The Brakeman

4.2(755)· Google4.2 out of 5 from 755 reviews (Google rating)Brewery$$ Downtown
Closed today

Quick facts

The Brakeman is a brewery at 22 John R St in Detroit, MI, open Sun–Sat from 12:00 PM. Call +1313-486-5300 for details.

Address
22 John R St, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone
+1313-486-5300
Hours today
Closed today
Price
$$

About The Brakeman

The Brakeman is a bar at 22 John R St in Detroit, MI, with a sizable space, a casual, hip atmosphere, and fried chicken and sides alongside craft beer. The drinks selection also includes cocktails, wine, and liquor, with happy-hour drinks available. Foosball tables, other bar games, and TVs are part of the setup, and the venue is suited to watching sports. Karaoke nights and live performances add to its entertainment offerings.

The bar accommodates groups, is popular with tourists, and is also listed as suitable for solo dining. Dinner and late-night food are available, with indoor seating, outdoor seating, and takeout options. It does not offer table service or delivery, and reservations are not accepted. The entrance, seating, and restroom are wheelchair accessible. Paid street and garage parking are available, and the bar accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. Its Google rating is 4.2 out of 5 from 755 reviews.

Known for

  • Fried chicken and sides
  • Craft beer and cocktails
  • Foosball, bar games, and sports viewing
  • Karaoke nights and live performances
  • Late-night food and outdoor seating

What reviewers say elsewhere

  • “Place smelled horrible. Music was way too loud. I looked at my card history and they charged $80 for 5 shots that didn’t taste good. Could’ve spent a whole night at another bar for the five minutes I was here.”

    — Shailee, August 22, 2026 · google

  • “Didn’t get the drink I ordered, bartender wasn’t helpful or kind.”

    — Maaike van der Vlist, August 20, 2026 · google

  • “Visited Detroit and came here last night when I could hear the DJ from a block away 😭. Kim was AMAZING. Incredibly friendly and made the best drinks for my friends and I. More vegan options would be great but otherwise loved my time there!”

    — Imani Cooper, August 8, 2026 · google

  • “This place was incredible. The chicken was crazy good.”

    — Molly N, August 7, 2026 · google

Excerpts are shown for attribution and remain the property of their source.

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Within walking distance

The Brakeman — frequently asked

Is The Brakeman open on Mondays?
No — The Brakeman is closed on Mondays.
Where is The Brakeman?
The Brakeman is at 22 John R St, Detroit, MI 48226.
How expensive is The Brakeman?
Google lists The Brakeman in the $$ price range for breweries in Detroit, MI.
What is the phone number for The Brakeman?
You can reach The Brakeman on +1313-486-5300.

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