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DRINK, EAT, DRINK BATH CITY BISTRO The Belgian pastime of feather bowling is the focus at this warm multi-level bistro housed in a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century building in downtown Mt. Clemens. When you’ve worked up an appetite after a couple of games, satisfy your hunger with a large assortment of apps, salads, mussels or tender Original Bath House Ribs or just quench your thirst in the bar or lounge. BOOM BOOM ROOM Pretty much modeled on the MTV theory that the Boom Boom Room is that fun, comfortable place where everyone wants to hang. So they have the music, and the couches, and the TVs, and the food, and the mingling, and the dancing, and it is all under one roof—just like at P-Diddy’s place. During the day it’s pretty much a restaurant, with a menu prepared by the former MotorCity Casino chef —a mixture of favorite sportsfan snackatizers and burgers du jour with high end fare (lobsters and filets) usually associated with white tablecloths. Throw in some Asian, tex mex and soul food and you have one eclectic stir fry, which is still being served when the lights go down low and the room really starts to boom. A sedate to sexy transformation that anyone who has ever held a party starting in the day and going late into the night is all too familiar with. BUZZ ?There is a buzz on Buzz and it is in Bricktown —right across from Opus. Glenn and Gordy from Music Menu have created a first-class booze & cappuccino bar, as well as pizzeria. Lounge lizards are probably already familiar with third partner Adam Laurie, who continues his magic behind the bar. It's turntables downstairs with multimedia video, live music on the second floor and a very inviting deck on the roof. You will want to be a regular here. CASS CAFÉ Some may call it Midtown now, but the Cass Café was here when it was the Corridor and remains true to the values of free thought and art. For years the space has been undergoing a transformation, so slowly it is virtually imperceptable to those who make it a regular stop. This reinvestment in the business shows up in everything, from the drinks to the food and most of all, the patrons, a demo-defying cool mix—young, old, from every background—keeping it lively night and day. The menu is well known for the best prices in the area, is always vegetarian friendly (many think the lentil-based veggie burger is the best) and starting to push the envelope (seared ahi tuna, the wild salmon comes with cranberry salsa and pomegranate oil). Tried and true favorites like the fish and chips, the 14 buck black angus steak, and hummus still remain the pleasers—almost as much as the huge selection of beer, wine and libations. Do take time to view the art—they have better shows and artists here than at many galleries. CENTAUR A joint this upscale should be a lot snootier—but we’re not complaining. It is top-shelf liquor and there is enough nourishment in the martinis (hand-stuffed olives) to survive; but you’d miss the “flavor bombs.” These entrées are like personal hors d’oeuvres trays, high caliber goods from cheese to caviar. Best of all, the kitchen stays open until 2 a.m. CHELI’S CHILI BAR Red Wing defenseman Chris Chelios originated this concept in his hometown of Chicago when he was a Blackhawk (and not very popular among Detroit hockey fans). A Stanley Cup and a good bowl of chili make it very easy for his new hometown to warm up to the restaurateur/Norris Trophy winner. Now Cheli’s has opened downtown, blocks from the stadiums. Along with the signature dish, Cheli’s slings sandwiches, steaks and burgers, including a namesake burger with barbecue sauce, smoked ham, Velveeta and sautéed onions on a kaiser. CHEN CHOW 50 years from now when we look back at pictures of Chen Chow with its multi-leveled dining room and bar full of revelers, we will think, “they had it good back then.” If you have ever seen pictures of the Copacabana in its heyday, then you will know what we mean. CLUB BART There are three great things about Club Bart: 1) chairs with rollers, 2) stage behind the bar and 3) the food. The only thing bad we can think of are some of the comedians on open mic night. But they are usually so bad they’re good. COMO'S If longevity, growth and popularity are the measure of a restaurant, then get down to the place that turned Woodward and Nine into a destination. People have been coming to Como’s since it opened in the early sixties, but when they built their patio, it opened the floodgates to a full-on party. The outdoor bar is always happening, with an eclectic mix of customers and a blend of live entertainment. Don’t miss the pizza. Everybody loves Como’s pizza; we are especially fond of the round one, eaten on the patio on a warm summer night, with a nice cold alcoholic beverage in hand. CRAVE Khalil Ramadan’s chic spot for dine, drink and dance. Saketini’s are the signature drinks, and the sake selection is longer than some wine lists. Dinner crowd morphs into a dance republic as the DJs take control. Between beats, you can nosh on nori rolls and such, as the sushi bar and kitchen stay open. When weather warms, Crave owns Sunday—the infamous Sunset parties are ground zero for area glitterati. CUTTER’S One of the great secret places in the city. This is what a real sports bar is—a place to hang and drink beer (or tequila) while you sit back and watch the game. Named after the meatcutters who founded it, so don’t pass on the steak bites. They make a mean burger as well, being that close to the source. It can get a little crowded at times, but that is when it really gets fun. D'MONGO'S SPEAKEASY White hot destination only open on Friday Nights. Not only do the downtown hipsters hang here, you may even run into Marty Fischoff. DINO’S Formerly the Rialto, known for multi-course meals and an unintentional drive-thru window; now it’s fancy drinks and eats (not that they’re above serving a burger). Around 10, when the bar crowd strolls in, it takes a turn towards clubland. DYLAN'S RAW BAR & GRILLE The old Tom's Oyster has a new tenant. Well, not that new; owner John Montgomery tended bar here for 20 years and the chef also worked for Detroit's Oyster King. The raw bar keeps the old regulars happy, the vogue tiny plate concept keeps everyone happy and there is enough seafood small plates to keep us sea creatures happy as long as you aren't shellfish with your crab cocktail or lobster eggroll. THE ELWOOD BAR AND GRILL We had a hard enough time finding it before they moved it...on second thought, we just had a hard time finding our way out of it. There is a lot of history in this place, ours and theirs. Anyhow, you’ll love the beautiful deco bar, along with great drinks and the Gem Theatre, Comerica and Ford Field a step away. ENOTECA CAMPO MARZIO One of the coolest places to open as of late, Enoteca is a hip, Euro-style wine bar overlooking Campus Martius in the corner of the First Federal building. Cozy and sophisticated, it features over 100 wines, with more than 40 available by the glass. Can’t make up your mind? Broaden your horizons with a three glass wine flight. A variety of imported cheeses, meats and chocolates are also available by the flight—you pick off a long list (divided by the country of origin). Those sweet of tooth must submit to the hand-rolled Rabbit Lane truffles, locally made European style sweets that are about as decadent as the Ostetra caviar we also saw on the menu. There are ten tantalizing toppings on toasted baguettes available for your grazing pleasure, and if you’re looking for more than small plates, there are seven exceptional panini sandwiches. Downtown desperately needed a wine bar—this slice of European sophistication is a welcome addition to the city. We can’t wait for the outdoor café seating. FIFTH AVENUE Fifth has evolved from its somewhat humble origins
FISHBONE’S RHYTHM KITCHEN CAFE If you’ve been thinking Fishbone’s is merely a Cajun place, try taking a step into the 21st century. Fishbone’s has one of the best lines (hooks and sinkers, too) on fresh fish in the metro area. When you are this popular, not only can you afford to be great, you have to be. There are steaks, salads, sandwiches and most of whatever else your heart may desire, but the seafood is a standout. The menu is loaded with underwater edibles, with across-the-board preparations from deep-fried to fancier presentations like seared ahi. Shellfish abound; they prepare shrimp more ways than anyone and live Maine lobsters and Alaskan king crab are always done to perfection. It’s a celebration of fish; there is even a full-on sushi bar—they could go fin to fin with Benihana. St. Clair Shores has a massive New Orleans-style courtyard complete with fireplace, gas lanterns and a huge bar—it is one of the most happening places in Michigan. FUBAR Mike Skroggs has DJ’d just about every single room in this town, so when he opens up his own room you know it is the kind of place that is all about “making money.” He’s no sucker. He knows a nice casual sports bar with some decent food and a few key dance nights is what works in this town. The name—well it stands to reason he’ll probably sell more than a few t-shirts while he’s at it. HAMLIN PUB The crowd is a mix of aging professionals and well-mannered twenty-somethings who all appreciate the Irish theme and great tap beer selection. While you drink, you can munch on curly fries or other bar fare; it’s all pretty good. Some people wouldn’t think of going anywhere else. HARD ROCK CAFE There are over 135 HRCs in 42 countries in the world—but this is the only one in the D. Located in the scenically spectacular Compuware building, this temple of music and munchies pays tribute to those who rock and feeds all who worship them. Memorabilia from Motown abounds, including Marvin Gaye, the Temptations, the Supremes, Jackson Five, the Nuge, Alice Cooper, Grand Funk, Madonna, Eminem and Kid Rock. The menu is as classic as the rock: wings, skins, nachos, tenders and burgers (some made from the recipe books of your favorite rock idols) as well as entrée salads, barbeque and more formidable dishes. In case you really have a case of the munchies, there’s a load of desserts too.. HONEST? JOHN’S BAR & GRILL Thompson happens to run a very entertaining bar, as you will discover when you see the neon “Sobriety Sucks” over the bar. The Selden location is somewhat more polished than the old dive near Belle Isle ever was, but the attitude and camaraderie remain intact. Honest? John is revered for his devotion to social causes in the city. Special events are held throughout the year, such as the Moonshot benefit for the less fortunate and the Easter bunny barbecue, and the rest of the time, they’re open to accommodate the average fortunate drunk. HOWE’S BAYOU 9 & W is Ferndale’s version of the French Quarter, so it’s only fitting there is a New Orleans–style bar. A deep and narrow shotgun shack, with a long, long bar that starts at the door and doesn’t end until closing time; throw in lively libations like Hurricanes and zesty appetizers and we guar-run-tee it. JOHNNY G'S Food, fun and friends are the order of the day at Johnny G’s, where you can stop in for a quick drink or spend some time over dinner and darts. House wood-roasted salmon and ribs are a specialty, along with jumbo burgers, perch and Angus steaks. Loads of great events like happy hour, DJs and Wii nights and you can hit the patio in summer. Catch dinner and a show at the Emerald Theatre and get the best seats in the house. LUCY’S TAVERN ON THE HILL A bar and a burger joint, not to mention a way, way above-average menu of some nice—and dare we say even adventurous—classics at prices the Grosse Pointers like. The bleu cheese burger is tops, but they do a good paella and crispy BBQ’d duck, too. If you sit at the bar, drinksmistress Donna will instantly be your new best friend. THE MAJESTIC CAFÉ Owned by the Zainea family, who would be what you’d call nightlife pioneers, for they took over this historic building in 1946. It became one of the cool places sometime in the ‘80s, years before it was either trendy or profitable. It was still the Gnome back then, and you can still find that Middle Eastern heritage on the menu, although it no longer dominates. Today’s bill of fare is American eclectic and runs the gamut from inexpensive handhelds like burgers and sandwiches to trendy plates and traditional entrées. It’s as freeform as Detroit’s most intelligent DJ, Walter Wyzac, who’ll be spinning on occasion. Local artists are on the walls, as well as at the bar, along with most of Detroit’s bohemian population. MONROE STREET STEAKHOUSE The lone restaurant on the Greektown block that does not serve Greek food. This dinner-only eatery offers up fish, ribs, steaks and chops in a charming and decidedly non-Greco-Roman atmosphere. MOOSE PRESERVE They got game, on the TV and on the menu. You’ll find buffalo, venison and other wilder fare and comfort foods made out of traditional materials like cow, poultry and swine. The décor is deep woodsy with most everything frontier-fashioned from antlers, logs and stone. It’s pretty much the same at their other rustic restaurants Camp Ticonderoga, Beaver Creek and Deadwood Grill. NEMO’S Though the dear-departed Lindell AC staked their claim as America’s original sports bar, this oft-packed tavern has been Detroit’s pre-game destination for decades. While other Michigan Avenue stalwarts have fallen by the wayside with the relocation of the Tigers, Nemo’s remains a popular destination for families and face-painted fanatics who take advantage of frequent shuttles to Comerica Park and the Joe. Show up early on game nights and chow before you cheer. NORTHERN LIGHTS LOUNGE Great bar to sit at and lubricate, it has that cozy retro vibe, and feels right. (Unless you go on a dance night, where ther crowd tends to be lively and crazy fun). Not only do they have the biggest and best shuffleboard court, they also have the best and biggest powder room. People live in apartments smaller than this room of rest. (Men’s room is nice too, unless you compare it to the spacious suite for the femmes.) Of course there is food too, for those who don’t drink their lunch. Very good food from what we’ve had, lunch and dinner but not breakfast (they did have a couple breakfasts during Tastefest and somehow the rumor got started) The sandwiche and burgers are better than average and there are usually some creative surprises thrown in the mix. (Who knows, perhaps the chef is planning a Food Network audition). We don’t know if you’re allowed to bring you plate into the rest room, but there are plenty of tables and booths. O’TOOLE’S You can see the game at a lot of places, but where are you going to see servers in schoolgirl uniforms? The food is really good too, surpassing most greasy sports bar pub grub by meters. But more importantly, those schoolgirl uniforms definitely wouldn’t pass the ruler-from-the-knees test. ORLEANS BILLIARDS CAFE Owners Paul & Mark Boone say it best. "We opened the place that we wanted to go to...a place with atmosphere, good service, good food, reasonable prices and most important, a place that's fun!" Well, now we want to go there too. Pool, shuffleboard, darts and TVs galore make this a great place to watch the game or just a something for everyone fun spot to drink, eat and play. RED COAT TAVERN Despite the faux Revolutionary War–era theme, it’s still one of Woodward’s popular lunch, dinner and drinking destinations—as evidenced by the line at the door. The burger comes loaded with pre-dressed shredded salad, and many regard it as the best in the entire metro area; the rest of the menu is off the Richter scale as well. Watch out—it’ll take your eyes a while to adjust to the sun after coming out of this lively but dark hot spot. RIVER'S EDGE GRILLE Just half a block east of the Renaissance Center, downtown’s largest and what was once the most popular spot has reopened as the River’s Edge Grille. With one of the largest decks in Detroit (2000 square feet), The River’s Edge Grille is ready to rule summer again! The building has been remodeled and upgraded from top to bottom, with three different levels, all having their own separate bar. The kitchen is in high gear, no longer pumping out the same old pub grub for the masses. You’ll now find menu items such as mini-burgers, Cubans, Po’ Boys, 100% angus beef burgers, seafood, pasta, salmon, and much more. The River’s Edge is the perfect spot before and after all Detroit Tigers and Red Wings games as well. Hop on its free shuttle or stay and watch the game on one of their 13 TV’s while indulging in their great drink specials. With a little something for everyone, the River’s Edge Grille is truly Detroit’s best kept secret, but then again seeing is believing. SANGRIA Michigan's first tapas café loads the table with an endless array of phenomenal and authentic Spanish specialties, from top heavy sandwiches to lavish paella's—four in all—and if you don't try one, you've missed the boat. The signature drink, Sangria, is made in-house with both red and white wine and is the restaurant's own secret recipe. Over forty tempting tapas to deliberate over. Finish off your meal with the delectable Martini Negro (coffee martini). SIDEBAR This intimate lounge attached to the side of Beans & Cornbread is so clandestine you may not know it is there; all you do is open the new door on the right, instead of the left. Inside is a cozy lounge, and copper topped bar loaded with premium libations. We don’t know why, but Tuesday nights seem to be as busy as the weekend. One of the few places that know what a Bellini is, and they make a great one, but for a real treat, try the signature peach martini. SLOWS BAR BQ Swine dining at its finest; Slows has transformed Corktown into Porktown. The place looks great and tastes better. The ancient Michigan Ave. storefront space was redesigned and handcrafted by Dean St. Souver, using much of the existing wood in much more original ways. Now it’s a real smokehouse with a real chef. The dad at this barbecue is Chef Brian Perrone, whose fine dining experience and personal creativity elevate the eating here to world class, putting personality into sides and taking sauces to another level, with the mac and cheese reaching a legendary status. The bar is always inviting and usually hopping, with a beer selection that’s loaded with ?rarities and treasures. SOUTH LYON HOTEL When we were kids, this was a biker dive with average food. They’ve since cleaned up their act, remodeling the beautiful old hotel into South Lyon’s favorite hang. It’s still ultra-casual, but now family-friendly with great grub, including homemade pizza. Catch a breeze over cocktails on the huge wraparound front porch. The bikers who hang here are a pretty nice bunch, too. STARVING ARTIST A hip spot for lunch or dinner for the art or food lover and one of the reasons Ferndale is cool. There is creativity in every bite from better-than-average sandwiches to the more artful and complex plates. Raspberry chicken, lobster ravioli and ahi tuna are standouts, pork tenderloin is recommended as well. Desserts are wonderful, including the molten chocolate cake. The wine list is not massive, but neither are the prices. On nicer days, you can dine and sip at one of the tables on the sidewalk. If you do happen to fall in love with the art on the walls…it is all for sale. TOWN TAVERN It feels like one of those Manhattan taverns that has been around forever—you know, the kind that always have a good, solid drink, a friendly barstool and they haven’t had a slow day since they opened sometime after prohibition. It must be all that rich dark wood (because we know it used to be that dicey Italian restaurant and it hasn’t been here forever). The drinks have the same charm as the room. This isn’t retro; it’s something better—classic, cozy and dangerously inviting. As for the food—the menu here is off the freaking hook. UNION STREET The king of the Midtown triangle, Union Street has been the destination for hungry hipsters, students, professors, professionals and Niagara for as long as we can recall; at least since Tom (Oyster Bar) Brandel ran it. The bartenders are friendly and well armed with a standout beer list and all the vital spirits you’ll need in a night. The food goes so far beyond bar food that it reminds you this is a restaurant that happens to have a really good bar. THE WOODWARD Swanky spot with a good bar. The food is good—tasty apps and full-on entrées. © 2008 Guide to Detroit, LLC |