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Cool bars in Downtown Detroit

A drink in a space that feels current and carries a distinct energy.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Side Hustle Lounge image 1
Side Hustle Lounge image 2
Side Hustle Lounge image 3
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Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with retro decor and a cozy, old school vibe creates a great atmosphere for casual chatting or quick eats. Music is hip and well-curated, complementing the space's energy. The bar feels intimate and sometimes cramped, adding to its unique character.

A beautifully built bar offers fantastic service and a great cocktail lounge. The space is smaller and can get cramped, but you can order food from the menu while enjoying drinks.

Old school vibe shapes the lounge's atmosphere. Food and overall setting deliver a consistent cool experience.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and amazing."

"The vibe here is really cool."

"Brandon's bar service was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $3 off cocktails and appetizers.

2

The bar can get very cramped due to its small size.

3

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

02
Chenin image 1
Wine bar

Small, intimate wine bar with Mediterranean French coastal design and warm amber lighting creates a cozy atmosphere. The space fills quickly, often with standing room only, and features carefully curated decor reflecting a singular vision. Music plays softly, complementing the relaxed yet lively vibe.

Small intimate setting with a smooth bar countertop and vintage-inspired lighting creates a cozy vibe. Offers a great selection of wine and pays close attention to detail in design and atmosphere.

Very cool vibes fill the space with friendly staff and an owner who engages directly, even mixing pizza dough when asked. The crowd here is consistently hot and cool, adding to the overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"You'll find an amazing, unconventional wine selection here."

"I considered Chenin the best bar."

"The owner's thoughtful involvement makes the whole space feel so cool."

Good to know

1

Chenin does not accept reservations, so arrive early to secure a seat.

2

The bar has only about 10 seats, making it an intimate setting.

3

Chenin serves food late into the night, a rarity in the city.

03
Bad Luck Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Hidden behind an unmarked door in an alley, the bar offers an intimate speakeasy vibe with seating for about 20 patrons. The atmosphere is dark and sophisticated, creating a sense of exclusivity and mystery. Cocktails feature world-class craftsmanship with unique twists, enhancing the overall high-end yet unpretentious experience.

A mysterious speakeasy vibe welcomes guests through a curtain into a swanky setting with an attractive bar wall. Cocktails feature a fun twist and match the phenomenal ambiance perfectly.

A speakeasy vibe sets the tone with a curtained back alley entrance leading to an intimate setting. Low lighting and a cozy atmosphere create a cool, private scene.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and expertly crafted works of art."

"The speakeasy vibe and intimate lighting make this place so cool."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the bar's small capacity of 28 patrons.

2

The entrance is through an alley behind the building.

3

No food is available; drinks only establishment.

04
The Post Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with colorful, vibrant atmosphere and eclectic decor creates a lively, cozy setting. Music plays a key role, featuring DJs on weekends and multiple TVs showing games. Patrons often sign the walls, adding to the welcoming, energetic vibe that feels both edgy and timeless.

An energetic bar with a dive bar feel and cocktail selection offers a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Friendly bartenders share the bar's history while serving reasonably priced drinks and cold beer.

An old sign hanging in the bar adds a vintage charm. The spot has a laid-back vibe that makes it a cool hangout downtown.

People are saying

"The bar has a fun atmosphere and great music."

"The cocktails here were extensive and absolutely perfect."

"It's a cool place to hang out."

Good to know

1

The Post Bar hosts special events like WrestleMania watch parties.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on Friday nights.

3

Drink specials are available throughout the week.

05
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.

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.

A dive bar with a huge beer selection and a hole-in-the-wall vibe. The decor and history add to its cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the German food here was amazing."

"I found the beer selection to be huge and amazing."

"The German food and drinks here are amazing."

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.

06
Detroiter Bar image 1

Small pub with authentic Detroit decor and a comfortable, weathered feel like a neighborhood spot. TVs and touch tunes create a lively atmosphere for sports fans. Offers a friendly, local vibe with a nice patio and free shuttle to major events.

Offers a comfortable, weathered feel like neighborhood pubs with a strong old Detroit vibe. Serves affordable drinks and good food with large portions, plus a free shuttle to major events.

An old building gives the bar a unique vibe. The interior feels like a cool little corner spot with a chill atmosphere for daytime drinks.

People are saying

"I loved the burgers and other bar food here."

"I loved watching the live sports while eating the awesome Detroiter."

"It's a really cool spot with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The bar offers a shuttle service to major events in Detroit.

2

There is plenty of paid parking available nearby.

3

The Detroiter Bar is a short walk to Comerica Park.

07
Tommy's Detroit Bar & Grill image 1

Bar and grill with old-school Detroit sports memorabilia and a 180-year-old bar featuring historical tunnels from Prohibition. Atmosphere feels like a friendly dive bar with a fun, lively vibe and plenty of TVs for watching games. Offers free popcorn and shuttle service to local sports events.

Offers a true dive bar atmosphere with a rich history and stays open late on Thanksgiving eve. Features great bar food, including a whiskey burger, alongside friendly patrons and outstanding staff.

Chill and super cool vibe with no pretentious attitude. Inside features lots of TVs for games and sports memorabilia that highlight its cool history.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the chili and wings."

"The bar's margaritas were simple, with lime and not stingy with tequila."

"The vibe here is super cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Tommy's offers free parking that is well-lit and monitored with cameras.

2

The menu prices are often inaccurate and subject to change without notice.

3

Tommy's provides a free shuttle service to nearby sports events.

08
SPKRBOX image 1

Two-level venue combines coffee shop and bar with live DJs spinning techno and house music in separate spaces. Cozy, intimate vibe with full glass windows and a hidden speakeasy downstairs. Music stays lively late, attracting a crowd that enjoys quality sound without oppressive volume.

Upstairs offers a coffee-based cocktail bar while downstairs hosts EDM and House parties. The spot blends a bar and coffee shop vibe with lively music.

Downstairs area offers a really cool vibe. Bartenders add to the cool atmosphere. The spot attracts a popular crowd known for being cool.

People are saying

"It's a lively place to hang out for coffee."

"The DJ sets here create energetic, vibey dance floor moments."

"I found the atmosphere here to be really cool and lively."

Good to know

1

SPKRBOX hosts numerous DJ nights throughout the week.

2

DJ John 'Jammin' Collins has a Thursday night residency.

3

Expect a $10 cover charge to enter after 1am.

09
Grand Trunk Pub image 1

Pub occupies a historic building with ornate plasterwork and a vaulted ceiling, evoking an old railway station vibe. Atmosphere stays cozy and quiet, with wonderful music at a comfortable volume. Upstairs offers a speakeasy-style private bar, adding a unique touch to the space.

A former railroad station sets a gorgeous atmosphere with a huge selection of beers and fantastic cocktails. Friendly, prompt service complements great bar food like fried pickles and local Michigan beers.

The spot features a cool old train depot space with decor that keeps a well preserved old city vibe. The environment feels nostalgic, like an old trolley station in downtown Detroit.

People are saying

"The bar staff were so friendly and attentive, it made us want to return."

"It's a historic building with amazing architecture and rich history."

"The old train depot building has a really cool, nostalgic vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 pm with $5 drafts and $8 appetizers.

2

The pub offers half-off bottles of wine instead of a traditional happy hour.

3

Private events can be hosted in the Whisky Parlor room upstairs.

10
La Casa Cigars and Lounge image 1

Lounge combines rich cognac leather seating and mahogany woodwork with industrial elements for a stylish setting. Live bands and DJs play in an outdoor bar tent alongside two seating areas, creating a lively vibe. A breathtaking walk-in humidor offers hundreds of premium cigars, complemented by a strong selection of scotch and cocktails.

A full bar service complements a great cigar selection in a lounge with rich cognac leather seating and mahogany woodwork. The bar area offers a mix of old-school cigar lounge vibes and a modern atmosphere.

Smooth, laid back vibe fills the space with a clean, cool atmosphere. The patio adds a chill spot while suave jazz plays in the background.

People are saying

"I found the cigar selection to be great and affordable."

"I loved the amazing and solid cigar selection here."

"It's a cool place with a laid-back vibe and friendly people."

Good to know

1

The lounge hosts live music events every Saturday night with a $10 cover charge.

2

Comedian Dre Murray hosts a weekly comedy night with a rotating lineup.

3

Parking costs $10 next door, but it's not free.

11
DID IT MY WAY DETROIT CIGAR & WINE BAR image 1

Spacious cigar bar with sophisticated decor and excellent ventilation keeps air clean despite crowds. Atmosphere feels upscale and welcoming, with comfortable leather seating and a cozy fireplace. Expertly crafted cocktails complement a vibe that suits both seasoned cigar lovers and newcomers.

An upscale lounge with leather stuffed chairs and a fireplace creates a stylish, welcoming vibe. The bar offers an extensive selection of premium cigars without leaving a heavy smoke smell.

Warm, fun, and effortlessly cool vibes fill a sophisticated, modern space inside a historical building.

People are saying

"This upscale cigar lounge offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere."

"This cigar bar has an excellent selection of premium cigars."

"Jayla mixes drinks with passion and flair, creating a cool, fun atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The kitchen serves food until 1 AM and the bar stays open until 2 AM.

2

You can bring your own cigars for a fee of $10 per cigar.

3

The ventilation system is excellent, preventing smoke odor on your clothes.

12
Candy Bar image 1

Small bar with art deco pink decor and a huge chandelier creates an intimate, vintage vibe mixing 1920s and 1970s styles. Limited seating includes booths and a circular bar, encouraging close socializing. Cocktails are high-end and inventive, paired with simple snacks like cheese plates.

Cocktails come crafted with care by an extremely welcoming and attentive bar staff. The intimate space features art deco decor, a huge chandelier, and a disco ball, creating a unique vibe perfect for cozy gatherings.

Giant chandelier, disco ball, and cool art design create a unique vibe. The wall color and classic setting add to the cool atmosphere. The menu changes with exceptional knowledge.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and knowledgeable about cocktails."

"The bar staff are so friendly and knowledgeable."

"The atmosphere here is so cool, low-key, and warm."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the small size of the place.

2

There is no food service at Candy Bar; it is strictly a cocktail bar.

3

Parking at Candy Bar is limited.

13
The Detroit Club image 1

Historical building offers an intimate ambiance with classic decor and eclectic vibe. Amenities include a spa suite and a saltwater hot tub, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere. Live music and bar areas bring lively energy, especially on upper floors.

The bar features a Library Bar with exquisite drinks priced low. A cigar bar offers extensive cigar education, and some areas are reserved for members only.

Historical rooms with classic charm create a cool vibe. Lack of air conditioning or heating means the space stays natural and unaltered.

People are saying

"It's a gorgeous historical building, beautiful inside and out."

"The bar has a quiet, nice atmosphere and a fabulous vibe."

"It's a super cool historical spot with great rooms."

Good to know

1

The bar is closed on Sundays after a Lions game.

2

The bar is also closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so no food or drinks are available those days.

3

Happy hour specials are available in the library with old school Detroit vibes.

14
Five Iron Golf image 1
Indoor golf course

Indoor golf facility combines state-of-the-art simulators with duckpin bowling and a cool bar in a spacious setting. Atmosphere stays vibrant and fun, welcoming both serious players and casual groups including families and dates. Games and social areas create an engaging experience beyond typical golf simulation.

A basement bar offers a mix of bowling, sports on TV, and a Top Golf experience. Drinks come with good service, and the bar serves above bar food along with fun games.

A cool bar sets the tone with a very nice setup that feels like a secret little place. The atmosphere stays fun and relaxed throughout.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the fun activities even better."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and always smiling."

"This place has a really cool vibe and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for group events to ensure availability.

2

Food service stops at 9:30 PM, so arrive early if dining.

3

Women’s night features special drink deals; check the schedule.

15
Detroit Foundation Hotel image 1

Adaptive re-use of a historic fire station creates a rustic modern design with generously spacious rooms that blend architectural details and contemporary amenities. Atmosphere ranges from elegant and upscale in the bar and restaurant to a cool, relaxed vibe with casual staff attire. On-site dining and bar areas offer ambient romantic lighting and a lively social scene.

Strong drinks and fair prices stand out at the bar downstairs. Friendly service pairs well with the ambient romantic lighting and excellent staff at the attached restaurant and bar.

Super cool vibe fills the hotel, especially around the bar crowd on weekend evenings. The Apparatus Room adds to the overall cool atmosphere, and the rooms themselves look very cool.

People are saying

"The rooms are spacious and the beds are super comfortable."

"It's a stunning blend of early 1900s architecture and modern design."

"It's a cool place, a totally reimagined historic firehouse."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended for the hotel restaurant due to high demand.

2

The hotel offers free parking for guests, which is a significant perk.

3

The restaurant's food options are limited, so plan accordingly.

16
Paramita Sound image 1
Record store

Record store with live vinyl DJ and small outdoor area offers a cozy, intimate vibe with eclectic music and a well-curated wine selection. The space feels chill yet lively, attracting a community of music lovers and DJs. Seating is limited but suits the laid-back atmosphere.

A super chill bar with a wine bar vibe inside a record store setting. Parking nearby is easy, making it simple to visit other bars in the area.

A cool little record shop offers provisions and hosts a live DJ around 11 pm, creating a chill vibe to enjoy a beer. Meeting a cool stranger adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a great space for DJs and music lovers."

"It's a super chill bar with great vibes."

"It's a cool, chill spot for a drink and good music."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area is easy to find and access.

2

Paramita Sound offers a well-curated selection of wine and vinyl.

3

The venue is suitable for visiting at any point in the evening.

17
Nuevo Seoul image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant blends California-style design with a hipster ambiance and heated outdoor patio. Music plays lively tunes, creating a fun, energetic vibe. Full bar offers unique cocktails like dragon fruit margaritas and tiki drinks served in baby pineapples.

A great variety of mezcal stands out with a full bar supporting diverse drinks. The heated terrace and cool dining room add comfort while the bartender provides attentive service.

Heated terrace and a cool dining room create a comfortable vibe even in hot weather. Great music, cool lighting, and a hipster ambiance add to the overall cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The birria quesadilla's consomme is out of this world."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and inviting."

"The bartenders here make the most delicious drinks."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 20% gratuity is added to all bills without prior notice.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The Tuesday taco special features 3 tacos for $10, with mix-and-match options.

18
Willow Detroit image 1
Cocktail bar

Hidden behind an unmarked door in an alley, this cocktail bar offers a dimly lit, cozy atmosphere with chic, lowkey decor featuring a tree inside. The vibe stays intimate and quiet, complemented by modern, top-tier music that enhances the speakeasy feel.

Attentive staff handle the bar with teamwork and friendliness. A doorman welcomes guests warmly, creating a friendly atmosphere right at the entrance.

A chic lowkey vibe sets the tone with a cozy and hip speakeasy atmosphere beneath a main venue. The decor adds to the cool, relaxed feel for a night out.

People are saying

"The drinks here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"It's a really cool, lowkey speakeasy vibe."

"The drinks here are amazing, creative, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Look for the gold door to find the entrance.

2

You have to ring the doorbell to get in.

3

Expect a 20% fee for large parties added to your check.

19
Kamper's Rooftop Bar image 1

Rooftop bar offers phenomenal city views and a cozy, ambient vibe with a lively music scene that can get loud. The patio space provides a warm, breezy atmosphere protected by high glass walls. Reservations are often necessary due to popularity and special events.

Rooftop bar offers amazing city views and an elegant, intimate interior. Cocktails come with 5-star service and a vibe that feels upscale yet welcoming.

A cool vibe sets the tone with a relaxed atmosphere and great views that make it a standout spot to hang out with friends.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful, panoramic views of the city."

"The house cocktails were on point and crafted with care."

"The vibe here is super cool and relaxed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

2

The outdoor patio operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

3

Expect a two-hour time limit for seating at the bar.

20
Soraya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Glass walls and minimalist design create a modern, upscale space with floor-to-ceiling windows. The atmosphere feels lively with loud music and friendly, welcoming service. Cocktails feature Japanese tea flavors and inventive mixes, complementing fresh sashimi and well-prepared dishes.

Creative drinks stand out with well made cocktails beyond the usual bar fare. The bar features a number one bartender named James who is a go-to for many.

Strong drinks and good food set a cool atmosphere in the heart of the city. Sushi rolls arrive with one wrapped in aluminum foil on a flaming plate, and udon noodles replace pasta in the cacio e pepe for a unique twist.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"The drinks here are creative and really well made."

"The cocktails here are creative and really well made."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like the grand opening 'Japanese Night Market'.

2

Happy hour offers cocktails and sushi roll deals during the week.

3

Validated parking is available at the financial district garage.

21
barú detroit | kitchen + cocktails image 1

Restaurant offers elegant yet comfortable indoor seating with lush greenery and a beautiful outdoor patio. Atmosphere stays chill and vibrant, with good music and a lively nightlife vibe. Distinctive features include a speakeasy downstairs and carefully crafted cocktails with impressive presentations.

Elegant vibes come from the speakeasy style and a Fabulous Head Mixologist at the bar. The space features many mirrors for selfies and a beautiful outdoor patio with a mural on the wall.

The spot has a really cool atmosphere with great ambiance. Drinks and strong appetizers stand out, while entrées fall short.

People are saying

"The empanadas here are perfectly flaky, especially the jerk beef."

"The bartender Ruben made the whole experience feel really welcoming."

"The beef empanadas and yellowtail ceviche were fire."

Good to know

1

An automatic 20% service charge is added to every bill regardless of size.

2

The kitchen is open until 1 AM, allowing for late-night dining.

3

The hostess mentioned that couches are reserved for larger parties or cost $300 to use.

22
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.

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.

A cool copper bar top stands out in a classic pub setting with a lot of character. The authentic interior and a very cool upstairs area add to the casual, laid-back vibe.

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 atmosphere here is really cool, especially upstairs."

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.

23
The Social Brews image 1

Self-pour craft beer and a large beer wall create a unique drinking experience in a modern, vibrant space with spacious outdoor seating. Board games and casual open seating encourage socializing in a low-key party atmosphere. TVs mostly show news, adding to a relaxed vibe suitable for gatherings.

A full bar offers a great drink selection with amazing cocktails and strong flavors. The bar staff provide warm and friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere.

Outdoor balcony and patio create a cool hangout vibe. Self-pour beer system lets you skip the bartender, adding a modern, interactive twist.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is fantastic and unique."

"It's cool that you can pour your own craft beer here."

"The bar staff here are incredibly kind and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Self-pour beer wall allows customers to serve their own drinks.

3

Food ordering requires customers to get a number after placing their order.

24
Sid Gold’s Request Room image 1

Live piano karaoke creates an electric atmosphere with a speakeasy vibe and vintage decor reminiscent of the 1930s. The small, dimly lit space fills with a welcoming crowd that mixes experienced and novice singers, making it lively yet intimate.

Wolfe keeps the full bar happy with skilled service. The bar stays quiet enough to hear your thoughts and chat with your partner.

U-shaped bar with eclectic decor sets a unique tone. The cool vibe shines through with attentive bartenders and a fun karaoke scene.

People are saying

"The karaoke here is fantastic, especially with the piano accompaniment."

"Wolfie was the best bartender, looking out for everyone."

"I found the atmosphere and vibe here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to access the karaoke section, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a two-hour limit on reservations with a minimum drink purchase.

3

Karaoke sessions start late, so arrive before 1am to participate.

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Downtown Detroit, Detroit

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