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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Detroit

Intimate cocktails

A quiet drink in a space designed for conversation.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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Updated May 2026
01
Bad Luck Bar image 1
Bad Luck Bar image 2
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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.

Cocktails here offer a creative menu with a fun twist that elevates each drink well beyond the usual. They come at a solid price and deliver a unique, expertly crafted experience.

Small size fits about 20 patrons, creating an intimate seating arrangement. The space feels cozy and classy with a chill atmosphere from the back alley entrance to inside.

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."

"It's a small, intimate bar, perfect for a date night."

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.

02
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 here are booze-forward, complex, and balanced with unique flavor profiles. Bartenders craft custom drinks that are creative and beautifully presented, making it a great spot for elevated cocktails.

Small space with art deco decor in pink creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Booths, small tables, and a bar make it ideal for quiet evenings or dates.

People are saying

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

"It's a pretty, pink, and intimate lounge with a cute vibe."

"The bar's opulent decor and velvet seating make it feel so cozy and glamorous."

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.

03
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.

Cocktails come premade in bottles with a small but elegant liquor selection. The drinks are well-crafted and fit the intimate ambiance.

Small size creates an intimate setting with a friendly vibe. The space offers an incredible wine selection that complements the cozy atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"It's a small and intimate spot with the best vibe."

"The cocktails here are excellent, just like the intimate ambiance."

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.

04
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.

Cocktails offer a different experience and are treated as an art form here. The menu features several options that complement meals well, with attentive service enhancing the experience.

Moody and dark lighting creates an intimate and cozy vibe without feeling cramped. Decor is elegant and authentically Japanese, making it suitable for romantic dinners or close gatherings.

People are saying

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

"The intimate nigiri here is super fresh and full of flavor."

"The cocktails here are very good and well crafted."

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.

05
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.

Offers a cocktail pub with a solid selection of international cocktails and wine. The blue cheese dirty martini stands out as a unique choice before dinner.

A perfect location for intimate gatherings, the space offers a charming and classy ambiance that suits small celebrations well.

People are saying

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

"It felt elegant, historic, and charmingly cozy."

"It's intimate, charming, and classy."

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.

06
The Monarch Club image 1
Cocktail bar

Rooftop bar offers breathtaking city views with multiple patios and cozy fire pits. Atmosphere stays relaxing and chic, attracting guests who enjoy craft cocktails and lounge seating. Reservations are common due to popularity and limited space.

Bartenders show strong cocktail knowledge and craft drinks with care. Options like the Tainted Love and Superfly cocktails stand out for their unique flavors.

Dimly lit spaces create an intimate atmosphere in the bar area, tower, and rooftop verandas. The setting feels cozy and encourages people to come together, making it suitable for gatherings like rooftop weddings.

People are saying

"I loved the spectacular million dollar views of Detroit from the rooftop terraces."

"I loved the amazing and super refreshing cocktails here."

"It's an intimate space perfect for quiet conversation."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested to secure a spot, especially on busy weekends.

2

The outdoor terrace is reservation only and has 25 tables available.

3

Expect a cocktail hour from 6 to 7 PM, but confirm availability in advance.

07
Sullivan's Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers an elegant atmosphere with private booths and live jazz music that creates a romantic and intimate vibe. The interior is beautifully decorated, enhancing the dining experience. The energy is calm and perfect for quiet dinners, with occasional lively moments from the band.

Michael the bartender offers amazing cocktails and helpful menu tips. Martais assists with custom cocktail recommendations and supports guests abstaining for health reasons.

Private booths with curtains create a setting for intimate dinners. The bar offers a cozy vibe that suits quiet conversations. Soft lighting adds to the intimate ambiance in the dining room.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"The cocktails here are perfectly balanced and expertly suggested."

"The private booths with curtains create an intimate dinner for two."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

3

Parking in the area can be expensive, averaging $45-$60 without valet.

08
Checkmate Detroit image 1

Small space blends fine dining and bar with beautiful decor and TVs everywhere. Atmosphere stays cozy and chill with a live DJ from Thursday to Sunday and hookah at the bar. Seating includes single seats and bar stools that feel uncomfortable, and tables are quite small.

Creative cocktail drinks mix with high quality craft cocktails and tasty versions of mainstream favorites. The cocktails stand out as a highlight for date nights or casual drinks.

Small size creates an intimate setting ideal for a date night. Decor resembles fine dining with lighting set low to enhance the cozy atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is so tasty, I tried everything on the menu for our date night."

"The food here is excellent, especially the lamb chops."

"The cocktails here were delicious and creative."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and food choices from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Parking is available at three paid lots next door and metered street parking.

3

A 2% fee is added to bills when paying with a credit card.

09
SavannahBlue image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers an intimate setting with upstairs speakeasy vibe and grand piano suggesting live music. Atmosphere ranges from chill and soothing in quieter areas to louder bar and lounge spaces. Music plays a key role, with a varied playlist and occasional silence when not working.

Cocktails are consistently good with solid flavors and well-crafted mixes. Drinks hit the mark without fail.

Dim lights and exposed brick create an intimate atmosphere. The setting feels warm and clean, with a nice playlist that plays only your music.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the shrimp and grits, is creamy and flavorful."

"The atmosphere here is intimate, with dim lights and a nice playlist."

"The cocktails here were really good."

Good to know

1

A reservation is needed on weekends.

2

They automatically added 18% gratuity to the bill for my party of 2.

3

Parking is located across the street from SavannahBlue.

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