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Photo courtesy of Lumen
Metro Detroit boasts a lively outdoor and rooftop bar scene, offering stunning views, refreshing drinks, and inviting atmospheres. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these spots are perfect for enjoying a beautiful sunny day or a balmy evening watching the sunset. Here are some of the best outdoor and rooftop bars in the area…
GOOD TIMES ON THE AVE
19416 Livernois, Detroit
Good Times on the Ave brings a laid-back, friendly atmosphere to Detroit’s Sherwood Forest Neighborhood. With its outdoor seating, rooftop bar, and cigar lounge, this bar provides a casual spot to enjoy a craft beer or a cocktail while soaking up the local vibe. It’s an excellent choice for an evening gathering with friends or family. You can find twin lobster tails, crab cakes, soy-glazed salmon, seafood grilled cheese, and more on the menu. Stop in for a Sunday brunch with seafood omelets, shrimp and grits, and mimosas too.
THE MONARCH CLUB
33 John R Road, Detroit
Perched atop the historic Metropolitan Building, The Monarch Club offers an elegant rooftop experience with panoramic views of Detroit’s skyline. This sophisticated bar is ideal for those looking to enjoy a classic cocktail in a luxurious setting. The ambiance is refined yet welcoming, making it a great spot for both intimate gatherings and lively celebrations. Pass through the halls of the Metropolitan Building on your way to the penthouse adorned with velvet booths, deep tones, and a cozy firepit on the roof.
SOCIAL
225 East Maple Road, Birmingham
Social offers a delightful rooftop experience with a charming ambiance. Known for its inventive cocktails and deliciously comforting bites, it’s a popular spot for brunch and evening gatherings alike. Brunch offerings range from truffle mac and cheese and a lox scramble to chicken and waffles and acai bowls. For lunch, start with the crispy Brussels or steak tartare, and for dinner, continue with a fresh salad or ribeye skewers, brick chicken with chipotle aioli, or crispy red snapper with grilled pineapple salsa. Specialty cocktails include the Social Sangria, with apples and grapes, Violet Beauregarde with blueberry-infused vodka, and Across the Pond, made with Aviation gin and grapefruit. The friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind with friends.
LUMEN
1903 Grand River Avenue, Detroit
Lumen, located in Beacon Park, is a standout with its extensive patio and rooftop space. Emilia Robinson, Lumen’s social media manager, shares, “Lumen opened six years ago and we continue to offer a warm environment and great food where people can gather around. We have a patio that surrounds almost the entire restaurant with tables for dining, or casual seating with a cocktail next to one of our fire pits. Wander up to the rooftop for appetizers and stunning views of Beacon Park. When the warmer weather descends we open our retractable window walls that reveal the dining room and bar to the park.” As for cocktails, check out the Cute-Cumber, Capri Sunset, or Hibiscus margarita, all perfect for warm evenings and refreshing tastes. Pair these with a dinner of appetizers, a fresh salad, or an entree of maple dijon salmon, Great Lakes walleye, or the Lumen burger.
PINKY’S ROOFTOP
100 South Main Street, Royal Oak
Pinky’s Rooftop, situated in Royal Oak, is known for its chic decor and vibrant ambiance. The rooftop bar is adorned with twinkling lights and offers a variety of creative cocktails and small plates. It’s a trendy spot that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a fun date. Open in the evenings for dinner and brunch on the weekend, Pinky’s has excellent dessert cocktails, sweet and savory brunch options, and a variety for dinner, including hot chicken sliders, smash burgers, and ricotta gnocchi.
ATWATER BREWERY
237 Jos Campau, Detroit
1175 Lakepointe Street, Grosse Pointe Park
A staple in Detroit’s brewery scene, Atwater Brewery offers a fantastic rooftop patio experience. Katy McBrady, President of Atwater Brewery, invites patrons, “We look forward to welcoming you back to our fully remodeled Detroit rooftop patio as it celebrates its second season. We’ll be waiting with an ice-cold can of Dirty Blonde to join you in celebrating summer in the city. Cheers!” The Grosse Pointe location may not have a rooftop, but its biergarten patio is especially noteworthy. Stop by Atwater and try one of the countless taps for a seasonal special or your all-time favorite.
KAMPER’S ROOFTOP
1265 Washington Boulevard, Detroit
Kamper’s Rooftop offers a laid-back environment with stunning views of the city’s skyline. This rooftop lounge is ideal for an evening out, providing a great selection of beers and cocktails in its comfortable setting. Nodding to Barcelona’s cafes, Kamper’s is located on the 14th floor of the iconic Book Tower downtown. Here, you’ll be able to find small bites, snacks, and tapas for your enjoyment, along with the extensive bar list. With sangria to share, espresso martinis, bottle service, and more, everyone is certain to find a beverage of their liking to pair with the views.
MIKE’S ON THE WATER
24600 Jefferson Avenue, St. Clair Shores
Mike’s on the Water offers a unique waterfront dining experience with its rooftop deck and outdoor bar. Overlooking Lake St. Clair, this spot is perfect for those who love to be near the water. The nautical theme and fresh seafood dishes add to the charm, making it a must-visit during the summer. With a food truck on the roof and a full bar, warm days on the waterfront have never been better. Try one of the famous lobster rolls, fresh seafood options, or even a burger at Mike’s on the Water while taking in all of Mike’s collections showcased throughout the venue.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on May 31, 2023, and was authored by Katie Goncalves.
