Bad Luck Bar
Persistence was key in finding this off-the-beaten path bar. After futile attempts to find the location, we walked into La Laterna, an Italian restaurant in Capitol Park, to ask for directions. The host led us past a tiny kitchen, where they were rolling out delicate pasta. (Note to self: Need to come back here and eat!). He led us out the back door into a very dark alley. We made a quick right turn and there it was. A discrete door with only a street art-style snake drawn on it. It was a dark and stormy night, adding intrigue to the atmosphere. We stepped through a velvet drape into a dimly lit tiny room with a backlit bar that rose 18’ to the ceiling.
I ordered the smoky bourbon drink under glass with a torched twig of rosemary. The menu of cocktails was impressive with drinks that matched the environment. Verdict: Put the Bad Luck Bar on your “must go” list! (An easier way to make your entrance is off State Street).
Parker’s Alley
You don’t need to head to London to walk cobblestone streets. Parker’s Alley, located behind the infamous Shinola Hotel, offers up a unique atmosphere, old world and sultry, just waiting to be strolled.
Whether it’s date night for drinks, wanting fried chicken for lunch, or just a passing through to get from point A to point B; you’ll be in for an experience as you enjoy the music bouncing off the walls to the rhythm of the overhead lights swinging in the breeze.
Do take the time to linger in and out of shops with a coffee in hand and end the stroll with ice cream, all can be acquired in Parker’s Alley. One of the many highlights is the Evening Bar (Shinola Hotel’s speakeasy) for a taste of elegance and a chance rub shoulders with celebrities from around the world who are making their way here to experience the soul of Detroit. We promise, you’ll be back often!
The Belt
This original “must-see” alleyway in Detroit still stands strong in entertainment and serves as a popular gathering spot for city dwellers and visitors alike. Some of the most famous street artists from around the world have left their mark on the alley walls and on the walls of the adjacent Z garage. The texture, color, depth and deconstruction of one of the brick walls offers a magnificent backdrop to this once toxic manufacturing alleyway in a former downtown garment district where saddlery, buggy whip and belt makers sold their wares.
Anchoring the South entryway of The Belt is Standby, a favorite spot for inventive cocktails and a savory, dynamic dinner menu (James Beard finalist). Halfway down the alley is The Skip, voted “Best Tiki Bar” by Detroit Metro Times, is serving el fresco frozen drinks, tropical cocktails and a thoughtful beer selection. Contributing to the nightlife there is Deluxx Fluxx, a live music venue/night club with an electrifying neon atmosphere. All in all, the Belt is a Detroit experience not to be missed.
For more amazing hidden gems in Detroit, check out our Arts and Entertainment page and our Food and Drink page!
