Sunshine, Food & Drinks: Patio Bars in the D

By: Aaron B. Cohen | April 7, 2021
Beer Gardens & Patios - In the D

Photo courtesy of Ottava Via.

Today is National Beer Day. As the frigid winter makes way for sunny spring days, there’s no better time to kick back and enjoy a cold one at one of Metro Detroit’s favorite patio bars and restaurants.

Detroit Shipping Company

Detroit Shipping Company combines the best of local food, drink and entertainment. With six delicious food trucks – including Hour Magazine’s Chef of the Year, Maxcell Hardy’s Coop – you’re sure to find something to pair with a local brew or craft cocktail. This Midtown beer garden features live entertainment (safety permitting) and multiple galleries housing the city’s hottest artists. Spend an entire afternoon or evening exploring the options at Detroit Shipping Company.

Tin Roof

In the heart of Detroit’s Stadium District, Tin Roof provides a perfect pre/post-game venue for baseball season. With live music nightly, the outdoor patio and rooftop patio bars allow for social distancing while you enjoy the music you’ve been craving. They have tons of local beers on tap and the kind of local pride you would expect from a bar directly next to Comerica Park.

Parc

Nothing screams “Spring in Detroit” like an afternoon at Campus Martius. The newly renovated park features a handful of restaurants and bars, including Parc. Along with beer selections, the New American menu boasts an extensive wine list, so you can sip and enjoy spending time in the center of downtown.

Ottava Via

Directly next door to Corktown mainstay, Nemo’s Bar, Ottava Via offers some of Detroit’s finest Italian dining, along with an impressive list of beer, wine, and cocktails. During the winter months, a fireplace kept the quaint outdoor patio warm and pleasant, but now that spring is here, the space can shine in its full glory. Make the trip for a full meal, or enjoy drinks and apps before a night of bar-hopping along Michigan Ave.

Mercury Burger & Bar

Hailed by locals for one of the best burgers in town, Mercury’s outdoor patio lends itself to sunny afternoons along Michigan Ave. Located in Corktown – directly next to the old train station – Mercury’s got you covered on beer, but may entice you with one of their legendary milkshakes, made-to-order behind the bar.

Garage Grill & Fuel Bar

Gararge Grill & Fuel Bar is a perfect patio facing the restaurant's roundabout driveway.
Garage Grill and Fuel Bar in downtown Northville. Photo credit: Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers.

If you’re looking for a little outdoor patio dining in a small downtown setting, Garage Grill & Fuel Bar in Northville is perfect. Whether you’re there for a weekend brunch or just spending a quiet evening outside, this historic spot features a meticulously created menu of flavorful food and drinks.

Lumen Detroit

As the name implies, Lumen is a bright, airy space conducive to beautiful days in the city. Located on Grand River, the menu includes upscale Modern American cuisine, plus a full list of beer, wine and refreshing craft cocktails. A park surrounds the restaurant with green space – a respite from the concrete jungle of downtown.

Jolly Pumpkin

While there are several Jolly Pumpkin locations in Michigan, we want to focus on its Detroit pizzeria & brewery. Located on Canfield St., this spot is situated in a great area that is within walking distance of shops like Third Man Records and Shinola. So, do a little shopping for Detroit-made gear and then make a stop at Jolly for some amazing pizza and craft beer, which you can enjoy as you people-watch from the Canfield patio.

El Club

Located in Southwest Detroit, El Club is both a chic bar and music venue. Check out their calendar to find a show you might like. As with most bars that double as a music venue, you’ll want to get there a tad early to order a drink and hang out on the intimate patio while conversing with other music lovers.

Remember to drink responsibly and plan ahead with a designated driver or take advantage of one of these local designated driving services.

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