Photo courtesy of The Old Shillelagh.
It’s time for Opening Day in Detroit. Every year, Detroiters look forward to those fleeting several weeks in April when local sports are firing on all cylinders. As Detroit hockey and basketball approach the final push toward a potential playoff berth, baseball returns with the promise of warm, sunny days at the ballpark. Meanwhile, March Madness extends into the following month with the conclusion of the NCAA Tournament. In our city, there is no greater indicator that spring has sprung.
Last year’s April didn’t go as planned. For any of us. But this year, Metro Detroiters are ready to resume their fandom and embrace the team spirit. With significantly limited seating capacity at all sporting events, locals are eager to find options for fun TV viewing. These local venues provide the optimal environment to support your teams, all while supplying the food and drink necessary to keep you at peak fan performance.
Nemo’s Bar
Located just a block from the old Tiger Stadium, Nemo’s serves as the unofficial bar of Detroit baseball. Since 1958, the Corktown mainstay has served up legendary burgers in a space that is – in every way – a shrine to the city’s teams. There is no better place in Detroit to post up on Opening Day or to celebrate a big win. If you managed to score tickets, take advantage of their shuttle running to and from the stadium. Grab a bite before the game and you’ll make it to your seats in time for the first pitch. Plus, you won’t have to worry about parking downtown.
The Old Shillelagh
When you close your eyes and imagine an Irish pub, what do you feel? Can you see your Guinness gently settling after a perfect pour? Can you smell the years of beer, whiskey and cider absorbed into the wooden counter? Are you less than two weeks past St. Patrick’s Day and already making plans for next year?
If this sounds like you, Old Shillelagh is your kind of joint. Located mere blocks from Comerica Park, it’s the ultimate combination of classic Irish pub tradition and Detroit sports fandom. Thousands upon thousands of beers have been toasted to our team’s victories since their first pour in 1976. At Old Shillelagh, you’re actively taking part in Detroit’s living history.
HopCat
With locations all throughout Michigan, HopCat is your go-to destination for an endless supply of local craft beers. Draft heads line the entire length of the bar, inspiring patrons to forgo their standard light beer order in favor of something new. The bartenders are experts in all things brew and will guide you to the perfect frosted mug while you enjoy watching your favorite team.
Rosie O’Grady’s
Located right in the heart of downtown Ferndale, Rosie O’Grady’s is a sports-lover’s paradise. Along with massive flatscreens suspended above the bar, each booth has its own personal television installed at the table. Perfect for the fans who don’t want to have to worry about which game to watch. Great pizza and burgers, plus a huge selection of beer and cocktails. Fans beware, once you experience this many screens, you may never want to leave.
Green Dot Stables
Green Dot Stables is where The Sports Bar went to grow up. Still plenty of TVs, but with affordable craft cocktails (maybe the best mule in Detroit), local brews and an extensive list of wacky sliders and topped shoestring fries. The poutine is next-level. So are the Korean, fried chicken and Cuban sliders. For dessert, try the hot PB & J or the dangerously addicting fluffer-nutter (marshmallow spread and peanut butter).
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Remember to drink responsibly and plan ahead with a designated driver or take advantage of one of these local designated driving services.