The Best Bars In Detroit's Southwest Side

Detroit’s Southwest side is comprised of rowdy and active districts, like Mexicantown, Delray and Corktown. Just like any great area, the Southwest has a diverse blend of afternoon, evening, and nightlife bars and lounges.

1. The Sugar House

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Cocktails

Blue Nectar Tequila, Sugar House, Detroit

Over the past few years, the Sugar House has gained local popularity. Starting with their dimly lit tavern in historic Corktown, Sugar House’s specialty drinks and small plates have made a name for themselves. Candle-lit after sundown, Sugar House’s ambiance and hospitable service makes this a intimate bar experience.

2. Abick's Bar

Bar, Pub Grub

Detroit has an uncountable amount of dive bars. Abick’s Bar is another dive, but it’s one of the best. With a welcoming attitude, it’s a bar for everyone. And Abick’s is ancient with over a hundred years of bartending. It’s a historical bar, with a friendly crowd.

3. Revolution Lounge

Bar, Beer

Revolution Lounge is a family-owned bar and lounge set in a late 19th century building. It’s a blend of dive bar, sports lounge, and nighttime club. It’s a little different at all times of the day. At nighttime, Revolution Lounge is known for their fabulous blend of DJs. However, during the day, especially with a Tigers or Lions game, the lounge is laid-back with beers and burgers served.

4. Black Horse Cantina

Bar, Pub Grub

Black Horse Cantina is a straight forward joint. A pool table, some tables, and a large bar, the Cantina is simple yet vibrant. The simplicity of the bar allows the eclectic blends of people and wait staff express themselves. There’s a surplus of great music, and the drinks are highly affordable.

5. Two James Spirits

Bar, Pub Grub

A specialty bar in the Corktown district, Two James Spirits is an in-house whiskey distillery that concentrates on specialty whiskey drinks. Other liquors are available; however, the Two James whiskey is made with tender love and care, and it’s for sale by the bottle. The bar is set in a brick warehouse, with a circular bar in the center, it’s urban casual.

6. Café D’Mongo’s Speakeasy

Bar, Cafe, Restaurant, American, Pub Grub

Café D’Mongo’s Speakeasy is a bit of a local legend in Detroit. Featured on the Travel Channel, this bar and soul food restaurant is a glimpse into Detroit culture. Only open Friday and Saturday nights, Café D’Mongo’s has limited time slots for their delicious soul food and affordable drinks. There’s usually live music, and it’s a speakeasy so it’s got an aesthetic to it.

7. Kovac's Bar

Bar, Pub Grub

Kovac’s Bar is the neighborhood and friendly hang out. Located in the Delray district of Southwest Detroit, Kovac’s operates as the local dive bar. It’s a hole-in-the-wall bar, with the friendliest of owners and a steady local following. It’s been around since the late 19th century, and most of the furniture is about as old as the bar is. An adventurous yet casual bar, Kovac’s is classically Detroit.

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