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Best Anti-Football Bars In Detroit

Pub
(credit: Thinkstock)

Detroit has countless bars that are the antithesis of the traditional sports bar. These bars cater to a different crowd. Their collective mood is comfortable yet sophisticated, each offering something unique. If you are looking to spend the evening lost in conversation instead of shouting over blaring flat screens, check out one of the destinations below. You will not be disappointed.


Sugar House
2130 Michigan Ave
Detroit, MI 48026
(313) 962-0123
sugarhousedetroit.com

Sugar House serves hand-crafted drinks in a swanky setting. The decor is unparalleled and the setting is intimate. Offering the most interesting products that can be found in this area, the Sugar House drink menu is updated seasonally to reflect its unique vision. Included for your enjoyment are a selection of craft beers, fine wines and classic cocktails, complemented by a limited menu of small plates. Check out the "Dealer's Choice" in which the bartender will mix up a concoction based on your favorite spirit.

Motor City Brewing Works   
470 West Canfield St
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 832-2700
motorcitybeer.com

Motor City Brewing Works produces hand-crafted beer that is brewed on site. The brewery was constructed from salvaged equipment left over from Detroit's industrial era by local artists and craftsmen. The relaxing atmosphere and variety of beer make this a great place to chill with friends. The outdoor, roof-top deck has the best seats in the building. Order the sampler to discover your favorite brew. Motor City Brewing Works also offers pizza with unexpected gourmet topping combinations. If you want to try your hand at creating your own masterpiece, try the "build your own pie" option. Motor City Brewing Works also displays a rotating art show, featuring a different local artist each week. A scheduled series of weekly bike rides begin at the brewery. Please click here for biking schedule. Guided tours of the brewery are also available upon request. Please contact the brewery in advance to arrange a tour.

Related: Best Detroit Area Brew Pubs

wine
(Photo:www.vinotecca.com)

Vinotecca Wine Bar
419 S Main St
Royal Oak, MI 48067
(248) 544-6256
vinotecca.com

Vinotecca offers wines that remarkably complement its global-inspired menu. It has created a great place to experiment with different wines. Vinotecca's focus is on introducing a unique experience to its patrons through wine in a comfortable atmosphere. Great conversation flows in this establishment without the game blaring at you from all angles. The staff is knowledgeable and offers suggestions to suit your palate,  recommending food pairings based on your preferences. Happy hour at Vinotecca is offered each day from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 p.m. until close.

Related: Best Wine Bars in Detroit


Union Street Saloon
4145 Woodward Ave
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 831-3965
unionstreetdetroit.com

Union Street Saloon has a traditional pub ambiance styled in classic art deco splendor. This comfortable setting is frequented by a diverse, ever-changing crowd. The gracious staff guarantees that you will feel welcome, continuously striving to maintain a friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. The menu offers traditional American fare such as soup, salad, hamburger and pasta selections. See the website for current drink specials. Avoid parking on side streets. Take advantage of inexpensive paid parking available steps away or use metered parking available directly in front of the restaurant.

cliff
(Photo:www.cliffbells.com)

Cliff Bell's
2030 Park Ave
Detroit, MI 48266
(313) 961-2543
cliffbells.com

Cliff Bell's is the place that time forgot. With its sultry nod to the past, you will be transported to another era. The atmosphere is decadent yet inviting. Intimate conversation and meticulously-crafted libations flow freely at Cliff Bell's. Additionally, the sophisticated array of entertainment that graces the stage should not be missed. Virtually every evening of the week is filled with music, whether it be jazz, a quartet or a burlesque show. Cliff Bell's serves brunch, lunch and dinner.

Nicole Wrona has been on the music scene since she was fourteen- standing in line to score tickets to the latest show. After receiving a BA in Photography from Savannah College of Art & Design, she began working with a diverse range of musicians. She currently resides in Detroit. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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