The list of Detroit’s old shot-and-a-beer bars keeps growing. The list is pretty much carved in stone – it’s just a very long list. We’re keeping it confined to downtown and the near west side along the route to Detroit Metro Airport.
Giovanna’s Lounge – 3537 Vernor Highway, Detroit
Nestled in Mexican town, Giovanna’s Lounge has an interesting hard-corner shaped interior bar and one of the most eclectic patios in the city. This is a friendly joint and is the perfect watering hole after Xochi’s, Los Galanes, or any of the themed Mexican restaurants in this area.
Cash only, fish tanks along the bar and every crazy Budweiser sign from Bygone eras plastered everywhere.
This is the place you go when you want to hang out with local truckers and factory workers, and it is great. There’s one pool table and a big, beautiful patio out back; the booze is cheap and the people are friendly. It’s essentially an idyllic dive.
Jumbo’s – 3736 3rd Avenue, Detroit
On the edges of midtown development, this place continues to hold out the flag for affordable drinks and awesome weird times.
Look for the pirate that sometimes dresses as a rocket. This Hamtramck establishment is epic ad has also been listed as Detroit’s ‘best bad decision bar.’ The beers served here are great and there’s a neat little patio out back.
The perfect neighborhood bar . Jumbo’s doesn’t put on airs and try to pretend they are anything they are not– just a fun bar full of fun people. The crowd ranges from old guys at the bar, college kids, hipsters, rock-n-rollers, artists, actors, and everyone else in between, some with their dogs in tow– yes, this place is dog friendly!
The bartenders are sassy and fun, drinks are strong and cheap. Lots of fun happening at this family owned business. Jumbo’s is your basic friendly dive bar. So if you’re not normally a friendly person, don’t go. Stephanie, the bartender and daughter of the owner, is fun, sassy and an excellent bartender. They have a pool table and great music playing on the juke box. Fun events happening here. Cheers.
Best Dive Bars of Detroit 