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The Real Best of Detroit 2009, Best Bar To Have Opened In The Last Year: BlackFinn
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The Real Best of Detroit 2009
Best Bar To Have Opened In The Last Year: BlackFinn
Congratulations are in order to the newcomers on the Metro-Detroit bar scene, BlackFinn, for their win in Real Detroit’s readers poll as "Best Bar To Have Opened In The Last Year." The new hotspot, located at the south end of the Main Street stretch in downtown Royal Oak, is always buzzing with activity, and that was definitely the case when Real Detroit stopped by to catch a word with the restaurant manager Shawn Freeman.
“Seven days a week there’s something going on here,” Freeman says. “Whether it is a sporting or community event, there’s always something happening.” On this particular Wednesday there are all types of games on the flat screens, a dense and happy crowd of mostly 20 and 30-somethings and some nostalgic live music.
While other bars would jack up the prices during sporting events, BlackFinn cuts you a break by keeping fare cheap during all the important games — whether a deep Red Wings' playoff run or a regular season Tigers game. Don’t miss out on the $2 Miller Lite Drafts during all Pistons and Red Wings games. The new bar is also helping to cure your recession blues by offering half off all food purchases every Monday night through Labor Day between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. It’s BlackFinn’s way of ameliorating the economic crisis. Bravo to them for doing what they can to help out.
Yet, the bar is more than drinks and special prices, BlackFinn has really focused on contributing back to it’s community. They’ve hosted countless fundraisers for local and national charities, facilitating over 20 fundraisers for Team in Training, holding a three day breast cancer walk and also doing work for Haven and Race for the Cure. “We don’t want to be here just to take," continues Freeman. "We want to give something back to the community we’re a part of.” Clearly, they are doing that, not just in theory, but also in practice. With a little bit of charity and compassion for their patrons, it’s easy to see why Real Detroit readers have voted BlackFinn as "Best Bar To Have Opened In The Last Year." | RDW
With the title of cocktail lounge comes an extremely high expectation. Not only does the décor have to be clean, contemporary and smoothly applied, but also the drinks served have to match the glass and, most importantly, the plethora of patrons that step through the door. After all, simply slapping together an array of ingredients and flavors won’t make a memorable martini. Running a cocktail lounge that draws applause is a hefty challenge, and in this past year, no one has been more timely and equipped at meeting that challenge than Novi’s Double Six Lounge.
Within a relatively short period of time, Double Six Lounge has built a well-dressed clientele that started frequenting the modern lounge for one reason — the drinks. And surely, the drink menu at Double Six Lounge is no joke. From the fruity Mango Shizzle to the traditional English Appletini and the delectable duo of a Pink Panther directly following the waterfall smooth French Tickler, Double Six Lounge takes no shortcuts to provide the finest in alcohol for their concoctions. Add ingredient X, an irreplaceable set of attractive, charming and engaging bartenders, and it’s easy to see why Double Six stands out in a crowd.
Not convinced? Take a look around the lounge. With cooling shades of blue lighting cascading against a deep burgundy color scheme, Double Six spared no expense when it came to designing the perfect atmosphere. It's easy to see why they have been so succesful so early on in their existence. | RDW
Situated in the Fountain Walk Mall, right of I-96, Bar Louie in Novi is easily accessable to all Metro-Detroiters. Perhaps, this is why the young bar has already gotten such a great reputation as the perfect place to drink a tasty martini and has won Real Detroit's award for "Best Martini Bar Opened in the Last Year" award. Aside from the great location, martinis that are worth dying for, the customer service is award winning itself.
Although they've only been open since August of '08, Bar Louie is already launching a new menu in mid-May with new food and drink items. It's their martinis that have made them stand out from the crowd. Try a Voodoo Child, made with Three Olives Grape Vodka and real blueberries or a Dirty CEO, a delicious twist on the traditional martini.
Bar Louie is continuosly running different deals throughout the week that make fun affordable and tasty. There is the reverse happy hour to accommodate those in the service industry that starts at 11 p.m. with all the same perks as their regular happy hour. With the weather getting nice again, Wednesdays will be a great night at Bar Louie with $5 beer buckets and bean bag contests on their brand new patio. For all you movie lovers planning a date night, Bar Louie has a dinner and a movie special for $32, you get two entrees plus two tickets to Emagine Novi, which is just around the corner. If you’re looking for a martini, or just a place where you’ll be taken care of, Bar Louie Novi is the spot. | RDW
It is not often a new place springs up in Detroit with such an old soul. Although it hasn’t been around for decades like the houses surrounding it, the feel of Woodbridge Pub is that of a long standing gathering place; one that may have passed through generations of family. Not far from Wayne State, Woodbridge Pub’s storefront-like entrance sits on Trumbull Ave. beckoning those passing by to come into the glow. The pub feels of love and good company when you walk in the doors and reminds you of the good ole days in Detroit and the better days to come. This gem is filled with wood boasted to be from old Detroit churches around the area and a great jukebox for tunes anyone will enjoy. The WIFI internet makes for a perfect place to study or host a business meeting with colleagues while grabbing a bite to eat.
A recent edition to the Woodbridge neighborhood, Woodbridge Pub seems to be the pride and joy of its owner. The staff is not only friendly, but feels almost like distant family. The locale sports a high class feel with fresh, all natural pub grub. Many patrons have bragged of the Sunday brunch or the delicious burgers the menu lists, but there are plenty of options from appetizers and pizza to salads and hearty entrees and everything in between. Whether you are looking for a tasty meal or just grabbing a few drinks with a group of friends, Woodbridge Pub will make you feel right at home. There are drink specials for different pallets on various days of the week. Drink specials include our personal favorite $10 Ghettoblaster pitchers on Wednesdays among others from beer to wine and mixed drinks.
With a diverse crowd, a feel good attitude flowing throughout the building and fantastic selection of tasty dishes, there is absolutley no question as to why our readers have named Woodbridge Pub Real Detroit’s "Best New Pub." If you haven’t been to the pub yet, what are you waiting for? | RDW
The go-to spot for returning college students, Bailey’s is one of the most consistently packed bars and you can most certainly blame it on their draft beer selection. A big bar with a diverse crowd — from college kids to businessmen looking for fun. They just received their shipment of Guinness 250, the anniversary brew from Guinness' 250 years in business. If you’re looking to try it, Bailey’s is one of only four in Metro-Detroit to have it and it won’t be for long. They only made 100 barrels of this anniversary brew. | RDW
There is no better place to spend lazy summer days or hot saucy nights than on the patio at Madison’s in Mount Clemens. With a full bar and staff, it's the perfect place for watching sports on one of the plasmas and enjoying a tasty lunch or dinner under a colorful umbrella to shade from the sun. The patio is also fully prepared for temperamental weather with built in heaters should it get windy or brisk. The patio at Madison’s is open from May to October, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy. | RDW
Where does one begin when describing the changes to Rosie O’Gradys in Chesterfield Townhip? There are so many new ammentities: from the state-of-the-art coal burning pizza oven to the new non-smoking dining and VIP areas, the place is fully loaded. Stocked with alcohol galore, various games and entertainment, the new look of Rosie O’Grady’s is reason enough to award them "Best Bar Makeover." | RDW
Is there anything this neighborhood staple can’t pull off? Small's of Hamtramck wins Real Detroit's award for "Best Small Venue To See A Big Band At" as they certainly know a few things about booking gigantic bands. How about the last-minute Eagles of Death Metal shows this past winter? On Sunday night the word got out about the show and the next night (A Monday, no less), the venue was jampacked with a hot, sweaty mess of rock 'n' roll fans.
If that isn't enough proof in one show, Melody and Mike over at Small's are killing it in the upcoming months with performances from the likes of The Business, No Use For A Name and Pansy Division. Ever try booking acts like Valient Thorr or Turbonegro at your local bar? Good luck, Small’s has already done it and that is why they have this award under lock and key. | RDW
Best Dance Club: Luna
Luna has stared the chemistry of common nightlife in the face and turned that bright silver Beetle into a symbol for infamous “F*ck Work” and themed glam parties into something everyone can enjoy while residing over its throne as the ultimate alternative club. Toss in mixed drinks that are almost too strong and you’ve got yourself one of those top-notch clubs that constantly pushes its wide range of frenzied entertainment to the next level.
Best VIP Area: V Lounge (MGM)
MGM’s V Lounge is decidedly one of the most premier clubs in Detroit, if not the premier nightclub. General Manager Awsem Zbair, has created a destination that welcomes guests into a fantastic nightlife, but beckons them with the ever-popular 700 square-foot VIP section. A bit of exclusivity never hurt anyone. If Ludacris and Kim Kardashian (among many other celebs) have partied there, then you know V's VIP is the hottest spot in The D.
Best Club To Have Opened In The Last Year: The Bank (See Raise The Bar)
Best Pub: O’Tooles
The idea of a traditional pub, which is just short for the word public, is a place where one can meet, eat, drink and be merry with friends. Not only does O’Tooles provide this type of stomping ground, but unlike most other pubs, they are extremely unique in their offerings of entertainment and recreation. With three different locations across the metro-Detroit area, each establishment is distinct in what they offer their patrons. Cass Lake offers weekly karaoke and beer pong tourneys while Royal Oak has live music, DJ sets, pool, darts and an extremely awesome mug night. At the O’Tooles in Novi, the crew gets you off your ass and out of the bar with leagues for softball, kickball and volleyball. With all the entertainment and social interaction at O’Tooles you'll see why Real D readers voted them "Best Pub."
Best Irish Bar: Dick O’ Dow’s
Did you know that there is only one Irish pub in America built start to finish from shipments of materials from Dublin? Did you know that it happens to be in our backyard? Dick O’Dow’s of Birmingham is its name and all things Irish is their game. O’Dow’s keeps only the good stuff on tap, no domestic drafts here and they serve up traditional Irish fare (Shepherd's Pie anyone?) and feed your ears with live music every night. Open 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. every day, this pub, the first establishment in Birmingham to have an outdoor patio, will be sure to please.
Best Cocktail Lounge: The Bosco
Real D readers love The Bosco! This Ferndale gem is located on Woodward and it’s the one with the neon green squares on the façade — can’t miss it. This hi-style lounge spins some of the greatest records and draws a quality crowd. Not to mention half off house wine on Wednesdays and a little DJ Brian Gillespie on Tuesdays. Don’t forget your passport on Tuesdays either — it’ll get you $2 premium well drinks all night long. Take a quick second to check out their impressive website and hilarious YouTube videos to learn more about our favorite cocktail lounge, The Bosco.
Best Martini Bar: Centaur
Like the mythical half-man, half-horse creature after which it is named, Centaur defies simple labels. Classy and sophisticated, but never intimidating, the versatile Centaur offers multiple levels of upscale martini lounging for a broad range of clientele. Located on Park Ave. In Foxtown, Centaur appeals to an eclectic mix of sports fans, theatergoers, hipsters and high rollers. A menu of gourmet hors d’oeuvres is available all night, but the main attractions are the martinis. There’s the titular drink, the Centaur, a bold combination of premium gin and whiskey; the clean, refreshing White Grape, and the daring Wasabi, which blends Asian spices and citrus vodka.
Best Gay Bar: Backstreet
While fashionable Ferndale keeps it fresh in Metro-Detroit, Backstreet brings a flamboyantly fantastic sensibility to the gay club scene in Detroit. Year after year, without fail, Backstreet bends backwards to supply pounding house music and a place to let loose (along with an illuminated dance floor to boot) for Detroit’s growing gay scene.
Best Lesbian Bar: Rainbow Room
For the ladies filling out the other half of the gay spectrum, the 12-year-old Rainbow Room continues to proudly declare the rare title of both shaken and stirred. While the weekends bring a funky and fun array of captivating events, the Rainbow Room keeps their calendar booked throughout the week offering easy going nights for meeting and mingling with new friends.
Best Sports Bar: Hamlin Pub
At Hamlin Pub’s six Metro-Detroit locations, you don’t have a choice but to be engulfed by the bodacious collection of television screens to feed all of your sporting addictions. From kick-off to tip-off, the Hamlin Pubs proudly takes on the honor of being one of the few joints where glancing at the television during conversation is highly encouraged.
Best Piano Bar: Pub 13
We really don’t make it out to Ypsilanti as often as we would like, but each visit is sure to include (or be completely built around) Pub 13 and the savage amount of slippery smooth style and clap your hands class they bring to the title of piano bar. Pull up a chair, open up your ears and open up your stomachs for Pub 13 aims to satisfy in more ways than a piano has keys.
Best Billiards Hall: Fifth Avenue
You might not be that awesome at pool, but at Fifth Avenue, you’ll look damn good with a cue in your hand no matter what. How could you not? Exposed brick complements a sleek, open, modernistic design that begs you to get all dressed up just to walk out with chalk all over your collar. It’s better than lipstick, right?
Best Karaoke Bar: Rockstarz
Who doesn’t want to be a rock star these days? Each and every day, we wake up absolutely enthralled by the new thing to do with a gaggle of drunk buddies and applaud places like Rockstarz for creating an atmosphere where we can make complete fools of ourselves with microphone in hand. Toss into the equation a few frozen "Rockaritas" and a calendar boasting live acts each month, and you’ve convinced that singing karaoke is way better than the real thing. Plus, if you think you're actually good enough, you can buy a copy of your performance. This could be a hilarious document to stash away for the kids if there should ever come a day.
Best Drag Bar: Gigi’s
The reason Gigi’s resides as "Best Drag Bar" year after year is because it is quite possibly the only drag bar in Detroit and beyond. Why no competition, you ask? How can you honestly compete with a staple in Michigan’s gay community that regularly receives accolades from across the country? Not only does Gigi’s have a lock on Michigan, but they’ve got the rest of the country learning a thing or two about how to do drag the right way.
Best After Hours Spot: Not telling!
Can you really acknowledge an after hours spot in a printed publication? After all, Real Detroit is not a bunch of buzz cut, leather jacket wearing police who smoke copious amounts of cigarettes [editor’s note: not true — we smoke tons of cigarettes] who drink coffee and look to bust everyone’s favorite Saturday night solution to last call. While we would love to see you next weekend at an undisclosed location that breaks all the rules, we just can’t bring ourselves to let this late night cat out of the bag.
Best Bar At Midnight: Teddy’s Time Square
Everything has a sweet spot. For those of us who frequently indulge in the pleasures that only the night can bring, midnight is when a club or bar should be erupting with madness, leaving our livers soaked in alcoholic goodness. Throughout all of our travels, we found that Teddy’s Time Square in Shelby Township, is ripping apart the witching hour like nobody’s business. Can anyone disagree? We didn’t think so. See you at midnight ... at Teddy’s!
Best Bar To Run Into A Band: Garden Bowl
You know the score — one of the oldest bowling alleys in the United States, Magic Stick hovering above your head, delicious grub waiting for you at the Majestic Café. But did you know the majority of black jean, black leather dudes and dames frequently straddling the Garden Bowl bar frequently rock your eardrums into oblivion? Be careful of who buys you a shot of whiskey. You might just find yourself stuck listening to the importance of using only vintage gear or how Rick Rubin almost cared…
Best Bar At Last Call: The Belmont
Oh, Hamtramck! Where stumbling through the streets is judged in style points and the Belmont regularly blasts our pupils with awesome vintage porno and cheap, chilled Pabst. We love The Belmont for a few reasons, including the fact that it makes punk rock look like it never died. We always run into someone we know and, if you ask us, last call has never tasted so sweet when seated at the mosaic awesomeness that is the Belmont bar. C'mon Darren, give us one more!
Best Dive Bar: The Bronx
Located across from the defunct (but soon to be renewed) Forest Arms, The Bronx is about as warm, dark and welcoming as any bar you can find in our fine urban metropolis. Toss in some of the greasiest, most delicious and hangover approved burgers south of the suburbs and you’ve got yourself a perfect drinking hole for mornings, afternoons and the midnight shift. Does anyone know if The Bronx is looking for roommates?
Best Bathroom: Gusoline Alley
Since it can’t possibly be the plumbing at Gusoline Alley, it looks like (once again) we must wax poetic about the equally poetic scrawls on the walls. We thought it was a major tragedy when they painted over the original hieroglyphs, but the new batch of random observations are coming along nicely. Yes, it’s all here. The whimsical, the philosophical, the scatological, the metaphorical — a veritable gamut of iCal! The ladies are showing more enthusiasm in their little corner of the world — but sad to report most of what we’ve read indicates major disappointment with the male clientele these days. Guys, there’s trouble in paradise and the solution is in your hands. Now go wash ‘em. Yes, your hands, too.
Best Beer Selection: The Berkley Front / CK Diggs
A savage race to the bottom of the bottle, indeed! When it comes to beer selection, The Berkley Front and CK Diggs ended up looking at each other dead in the face.
While CK Diggs keeps things organized for the beginner, it's also a place of challenges. Drink one of each of their beers within a six month period and you can be a proud member of their exclusive Club 100.
On the other hand, The Berkley Front throws you directly into a world of unknown suds … and we couldn't be happier. There's nothing better than dipping our tongues into a cool new glass of suds to discover how the malty hoppy mix tastes. This is a great place for discovery and connoisseurs ... as well as a hangout to the area's hip 'n cool.
Best Liquor Selection: Mixx Lounge
The moment you step foot into the Mixx Lounge in Novi, there’s no wonder why they’ve landed the award for "Best Liquor Selection." A wall full of choice liquor backs the bar at Mixx and runs almost the whole length of the joint. Open seven days a week your chance to partake of this prism of drink never ends. Nestled on Main Street right next to some noteworthy restaurants it’s the perfect location to end your night low key and classy.
Best Jukebox: Gusoline Alley
A good jukebox is an eclectic jukebox — a musical treasure chest where at least one song will complement the emotional riff you’re experiencing at any given moment. Well, rest assured there is (and always will be) such a jukebox at Gusoline Alley. You’re fed up with the old lady? "Slave Girl" by The Lime Spiders. Existential angst got you down? Tom Waits wants you to "Clap Hands." Need something to bring home your point about the irony of war? Listen to how The Pogues made Matilda waltz. You went to a family reunion down south and now you’ve got a sick itch for your cousin? Oh, please — that’s why God gave us Hank Williams. So put another nickel in (yeah, right) and let the music soothe you all the way back to that marvelous drink calling your name.
Best Pick-Up Scene: MBarGo
For all of you looking for love while you're out on the town — those that want to skip the office romances or for those who find themselves thinking eHarmony sucks — make your way over to MBarGo. The clientele at this fine Novi bar is classy and you will find someone that is worth taking home to your mama. Yet, don’t think that you can just walk into MBarGo and come home with anyone. You gotta put in work to do work. Real Detroit suggests grabbing a drink and then heading out to the patio where you can spit game. Get your game on at MBarGo.
Best Drink Prices: Dooley’s
It’s no wonder why Dooley’s won. “We are the original home of the dollar draft,” assures general manager Laura Rohr. Every day from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. any domestic draft beer is $1. Can’t beat that. And if you think otherwise, then beat this. Power Hour occurs Monday – Thursday from 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. and features $2 well drinks. But if bottled beer is for you then swing by for the featured beer of the month and grip it up for $2. Ladies … the following is for you. Show up between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. on either Monday or Wednesday for half-off martinis, Tuesday or Thursday for half-off margaritas or even Friday for half-off bottles or glasses of wine. Just the ladies though, gentlemen. Lastly, Sundays are Industry Night where people working in the industry can receive a sin industry card and receive a percentage off of anything offered underneath the Dooley’s roof. Dooley’s anyone?
Best Bartender (Female): Hana Kil @ Mbargo & Fifth Avenue
Last year she made it to the finals for War of the Pour and although she didn’t win, she made it to the Top Five. That’s still a treat in our eyes, as well as her own. After all, she’s paid her dues … has she not? “Technically, I’ve been bartending for eight years, legally 6. I started when I was 16,” Kil laughingly admitted. “I think it was all of the pretty colors then, but now it’s more than just a job. I love meeting new people and making a great drink for them.” Hana…you can make us a drink anytime.
Best Bartender (Male): Jay Brown @ Delux Cocktail Lounge
Who has enough balls to leave a predictably paid position at Ford Motor Company for a not-so-predictable cash money position at Delux? Meet 36-year-old Jay Brown. “I always wanted to bartend," states Brown with a smile. "So one weekend, when I went on a mini-vacation, I just decided to never go back.” This general manager helped build Delux into the popular institution that it is. Not to mention, he’s also helped open four other establishments. I’d say he’s got his hands full but then again he’s a classic bartender … no flare here. “The clowns juggle — I pour drinks,” says Brown. So if you want a good stiff drink — look no further.
Best Bar Décor: Cherry Martini
Last year's winner for RDW's "Best Martini Bar" opened in the last year made it back again this year as the winner of "Best Décor". After visiting this hot spot in Canton’s Cherry Hill Village, there’s no doubt why they came out on top. Wally gave us the grand tour of his plush establishment with its endless amounts of custom décor. We saw ivory padded walls with inset flat screen TVs, Las Vegas style with a 78 foot bar. They pride themselves on hosting local artists on a rotating basis. Wally’s goal was to have a classy atmosphere that felt welcoming and cozy. Congrats Wally, because you've most certainly accomplished you're goal with Cherry Martini's outstanding decor. Patrons can sit drenched in the warm red light on their soft ivory couch and you will see proof that the mission to complete and create a comfy bar environment. Come the first Wednesday of every month for a 16-piece swing band or showcase your own talented vocals on the first Thursday of each month for their karaoke night, all the while check out the fantastic digs and say, "Hello" to Wally.
Best College Night: Tiki Bob’s
Tiki Bob’s is the best college night in town for an array of reasons. $1 Miller High Life & High Life Light until 11 p.m., ladies free until 10:30 p.m., 18 plus welcome (for all you youngins) and how about $100 in winnings for having the hottest bod in the building. This college night goes down every Tuesday at Tiki Bob’s in Pontiac. Doors open at 9 p.m., so take your studious self and let loose for little while!
Best 80s Night: Boogie Fever / Club 22
Boogie Fever, a cornerstone of Metro-Detroit nightlife, and Club 22, a new staple in Sterling Heights, have both taken the cake for best 80s night in the Motor City. Whether it’s a night on the town or a special event you’re planning, Boogie Fever is the incredibly popular place to dance your heart out under the mirror balls and escape in their fun-loving atmosphere.
Club 22, on the other hand, is like a wedding reception on ecstasy: the dance floor is packed with a group whose ages vary by, at times, 20 or more years and is relentless in its music variety. No matter which you choose, there are more than a few things that can be guaranteed. First, before the night is over, new dance moves will be debuted. Next, the hook-up expectations will be high. And by night’s end, there will always be a fair amount of people with their shoes off. Needless to say, good times aren’t hard to find at Club 22 and Boogie Fever.
Best Bar At 10 p.m.: Big City
Sitting cozily on Washington Ave., just blocks away from all the action, Big City Bar & Grill is the perfect spot to get your night going or simmer it down after a long day at, say, Comerica Park. The walls are decorated with both Detroit images and plasma TVs with the locale being a meshing of pride and excitement for our city and sports teams. Offering a full menu, Big City has whatever finger food your heart desires to absorb all the beer that’s got you feeling a little tipsy.
Best Bar On A Monday Night: Woodward Avenue Brewery (WAB)
Monday is the new Friday! Or, wait … is that just what we say when we end up at Woodward’s signature brewery drinking delicious beer of the hop-soaked variety and cheap grub? Yes, it is, but can you honestly blame us? We go where the good times reside. And, after a dreadful Monday pumping out the latest edition of Real Detroit, we agree with our readers that we know exactly where to go to unwind — so meet us there for a great brew, fine eats and good times on your next available Monday night.
Best Bar On A Tuesday Night: The Box
You know that whole stigma about bars in strip malls? It’s true, but not for The Box. Excuse our tongue-and-cheek delivery here, but The Box seriously breaks outside of the box with innovative (and economically minded) specials and an open design that makes you feel like your hanging out at your buddy’s place instead of drinking two doors down from a nail salon. Is The Box truly the whole package? Ha! More than you even know …
Best Bar On A Wednesday Night: Shores Inn / Post Bars
Once again, we’ve found ourselves in a very tricky dilemma — where oh where do we spend our Wednesday nights? For those on the Eastside, you’ll probably find yourself at Shores Inn, where damn near gourmet bar grub makes you rethink the whole concept of a dinner date. Known for their Hall of Foam, they have a huge beer selection and are a popular spot in downtown St. Clair Shores with a lively summer patio.
And for other options (or roaring out of a sporting event), you’ll probably pull up a chair at one of the many Post Bars, where quick-witted bartenders and sud-soaked adventures are waiting to unravel right in the middle of the week. Wednesdays are popular with their beer specials, and when we are looking for recession friendly quality we know, the Post is the place for us.
Best Bar On A Thursday Night: Ernie’s Club
Ernie’s is known for many things — Clinton Township’s go-to good time, eating freakishly fresh seafood on Ernie’s patio and, most recently, the return of Social Thursdays. Where else can you find luxury car showcases and Captn20 (with the help of Pannos) ripping up the dance floor like it was a Saturday night? That’s right — at the one and only, Ernie’s ... duh, of course!
Best Bar On A Friday Night: Emerald
You’ve got to give it up to the Emerald for the three levels of awesome they’ve developed over the years (along with a massive stage that welcomes droves of sweating, dancing bodies). Overlooking it all is the smoke-filled billiards room (free pool) and a relaxed bar atmosphere where you can catch up with friends or take one of the staircases down to the packed dance floor and on your way you’ll pass rows of seating that is perfect for drunken, passionate make-out sessions.
Best Bar On A Saturday Night: Eden
Let us tell you the story of right hand and left hand. The right is love and the left is hate. Every single Saturday night at Eden, the two fists collide and the result is the hottest party in Detroit, which has helped Real Detroit readers deem this Ferndale bar the best to attend on a Saturday night. Featuring the sounds of resident DJ, DJ Godfather, Love-Hate Saturdays are exciting nights of the hottest hotties and Detroit party playboys, Rick Pinkowski and Craig Jelinek. come out and experience Love-Hate.
Best Bar On A Sunday Night: Tonic
Tonic is a lot like that best friend of yours that constantly takes you out for a night on the town that you’ll never forget. You’ll laugh, you’ll dance and you’ll shine under the strobe lights of Pontiac’s finest nightlife as things get so insanely intense that you’ll have to call into work the next day and swear to yourself you won’t hang out with your party pal anymore. But each Sunday night, you’ll know exactly where to go.
Best Bar On St. Patrick’s Day: Old Shillelagh
Have you ever gotten drunk in downtown Detroit on St. Patty’s Day? If you have, you’ve probably stood in the massive line outside of the Old Shillelagh’s multi-tent operation that manages to wrap around an entire city block. People love standing in lines, right? Not so much, but people do love drinking copious amounts of green beer and Irish Car Bombs in the only shamrock-approved bar that matters in city limits. We’d claim that we always walk out of that place with fond memories, but we usually don’t remember our names after high noon on St. Patrick’s Day at the Old Shillelagh.
Best Bar On Halloween: Emerald
Halloween is one of those magical nights that are never guaranteed to be anything. You could have one of the craziest nights of your life caked in vampire make-up, or bored out of your mind at your mom’s best friend’s haunted barbeque. When you don’t want to leave things to chance, Emerald offers the perfect solution. Intricate costumes, drinks galore and about a million things to do under one roof is a massive reason why the Emerald is remembered as the ultimate Halloween party each and every year.
Best Happy Hour: Kona Grill
Just around the corner from Somerset Mall is the best happy hour in town at Kona Grill. Stop by between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday for amazing specials like $3 California Rolls, Crab Special Rolls and Spicy Tuna Rolls. Have more than $3 to spare, how about $5 Margherita Pizza or Chicken & Shrimp Romaine Wraps. This pan-Asian fare is the best in town. The 1,000 gallon, giant aquarium behind the sushi bar is quite a relaxing sight to see as well.
Best Bar To Feel Like A Regular: The HideOut
We all want to go where everybody knows our name and the Hide Out is that sort of place. Harkening the spirit of the beloved sitcom, Cheers, this Clawson spot has homey charm and a friendly staff that compel you to make the HideOut part of you weekly routine. With steals such as their eight different $4.99 food specials plus a 10 ounce draft and $3 sixteen ounce Long Islands you can’t pass a place like this up. More than feeling like a regular, you may want to become one.
Best Promoter: Jody Haddad
Have you ever been to a Joey Haddad event that let you down? Can’t say we have either. From being MGM Grand’s go-to promoter to the lavishly executed theme parties of The Bank and all the way to bangin’ the box at MBarGo, Haddad keeps his hands tied with only the finest in entertainment from downtown Detroit to Mt. Clemens and everywhere in between. It goes almost without saying that Haddad brings a rare and exclusive cocktail blend of networking and sheer showmanship that only a seasoned pro could muster.
Best Club DJ: Mike Anthony
Mike Anthony, this is quite a title to behold. Too many times have we followed our friends to see “this awesome dude I know” spin boring tracks into an unmemorable blur. But you, good sir, possess that rare DJ quality that leaves the patrons yelling over your delicious mix of bumping good times to ask the name of that awesome dude spinning high decibel trouble in the DJ booth.
Best Bar On The Water: Beach Grill
The Beach Grill and Aqua, the dance club inside of it, have slashed cocktail prices and added a small plates section to their menus (small plates starting at $4.95) so everyone can enjoy the classy, upbeat environment they dole out by the handful. Soak up the sun and come in early for lunch on the large lakeside patio. This beach bar isn’t really on the sand, but makes you feel like your spring break all over again, complete with an outdoor tiki bar. Oh wait, what’s that … the sun is shining, guess we're off to …
Best Wine Bar: Vinotecca
With a wine genius like Kristen Jonna at the helm of this operation, connoisseurs and neophytes alike can both enjoy the art of pairing: finding the complementary vino for the cuisine of choice. But if you’re anything like RDW, you choose your wine first then hope to find food that complements it — either way at Vinotecca, you’re sure to find scrumptious fare and many fun wines to try. Come in after work and uncork or hang out sipping their latest pours ... this is a place that's a treat from start to last sip.
Best Place To Get Lost On The Dance Floor: Oslo
Whether you are bopping to the rhythm of the electronic sounds of house music or grooving with the beat of the DJ, there is no spot better than Oslo to zone out and get jiggy wit’ it. Below sushi heaven lays the mysterious black hole of riffs, bass and shaking asses that doesn't stop until the sun comes up. With its side rooms and a fun layout, you will be clicking your heels saying "there’s no place like Oslo" in Detroit, that is, because frankly, there just isn’t. We don't think were in Kansas anymore, Toto.
Best Bar In Greektown: Delux Lounge
Delux Lounge has an amazing, affordable martini menu and what better place to sip slowly on a drink than in the posh Greektown bar? The quaint locale plays as home to a plethora of beautiful 20 and 30 somethings on the weekends. Hosted by an excellent bar staff, there is no better place in Greektown to enjoy a few drinks, a few dances or just a night on the town with a great mix of people. Lose your inhibitions at the door and prepare yourself for a fabulous night.
Best Bar In Foxtown: Town Pump Tavern
Going to a concert at the Fox or the Fillmore? No location is more convenient than Town Pump Tavern to get your pre-drink on before your favorite concert. With 18 beers on tap, they are sure to have a frothy brew of your liking. With a cozy true tavern feel, Town Pump is great to grab a bite before an event or to wait for traffic to subside after hearing some great tunes (and every time in between).
Best Club In Windsor: Boom Boom Room (Windsor)
Robin Williams once said, “Canada’s like a loft apartment over a really big party,” but at the Boom Boom Room, Canada is more than that. The Boom Boom Room is the really big party. The reason you dig deep in your parent’s basement crates to find your birth certificate, only to cross the border and party like a rockstar. Hosting some of the hottest electronic and techno DJs, the Boom Boom Room is full of surprises and a guaranteed good time.
Best And Most Knowledgeable Beer Staff: Ye Olde Tap Room
There is a time in your life when your knowledge of beer is limited; you are sequestered to the whims of the person you weasel into buying for you. Eventually, you turn 21 and pass Alcohol 101, this is the time for you to take a journey to the Ye Olde Tap Room and start working on your Master’s. An intimate setting and one we’re quite fond of, but not only do they have an unbelievable selection of beers and wine, the staff can actually help you navigate the waters.
Best Beer Promotion: Roger’s Roost / "Ugly Mug Night"
Doesn’t matter how cute or ugly your mug is … no, not your face, silly, your drinking apparatus, Roger’s Roost will fill it for $3 on Wednesdays. There is nothing in life like a really great mug night and Roger's Roost certainly does it like our readers have never seen before. After all, who could resist the temptation of driving out to Schoenherr Rd. with an ugly 7-11 mug, having a few quality burgers and listening to some music? Don’t forget DJ Johnny Brasco on the ones and twos; there is no other place to drink cheap beer with your friends while getting your dance on than Roger’s Roost. So find your biggest mug and head to Sterling Heights for a rockin’ good time.
Best Spot To Smoke Hookah: Arabica Bistro
Where else would you get hookahed up than in the heart of East Dearborn’s Middle Eastern village along Warren Avenue. Arabica is a large café with outdoor patio where you can eat well and converse long. Try any number of flavored tobaccos while discussing world events, the "next big thing" or Detroit’s growing diverse and creative community.
Best Bar Trivia: "My Trivia Live"
What better way to put your useless knowledge and College 101 courses to use than "My Trivia Live" while sippin’ on a brewski with some of your favorite people? Gather your friends together (don’t forget the brainiac!) and take on other teams in the fun bar trivia game. The top three teams get prizes and with Miller Brewing Company as a sponsor, you can only imagine what kind of fun giveaways they might offer. For full details and locations near you, check out www.mytrivialive.com And, hey, if for no other reason, it's just perfect for practicing for your dream stint on Jeopardy. We'll take drunken bar trivia for $1000, Alex!
Best Place To Grab A Cold Drink: Hardluck Lounge
Home of our very own 2008 War of the Pour bartender, Natalie, you'd be hard pressed not to feel lucky when walking into Hardluck Lounge. This high-end dive hosts over 50 martinis and drink specials every night of the week. With good tunes, Sunday night trivia and great drink specials, this is your hotspot to imbibe.
Best Wait Staff: Gator Jake’s
What more can we ask for than 24 of the best beers on tap? Maybe the coolest wait staff serving it? Gator Jake’s has some of the hottest, speedy servers that will take care of your every want and need. Just don't be that guy flirting with the waitress, but if you're at Gator Jake's we couldn't blame you.
Best Bar At Last Call: Pepper Bottoms
St. Claire Shores’ new hot spot has taken over last call. The perfect spot to meet friends when the clock nears 2 a.m., Pepper Bottoms Beats & Eats offers a good blend of music and entertainment with everything from pool tables and darts to food and ambiance. The spacious club has something for everyone.
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