We’re excited to welcome you to Detroit and share some of the spots we love most. Whether you’re looking for a great cocktail, a cozy brunch, or a memorable dinner, we’ve pulled together a list of our go-to places in and around downtown Detroit. If any of these peak your interest we highly recommend snagging a reservation while you can!

All are within walking distance of the Shinola Hotel or are well worth the quick Uber.

Cocktails & Nightlife

Candy Bar (at The Siren Hotel) – One of our favorites. Tiny, glamorous, and drenched in pink, this jewel box of a bar serves up playful cocktails. Snag a reservation in advanced!

Shelby – One of the most unique cocktail bars in the city, located in a beautifully restored bank vault beneath a former savings and loan.

Evening Bar – A moody speakeasy tucked behind the Shinola Hotel. Perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or nightcap.

Queens Bar – A laid-back local favorite with strong drinks, no fuss, and great energy. Perfect for a casual night out.

Bad Luck Bar – Intimate and dramatic, this ultra-curated cocktail bar is known for its luxurious (and pricey) menu.

Kampers – A stylish rooftop bar on the 14th floor of the beautifully restored Book Tower with skyline views and a relaxed vibe.

Standby – A go-to for creative cocktails and elevated bar bites in a lively setting.

Paramita Sound – Part record store, part bar—expect great DJs, a chill crowd, and a laid-back selection of wine and canned cocktails.

Cliff Bell’s – A classic Detroit jazz club with art deco charm, handcrafted cocktails, and live music most nights of the week. Check their website for a schedule of performers and to snag a reservation.

C A N D Y B A R

Dinner

Selden Standard - A standout in Detroit’s dining scene offering seasonal, locally-sourced dishes and a refined atmosphere. A 6 min uber away, but worth the trip. Snag a reservation while you can!

Wright & Company – Small plates, craft cocktails, and a chic loft setting make this a perfect spot to share with friends.

Leila – Sophisticated Mediterranean flavors served in a stunning, modern space.

Le Suprême – Classic French fare with flair; think steak frites, martinis, and rich desserts.

Hiroki-San – Top-notch Japanese cuisine inside the Shinola Hotel from a Nobu alum.

Vertical Detroit – A hidden gem for wine lovers with some of the best steak in the city.

Eatori Market – A cozy neighborhood hangout with a short but thoughtful menu and a sunny patio.

The Apparatus Room – Located in a former firehouse with gorgeous interiors—service can be slow, but the space is worth lingering in.

Joe Muer Seafood – A Detroit institution serving pristine seafood and decadent desserts along the riverfront.

S E L D E N S T A N A R D

Breakfast & Coffee

Madcap – The best coffee in the city, hands down.

Cannelle – A French-style bakery with buttery croissants, seasonal pastries, and strong espresso.

Dime Store - A downtown brunch staple serving inventive comfort food in a stylish but relaxed setting.

Hudson Cafe - Big portions, classic brunch dishes, and a warm, bustling vibe—perfect after a night out.

D I M E S T O R E

Activities & Sightseeing

Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) – One of the country’s top art museums, featuring everything from Diego Rivera’s iconic murals to contemporary exhibitions.

Motown Museum – Visit the birthplace of Motown and step inside Studio A, where legends like Stevie Wonder and the Supremes recorded their hits.

Belle Isle Park & Aquarium – A scenic island park with views of the city skyline, a historic aquarium, and a conservatory. Take a photo a long the Canadian/US border.

Eastern Market – One of the oldest and largest year-round markets in the country, filled with local produce, flowers, food vendors, and art—especially lively on Saturday mornings.

Campus Martius Park – A central green space surrounded by shops and cafes—great for people-watching or grabbing a drink in the summer beer garden.

Detroit Riverwalk – A beautiful place for a morning stroll along the waterfront, with parks, pavilions, and views across to Canada.

D E T R O I T I N S T I T U T E O F A R T S