Watch CBS News

Best Pool Halls In Detroit

Whether you're looking to play eight-ball, snooker or a strategic game of one-pocket with friends, there are an eclectic mix of pool halls that cater to the metro Detroit area billiards players. We scoured the city to bring a mix of the best pool halls in Detroit to the forefront. These establishments range in style from the raucous sports complex to the quaint neighborhood dive bar; but one thing they all have in common is billiard tables. Some are perfect for shooting a game of pool with your crew while other places offer full-blown tournaments. Choose the one that's right for your mood and stick handling abilities.


The Loving Touch
22634 Woodward Ave.
Ferndale, MI 48220
(248) 546-3644

The Loving Touch is the coolest, most unique place to play pool in metro Detroit. From the indoor garden atrium with plants cascading throughout to the hand-crafted puzzle piece bar, there is something to discover everywhere you turn.The lounge area is comfortable and a great area to sit and chill. The dimly-lit atmosphere creates an air of  mystery, accented by the occasional glow of borderline-retro neon signs. The golden-colored pool tables are coin-operated, so stock up on quarters before challenging the guy in the corner to a game. Harboring an atmosphere of friendly competition, the most you will likely have to shell out on a loss is a round of drinks for the winners. A foosball table is also available if you want to give it a go.The Loving Touch also features a variety of entertainment--sometimes bands perform live, while other evenings a DJ will spin tracks. If no music is scheduled,  there is always the jukebox filled with classics. Monday nights are movie nights with themes ranging from double-features of Kung-Fu and Superheroes to Paul Newman and Blaxploitation.

Toasting Beer
(credit: Thinkstock)

Whiskey in the Jar
2741 Yemans St.
Hamtramck, MI 48212
(313) 873-4154

Whiskey in the Jar has no-frills billiards housed at the most friendly bar you will ever play pool in. The staff makes everyone feel welcome, rendering it impossible to have a bad time here. The atmosphere is tiny and dark as a cave, but that is the charm of Whiskey in the Jar. Although there are no pool tournaments here, that doesn't mean the competition doesn't get heated. Test your skills among friends, or if you're feeling adventurous, find some patrons willing to break a rack of eight-ball with you. This establishment features an outdoor patio where you will find the locals enjoying the warm weather. The jukebox is stocked with excellent musical choices--possibly the best around town. There is also a dart board if you want to challenge the bartender to a game of darts. Whiskey in the Jar offers an unexpected selection of seasonal beer from around the world.

Related: Best Dive Bars In Detroit

Majestic
4140 Woodward Ave.
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 833-9700
www.majesticdetroit.comThis is the venue that has everything you could possibly be looking for. After all, it is touted as a full-on entertainment complex. The Majestic not only has pool, but also bowling, music and dining, all under one roof. There are 10 billiard tables upstairs, adjacent to the stage area where a huge amount of music performances take place. This is a great place to test your gaming skills with friends and the pool area is spacious, which makes it enjoyable. There is an outdoor deck that is accessible from the area where the pool tables are located, so you can grab some fresh air in between games.

Bailey's Pub and Grille
22099 Michigan Ave.
Dearborn, MI 48124
(313) 277-3212
facebook

Bailey's Pub and Grille offers patrons a true sports bar atmosphere. There are big screen televisions everywhere, always tuned to top sporting events. The crowd is always lively and excited about the games, making the atmosphere loud, yet comfortable. Certain tables have a checker board re-created on the tabletop itself, so you and your date can play a round of checkers while waiting for appetizers or drinks. Dart boards line the walls if you want to test your aim and of course, there is pool. The billiard tables are located alongside large windows so you can check out the action on the street from inside. Pool tables are reserved by the hour. Although playing billiards is popular here, you do have to reserve a pool table, however the wait usually isn't too long. If you're interested in participating in on of Bailey's pool tournaments, please call for details and event schedule.

Related: Best Sports Bars In Detroit

Fifth Avenue
215 5th Ave.
Royal Oak, MI 48067
(248) 629-9423
www.fifthavenueroyaloak.comFifth Avenue is a multi-media sports bar known for hosting tons of sporting and music events. On certain evenings, you can dance the night away while listening to live bands and DJs perform on the second level. The first level is where you'll find the pool tables in an open area perfect for playing with large groups of people.  If people-watching is something you enjoy, this is the place to go; there are usually crowds of people mingling throughout the downstairs area. The vibe is sometimes wild, and never dull. If you want to be in the middle of the action, Fifth Avenue is where it's at. The outdoor patio is a great spot to spend an evening if you are looking to spend some down-time among friends and drink specials are offered daily.

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.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.