Best Cocktail Bars In Detroit
Detroit has experienced a resurgence in the fine drink category in the past few years, and the openings of new lounges, speakeasies and distilleries are proof of that. What better way to savor the spirit of autumn's arrival than to sit back, relax and order a fancy drink from one of the Detroit area's stellar cocktail establishments?
The Oakland
201 W. 9 Mile Road
Ferndale, MI 48220
(248) 291-5295
www.theoaklandferndale.com
The Oakland is a stylish place reminiscent of cocktail lounges found only in your dreams. Each drink is hand-crafted by a masterful bartender, with many ingredients created, then perfected, on site. The atmosphere is especially suited for a nightcap to complete the perfect evening spent with your love or confidante. Its beyond gorgeous lighting adds a shimmering touch to accentuate the sophisticated decor. Slide over to the back patio to check out Honi Honi, an outdoor-style tiki lounge, where mai tais and Singapore slings reign supreme.
Public House
241 W.t Nine Mile Road
Ferndale, MI 48220
(248) 850-7420
www.facebook.com/publichouseferndale
Public House serves some pretty cocktails, artistically crafted for your drinking pleasure. Each specialty cocktail offered is made from unique ingredients. The throwback names given to each cocktail are begging for you to try a different one each time you throw one back. For dessert, there is a duo of what are dubbed "boozy milkshakes," and both varieties sound like heaven. The decor isn't too fussy, creating an atmosphere of laid-back chic with a slight edge. An added bonus is the cotton candy that is featured on the actual dessert menu, because who doesn't love cotton candy?
Two James Spirits
2445 Michigan Ave.
Detroit, MI 48216
(313) 964-4800
www.twojames.com
Two James has staked its claim in Corktown and as a purveyor of handcrafted spirits. Touted as Detroit's first licensed distillery since the Prohibition era, this distillery creates its own spirits. Found on the menu are drinks made from vodka, gin and bourbon, with whiskey and absinthe available sometime on the horizon. The cocktails have enticing names, most of which rep the D, and are served in the tasting room. The space features an expansive sliding carriage door, unique lighting fixtures which create a nice ambiance and a circular bar area that is conductive to great conversation. The vibe is unhurried and relaxed.
Torino
201 E. 9 Mile Road
Ferndale, MI 48220
(248) 247-1370
www.torinoferndale.com
Torino has been experiencing changes and it has turned into something amazing. There is an extensive list of specialty cocktails to order from. The cocktail menu changes with the seasons but rest assured, there is always something fantastic including a "Punch of the Day," which is available during happy hour. The contemporary atmosphere is sparse and does not compete with the stunning complexities of the tasting menu.
Craft
419 S. Main St.
Royal Oak, MI 48067
(248) 544-6250
www.craftbar.net/br/craft
Craft features a retro vibe, heavy on the nostalgia, with a hint of whimsy thrown in. The eclectic atmosphere is a precursor to the crowd, which varies depending on the day. Live music is performed on certain nights, with a DJ spinning on weekends. The cocktails served at this unique spot are inventive, with ingredients featuring whispers, "Tyrannosaurus essence" and "Unicorn tears." There are also some distinct cocktails that feature beer from Craft's sister brewery, Bastone, which are worth checking out.
After receiving a BA in Photography from Savannah College of Art & Design, Nicole Wrona began working with a diverse range of musicians. In addition, she is a freelance writer for numerous publications. Her work can be found at www.metalleaves.com and Examiner.com.
