Between the years 1946-1970 the local bars of Metro Detroit matured alongside the baby boom generation. Not many years ago the term “hipster,” as we now use it, did not exist. Most people before the new millennium would have interpreted hipster as a reference to the 1960’s term “hip.”
During the 2008 real estate collapse the term ‘dive’ was resurrected as a gentrification term linked with property restoration. It no longer was being used as a derogatory term.
As the 2010’s arrived the Millennial wanted to connect with the era of their parents. At the same time, their parents, the baby boomers, didn’t want to lose all that represented their youth. As a bridge between these two generations an interest in Detroit gentrification grew.
An interest in restoration versus destruction of old architecture is now valued among small business owners. Banks are starting to loan money for old building restoration. Non-profit development commissions have sprung up through the greater Detroit area to rebuild what was nearly lost from Detroit’s Art-Deco era.
From a marketing standpoint, vintage and pedigree of the buildings that house these old bars is part of the bars’ image. Continuous, same-family ownership plays a role in the reputation amongst their dedicated customer base. The older the establishments – the better. The longer at the same location – the better. No disruption of continuous service to their customers helps solidify their reputation and reliable service to their community.
Best Dive Bars of Detroit 