Second Best Bar: Detroit
42 Watson St btw Woodward Ave and John R. St, Brush Park, Detroit MI
By Erin Hildebrandt, Guest Writer
The Place: A comfy, goofy “Up North” bar that’s the perfect casual stop before heading downtown to catch a concert, or for a nightcap on the way back home.
The Time: Saturday October 19th, 8pm. It’s the first Saturday night since August that I’ve had zero plans and zero travel (three weddings over the course of 1 month…yikes!). I’ve also put in a shit-ton of overtime at work this week and deserve some me time.
My First Old Fashioned at Second Best Bar
The Vibe: This former automotive warehouse turned bar is a bit busy, but I’m relieved that it isn’t crowded. I easily find a seat at the industrial cement bar and saddle up on one of the available red vinyl barstools. I’m immediately intrigued by the bar’s decor, composed of taxidermied animals: raccoons, deer heads, and an antelope (I think?!), tiffany lamps (some of which are branded with vintage beers like Schmidt, Cornet and Sterling), and a smattering of arcade games towards the back including, but not limited to: Ms. Pacman, pinball and a hockey foosball table. They are also getting into the spirit of Halloween and have faux cobwebs and skeletons strung about holding Miller Light cans (fun!). There is a booth on one end of the space for larger groups, and a few high tops sprinkled throughout. Glancing at the menu, I see they offer a 40oz of Miller High Life served in a champagne bucket with flutes for $15. Now, I don't turn my nose up at the "Champagne of Beers" but admittedly, I find this particular menu item a bit kitschy. Nevertheless, Doomsday by MF Doom / MF Grimm is playing and my fellow 30-somethings and I feel confident that we are in for a pleasant, low-key evening (along with a couple of parents who look like they’re lost).
The Bartender: A total of 5 are behind the bar this evening, which initially seems like overkill but the bartenders and barbacks all look like they have plenty of work to do. A familiar face greets me and I am pleased to be reacquainted with my former coworker, Robbie! We briefly catch up while I sip on my expertly made cocktail. Robbie’s new bartender comrades are all attentive and check in on me throughout the night, without being pushy or overwhelming, which I appreciate.
The Drank: My First Old Fashioned ($9), but hardly my first (#thatswhatshesaid #theoffice #dinnerpartyepisode). It’s a solid rendition of my favorite drink, made with Old Grand-Dad Bourbon.
Was I Hit On?: No! However, I do witness a fantastic swing-and-a-miss attempt by a fellow patron. The man sitting directly next to me shouts “Are you a nurse?” to a young woman wearing scrubs who is sitting a few stools down from me. She responds with “I’m a doctor, actually.” The Dr. and I exchange a knowing of-course-that’s-what-he-assumed look and I laugh to myself. Swing-And-A-Miss makes another pitiful attempt to win her attention before taking off for the evening.
Should You Drink Here Alone?: Absolutely. I would for sure come back alone to unwind, or with a small group of friends to enjoy some nostalgia-inducing arcade games. I think you should definitely make Second Best Bar your top choice.
Erin Hildebrandt is a Michigan native, a newlywed, an actor, and recently relocated to the Metro-Detroit area after living in New York for 3.5 years. www.erinhildebrandt.com