My Favorite Drinking Spots

Just as with my recommendations for food, I am only sharing places where I have personally enjoyed drinks. This list includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic favorites. (Coffee suggestions will be a separate post altogether!) 

Homes Brewery - 2321 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor
Admittedly, Homes could also be on the food list. They offer unique and tasty options, much better than a typical brewery. But, it is a brewery, and they’re known for their outstanding beer selection. I’m not a lover of IPAs, so there only a few beers I choose between each time, usually a lager or a sour beer of some sort. You can do a flight to try more of their options, and they’re generous with samples. They do have wine and cocktails too, but you go to Homes for the great beer…and great food. 

The Last Word - 301 W. Huron St., Ann Arbor
In classic speakeasy style, it is hard to find. Past the curtain entrance, you feel like you’re in a true speakeasy. It is slightly underground (or at least it feels that way), it’s darker and cozy, and they serve both AMAZING craft cocktails and interesting, tasty foods. You must try the house-cut fries with Truffle salt - yum - and I order their Shishito peppers every time I go. If you’re adventurous, sit at the bar and ask the bartender to make you one of his or her favorite drinks. You won’t be disappointed!

The Corner Brewery & Arbor Brewing Company - 720 Norris St., Ypsilanti
This brewery is literally on a corner, taking up a very large area. They have a great outdoor patio, with heated domes in the colder months, perfect for guests not wanting to take any more risk than needed during COVID times. The inside is huge. It’s great for hosting gatherings and groups. It’s a perfect place to stop while walking around Depot town. They have a full selection of beers made by Arbor Brewing Company, from IPAs to Blondes, to Pilsners, Stouts, and Fruit Beers (yes, I said fruit beers - try their Black Kreik!). 

York - 1928 Packard St., Ann Arbor
There is a lot to like about this hip Ann Arbor spot. They have an amazing and long wine list, both for drinking at York, but also in bottles for purchase. It’s a large, open space with tall ceilings, lots of light and a combo rustic + modern feel. They offer food to accompany your wine, and it’s creative and tasty. During the summer, you should definitely sit out in their outdoor patio. It’s expansive, and you’ll be glad to be alive. Sometimes they have food trucks, sometimes music, but always amazing wine, food, and vibe. 

Jolly Pumpkin - 311 South Main St., Ann Arbor
This is another brewery, and it has done really well in Michigan (and around the country). There are now more locations than can be counted on one hand just in Michigan. People go as much for the food as they do for the beer. It’s a popular place, great for families, large groups of friends, and an awesome stop between shopping or after attending a Saturday game. I’m a fan of their saison and sour beers.

Ashley’s - 338 South State Street, Ann Arbor (try saying that address three times in a row!)
This is an absolute institution in Ann Arbor. It’s on State Street, so a huge favorite of the U of M student and alumni crowd, but also a destination for anyone of drinking age. They have over 60 beers on tap and over 50 varieties of bottled beer. It might be overwhelming to a novice, but it’s eye-poppingly amazing for any lover of great beer. They also serve food. It’s got a cozy, casual feel, and is a must-do if you’re only in Ann Arbor for a short time (and you like beer)! 

Maiz Mexican Cantina - 36 East Cross St. Ypsilanti
I bet you forgot about the beautiful Margherita in my photo above! Check out Maiz Mexican Cantina in the heart of Depot town, and if you like Mexican food, fill your table with tacos, enchiladas, salsa, guac & chips and a couple of Margheritas!

Unity Vibration - 93 Ecorse Rd., Ypsilanti
Unity Vibration is off the beaten path and unless you’re a kombucha-freak like I am, you’re not going to know to look for it. You can find their kombucha teas and beers in most of the grocers around town, but it is such a neat experience to enjoy both their taproom and their larger facility. Kombucha is not for everyone, but it’s really good for you, and it’s really tasty if you like sour, fermented food and drinks. Kombucha has only trace amounts of alcohol and is safe for everyone to drink, but the Unity team also brews kombucha beer, which is as it sounds - only for adults 21 and up. If you’re in town, call to see if they have a kombucha-making class coming up or check out their Facebook page where they share upcoming featured musicians they host. Also take a tour of the huge vats of kombucha fermenting while you’re there. 

Got a recommended place I should try? Share this post on your social account and give a shoutout to your favorite place!