Bad Luck Bar image

Bad Luck Bar

Bar Cocktail bar

Upscale, imaginative cocktails made with rare & unusual liquors in posh, intimate surrounds. People often mention drinks, drink, time, great, experience, service, worth, Detroit, amazing, reservation,


Address

1218 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

Website

www.badluckbar.com

Contact

(313) 657-9177

Price rating

$$$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (574 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 5 PM to 1 AM
  • Friday: 5 PM to 1 AM
  • Saturday: 5 PM to 1 AM
  • Sunday: (Easter), Closed, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 5 PM to 1 AM
  • Tuesday: 5 PM to 1 AM
  • Wednesday: 5 PM to 1 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: drinks (20) drink (10) time (9) great (9) experience (9) service (8) worth (8) Detroit (6) amazing (6) reservation (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 TravelingTrashPanda 2 years ago on Google
    First time here. All of the locals rave about this place and so I thought I’d give it a try. It didn’t disappoint. I loved the style of the bar! It’s a bit small, of course that’s part of the bar’s charm. I didn’t even know it existed so close to my old apartment. It’s in the ally in the middle. We lucked out and got a spot even though they were booked out for weeks.They keep one small table available for walk-ins behind the black curtain. We were greeted by a host who was very charismatic, polite and well dressed. I thought the leather apron was a super cool touch. I love the style of this restaurant. It has lots hues of navy blue and gold which seems to be the new grey and silver. The style reminded me of a few high end exclusive membership clubs. It is definitely posh but not at the expense of it’s coziness. When we sat down they brought us some hot alcoholic beverages and asked if it was our first time and I said it was. I really appreciated that because it was really chilly out. My spontaneous night out (after having a bit of a stressful day) ended up exceeding my expectations. Our waiter (I think it was Eric) was wonderful. You could tell Eric was very experienced, sophisticated, well dressed and socially aware. Eric was an excellent sever, one of the best I have had and definitely the best in Detroit. I will definitely be returning very soon!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kara M. 4 months ago on Google
    The ambiance here was awesome. Loved it. Service was good but drinks were just OK. They’re very Instagram-y. So very photogenic but don’t taste great. Still a good experience so 4 stars
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 DeAnn L. 1 year ago on Google
    Had an amazing time experiencing this very secluded speakeasy-like cocktail lounge. Drinks and service were top-notch!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chen S. 8 months ago on Google
    Phenomenal speakeasy. A hidden gem down in the back of an alley. The experience is worth every penny. Inventive drinks, with outstanding presentations and impeccable flavors. We tried The Hammer, The Alchemist, Tears of Ra and Discipline. Staff is attentive and knowledgeable. Can’t wait to come back here!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Milan G. 1 year ago on Google
    Simply the best in Detroit. We’ve been coming back regularly for years now. The team makes art with their cocktails. Yes, it’s on the pricier side- but money is meaningless these days anyway… ;) give them a try and you won’t regret it. Thanks-a-million Yani, Chris & Eric!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Justin M. 1 year ago on Google
    I have previously visited this establishment on one occasion. The atmosphere was enjoyable and the experience was good, but I was served the incorrect drink along with a few others. Despite this, we chose not to raise the issue as securing a table can be challenging. Recently, I was part of a group of 6 who dined at this location for a work event after dining at Prime + Proper. We had made a reservation in advance and were informed that we would be seated next as a table of 6 was finishing their meal. Unfortunately, the phone used for the reservation died, so we called from a different number to inform the staff of the change. During the call, a member of our party made an off-handed remark about the cold weather outside, which included the use of a mild expletive. This was not directed at the bar and was simply a general observation about the temperature. When we asked about the status of the table, we were told that our party would be seated soon. However, after waiting in the cold for an additional 20 minutes, a group of 4 arrived and were seated immediately. Upon mentioning our prior reservation and wait time to the host, we were told that our party would not be seated due to the use of an expletive on the phone. This seemed unfair and contradictory as we were previously told we would be seated soon. As a group who frequently dines at upscale restaurants and enjoys fine drinks during work events, we were disappointed with the way the situation was handled. The host's demeanor appeared to be unprofessional and overly authoritative, which left a negative impression on us One may expect to encounter more capable hosts at a chain restaurant.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 George V. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the best bars in Michigan! It’s a bit pricey but totally worth the experience. Our bartender Luca was amazing and very knowledgeable regarding experimenting with various unique flavor profiles.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David B. 3 months ago on Google New
    A genuine treasure in the city. Excellent staff complement a stellar drink menu. The atmosphere is worth the work. Make a reservation and end the night here. Drinks are innovative and well executed. Will definitely recommend to others!

  • 5/5 Cassie P. 2 years ago on Google
    Some of the best drinks we've ever had! Awesome service and the drink presentation was CRAZY! Must see while in Detroit.

  • 3/5 Nayeli R. 5 months ago on Google
    This is a place where you’re supposed to get elaborated, balanced, pretty cocktails. You’re not going to get that. The signature cocktails still need work to be outstanding and are not worth the price tag. Presentation is ok. I ordered a classic: bees knees, a very easy cocktail and it wasn’t done to standard. It tasted watered down and had close to none of the scent that was supposed to have. They don’t have anything to pair with the cocktails, not even an assortment of nice roasted nuts. Also, the waitress only took the order and then disappeared the rest of the time I spent there. I had to ask another waiter for another drink and cashews. Not thrilled about that. Nice atmosphere but that’s about all I can say about the place. Not worth the price tag, there are better cocktails somewhere else.

  • 5/5 Jessica M. 7 months ago on Google
    The drinks were exceptional! Luka was a joy to spend the evening with. His knowledge and personality were both enjoyable. Highly recommend stopping in to check out this secret gem.

  • 5/5 Pat L. 6 months ago on Google
    A high-scale vibe with prices to match; The menu has eclectic and fairly straight forward choices, each matched to a mood or emotion. We loved this spot! Even the strange garlic-themed old fashioned slaps. Bring extra cash for a tip, because the staff is very thoughtful and helpful.

  • 5/5 Review G. 5 months ago on Google
    Superb bar in the of heart of Detroit. Hidden away in a small alley, thus entrance can be hard to find. Good price value proposition; friendly and knowledgeable staff. 2 drinks for 2 each, expect around 90-100 USD. Reservations recommended.

  • 5/5 Rachel J. 5 months ago on Google
    Very cool speakeasy vibe, awesome warm lighting, and our bartender Aaron was energetic, informative, fun, and a master of his craft. This is the perfect swanky date night, especially around Halloween given the mystical themed drinks. We had the luxury of sitting right at the bar. Before we even ordered, we were each presented with a little amuse bouche hot toddy - an amazing touch having come in from the rain. Flavors of the drinks we ordered were complex and delicious. It was a truly lovely experience.

  • 5/5 James C. 1 year ago on Google
    Cool speakeasy style bar in the heart of downtown Detroit. The specials menu changes often to keep things fresh but the incredible bartenders are happy to make any of your favourite drinks.

  • 5/5 Rose K. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing drinks and amazing service. I ordered the fire eater and it was hands down the best cocktail I have ever had. The presentation was gorgeous and the little side flairs they add to each one are amazing. The drink came with spicy chili tamarind candy and I could sit and eat a bowl of them. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and quick with service. Ordering off the menu is just as good. I also ordered a bourbon base old fashioned and it was perfect. This might be the most expensive drink you have had but it’s worth it for a splurge.

  • 5/5 Kavya G. 1 year ago on Google
    One of a kind experience with Amazing drinks and great customer service. The drinks are very pricey but worth the splurge. A great speakeasy cozy bar setup. The drinks are very presentable too making the experience memorable. Highly recommend the bar !! Loved my experience here.

  • 5/5 Ron R. 1 year ago on Google
    I was able to rent the entire place to host my friends for a party. It was excellent and everyone had a great time. The bar staff is great and engaging. They love to make magical smokey drinks that are fun to watch them make as well as drink. You need a reservation or they won't let you on the door.

  • 5/5 Stephanie R. 1 year ago on Google
    Super cool speakeasy with amazing drinks and service. Nice ambiance, feels exclusive! We did not have a reservation, but due to it being slower before the next reserved party, the hostess was kind enough to seat us immediately even if we had a short window. Luca was great, complimentary sample drinks were wonderful also!

  • 5/5 FaZe B. 2 years ago on Google
    Listen. Was my first time ever going there. Had Eric as our bartender. He hooked us up with birthday shots cause it was my birthday and explained what every drink was. Now this is the most important part. He had the same haircut as leonardo D. ( super swag ). Great place, great people, great drinks, great service “ and I’m cheap “. Awesome time. Sincerely Faze

  • 5/5 Fern G. 4 years ago on Google
    Loved this bar! The drinks are fairly pricey, but they're honestly worth it with the time that they spend putting them together and the presentation at the end. The atmosphere and vibe of this bar are excellent--I really like how they limit the amount of people going into the bar so it's never over crowded or noisy. Can't wait to back!

  • 5/5 David H. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome vibe to this place. Will be back just as soon as I can get in!

  • 5/5 Randell P. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely perfect. This place is awesome. Attentive service and the drinks are 🔥

  • 5/5 Noel D. 3 years ago on Google
    Even if you don’t order the $200 drink...do hear the story of the rum rations and the ration that has been procured by this fantastic venue. It’s an experience! There’s a deep Smokey drink, served within a shielded glass...oozing fragrance as the server opens slowly. We did not get either of these beverages. Instead, trusted and tested the bar tender’s mock tail expertises. Blown away! Flavor, spice, and everything nice 🍹

  • 5/5 Hex 2 years ago on Google
    Stellar atmosphere and top notch drinks. One of the best bars in Detroit! Perfect for an outing with a small friend group.


Call (313) 657-9177 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery

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