Surprising Dive Bars In the D

By: Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers | October 6, 2017
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It’s a fact of life that people can be broken into two groups: those who love a good dive bar and those who are wrong. They may be a little grimy. They might have an odor you wouldn’t bottle up and send to your mom. But, for many, they are a favorite place to kick back with friends and just enjoy life.

Sometimes, all we want in a good dive are cheap, strong drinks and some grub to wash it all down. Other times, it isn’t wrong to want a little more from your favorite hangout. For those times, Detroit has some gems that are not to be overlooked.

Temple Bar

Located in Midtown, Temple Bar doesn’t aim to impress with its bland, army camo green exterior. But with cheap prices, good drinks, a pool table and jukebox, there’s not much more you can ask of this dive. That doesn’t mean, however, that there isn’t more to be found. Stop by on Fridays for karaoke night or the third Saturday of the month for one of the most fun dance parties you’ll ever attend. Known as Haute to Death, this party is one to experience. The dance floor isn’t huge by any means, but what it lacks in space, it more than makes up for in good times.

PJ’s Lager House

If you’re looking for an Irish dive with a menu that suits every lifestyle and some of the best local music acts around, PJ’s Lager House in Detroit is where you’ll want to be. There is constantly something new happening at PJ’s whether it’s a new band you’ve never heard of or a pop-up dinner. Speaking of dinner, the menu is a vegan/vegetarian’s dream with tons of options, like the vegarrito, veggie burger, tofu banh mi sandwich and more. Did we mention boozy brunches on the weekends?

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Fun fact: if you’re new to the area, visiting or just want to spend a night or two in the city, you can rent the loft above PJ’s from the owner. There’s one bedroom with extra beds throughout, allowing six guests to stay comfortably. It has been restored using materials from now-demolished Detroit buildings like Detroitus and Hudson’s department store.

The Old Miami

A dive if there ever was one. Upon walking into The Old Miami in Midtown, you’ll see walls covered in all kinds of random art and street signs. It opened in 1979, catering to Vietnam veterans. In fact, “Miami” stands for Missing in Action Michigan.

There’s a small stage for bands and other performers. Drinks are cheap and stiff, but the real gem of The Old Miami is the backyard. There you’ll find a beer garden, BBQ, hot dogs and people just hanging out.

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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