Explore & Enjoy // Music & Nightlife
Top Bars and Nightlife Spots in the Region
Korzell Coe
Are you looking for places to go for a night out on the town or to celebrate a birthday or anniversary?
Check out this list of restaurants, bars, and nightlife in Southeast Michigan, ready for you to explore.
1
Weiss Distillery Company
Weiss Distilling Co. - 14 Mile Road, Clawson MI
Weiss Distillery is a new upscale dark-room speakeasy where the vibes are always chill and fun! The entry to the bar is unique as you walk through an elevator. Because of its uniqueness, it’s also quite popular, so making a reservation is highly suggested. While you're there, you'll be able to get aesthetically crafted cocktails made by talented bartenders to cater your taste buds. Enjoy a jar of caviar while you have a sip! A visit to the restroom is also a must if you love taking selfies.
2
Highlands | High Bar
400 Renaissance Center - Detroit, Michigan USA
Take an elevator ride and see the stellar skyline views of not only downtown Detroit but also Windsor and the Detroit River as you go to the top of the Renaissance Center. Highlands is on the 71st and 72nd floor of the building, offering you wonderful views as you indulge in fine dining. When you visit, you can enjoy a curated three-course meal at Highlands and a collection of scotch and craft cocktails at their High Bar. The overall experience is meant for a super special night. Reservations are required.
3
The Oakland
The Oakland - West Nine Mile Road, Ferndale MI
The Oakland Art Novelty Company is a world-class experience that will shock your tastebuds. Located in Ferndale, this elegant and nostalgic artisan Mezcal bar features bartenders who are exceptional at not only their craft but the aesthetics of the presentation. This dark ambiance of the bar takes crafted cocktails to the next level with each one exceeding expectations in their ingredients and flavorful complexity. It holds several awards: best bar in suburban Detroit area by Hour Magazine in each year of its existence and America’s best bars by Esquire Magazine.
4
Union Assembly
Union Assembly - Woodward Avenue, Detroit MI
Opened in 2021, next to Eminem’s Mom’s Spaghetti, Union Assembly is a multi-level retro but contemporary diner and bar with an outdoor heated terrace overlooking Woodward Avenue and Comerica Park. A DJ even cantilevers from the mezzanine level over the first-floor dining room. If it’s your first time visiting, your server will take you on a tour. You could even host a private party in a dining room with good food and stellar views of Downtown Detroit. Call or walk in to place an order.
5
Standby
Standby - Gratiot Avenue, Detroit MI
Located directly off “The Skip - The Belt,” an alley surrounded by other bars, lights, and murals, Standby is behind the Z-Lot Parking Garage in downtown Detroit. Walk-in through the black curtains and into a dark atmospheric experience, where you’ll find a small list of American food and an extensive eclectic drink menu with interesting combinations categorized by your choice of spirit. Be sure to make a reservation to avoid being on standby.
6
Evening Bar
Evening Bar - Woodward Avenue, Detroit MI
This speakeasy hotel bar is located behind Shinola Hotel on Woodward in downtown Detroit. This gem is tucked away spot and easily can be missed with the door and plaque name on the brick. However, it is known for its low lighting and artisan cocktails. Evening Bar passes the speakeasy vibe and offers a fireplace in the “the living room” for extra comfort. It could be a first date, birthday, night out on the town, or a special night. Reservations are encouraged.
7
Monarch Club
The Monarch Club - John R Street, Detroit MI
The Monarch Club is a Neo-Gothic rooftop bar that overlooks Comerica Park and downtown Detroit. With indoor and outdoor seating available, depending on the weather, this world-class and full-of-character bar offers food and drinks. It’s a great place to hang out with friends or colleagues after five if you work in the area – it’s a guaranteed good time.
8
Shift
117 Willits St - Birmingham, Michigan USA
Shift is a great place to kick back, listen to the live music, and enjoy a new wine or cocktail. SWhile new to the area, Shift's ambiance with the bar being located center stage makes the venue perfect for visitors who want to see everything. Shift is also adjacent to two restaurants, Sidecar and Slice, which you can order food from as well. Valet parking is available on certain nights.
9
Public House
Public House - West Nine Mile Road, Ferndale MI
Public House is back open with a larger food menu, including a full vegan menu called Public Greens! It’s an American Restaurant with a casually chic experience. Their crafted cocktails, mocktails, smokehouse flavorful food, and comforting vegan creations will leave you speechless and wanting to return. Be sure to snap a picture in their all-season garden room with neon lights and faux plant wall.
10
Candy Bar
Candy Bar - Broadway Street, Detroit MI
Sounds sweet, right? Located beyond the lobby of The Siren Hotel, Candy Bar offers plush pink velvet seating, a beautiful huge chandelier, and a charming glass-backed bar. It is a classic spot to hang out with friends and take plenty of selfies. It is mandatory to have a reservation as this bar is small and always filled. “The Cosmopolitan” seems to be a fan favorite here, too.