BEST BARS DOWNTOWN DETROIT
Not the ordinary listing of all the City's bars, instead residents recommend the Best Bars Downtown Detroit that define the spirit of the city.
Looking for the best craft beer in Downtown Detroit? The city has become a standout destination for breweries, local beer, and unique places to enjoy a great pint. ​As noted by USA Today, “Detroit is home to a truly impressive brewery scene,” making it an ideal stop for anyone planning a craft beer tour.
The best Detroit breweries combine high-quality beer, good bar food, and often sports on the TV. Whether you're visiting or a local searching for your next go-to spot, these are the best places in Downtown Detroit for craft beer.
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Looking for more? Explore our best rooftop bars, cocktail bars, wine bars, and restaurants in Downtown Detroit.
Tommy’s Detroit is a classic old-school Downtown Detroit sports bar with a fun, eclectic dive bar feel and deep local history. Known for its lively atmosphere and solid bar food, it’s a go-to spot for game days, casual nights out, and anyone looking for an authentic Detroit bar experience.
👉 Classic Downtown Detroit sports bar with historic charm
👉 Building dates back to 1840 with Prohibition-era tunnel history
👉 Great bar food in a casual, lively setting
👉 One of the best bars Downtown for game day and history
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Downtown Detroit
A laid-back, effortlessly cool spot that blends a hip atmosphere with the charm of an older building. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, grab a drink, and stay awhile — whether you’re there for the food, the vibe, or both.
👉 Relaxed, “hip” vibe in a character-filled historic space
👉 Not a sports bar — ideal for casual conversation and unwinding
👉 Full menu of high-quality food; beyond typical bar fare
👉 Outstanding outdoor patio — perfect in warmer months
👉 Short walk to Tigers and Lions games
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Downtown Detroit
One of downtown Detroit’s most historic sports bars, Anchor Bar is nothing short of legendary. A true old-school watering hole, it’s the kind of place where the city’s energy comes alive — especially on game day.
👉 Historic, no-frills sports bar with deep Detroit roots
👉 Classic spot to catch the Red Wings, Pistons, Tigers, or Lions
👉 A true Detroit institution — Dive bar feel, gritty, and full of stories
👉 Longtime hangout for politicians, pro athletes, and journalists
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Downtown Detroit
Two Birds is a cozy neighborhood bar known for craft cocktails, beer, and wine in a relaxed, house-like setting.
👉 Neighborhood bar with a warm, intimate atmosphere
👉 Craft cocktails, curated beer selection, and curated wine list
👉 Popular with locals, families, and visitors seeking a casual Detroit bar
👉 Seasonal outdoor patio for relaxed, open-air drinks
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West Village Neighborhood
One of the best dive sports bars in downtown Detroit, a 100-year-old, family-owned institution known for its laid-back vibe, solid drinks, and classic bar food.
👉 Historic downtown Detroit dive bar with over 100 years of ownership
👉 Classic sports bar atmosphere for Red Wings, Tigers, Pistons, and Lions games
👉 Strong beer selection with domestics and rotating craft options
👉 Well-known for quality, no-frills bar food
👉 Relaxed, “Cheers”-style neighborhood feel with a loyal local crowd
👉 Spacious outdoor patio for in-season dining and drinks
👉 Stop in while enjoying the Detroit Riverwalk or Belle Isle or the Mt. Elliot Splash Pad or the DNR Adventure Center
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Rivertown/Warehouse District Neighborhood
Cutters Bar & Grill is a classic Detroit bar and grill set in a century-old building surrounded by historic meatpacking warehouses. Unassuming on the outside, it delivers a warm, old-school atmosphere inside.
👉 Eastern Market Detroit bar & grill in a historic, century-old building
👉 Hidden-gem location among former meatpacking warehouses
👉 Welcoming, no-frills interior with a strong old-school vibe
👉 Delicious, well-executed bar food and comfort classics
👉 Jukebox featuring jazz, oldies, and R&B for an authentic throwback feel
👉 A great example of Detroit’s historic buildings brought back to life
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Eastern Market Neighborhood
The Elephant Room is a premier downtown Detroit bar and restaurant known for its craftsmanship, atmosphere, and elevated drink program.
👉 Downtown bar & restaurant in a meticulously restored historic space
👉 Stunning tin ceiling tiles and high-end design
👉 Strong cocktail program with a curated beer selection
👉 Warm, inviting atmosphere with an upscale yet approachable feel
👉 Diverse menu for full dining
👉 Walk to Lions-Tigers games
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Downtown Detroit
Northern Lights Lounge is a Detroit neighborhood bar known for its laid-back vibe, historic roots, and lively nightlife scene.
👉 Old-fashioned neighborhood bar with a relaxed atmosphere
👉 Historic spot dating back to the early 1900s, once serving GM headquarters crowds
👉 Swanky red leather booths and a cool, intimate interior
👉 Expansive garden patio — one of the best outdoor bar spaces in Detroit
👉 Popular for mimosa brunch, DJ sets, and frequent live performances
👉 Balanced mix of casual hangout and late-night energy
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New Center Area
