BEST BARS DETROIT
Not the same old list of every bar, this resident-curated guide highlights the Best Bars in Detroit that truly capture the spirit of the city. Looking for the best craft beer in Downtown Detroit? The city has evolved into one of the Midwest’s standout brewery destinations, filled with local taprooms, neighborhood favorites, and lively spots to enjoy a great pint. As noted by USA Today, “Detroit is home to a truly impressive brewery scene,” making the City an ideal stop for any craft beer tour.
The best Detroit beer bars combine exceptional brews, strong food menus, energetic atmospheres, and the kind of game-day experience locals actually return for. Whether you're visiting for the weekend or searching for your next regular spot, these are the Detroit bars and breweries residents recommend most.
Detroit City only, no suburban bars. Updated May 2026.
Map of Best Detroit Hotels, Bars & Sports/Entertainment
Pick your Hotel near your Sport/Entertainment Event, then find your nearby before/after Bar.
The Best Detroit Bars/Dive Bars Sections Below:
- Downtown
- Rivertown
- New Center
- West Village
- Eastern Market
DOWNTOWN
Tommy’s Detroit is an old-school Downtown Detroit sports bar blending sports culture with deep local lore. Set within a historic 1840 building, the bar provides a gritty, authentic atmosphere and is a go-to spot for pre-game drinks.
✨ The Vibe: Lively, eclectic energy with a classic dive bar feel.
📖 Standout Feature: A historic basement tunnel once used during Prohibition.
📍 Prime Spot: Casual bar seating surrounded by vintage Detroit sports memorabilia. Watch the game or short ride to Downtown sports venues. Near the Detroit Club Hotel.
🍸 The Drinks: Ice-cold draft beers and no-frills, classic well drinks.
Queens Bar is a Downtown Detroit hangout blending a casual vibe with historic charm. Set in an older building, it offers comfortable seating and a low-key destination for winding down. This is one of our favorite!
✨ The Vibe: Laid-back, effortlessly cool energy for casual conversation.
📖 Standout Feature: Historic structural setting with a cozy interior.
📍 Prime Spot: Vibrant outdoor patio. Walk to Comerica Park and Ford Field. Around the corner - SIren Hotel and Shinola Hotel.
🍸 The Drinks: Complete menu of high-quality food, cocktails, and craft beers.
Anchor Bar is a legendary Downtown Detroit sports bar blending deep history with game day energy. Set in a classic venue, it provides a gritty watering hole experience and a true city institution.
✨ The Vibe: No-frills, gritty dive bar energy full of stories.
📖 Standout Feature: Famous longtime hangout for politicians, athletes, and journalists.
📍 Prime Spot: Casual bar seating with iconic sports memorabilia. Watch the game or walk to Little Caesars Arena. Around the corner - The Detroit Club Hotel,
🍸 The Drinks: Ice-cold draft pitchers, classic shots, and reliable pub food.
The Elephant Room is a Downtown Detroit bar/restaurant set in a meticulously restored venue. The bar provides a warm, inviting atmosphere and an upscale yet approachable feel.
✨ The Vibe: Upscale yet approachable energy with high-end design.
📖 Standout Feature: Meticulously restored historic space with stunning tin ceiling tiles.
📍 Prime Spot: Warmly lit lounge seating for casual dining. Not primarily a sports bar, but walk to Lions-Tigers games. Nearby - SIren Hotel and Shinola Hotels.
🍸 The Drinks: Strong craft cocktail program, curated beers, and diverse dining menu.
RIVERTOWN
Andrews on the Corner is a legendary Detroit Rivertown neighborhood hangout. Set within a character-filled 1899 building, the bar is one of the area’s best sports bars. This is one of our favorites.
✨ The Vibe: Laid-back, "Cheers"-style energy ideal for casual conversation.
📖 Standout Feature: Historic setting; family-owned for over 100 years.
📍 Prime Spot: Spacious outdoor patio with Detroit River views. Stop in while enjoying the Detroit Riverwalk or Belle Isle or the Mt. Elliot Splash Pad or the DNR Adventure Center!
🍸 The Drinks: Complete menu of high-quality food, rotating craft beers, and domestics.
NEW CENTER
Northern Lights Lounge is a New Center neighborhood bar blending old-fashioned hospitality with historic charm. Set in an early 1900s building, it provides comfortable seating and a versatile destination for day or night.
✨ The Vibe: Casual hangout transitioning into a lively late-night scene.
📖 Standout Feature: Swanky red leather booths and an intimate, cool interior.
📍 Prime Spot: Expansive garden patio space. Stay at the Foundation Hotel. Walk to the historic former GM headquarters building.
🍸 The Drinks: Craft cocktails and cold beers alongside a popular mimosa brunch.
WEST VILLAGE
Two Birds is a West Village neighborhood bar blending hospitality with a relaxed, house-like setting. Set in a warm, intimate space, it offers a casual destination for drinks. This is one of our favorites!
✨ The Vibe: Warm, intimate energy popular with locals and families.
📖 Standout Feature: A cozy, house-like structural setting with a welcoming neighborhood feel.
📍 Prime Spot: Seasonal outdoor patio for relaxed drinks. Located in the historic West Village. Closest hotels - SIren Hotel and Shinola Hotels.
🍸 The Drinks: Craft cocktails, curated beer selection, and a refined wine list.
EASTERN MARKET
Cutters Bar & Grill is an Eastern Market neighborhood hangout blending classic local hospitality with a strong throwback feel. Set in a century-old building, it provides a warm, no-frills destination for authentic comfort food.
✨ The Vibe: Welcoming, old-school dive energy surrounded by historic meatpacking warehouses.
📖 Standout Feature: A classic jukebox spinning a nostalgic mix of jazz, oldies, and R&B.
📍 Prime Spot: Casual indoor booth seating. Located right in the heart of the historic Eastern Market district. Short ride from any Downtown Detroit hotel.
🍸 The Drinks: Ice-cold domestic beers, reliable well drinks, and exceptionally juicy, famous burgers.
