
Photo courtesy of Shelby Detroit via Facebook
Get started on your next date night itinerary with our roundup of dining and drinking destinations in Metro Detroit that are designed with grownups in mind.
MICHIGAN—Got a babysitter and ready to fully embrace a night of kid-free fun in Metro Detroit? Whether you’re a busy parent who needs a break from little ones or someone who simply prefers to dine and imbibe among other adults, the Motor City and its surrounding areas have you covered. While family-friendly eateries and activities are tons of fun, there’s something special (and decidedly serene) about stepping into an “adults-only” bar or restaurant.
Get started on your next date night itinerary with our roundup of dining and drinking destinations in Metro Detroit that are designed with grownups in mind.
M Cantina
13214 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn
This Dearborn restaurant serves Latin street food, tacos, and appetizers in an intimate, cozy environment designed for guests 18 and older. You won’t find ordinary Mexican cuisine at M Catina — instead, indulge in options like duck carnitas tacos, mini fajita bites, passion fruit and coconut ceviche, and even chapulines (crispy seasoned grasshoppers!). Round it all out with a cocktail from the on-site bar.

Shelby
607 Shelby St, Detroit
There’s nothing more grown-up than a speakeasy. Think about it: secret entrances, abundant drinks, and quiet conversation among moody surroundings. Shelby, which sits in Detroit’s financial district, has all of this and more in an adults-only environment. Make your way through the blue door and peruse a cocktail menu that offers classics (like the espresso martini) and originals (like the Supersonic Sensation, a blend of yogurt-washed gin, lemon sherbert, absinthe and arugula). Pair your drink with a small cheese plate or dessert.

1Up Arcade Bar
33316 Grand River Avenue, Farmington
When you hear “arcade,” you might immediately envision a hotspot for kids and teens. While 1Up Arcade Bar in Farmington is open to younger guests during daytime hours and for special events, it transforms into a 21+ experience after 8 p.m. Grownups can embrace nostalgic arcade games like Ms. Pacman, Space Invaders, and Guitar Hero while sipping gaming-themed cocktails from the bar. We recommend the Donkey Kong, a frozen cocktail featuring rum, sweet cinnamon, and, of course, bananas.

Maya Cocina Mexicana
33018 W Seven Mile Rd, Livonia
Maya Cocina is a Livonia eatery that serves contemporary Mexican fare and drinks in a warm, artsy environment. Guests must be 18+ to sit at the bar, while the dining area is restricted to visitors 13 years old and above — making Maya Cocina a fantastic outing for families with older kids who might be more apt to appreciate menu selections like mahi mahi tacos, alambre de coliflor (roasted cauliflower) and vegetarian cheese and onion enchiladas. Guests who are of drinking age shouldn’t leave without trying the pomegranate margarita!

Knock Twice Speakeasy
6430 Farmington Rd, West Bloomfield Township
Another speakeasy? Of course! We’re suckers for a good speakeasy and Knock Twice is so worth checking out when you’re ready for a kid-free evening. Located in West Bloomfield Township, this lively destination for grownups regularly features live music alongside a menu of signature cocktails and small plates like salmon bites, fried ravioli, and truffle fries. Walk-ins are welcomed, but make a reservation if you want to secure a spot.
Brooks Brewing
52033 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Township
Want to enjoy a great brew in a fun, laid-back atmosphere? Venture to Brooks Brewing in Shelby Township with your sweetheart or a few friends. There’s no food menu at Brooks, but guests are encouraged to bring their own eats from outside restaurants or visit a rotating lineup of on-site food trucks. What you will find, though, is a varied menu of beer, cider, and wine to enjoy with fellow adults — there are no kids allowed in the taproom.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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