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Detroit’s nightlife holds more than just its well-known breweries and bustling downtown hotspots; it hides an entire world of intimate, tucked-away spaces that feel like they’re straight out of another era. These secret lounges and low-profile cocktail dens offer the kind of atmosphere where every sip feels like a discovery, and every entrance feels like you’ve stumbled onto something special. Whether you’ve been living in Metro Detroit for years or are moving to Metro Detroit and looking to explore the city’s after-dark personality, these speakeasy-style destinations deliver a mix of history, craftsmanship, and intrigue that’s impossible to find anywhere else. From artfully mixed drinks to settings steeped in character, they promise an unforgettable night out, if you know where to look.
For a different kind of nightlife vibe, explore Metro Detroit’s social districts for festive outdoor drinking experiences.
thealaddinsanedetroit, instagram
Aladdin Sane
Open: Tue-Thur (5-11pm) | Fri-Sat (5pm-12am)
1265 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
Email: hello@hirokisandetroit.com
Website: Aladdin Sane
Nestled below the Book Tower, The Aladdin Sane draws you through a discreet curtain into a dimly lit jewel of a cocktail lounge where Japanese bartending philosophy meets avant-garde flair. Expect tasting-menu omakase sessions, inventive cocktails inspired by David Bowie songs, and a rare spirits collection featuring gems like Yamazaki 18 and the Glenfiddich 29-Year Grand Yozakura. The experience is as much art as it is indulgence, crafted, contemplative, cinematic.
Bab’s Underground
Open: Mon-Sun (7pm-2am)
213 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone: (734) 997-0800
Website: Bab’s Underground
A discreet entrance leads to Bab’s Underground, a roomy basement lounge that mixes vintage cool with neighborhood comfort in Ann Arbor. The menu spans creative cocktails, craft beer, and rare bourbons, while pinball machines, arcade games, and a photo booth keep the energy lighthearted. With multiple TVs for game nights and a relaxed crowd, it’s equal parts hidden gem and go-to hangout.
Bad Luck Bar
Open: Mon-Sat (5pm-1am)
1218 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 657-9177
Website: Bad Luck Bar
Down an unmarked alley, Bad Luck Bar reveals an edgy speakeasy styled with geometric lights, quartz countertops, and hexagonal motifs that set the stage for daring craft cocktails. The bar’s whimsical creations, like the rum-and-cold-brew “Downward Facing Man” and the gilded cognac “The Seer”, define its inventive spirit. With its strict walk-in policy and locked doors, discovery and surprise fuel the intrigue of this clandestine haunt.
Candy Bar
Open: Mon-Thur (4pm-12am)
1509 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 277-4736
Website: Candy Bar
A dreamy hideaway tucked behind a velvet curtain in The Siren Hotel lobby, Candy Bar radiates retro allure with its Jayne Mansfield-pink walls, plush banquettes, and a glittering Parisian chandelier. Guests slip into an intimate, 30-seat lounge where elevated cocktails, like the whimsical espresso martini or inventive apple-cinnamon “Fallen Apple”, add flair to the romance of the experience. Happy hour (4–6 PM) tempts with discounted libations and snacks, luring a stylish crowd with its cinematic ambiance.
Cash Only
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (4-10pm) | Fri-Sat (4-11pm)
1145 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 636-3100
Website: Cash Only
Beneath Prime + Proper steakhouse lies Cash Only, a members-only lounge that prides itself on exclusivity, right down to banning cell phones inside. Behind its guarded entrance is a richly appointed space with top-shelf cocktails, a DJ booth, and a vibe designed for privacy and connection. Despite the name, cards are accepted, but membership is non-negotiable.
Castalia at Sfumato
Open: Wed-Sat (5-11pm)
3980 2nd Ave Suite E, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 305-1442
Website: Castalia at Sfumato
Located inside the Midtown mansion that houses Sfumato Fragrances, Castalia offers a one-of-a-kind sensory experience: cocktails designed to complement the brand’s artisanal scents. Drinks like the Tiger’s Eye, blending Thai tea-infused gin, coconut milk, nutmeg, cayenne, and turbinado, are paired with specific fragrances to engage taste and smell in harmony. With just a handful of seats, it’s an immersive, intimate nightcap destination.
Evening Bar (Detroit), Facebook
Evening Bar
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (5-11pm) | Fri-Sat (5pm-1am)
1400 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 246-9800
Website: Evening Bar
Tucked inside the Shinola Hotel, Evening Bar fuses early-20th-century parlor charm with modern cocktails and thoughtful bites. With low lighting, plush seating, and seasonal drink selections crafted by skilled local mixologists, think the winter-warming “Evil Twin”, it’s a cozy yet polished space that feels like Detroit’s own refined living room. Reservations are available, but walk-ins might just find themselves lingering longer amidst artful snacks like coconut curry cashews or a blue crab tostada.
Ghostbar at The Whitney
Open: Mon-Thur (4-9pm) | Fri-Sat (4-11pm) | Sun (4-8pm)
4421 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 832-5700
Website: Ghostbar at The Whitney
Perched on the third floor of The Whitney, Ghostbar envelops guests in Gilded Age opulence, complete with carved woodwork, antique furnishings, and a cocktail menu worthy of the mansion’s storied history. Signature drinks pair perfectly with the glow of the ornate bar and the occasional live jazz performance on Saturday nights. It’s a setting that feels both timeless and just a little haunted, a nod to the building’s enduring lore.
Jolly Old Timers
Open: Mon (6-11pm) | Thur-Fri (6pm-1am)
641 W Forest Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 831-5342
Website: Jolly Old Timers
Operating in various forms since the 1950s, Jolly Old Timers is a members’ club with a warm, wood-paneled interior and a storied past. Located in the lower level of a private residence, it serves beer and mixed drinks in a setting rich with Detroit history and camaraderie. Rumor holds that former mayor Coleman Young once counted himself among its patrons.
Johnny’s
Open: Thur (6pm-12am) | Fri-Sat (6pm-1am) | Sun (5-11pm)
215 S Main St, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Phone: (248) 794-1261
Website: Johnny’s
Beneath the bustling Main Street in Royal Oak lies Johnny’s, a code-access speakeasy with brick walls, warm lighting, and a distinctly exclusive vibe. Inside, guests discover a thoughtful menu of pastas, small plates, and indulgent entrées alongside craft cocktails like the Peaky Blinders, an egg white sour with strawberry-infused Jameson. With limited seating and a reservation-only policy for most groups, it’s a hideaway where every night feels like an insider’s invitation.
knocktwicespeakeasy, instagram
Knock Twice Speakeasy
Open: Wed-Thur (5pm-12am) | Fri-Sat (5pm-1:30am)
6430 Farmington Rd, West Bloomfield Township, MI 48322
Phone: (248) 562-7029
Website: Knock Twice Speakeasy
An unsuspecting exterior hides this upscale speakeasy, complete with plush seating, live music, and seasonal craft cocktails. Guests can enjoy small plates indoors or relax on the outdoor patio under twinkling lights. With its mix of intimacy and entertainment, Knock Twice balances refinement with a lively neighborhood feel.
London Chop House Bar
Open: Mon-Sat (4-10pm)
155 W Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 962-0277
Website: London Chop House Bar
Nestled beneath the city in the historic London Chop House, this underground bar revives the golden age of three-martini lunches and ad exec nightlife, all while serving elevated cocktails, fine wines, and a full dinner menu. Proper attire is required, a subtle cue that elegance and tradition infuse every aspect of the experience. Whether you’re unwinding with a classic martini or savoring steakhouse-quality dishes, the atmosphere delivers rich ambience with a nod to Detroit’s storied social scene.
Monarch Club
Open: Mon-Thur (5-11pm) | Fri (5pm-12am) | Sat (4pm-12am) | Sun (2-8pm)
33 John R St Penthouse, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 306-2380
Website: Monarch Club
Atop the Metropolitan Building, Monarch Club offers panoramic views of downtown Detroit from a sophisticated rooftop perch. Art Deco-inspired interiors and plush seating create a sense of timeless luxury, while the craft cocktail list runs from classics to inventive seasonal specials. On warm nights, the open-air terraces are the perfect place to watch the city skyline glow as the sun sets.
Oakland Art Novelty Company
Open: Tue-Sat (5pm-12am) | Sun (5-11pm)
201 W Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
Phone: (248) 291-5295
Website: Oakland Art Novelty Company
Since 2011, The Oakland Art Novelty Company has been Ferndale’s worst-kept best secret, an intimate, dimly lit haven where Prohibition-era spirit meets modern mixology. The menu rotates with the seasons, blending pre-Prohibition staples with original creations, all served in an environment of polished wood, flickering candlelight, and vintage charm. It’s the kind of bar where time slows down, conversations linger, and every cocktail feels like it was made just for you.
If you're planning dinner before your speakeasy hop, here’s a curated list of downtown Detroit’s best restaurants and bars to start your evening right.
Perfect Beat
Open: Thur-Sat (9pm-12am)
1941 S Fort St, Detroit, MI 48217
Phone: (313) 525-1056
Website: Perfect Beat
Part nightclub, part visual spectacle, The Perfect Beat in Southwest Detroit draws the eye with neon lighting, mirrored ceilings, and faux palm trees. Inside, the energy is high, the music is loud, and the vibe is unapologetically eclectic. With a single bartender working the crowd, the wait can be long, but the playful atmosphere more than makes up for it.
Raven Lounge and Restaurant
Open: Thur (8pm-1am) | Fri-Sat (7:30pm-2am)
5145 Chene St, Detroit, MI 48211
Phone: (313) 924-7133
Website: Raven Lounge and Restaurant
A cornerstone of Detroit’s blues scene since the 1960s, Raven Lounge is part music club, part social institution. Inside the modest exterior lies a lively, welcoming space filled with the sounds of live blues and the aroma of soul food favorites. Whether you’re there to dance, eat, or just soak in the atmosphere, Raven delivers an authentic slice of Detroit’s cultural heartbeat.
Room 1904
Open: Thur-Sat (6pm-1am)
624 Brush St, Detroit, MI 48226
Website: Room 1904
Perched above Jacoby’s, Room 1904 channels Prohibition-era elegance with its noir glow and vintage allure. Guests check in from 6 until 1 AM, slipping into a sultry sanctuary where absinthe flows alongside finely curated whiskey and wine. Against the backdrop of timeless decor and an elevated speakeasy vibe, it’s an intimate retreat that wears its history unapologetically and stylishly.
Shelby
Open: Wed-Thur (5pm-12am) | Fri-Sat (5pm-1am)
607 Shelby St, Detroit, MI 48226
Email: info@shelbydetroit.com
Website: Shelby
Shelby occupies a beautifully restored former bank vault tucked underground in Detroit’s Financial District, channeling old-world charm with modern craft sensibilities. Guests step through a discreet blue door into an intimate, low-lit space where ethically sourced ingredients shine in meticulously crafted cocktails and thoughtful culinary pairings. The décor and ambiance strike a perfect balance between historic gravitas and contemporary flair, and though reservations are recommended, walk-ins are warmly welcomed, as long as the kitchen remains open until 10 PM.
Side Hustle Lounge, Facebook
Side Hustle Lounge
Open: Mon-Thur (4pm-12am) | Fri (4pm-1am) | Sat (2pm-1am) | Sun (2-11pm)
1226 Library St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 636-5566
Website: Side Hustle Lounge
Attached to Mootz Pizzeria, Side Hustle Lounge brings playful mid-century flair and bright, vintage vibes to Detroit’s craft cocktail scene. Patrons can enjoy classic libations alongside bold signature creations, like the lavender lemon drop, paired with small plates that sync with its energetic, retro ambiance. Situated in the heart of downtown, it’s the kind of place where a night out feels effortlessly stylish and a little cheeky.
Sid Gold’s Request Room
Open: Wed-Thur (7pm-1am) | Fri-Sat (7pm-2am)
1511 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 631-3526
Website: Sid Gold’s Request Room
Hidden inside the Siren Hotel, Sid Gold’s Request Room blends a piano bar’s intimacy with the unfiltered fun of karaoke, backed by a live accompanist. The mood is pure retro-lounge, where the songbook spans everything from Broadway showstoppers to modern radio hits. A dimly lit, velvet-accented setting keeps things classy, while the drink list and light bites round out a night of music, nostalgia, and lively camaraderie.
Standby
Open: Wed-Thur, Sun (5pm-1am) | Fri-Sat (5pm-2am)
225 Gratiot Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313-241-5719
Website: Standby
Hidden in Belt Alley, Standby positions itself as Detroit’s cocktail laboratory, offering over 50 inventive drinks classified into mood-driven categories like “Purist” and “Certified Bangers.” Its culinary edge, thanks to food developed by Matty Matheson, elevates the experience with dishes such as crispy pork belly, brick chicken, and a celebrated bistro burger. Whether you reserve or walk in, this sleek, art-filled den blends approachable elegance with high-bar craft.
Sugar House
Open: Mon-Thur (5pm-12am) | Fri (4pm-2am) | Sat (3pm-2am) | Sun (3pm-12am)
2130 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 962-0123
Website: Sugar House
Sugar House, earned the title of Detroit’s original craft cocktail bar since its 2011 debut in Corktown, and still inspires with a curated lineup of foundational classics and rotating seasonal house concoctions. The back bar booms with hand-picked single-barrel bourbons and American whiskies, making each glass feel like both a sip of heritage and a step into innovation. Whether easing in on a casual walk-in midweek or lounging through weekend reservations, it blends history, flavor, and spirited hospitality.
Syndicate Ferndale, Facebook
Syndicate Ferndale
Open: Tue-Thur (4-11pm) | Fri-Sat (4pm-12am)
140 Vester Ave, Ferndale, MI 48220
Phone: (313) 314-7220
Website: Syndicate Ferndale
Opened in 2023, Syndicate has quickly become one of Ferndale’s go-to cocktail destinations, blending sleek industrial aesthetics with whimsical presentation. Signature drinks, like the shimmering Violet Stratosphere, arrive with theatrical flair, often garnished with edible glitter or unexpected botanical touches. A dog-friendly patio, shareable snacks, and a menu that walks the line between playful and sophisticated make this a perfect mix of neighborhood comfort and cocktail artistry.
Two Way Inn
Open: Tue (11am-5pm) | Wed-Thur (11am-10pm) | Fri-Sat (12pm-12am)
17897 Mt Elliott St, Detroit, MI 48212
Phone: Two Way Inn
Website: Two Way Inn
Founded in 1876, Two Way Inn is Detroit’s oldest bar, and it wears its history proudly. Behind its buzzer-locked door, guests find a cozy, unfussy space pouring a wide selection of domestic, imported, and Michigan craft beers. In colder months, owner Mary Aganowski serves homemade soups that make this neighborhood fixture as comforting as it is historic.
Weiss Distilling Company
Open: Tue-Thur (5-11pm) | Fri-Sat (5pm-12am)
34 E 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017
Phone: (929) 484-3932
Website: Weiss Distilling Company
Step into an elevator shaft and you’ll discover Weiss Distilling Company’s speakeasy bar, a sleek, atmospheric space where craft cocktails meet small-batch spirits. Known for its house-made gin, vodka, and absinthe, the menu plays with innovative flavor combinations that showcase the distillery’s range. This intimate hideaway blends industrial style with artisanal craftsmanship, making every pour feel like a personal invitation into the distiller’s world.
Willow
Open: Thur (6pm-12am) | Fri-Sat (6pm-1am)
1431 Times Square, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 900-3474
Website: Willow
Nestled behind a golden door hidden next to Savannah Blue, Willow invites guests into an intimate, dimly lit lounge that honors Southern hospitality and Detroit’s cocktail heritage. Limited to just 50 seated guests at a time, the bar balances elegance and intimacy, offering craft cocktails, classic spirits, small bites, and a curated spirit selection that spans scotch, gin, rum, mezcal, non-alcoholic options, and more. Every detail, from décor to drink, nods to overlooked local stories and embodies cultural resonance with every sip.
Pair your hidden-bar crawl with daytime exploration of Metro Detroit’s summer festivals and events to make the most of every visit.
Exploring the city’s secret cocktail culture is more than just a fun night out; it’s a window into the creativity, history, and personality that make Detroit unique. From dimly lit lounges hidden behind unmarked doors to rooftop retreats with skyline views, each stop adds another layer to the story of a city that’s constantly reinventing itself while honoring its past. For those living in Metro Detroit, these hidden gems offer fresh ways to experience familiar streets, while anyone moving to Metro Detroit will find them to be unforgettable introductions to the city’s vibrant nightlife. Seek them out, savor the atmosphere, and let the city’s best-kept secrets become part of your own Detroit story.
For location and Directions, please see the interactive map below
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