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic Detroit with a mix of German beer selection and old-school food. TVs and jukebox add casual energy, blending tradition with lively entertainment.

Food features authentic German recipes made with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere reflects a historic pub vibe that complements the traditional German cuisine and beer.

A historic bar with an authentic pub atmosphere and one of the largest beer selections around. Cozy German vibes come with solid pretzels and a strong sense of belonging.

People are saying

"I thought the German food here was amazing."

"The German food and drinks here are amazing."

"I loved the authentic German food and beer here."

Good to know

1

Kitchen is open until 11:45 PM on Wednesdays.

2

Reservations are required to access the speakeasy upstairs.

3

The bar offers a menu featuring traditional German food.

04
Dakota Inn image 1
German restaurant

Historic building with Bavarian hunting lodge decor creates a cozy, authentic German atmosphere. Live piano entertainment leads lively sing-alongs, filling the space with energy and camaraderie. Free guarded parking and a classic European vibe add to the experience.

Offers authentic German food prepared exactly as in Germany with a hardy, genuine cuisine feel. The atmosphere includes traditional German music enhancing the cultural experience.

The basement bar offers a wide selection of wines for drinking on-site or buying to take home. Bartenders introduce newcomers to the regulars, creating a welcoming atmosphere at the bar seating.

People are saying

"The live piano music and sing-alongs make for a really fun atmosphere."

"I loved the authentic German food, especially the schnitzel and potato salad."

"The bar's atmosphere is lively and full of people enjoying drinks."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy events like Oktoberfest.

2

Parking is secure and available, which is a plus in urban areas.

3

Oktoberfest festivities include live music and group sing-alongs.

05
Lagerhaus No. 5 image 1

Old building with open space and German beer hall seating creates a unique setting. Loud music and live performances give a rock concert vibe that energizes the crowd. Long communal tables and a large fridge stocked with international beers add to the authentic Biergarten atmosphere.

Authentic German food shines with schnitzel and a creamy cucumber salad with dill. The German beer selection features fresh drafts that complement the genuine cuisine.

German style beer hall seating creates a spacious, social vibe with a couple of TVs for entertainment. The bar features a lower kickrail than the seat stringer, adding comfort, alongside high-quality bar food and great service.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing German-style beers here."

"I thought the authentic German food, especially the schnitzel, was amazing."

"The bar has fantastic house-made beers and a huge selection from around the world."

Good to know

1

A tall glass of beer costs $5, making it affordable for visitors.

2

Lagerhaus No. 5 has outdoor seating, perfect for summer visits.

3

They offer a small menu, focusing on quality over quantity.

06
MATI image 1
Greek restaurant

Open space with Greek-inspired decor creates an atmosphere like a patio at a taverna in Greece. Rooftop patio and live Greek music add to the inviting, lively vibe. The place draws groups easily and offers high-end Mediterranean dining with well-spiced meats and standout cocktails.

Dishes here deliver top-notch authentic Greek flavors with most food staying true to tradition. The Greek salad looks less authentic compared to other offerings.

Excellent bar selections come with consistently great service from bartenders like Alyssa, Marcus, and Z who manage busy times with a positive attitude and attentiveness.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"Marcus at the bar took care of us and made great recommendations."

"I thought the Greek food here was great and authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Wine Wednesday features 50% off all bottles of wine on the menu.

3

Ladies night occurs every Thursday with special drink offers.

07
HIROKI-SAN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Underground Japanese restaurant combines dim lighting, open kitchen, and traditional-modern design to create a stylish, intimate atmosphere. Guests engage in a vibrant social scene with sake shared across tables, enhancing lively conversations. Two bars and a sushi bar offer a high-end experience with unique sushi and an impressive sake selection.

Authentic Japanese flavors and ingredients shape the menu, avoiding Americanized versions. Cozy ambiance and a warm atmosphere create an authentic Japanese vibe with friendly service.

Upstairs offers a cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere. Seating by the bar provides views of the open kitchen.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is outstanding, especially the nigiri."

"The octopus and chashu at the bar were delicate and flavorful."

"I found the flavors and experience truly authentic to Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating availability.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait even with a reservation during peak hours.

3

The average bill for two people is around $300, including drinks.

08
Amore da Roma image 1
Italian restaurant

Old brick building with historic charm and rustic decor creates a cozy atmosphere filled with warm lighting and the aroma of fresh herbs. Multiple dining areas and a small bar offer varied seating in a space that feels traditional and inviting. Music adds to the relaxed vibe, making it a place where history and comfort meet.

Italian dishes follow original recipes closely, delivering a nostalgic and authentic taste. Cannoli stands out as a delicious example of the traditional dessert.

Helpful bartenders like Matt and the gentleman recommended by K.J make ordering easy. Service at the bar is consistently attentive.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the tender eggplant parmesan."

"The bartenders here are so nice and attentive."

"I found the Italian cuisine here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the building for convenience.

2

A 3% credit card fee is charged on the entire bill.

3

The restaurant allows ordering off-menu items upon request.

09
Midtown Shangri-La image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy interior with a small upstairs balcony overlooks a full bar and mixes styles for a unique design. Atmosphere feels intimate and casual, with an upbeat yet relaxed vibe. Space is compact, adding to its charm and drawing a steady crowd.

Dishes show authentic Chinese flavors with a strong focus on traditional recipes. The menu offers a mix of authentic and American Chinese food that stays true to its roots.

Well-decorated interior features a second floor balcony overlooking the bar. The full bar offers several inventive drinks in a cozy space with both bar and table seating.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be amazingly good, especially the dim sum."

"You've got to try the dim sum and curries here; they're amazing."

"I enjoyed the authentic Chinese food here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Parking is available in a lot next door for convenience.

3

Lunch combination plates are priced at $17 each.

10
Pegasus Taverna image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers an authentic atmosphere with beautiful decor featuring sculptures and ivy on the ceiling. The space feels cozy yet lively, with low-volume music enhancing the experience. Booths provide comfortable seating amid a setting that evokes a slice of Greece.

Offers authentic Greek cuisine with a family run atmosphere. Food and ambiance feel genuinely Greek and consistently delicious.

Dim lights create a classic tavern vibe where people drink, laugh, and enjoy themselves. Sitting at the bar offers friendly service from helpful staff and a chance to watch TV or chat with others.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be exquisite and amazing."

"I found the authentic Greek food here to be insanely delicious."

"The bar staff here are really nice and attentive."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at Old St Maryโ€™s off of Lafayette during construction.

2

The restaurant is open late with a large menu of Greek specialties.

3

Gluten-free options are very limited on the menu.

11
Xochimilco Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Windowless interior with dim lighting creates a quiet, low-energy atmosphere. Crowded space includes an upstairs bar with live guitar music. Decor and furnishings show wear but margaritas and some dishes stand out as notably good.

Authentic Mexican dishes use lard and traditional recipes. The food delivers a sublime and super authentic experience that draws people from far away.

Upstairs features a nice bar area with attentive staff like James and Sailor. Waiting there works well without reservations.

People are saying

"The food portions here are enormous and delicious."

"I found the Mexican food here to be great and authentic."

"The food and drinks here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and not an issue.

2

The lunch menu prices are affordable.

3

Expect a dirty environment with poorly maintained facilities.

12
Armando's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy and vibrant atmosphere with multiple seating options including a patio and family-friendly areas. The space feels inviting and clean, with a mix of lively energy and relaxed dining. It stands out for its attention to detail in decor and presentation.

The menu features authentic Mexican cuisine with dishes like shredded beef chimichanga and chicken tacos carbon. Drinks include a pitcher of Margaritas that matches the genuine flavors of the food.

A full bar offers a wide selection of drinks. The bar area stays clean and bright, with attentive bartenders.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I loved the authentic Mexican food here; it was so good."

"I sat at the bar and the bartender was awesome."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-7pm Tuesday through Friday with $2 off margaritas and some beers.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos, making it a popular choice.

3

Parking is free, but can be limited on busy nights.

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