Detroit is known for its great bars and speakeasies. During the Prohibition era, Detroit was a hotbed of activity. Its bootleggers distributed massive quantities of alcohol across the Detroit River from Canada. This smuggling trade helped create a new criminal class in Detroit. The Purple Gang was one of the most infamous of the local gangs. They were frequent visitors at Little Harry’s, a popular Detroit speakeasy.
Fortunately, the days of prohibition are long gone. But Detroit is still a place to find great hidden bars and speakeasies. Many of these are housed in classic decades-old structures. Others have been renovated to provide a vintage-meets-modern feel. These establishments are often themed, and the menus vary from month to month. Some offer craft cocktails, while others focus on classic drinks.
One of the most recent is the Detroit Evening Bar. A revamped and renovated tavern and speakeasy, the new location is a prime destination for a nightcap in the heart of the city. Featuring a small, intimate setting, the bar serves snacks and artisan cocktails. From Michigan-cherry-infused bourbon to mango martinis, the standby cocktail bar program pays tribute to classics while employing innovative techniques to make a fresh take on an old favorite.
Another standout is The Willow, a full-service bar and speakeasy owned and operated by blacks. The Willow’s bartenders create bespoke cocktails using historic spirits and a fusion of 19th century influences. On weekends, live music is performed by jazz artists. In addition to delicious food, the detroit speakeasy bar also features a poker room.
Other standouts are the Whisky Parlor and The Bad Luck Bar. Both are located in residential neighborhoods, and feature a cosmopolitan and eclectic look. While the latter offers a unique selection of rare liquors, the former is a great date spot. Also on tap is a great selection of burgers and bison.
Although you may be tempted to stick to the traditional Detroit dive bar, you can’t ignore the new wave of speakeasies. Several have been renovated, and some are housed in iconic buildings from the Prohibition era.
There are even hidden entrances to speakeasies in the area. For example, The Keep has a secret, dimly-lit basement. You can feel as though you are part of an exclusive club when you descend the stairs.
Other spots worth a visit include Tommy’s Detroit, a speakeasy that’s part of the Underground Railroad. The bar is a second home to many Detroit musicians and features an excellent soul food menu. As a bonus, the bar has some of the best corned beef in the city.
Besides a few of the swankier speakeasies in the city, there are many other lesser-known, but equally amazing spots. Whether you’re looking for a classic cocktail or a nightcap, a hidden bar is a great way to get to know the city. Whether you’re exploring the taverns and speakeasies of the city or taking in the history of the city’s taverns and speakeasies, you won’t regret a trip to Detroit.