Second Best image

Second Best

Bar

Pub grub, craft beer & cocktails served in a rustic, brick-lined space with a cool, vintage vibe. People often mention good, great, chicken, sandwich, drinks, atmosphere, service, night,


Address

42 Watson St, Detroit, MI 48201, United States

Website

www.secondbestdetroit.com

Contact

+1 313-315-3077

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (437 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 4 pm to 12 am
  • Wednesday: 4 pm to 12 am
  • Thursday: 4 pm to 12 am
  • Friday: 4 pm to 2 am
  • Saturday: 1 pm to 2 am
  • Sunday: 1 pm to 12 am
  • Monday: 4 pm to 12 am

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: good (17) great (13) chicken (12) sandwich (12) drinks (12) atmosphere (8) service (7) night (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Kristen H. 2 years ago on Google • 72 reviews
    The food..WOW!!! This was a recommendation from a friend who said we had to try their food and I’m so happy he recommended it. The chicken sandwich is SO GOOD! My boyfriend got it and said it was the best chicken sandwich he’s ever had. I had a bite and it was just wonderful. I got the smoked ribs with the blueberry glaze and lemon pepper crunch and fries and i was blown away. They were the best ribs i’ve ever had. That flavor of the glaze with the crunch was absolutely perfect. I wish I could have this in NY! The bb smash cocktail was awesome too. Awesome prices too! Service was great as well, super friendly and attentive and it was packed. Would 10000% go back again.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Samantha S. 1 year ago on Google • 28 reviews
    After date night dinner at Bakersfield, we stopped in at Second Best for a night cap to finish off our night. They weren't busy, they were cleaning bottles off around 845 pm. We sat at the bar, staff was attentive and friendly. I highly suggest the Gummi Bear Drink! We will stop in again maybe even give the apps a try next time!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Happy W. 1 year ago on Google
    This is the first bar we found ourselves in while checking out Detroit. They set the bar high! Jim was fun to talk to, an excellent guide on the menu and a fine mixologist. Ribs, Nashville hot chicken sandwich, margaritas, even a zero alcohol selection for our DD.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 London S. 3 years ago on Google • 321 reviews
    Hand cut Fries w/ the garlic mayo 🔥🔥🔥. I've seen this place rocking at night but never been here to enjoy a full night. But it's def a good spot to pregame or get some good eats after a real buzz. Their drink specials are pretty legit
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Troy K. 6 months ago on Google • 146 reviews
    Awesome little bar with some great drinks, wonderful service, and a chill atmosphere. Came here for a few cocktails before a concert and definitely would come back!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Julian B. 1 year ago on Google
    Good food. Great drinks. Fair price in a nice atmosphere. If your looking for a drink and bite def recommend. Our group had quite a few items from the menu - all great.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael H. 2 months ago on Google • 650 reviews New
    A really cool spot that is near the arena. The place was packed and fun to be in. Just a really good spot. Will definitely visit it again when I am back

  • 5/5 Marshall McCrary I. 5 years ago on Google
    I definitely appreciated my time at second best Detroit. I love places that aren't chains. They can really cater to the local crowds needs. Excellent staff, I will be returning. This place has real laid back vibes. It's open at the perfect times for the morning working folks. Its alot of safe parking in the area even on the side streets. Check out our YouTube channel Michigan streets and eats
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tristin R. 9 months ago on Google
    Plenty of places in Detroit to choose from but if your looking for a friendly place for a couple or individually, decent priced, and good food, you won't be disappointed. Bartenders are all on point with service and gave great tour recommendations if you aren't from the area. Food was well spiced. Drinks were well mixed and great beer choices. Would go again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kristin P. 3 months ago on Google • 159 reviews New
    Stopped in after the Lions game. Wonderful bar with a good craft beer list and great shots. The atmosphere and staff were great as well! Highly recommend.

  • 5/5 Keith Becker - Becker Home A. 1 year ago on Google • 89 reviews
    We love this bar. It is absolutely fantastic! We always come here before or after when we have reservations across the street at their sister restaurant, Grey Ghost. It has the feel of a dive bar but not dive bar food even though it is served in plastic baskets. And they make cocktails as well...not just drinks...cocktails! Like a Smoked Old Fashioned or Smoked Margareta or Rock & Rye made with Rye whiskey and house made Rock & Rye soda. The Nashville hot chicken sandwich is a must try, and be sure to get it with a side of potato wedges. Their Jamacian short rib beef pies with curry sauce melt in your mouth and are so rich and delicious. They recently had chicken wings as a special, and they were some of the best wings we have ever had. They need to add them to their regular menu. Bottom line...don't hesitate if you are thinking of checking them out everything is delicious. Keep in mind that it can get crowded here before and after events at Little Caesars Arena.

  • 4/5 Gillian M. 2 months ago on Google • 61 reviews New
    The service was good, the atmosphere was nice and the food was ok. Ordered the Nashville hot chicken sandwich, it was flavorful but it wasn't a Nashville hot. It was a good chicken sandwich but no heat to it whatsoever, not even a hint of pepper. Would come back for the drinks.

  • 4/5 Chloe G. 3 months ago on Google • 49 reviews New
    Stopped in with a large group for a couple of drinks and conversation. Causal busy bar, a few tables but mostly standing room. Music was way too loud. Two toilets is not enough for the capacity. But fairly priced drinks in a lively atmosphere with TVs to enjoy a game.

  • 5/5 Emily D. 5 months ago on Google
    Solid spot for cocktails with an interesting and concise wine list, great bar snacks, lively atmosphere, and good service. On my regular rotation and also excited to swing in for a drink and the jalapeño popper wontons!

  • 5/5 michael c. 11 months ago on Google
    I came here accidentally at the same time as a huge crowd of people that were awaiting a nearby concert and despite it being elbow to elbow my friends and I were able to get drinks and food ordered and served all within about 30 mins! We all had the chicken sandwich and potato wedges, actually Almost every person that ordered food there had the same meal, so you know it's a winner from that alone. The interior was well designed, the drinks were great, and the staff were on top of things. I highly recommend Second Best!

  • 4/5 Heather M. 1 year ago on Google
    Very cute little bar. Food was pretty good. The Gummy Bear was pretty epic. Tastes just like a gummy bear....be careful!! 😁 Prices are reasonable! Gummy Bear was $12. Sandwich was $13.

  • 5/5 Susan J. 2 months ago on Google • 26 reviews New
    Limited menu. Spicey chicken sandwich tasted WAY good—better than it looked when served. Cozy place to grab a pint. I was very happy with service (don’t have to be out in 10 minutes), engaging waiter, overall excellent.

  • 5/5 Joshua Z. 1 year ago on Google
    Great atmosphere, more spacious than you'd think, fun games (Bubble Hockey & Buck Hunter), great service, great place!

  • 4/5 Dino T. 1 year ago on Google
    Sometimes it's to loud to even hear the person next to you talk. Other times it's perfect! That just means that there's a time and place for everyone and if you get a cocktail it will be well made!

  • 5/5 Abdelkader F. 1 year ago on Google
    The fried chicken sandwich tastes like an authentic Nashville hot chicken sandwich, and it is absolutely delicious. It is relatively expensive but well worth the price! I really had nothing bad to say about it and I am confident to say it is probably the best one I've had in Michigan. I will definitely be returning just for that sandwich.

  • 5/5 Dylan K. 1 year ago on Google
    I have been making at least a trip or two a year from Toledo to Detroit for this place. The food is always a wonderful new experience, and the drinks are perfectly crafted. The vibe of the whole place is just the most chill and relaxed you would want. I wish it was closer, but it is worth a 45 to 55 min drive in a heartbeat.

  • 5/5 Bekah G. 1 year ago on Google
    Great for a cocktail en route to elsewhere. Gets crowded and fun, but not the best place to hang and chat- which is honestly a good thing! Keeps the night lively and fun. Had a great evening there during Negroni Week!

  • 5/5 Tony S. 1 year ago on Google
    It was pretty busy when I walked in yet someone came over quickly and got us some drinks. Ordered the house made vodka and hot damn was it awesome. If you're going to an event at Lil C's or are in the area you gotta go check it out. Easy 5 stars.

  • 5/5 Carini R. 1 year ago on Google
    Second best was a blast. The staff was awesome and fast. This is the only place i know of that will let you Ice a friend. So fun!

  • 5/5 Swathi G C. 1 year ago on Google
    A fun place to hang out with a bunch of friends especially if you’re planning to bar hop. The pub has got a cool vintage vibe going with good music and food options.

  • 5/5 Brian P. 2 years ago on Google
    Great atmosphere! Great cocktails! The chicken sandwich was really good, better than the fast food places. The Italian beef was really good too!

  • 5/5 Evan B. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome place to Eat, Drink and Hang out with good people. Chef Eric Sanderson puts together an amazing array of unique and super tasty dishes. See the pictures!! Definitely a go to place when ever I am traveling through Detroit!

  • 5/5 adrienne k. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is great. We had drinks there before a concert and they were quick and friendly. After the concert, I ducked back in there to wait for my ride. They welcomed me warmly and happily gave me a glass of water. That's stellar service right there. I will definitely go back.

  • 5/5 Nick C. 2 years ago on Google
    The margaritas (left: tropical, right: spicy) were very yummy and made with heavy pours. The Yogi Gyro was also delicious. There was a special going on too, so we were able to order a shot and beer for only $6! I would definitely recommend this place for an after work drink with friends before heading home for the evening.

  • 5/5 Brittany F. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a cute bar! It has a fun, young atmosphere- everyone was polite, people are simply there to have a good time. My friend and I felt very comfortable there, the drinks were very good! We will definitely be back.


Call +1 313-315-3077 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Paid parking lot
    • ✓️ Paid street parking
    • ✓️ Somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Happy-hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeaway
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

Trends



Last updated:

Similar places



Similar Bars nearby

Last updated:
()