These spots are serving up fruity drinks for summer

July 14, 2023
Cocktail from The Skip

"The Trinket" from The Skip

Fresh, light fruity cocktails are always at the top of the list for must-have summer drinks. Something about the sweetness of fruit combined with other ingredients just set these types of cocktails apart. When you’re looking for a cool and refreshing fruity cocktail, try one of these Metro Detroit locations. 

Two James

2445 Michigan Avenue, Detroit

Two James is the first distillery in Detroit since Prohibition. Their tasting room offers cocktails made with spirits produced in-house. Their summer menu is filled with tasty fruity cocktails including the De Verano: Blueberry, Old Cockney Gin, cucumber, honey, ginger, lemon, and topped with Topo Chico.

Cocktail from Two James
Photo courtesy of Two James

The Skip

1234 The Belt, Detroit

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The Skip is located in The Belt and is known for its outdoor bar area. They are known for their fun tropical cocktails served in tiki cups. While their menu is changing seasonally, be sure to check out the Cuban Corleone Inspired by “The Godfather Pt. 2” with House-made Banana Justino, Toasted Vanilla Syrup, Lime, and Banana Liqueur. Also be sure to check out their frozen cocktail selection which includes a Colada with rum, cream of coconut, allspice, and pineapple.

Cocktail from The Skip
Photo courtesy of The Skip

Takoi

2520 Michigan Avenue, Detroit

Takoi started as a food truck in 2014 and evolved into a brick-and-mortar restaurant with a long list of accolades. This summer, they are presenting their Passion Fruit at Takoi event series which started in June and runs through September. “The series is designed to connect three aspects that Takoi is passionate about – food, cocktails, and dance music.” said owner, Drew Pompa. “For each event, we curate a fine roster of local deejays, create a couple of specialty cocktails using spirits from a brand collaborator, and serve them up alongside a menu of Takoi food classics. We also partner on each event with a charitable organization and donate a portion of cocktail sales. It is what we refer to as “A Party With a Purpose”. At the end of the day, It’s all about delicious food and drink, raising some dollars for a good cause and shaking a groove.” 

Cocktail from Takoi
View from behind the bar at Takoi
View from behind the bar at Takoi

The Congregation

9321 Rosa Parks Boulevard, Detroit

The Congregation proudly serves coffee, tea, food, and bar beverages from the inside of a church built back in 1924. They have taken great efforts to restore the original building, including all of the original stained glass windows. The Congregation has several summer-inspired cocktails including the Summer Forbidden Fruit: Vodka, elderflower liqueur, strawberry rhubarb compote, strawberry rhubarb syrup, and lemon juice, topped with sparkling rose. 

Cocktail from The Congregation
Photo courtesy of The Congregation

Vinsetta Garage

27799 Woodward Avenue, Berkley 

Vinsetta Garage comes with a bit of a fun fact: it is the largest standing garage east of the Mississippi River. While it no longer services cars, it is one of the area’s go-to places for great food and a fun atmosphere. Their bar serves up tons of amazing cocktails, but all fruity cocktail lovers will enjoy the Watermelon Margarita Slosh and the New Wave, which can be made in a non-alcoholic version as well.

Photo courtesy of Vinsetta Garage

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