Last updated October 13, 2026 · ranked from 6,677 Google reviews · How we rank
This list ranks 8 cocktail bars in and around Detroit, MI, led by Griot Music Lounge, Bad Luck Bar and The Sugar House. Together they have 6,114 Google reviews; Wet Picnic has the highest Google rating on the list at 4.9. Every place on the list is in Detroit, MI. Rankings weigh Google rating, review volume, how complete and current each listing is, and our own notes on each place.
Wet PicnicCandlelight in a small basement bar and drinks in the garden give Wet Picnic two distinct settings for a cocktail in Detroit, MI.
The Sugar HouseThe Sugar House holds a 4.6 Google rating across 1,491 reviews in Corktown, listed on Google as cocktail bar.
Griot Music LoungeGriot Music Lounge holds a 4.8 Google rating across 513 reviews in Midtown, listed on Google as lounge bar.1Lounge bar · $ · Midtown
Own this business? Claim itClosed todayGriot Music Lounge holds a 4.8 Google rating across 513 reviews in Midtown, listed on Google as lounge bar.
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2Cocktail bar · $$$$ · Downtown
Own this business? Claim itOpen now · closes 1:00 AMBad Luck Bar holds a 4.7 Google rating across 774 reviews in Downtown, listed on Google as cocktail bar.
“I absolutely LOVED my first visit here! The bartender (I didn’t get her name — I suck) was simply outstanding! I tried the Understory cocktail — fantastic, BTW — and she made me a Sentimental Gentleman cocktail (a personal fave that’s ha…”
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3Cocktail bar · $$$ · Corktown
Own this business? Claim itOpen now · closes 12:00 AMThe Sugar House holds a 4.6 Google rating across 1,491 reviews in Corktown, listed on Google as cocktail bar.
“Bar tender by the name of (Gray) made it a great experience that I will never forget. I can't wait to come back next weekend. Thanks Gray!!”
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4Cocktail bar · $$ · Downtown
Own this business? Claim itClosed todayStandby holds a 4.6 Google rating across 1,280 reviews in Downtown, listed on Google as cocktail bar.
“Cheyenne served us the best drinks, appetizers, & entrees!”
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5Cocktail bar · $ · Midtown
Own this business? Claim itClosed todayCandlelight in a small basement bar and drinks in the garden give Wet Picnic two distinct settings for a cocktail in Detroit, MI. One guest describes it as suited to dates and intimate groups; another recounts an owner arranging an Uber after their phone died. The lowest listed price tier and Friday–Saturday service until 2 a.m. add practical appeal.
“Cool little basement candle light bar. Very small, but great vibes.”
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6Cocktail bar · $ · Downtown
Own this business? Claim itOpen now · closes 12:00 AMReviewers mention versions with banana peanut butter whisky and chocolate Baileys, while the lounge’s broader craft cocktail focus includes happy-hour drinks. Its 4.9 Google rating from 196 reviews is backed by comments praising service, food, and a relaxed atmosphere. At 1226 Library St, beside sibling business Mootz Pizzeria + Bar, it offers small plates, outdoor seating, and Friday and Saturday hours until 1 a.m.
“Had a wonderful time out with good friends. The food and drinks were delicious. Got the Bees Sting pizza to share with my hubs and the Expresso Martini. The small pizza was perfect to share for 2 people. Gave us each 2 slices. It is th…”
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7Cocktail bar · $$ · Downtown
Own this business? Claim itOpen now · closes 12:00 AMThe Skip holds a 4.5 Google rating across 1,090 reviews in Downtown, listed on Google as cocktail bar.
“Yummy Some of the best frozen drinks in town.”
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8Cocktail bar · $$ · Downtown
Own this business? Claim itClosed todayshelby holds a 4.5 Google rating across 469 reviews in Downtown, listed on Google as cocktail bar.
“They played Michael Jackson bangers almost the entire time. Drinks were great and good atmosphere. For some reason, my reservation never saved (likely a mistake on my end,) but they were still able to get me into the bar despite it being…”
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9Cocktail bar · $ · Downtown
Own this business? Claim itOpen now · closes 10:00 PMThe Buhl Bar is an upscale bar in the Buhl Building at 535 Griswold St in Detroit, MI. Its old-school character is paired with an atmosphere described as cozy and hip. Cocktails are a focus, with both classic and unique options, alongside wine, beer, and spirits. Food is also served, though the provided information does not specify dishes. The bar has a Google rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 250 reviews. The Buhl Bar offers dine-in service and is listed as suitable for groups, with fast service among its noted features. Reservations are not accepted, and neither takeout nor delivery is available. For visitors arriving by car, paid garage and paid street parking are listed. Credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments are accepted. A wheelchair-accessible restroom is available.
“This bar is stunning and the cocktails are just as beautiful. It isn’t your local dive bar. It’s an elevated experience, with elevated ingredients. The bartender was very knowledgeable about Detroit and gave a lot of suggestions for plac…”
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10Lounge bar · $ · Milwaukee Junction
Own this business? Claim itClosed todayRaven Lounge & Restaurant is a bar at 5145 Chene St in Detroit, MI, with live blues acts Thursday through Saturday. The setting is laid-back, casual and cozy, with Southern soul food alongside cocktails, beer, wine and liquor. Live performances and dancing are part of the offering, and food is available at the bar as well as through table service. The business has a 4.5-star Google rating from 313 reviews. Raven accommodates groups and is also listed as suitable for solo dining. Guests can dine in or order takeout; delivery is not available. Free street parking is listed, along with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking and restroom. Credit cards, debit cards and NFC mobile payments are accepted. For a visit centered on blues, Thursday through Saturday is the stated live-music schedule; food and drinks round out the bar’s offerings.
“As everyone is saying, you are treated like family even on your first visit. The Raven is a quick Uber ride from downtown Detroit. "Boss Man" Tommy is an excellent host. On the Saturday night I was there, the band was tight and the f…”
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| # | Place | Google rating | Price | Google reviews | Neighborhood | Phone | Open now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Griot Music Lounge | 4.8(513)4.8 out of 5 from 513 reviews (Google rating) | $ | 513 | Midtown | +1313-920-6075 | Closed |
| 2 | Bad Luck Bar | 4.7(774)4.7 out of 5 from 774 reviews (Google rating) | $$$$ | 774 | Downtown | +1313-657-9177 | Open |
| 3 | The Sugar House | 4.6(1,491)4.6 out of 5 from 1491 reviews (Google rating) | $$$ | 1,491 | Corktown | +1313-962-0123 | Open |
| 4 | Standby | 4.6(1,280)4.6 out of 5 from 1280 reviews (Google rating) | $$ | 1,280 | Downtown | +1313-241-5719 | Closed |
| 5 | Wet Picnic | 4.9(301)4.9 out of 5 from 301 reviews (Google rating) | $ | 301 | Midtown | +1313-217-1265 | Closed |
| 6 | Side Hustle Lounge | 4.9(196)4.9 out of 5 from 196 reviews (Google rating) | $ | 196 | Downtown | +1313-636-5566 | Open |
| 7 | The Skip | 4.5(1,090)4.5 out of 5 from 1090 reviews (Google rating) | $$ | 1,090 | Downtown | +1313-724-3145 | Open |
| 8 | shelby | 4.5(469)4.5 out of 5 from 469 reviews (Google rating) | $$ | 469 | Downtown | — | Closed |
| 9 | The Buhl Bar | 4.5(250)4.5 out of 5 from 250 reviews (Google rating) | $ | 250 | Downtown | +1313-922-2233 | Open |
| 10 | Raven Lounge & Restaurant | 4.5(313)4.5 out of 5 from 313 reviews (Google rating) | $ | 313 | Milwaukee Junction | +1313-924-7133 | Closed |
Ratings and review counts shown are Google ratings, displayed with attribution.
Each cocktail bar is scored on a Bayesian-weighted rating (its rating adjusted for how many reviews it has compared with the Detroit category average), how recently we verified its details, and how complete its listing is. Scores and ranks are stored, so the order only changes when the underlying data changes.
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