Over the last few years, a nightlife scene has emerged Downtown that embodies the attitude, grit and creativity of “New Detroit.”

We took a look at trip data from 2016 and spoke with Wright + Company’s Executive Chef Marc Djozlija to put together a list of 10 must-see bars and restaurants – all a short ride (or walk) from downtown hotels or the Cobo Center.

#10: Roast
Michael Symon’s steakhouse in the Book Cadillac hotel is a modern take on a classic concept.

#9: Republic
Seasonally-inspired dinner spot, with a rotating menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients from Michigan farmers.

#8: Ashe Supply Co.
“Drink Coffee, Live Wild” at this small-batch coffee and snack spot, with merchandise celebrating the Detroit revival.

#7: Bad Luck
This brand new cocktail hot-spot plays the mystic well, located behind an unmarked door in a pedestrian alley and serving expensive, hard-to-recreate drinks in a 30-person space.

#6: Punch Bowl Social
The Detroit outpost of this Denver-based “eatertainment” chain offers bowling, karaoke and vintage arcade games – as well as brunch, lunch and dinner.

#5: London Chop House
This classic steakhouse has been “serving Detroit’s elite” since it’s opening in 1938. Tap into your inner 50s celebrity and rub elbows with the past in their Cigar Bar.

#4: Cliff Bell’s
A classic jazz lounge with a storied history, the latest iteration opened in 2005 and offers well-dressed cocktails and live music almost every night of the week.

#3: Standby
Located in an artistically-upgraded alleyway between Grand River and Gratiot called The Belt, Standby offers fantastic cocktails and creatively-presented small plates.

#2: Cafe D’Mongos Speakeasy
Eclectic decorations and top-notch live music keep visitors on their toes at this celebrity-favorite downtown haunt.

#1: Wright + Company
Located on the second floor of the Wright-Kay building, Chef Djozlija’s creative small-plate mecca might be the best dinner in the city – and has recently started serving brunch on Sundays.

Where to next?
See more Detroit neighborhoods >