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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Royal Oak

Bars

Made for those who prefer to spend their evenings in environments centered around a well-stocked drink menu.

Based on 505 Opinions
+502
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Updated April 2026
01
Smoky’s Cigar Bar & Bistro image 1
Smoky’s Cigar Bar & Bistro image 2
Smoky’s Cigar Bar & Bistro image 3
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Cigar lounge offers excellent ventilation and a fantastic cigar selection in a cozy, classy setting. Friendly staff serve a well-curated bar with plenty of TVs for entertainment. Comfortable seating and good lighting create a relaxed, unpretentious vibe perfect for camaraderie.

Classy atmosphere meets top notch ventilation in this simple cigar bar. Friendly staff serve a great bar selection alongside plenty of TVs for entertainment.

People are saying

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

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

"The bar staff here is super friendly and makes every drink perfect."

Good to know

1

The cigar selection is solid with a decent variety available.

2

The menu is small but features fresh, thoughtfully prepared items.

3

Prices are about 20% higher than average for similar offerings.

02
Ye Olde Saloon image 1
Bar & grill

Classic dive bar offers relaxed vibe with bar burgers that stand out. Games like pool and darts keep the fun going. Friendly crowd and late-night grill make it a great casual spot.

Classic dive bar vibe defines the spot with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Bar burgers stand out as one of the best around, paired with a crowd of awesome local people.

People are saying

"I thought the bar burgers here were some of the best I ever had."

"It's a classic dive bar, totally relaxed and friendly."

"The beer selection here is great and rotates regularly."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until 2 AM every night.

2

The kitchen stays open late, serving food even after midnight.

3

Free parking is available in Royal Oak.

03
The Great Dane Pub image 1

Brick walls and chandeliers create an upscale pub vibe with cozy leather booths. Friendly staff enhance the classic English pub feel, while TVs and lively energy make it great for groups and sports fans. Comfortable acoustics support easy conversation in a welcoming space.

A classic English pub vibe fills the bar with a clean, classy atmosphere and plenty of TVs. Staff offer super friendly service that makes the space feel welcoming and solid as a neighborhood spot.

People are saying

"The food here is spot-on, with juicy burgers cooked perfectly."

"I loved this upscale pub's gorgeous, classy atmosphere."

"The bar's atmosphere felt gorgeous with upscale pub energy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

Parking in Royal Oak requires an app for meter payment; be prepared.

3

The menu offers diverse options, including pizza and vegetarian dishes.

04
Gusoline Alley image 1

Dive bar with Motor City decor offers a laid-back vibe and local crowd. High tables and pinball games keep the mood casual. Drinks come at reasonable prices, making it a solid neighborhood spot.

A classic Motor City decor sets the tone in this cozy, local dive bar with a well-stocked selection. The atmosphere stays laid back and towny, making it a true American neighborhood watering hole.

People are saying

"It's a great little dive bar with an awesome atmosphere."

"I found it to be a great local dive bar."

"They had good Michigan beers on tap."

Good to know

1

Gusoline Alley does not serve food or snacks.

2

Happy hour offers great drink prices from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Parking is available in a free structure behind the bar.

05
Alchemi image 1
Restaurant

Crow blends cozy goth vibe with creative cocktails featuring fresh rose garnishes. Bar service is kind and knowledgeable, enhancing the intimate feel. Beautiful art and shelves of drinks create a striking, relaxing backdrop.

Crow delivers amazing bar service with a kind, attentive, and knowledgeable bartender. The shelves of drinks behind the bar create a visually appealing backdrop.

People are saying

"You have to try the creative cocktails, especially The Final Rose."

"The cioppino's seafood was in a spicy tomato broth."

"The bartenders here are so nice and attentive."

Good to know

1

They host a wine class on Thursdays with paired appetizers.

2

Brunch is available on Sundays from 10:30 am to 2 pm.

3

Parking on Main Street can be difficult; consider using the nearby garage.

06
Goodnite Gracie image 1

Cozy bar offers a swanky atmosphere with a live jazz trio that keeps the mood lively. Friendly servers create an intimate setting perfect for singing and dancing. European vibe blends with a New York basement feel for a fun, relaxed night out.

Smaller bar area connects to a larger restaurant, creating an intimate setting. Servers behind the bar are friendly, professional, and welcoming.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made with the finest ingredients."

"The bartenders here are so welcoming and made my birthday special."

"I enjoyed the great cocktails they served."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted food and drinks.

2

The menu features the same offerings as the connected restaurant, D'Amatos.

3

Expect a lively crowd during Saturday night happy hour.

07
Bowlero Lanes & Lounge image 1

Modernized bowling alley blends mid-century design with a packed lounge vibe. Loud music and live shows energize the space. Signature cocktails and stuffed pizza slices make the bar experience stand out.

A unique bar area offers a cool ambiance with a packed lounge where people enjoy themselves. The bar supports events with options like open bar and unlimited bowling, all in a clean, updated setting with friendly staff.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the bar; the drinks were expertly crafted."

"I loved the consistent, quality live music here."

"It's a cool retro bowling alley with a really cozy interior."

Good to know

1

Bowling costs $40 per hour, charged by the time, not per game.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups to secure multiple lanes.

3

Special Needs & Low Sensory Hours are every Wednesday from 4-6 PM.

08
Hookah Joe image 1
Hookah bar

Hookah bar features comfy couches and a chill atmosphere with music that fits the mood. Offers both quiet corners and lively spots for socializing. Experience varies, but many find it an upscale lounge to relax or catch up with friends.

A hookah bar with a lounge that stands out for its atmosphere. The place offers a mix of experiences, ranging from great to disappointing depending on the visit.

People are saying

"I loved the atmosphere and vibe at this Day Lounge."

"The staff here is so attentive, they'll bring you new charcoals whenever it gets slow."

"I found the best hookah bar experience here."

Good to know

1

There is an entry fee for guests, but it may vary by day.

2

Food can be ordered from Joe's Grill next door and delivered to your table.

3

The lounge has reliable WiFi, making it a good spot for working.

09
Blind Owl Royal Oak image 1

Large hall with colorful decor and a live music stage creates a lively, friendly spot. Bartenders like Michael offer personalized service making drinks feel special. Outdoor seating and sports tabs add to the relaxed social vibe.

Strong focus on personalized service with bartenders like Michael, Ben, and Kendall providing attentive care. The bar offers a relaxed spot to enjoy drinks, especially on Tuesday nights.

People are saying

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

"The live music here is really entertaining."

"The bartenders here are super friendly and know their drinks."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Monday night, making it a fun weekly event.

2

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6:30pm with $4 off select cocktails and appetizers.

3

Taco Tuesday features special taco deals, perfect for a casual night out.

10
Royal Inn Bar image 1

Basement-like spot with pool tables and a friendly crowd makes for a lively hangout. Cheap drinks and affordable bar food keep it casual and easy on the wallet. Loud chats and great service add to the laid-back vibe.

A smoky dive bar with cheap drinks and affordable bar food creates a casual spot to unwind. Friendly crowd and great service add to the laid-back vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really tasty."

"It's a neat little local dive bar where the crowd is friendly."

"I found cheap drinks and decent bar food here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers good prices and daily deals.

2

Food prices are affordable compared to other local bars.

3

The 6-piece wings cost $13.75, which may be higher than expected.

11
The Rock on 3rd image 1
Bar & grill

Old school bar and grill buzzes with live music and a back deck patio where diverse crowds mingle. Quality food and drinks fuel the lively vibe, while artwork decor adds charm. Energy spikes during games with fans cheering loudly.

An old school bar with a low-key vibe where you can meet people of various ages. It serves quality food and drinks and offers great service in a lively, full setting.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is great and it's always cold."

"It's a great spot to watch live sports and socialize."

"The service at the bar was always great and personable."

Good to know

1

Expect a crowded atmosphere, especially during sports events.

2

Happy hour ends at 7pm, so arrive early to take advantage.

3

Parking is available on the street, but be cautious of time limits.

12
Pronto! Diner image 1
Restaurant

Diner boasts 1950s decor and a lively, low-key vibe. Bar feels like an old-school gay bar with friendly allies and hosts Drag Queen Bingo events. Outdoor patio and pool table add to the cruisy, welcoming atmosphere.

Low-key and cruisy atmosphere feels like an old-school gay bar with friendly allies. The bar connects to a lounge and hosts events like Drag Queen Bingo with dancing afterward.

People are saying

"The brunch food here is amazing, especially the sausage gravy."

"The bartender JohnO made the place feel like home."

"The bartender JohnO made the bar feel like home."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Tuesday and Friday night, attracting a lively crowd.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arriving early is advisable.

3

Outdoor seating is available, making it a great brunch spot.

13
Motor City Gas Whiskey Distillery image 1

Industrial charm meets cozy vibes with small batch spirits and a farm-owned grain source. Whiskey lovers find the old fashioned a standout, though service can be rough. Live music adds to the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

More whiskey options than any other bar come from the in-house distillery. Service can be rude, especially toward those with bar crawl bracelets. The old fashioned is a known drink here.

People are saying

"I loved the whiskey here; it's the best I've tasted."

"The staff here are so knowledgeable about whiskey."

"I enjoyed the delicious and balanced cocktails here."

Good to know

1

Tours of the whiskey-making process are available upon request.

2

The distillery requires upfront payment before service.

3

The location is small and can feel crowded during peak times.

14
Hotel Royal Oak image 1

Converted motel with retro 70’s vibe offers cozy rooms blending modern comfort and vintage charm. Outdoor area shines with fire pits and vintage seating, perfect for casual hangouts. Island bar and pool room create an ultra groovy vibe for drinks and socializing.

Access to the outside includes an island bar and a firepit that create a creative and ultra groovy vibe during warmer months. Lounges and a pool room offer comfortable spots to hang out while enjoying drinks.

People are saying

"The hotel staff are friendly and address any needs promptly."

"The outdoor space has a fire pit and groovy music."

"The bar has a groovy vibe and unique atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Echoes & Expressions event occurs every 3rd Wednesday of the month.

2

The hotel hosts a weekend music program during the summer.

3

The hotel offers a free continental breakfast for guests.

15
Oak City Grille image 1
Bar & grill

Open-air design with patio seating and a wraparound bar creates a casual, comfortable space. Live acoustic music sets a lively atmosphere that balances energy with conversation. Parking is more convenient than many downtown bars, making it easy to enjoy Michigan-style food and drinks.

Cozy and mellow with a friendly vibe, this bar offers excellent food alongside a fun atmosphere. Parking is more convenient than many downtown bars.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great."

"I enjoyed the live music during dinner service."

"The live music at this bar was phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Live music starts around 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Parking is available on the street, but it requires payment.

3

The menu has been reduced since Covid, offering fewer options.

16
Duggan's Irish Pub image 1

Irish pub boasts a laid-back atmosphere with an upstairs balcony overlooking Woodward Avenue. Enjoy live outdoor music and multiple TVs for games. Bar shines with excellent bar food like nachos and burgers, plus a large drink selection and great service.

Offers a genuine Irish pub vibe with great service and a large beverage selection. Known for excellent bar food, especially the nachos and burgers, plus a lively atmosphere for watching games.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and consistently amazing."

"This pub's roast beef Reuben sandwich on marble rye is a delightful experience."

"The bar's vibe is so relaxed and inviting."

Good to know

1

Expect a $5 cover charge for entry, even during lunch hours.

2

Prices for food and drinks can increase significantly during special events.

3

Credit card payments incur an additional fee at Duggan's Irish Pub.

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Royal Oak, Michigan

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