DJ ONE FIVE: A Local's Guide to Detroit
Detroit is the intersection of music, art, and soul. It has always been my muse. Here are some of my favorite places to eat and vibe out.
BARS
Northern Lights Lounge – (660 W. Baltimore street Detroit, MI 48202)
In the heart of mid-town and historic new center area, it backs up to a local university. It has a small outdoor space. Music all week, but the best DJs come out Friday and Saturday nights. It has a nostalgic feel to it. They have a kitchen with bar bites.
Mix Bricktown – (641 Beaubien Blvd Detroit, MI 48226)
It’s downtown in a very vibrant area of Detroit. Its neighbors include the historic St. Andrews Hall and the Greektown Casino. It’s known for its Hip hop, R&B, and Karaoke nights.
Motor City Wine – (1949 Michigan Ave. Detroit, MI 48216)
The Corktown area of Detroit has a large outdoor area with picnic table seating. You’ll hear a wide variety of music and in a very non-pretentious environment, with a great selection of wine and beers. Live music and DJs on the weekend, Jazz vinyl sessions, and wine tastings.
Temple Bar – (2906 Cass Ave. Detroit, MI 48201)
Authentic Detroit bar, with reasonable drink prices, eclectic decor, and a dance floor for when some of the best DJs perform. This is where I go to get my disco and house fix.
RESTAURANTS
Sicily’s Pizza – (3554 West Vernor Highway Detroit, MI 48216)
Low key pizza spot in the heart of Southwest Detroit. Amazing pizza, and even better service.
Good Times – (19416 Livernois Ave. Detroit, MI 48221)
It’s in one of Detroit’s historic west side neighborhoods. It has a rooftop patio and a good place to hear a live band with an extensive food menu.
Bread Basket Deli – (3242 East Jefferson Ave. Detroit, MI 48207)
The corned beef sandwich is a Detroit staple and Bread Basket Deli is the place to have it. I order mine on an onion roll with swiss cheese and coleslaw.
CLUBS
TV Lounge – (2548 Grand River Detroit, MI 48201)
This is my favorite place to go in the city. In the summer the patio deck is open. It has two rooms with three bars. Plenty of space to dance to some great local and international talent.
Magic Stick – (4120 Woodward Ave. Detroit, MI 48201)
Inside of Garden Bowl Bowling alley on Woodward. You can bowl downstairs but the real fun is upstairs where you can vibe out. They play house, funk, and rock.
RECORD STORES
Detroit Threads – (10238 Joseph Campau St. Hamtramck, MI 48212)
Floor to ceiling records, with a great selection. They also host a Live digital radio show each week called Planet Funk on www.313.fm
Spot Lite Detroit – (2905 Beaufait St. Detroit, MI 48207)
Record store and Bar where DJ plays in front of a wall of records which really sets the mood. Open until 1 am.
