There's occasionally a wait and for good reason Dear visitors from out of state.....this is a real Detroiters favorite wing spot. Don't come in there all fresh talkin about "only one sauce flavor" if that's your stance go to dubs. The secret is in the marinade. Cajun chicken bites are delicious. read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Went for the wings. Wings are good but small. Good flavor with a little heat. Certainly not the most hygienic outward appearance as this is a straight up dive bar! Service is fine if not particularly enthusiastic. Overall was a decent experience. read more

I don't know what happened to Sweater Tavern downtown! I took my lady last night, (Thursday. 5/4/26), because we both wanted somewhere casual with good food, and as it was my late brothers favorite spot, I figured it'd be a kind homage as his transition date is coming up soon. People, I was saddened by the experience. The place was near filthy, but the service was down right trifling. We were ushered to the very back, while we looked at numerous empty seats. Worst of all, they left us there and I'm assuming they forgot about us! We never met a server! No one came to say it'll be a minute or anything! After 10 hoers landscaping in the HEAT, I just wanted to chill, drink and eat. I have never just walked out of a restaurant until last night. SWEET WATER TAVERN DOWNTOWN -- PLEASE GET IT TOGETHER! read more

They have the best buffalo wings I've ever had. This is a Detroit secret. Although, The service wasn't so great.

Okay, how can I possibly justify giving this bar a rating above 2 stars, when the very nice server enthusiastically takes my order (requesting EXTRA pickles; then brings my sandwich, informing me "sorry we are out of pickles." REALLY??? smh HOW ON EARTH DO YOU NOT HAVE A BASIC CONDIMENT such as pickles, when you have hamburgers on your menu? read more

This happened to be one of the few restaurants open on New Year's Day so this is where we went for dinner. If you like wings and rib tips and things like that, then this is your restaurant. We both got the fish and chips dinner and it actually was a great size portion and delicious but the service definitely was "service with an attitude" read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Fish & Chips - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

A classic joint in the Bricktown neighborhood, it was not at all busy on a Tuesday night. Our party of 12 had the back dining room to ourselves, which was nice once they found the remotes to turn off the blasting television. I'd like to say that they have a great beer list. What they have is lots of bottled options (no drafts) and it took FOUR tries of "We don't have that" before the waitress said "Yes, we have that" to my ask for a Red Stripe after the others were out. Appetizers were good. The ribs on the plate were overly sauced and the wings were great. I enjoyed one fried mozzarella stick (with ranch dressing) as well. I wouldn't suggest the grilled shrimp as there isn't much to it. For main, I chose the half rack of ribs with wings. The wings had a good spicy flavor and were not loaded in sauce. They were overdone and a little tough. The ribs were decent. Too much sauce and not as tender as some I have had elsewhere. Checking with my tablemates, they found some challenges and some wins. Where we had no problem getting drink refills, one simply could not catch our waitress's attention. One complained that his burger was dry. My tablemate enjoyed his "Big Pig" pulled pork sandwich but it looked like too much sauce to me. I'm not sure I would return to Sweetwater. The menu says they have the best "award winning" wings in Detroit. Having not had wings elsewhere, I'd wonder about that competition. [Review 478 of 2025 - 385 in Michigan - 24040 overall] read more

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Get the chicken wings.. this looks like the typical football bar to watch the local team. We can here for lunch. They have this blurb about award winning wings and I was like yeah right. Only one flavor so you just get their recipe. Let me tell you these were the best wings I've ever had. My biggest regret is not getting more. I also got the chicken salad Michigan cherry which was also good. This place isn't fancy so no need to wear your Sunday best. Get the wings!!!! read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Salad - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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I have very high expectations when it comes to wings, and I have to say, as far as Buffalo wings go, this is right up there with bar bill. Tender and juicy with every bite. Taking a star due to the sides of greens and Mac being less than stellar. read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

this place hits every time! The food is always good. We drive over an hour to get those wings, and we always stop here after late night concerts. Don't sleep on the ribs or the fish. There's not a bad item on this menu. Service can be a bit slow, but there's not much open this late anymore so just expect to wait a little. It's a Detroit classic and I love coming here. read more

Everybody told me they had the best wings and I had to see for myself. It was my first time and the wings were actually really good. They only have one flavor and it was solid. I got seasoned fries on the side with Bleu cheese and everything came out hot and fresh. There was a guy named Will who worked there and he came off extremely rude when we first got there. He tossed the menus on the table and was even arguing with the bartender over three hundred dollars right in front of customers. Thankfully my actual server handled the rest and she was very nice and attentive. I will definitely come back to explore the menu more. Parking is limited but there is a paid lot right next door. read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Wings and seasoned fries - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Went here on Saturday with my boyfriend to try their infamous wings. They were as good as the people say. Seasoned with a burst of flavor and sauce had a mild spice to it. If you don't like too spicy of wings these are perfect for you. The ranch and blue cheese were rich and tasted home made, but I'm not sure. Our waitress was on point (forgot her name but she had cornrows/braids). She was super busy, but always found time to check on us and gave us great service. Our food came out quick and fresh. Unfortunately, they were out of rib tips but hopefully I can order when I visit again. That was the only downside. The space is a bit small so it can fill up fast. But overall a cool tasty spot to try if you're visiting in Detroit. read more

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Best wings in the city. Love these. It's a buffalo flavor they are known for. The service is great too

Sweetwater has been voted the best wings in the City so I made my way over. It was very divey, exactly what you would expect from something with tavern in the name. The wings were not super crispy, and they only offer one sauce. I wish it had a bit more kick or alternate options for their sauces. Its a good wing and unfortunately I didn't try anything else, so I would be open to trying out other menu items. read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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I have been coming to this location for over a decade now. I will never come back. Terrible attitudes and service from the start along with food, service issues and food quality. Let me tell you.... Explain to me how we are there for over an hour and a half and the drinks brought to my friend for the bloody. Mary had no toppers in it even though it's advertised on the menu to get cheese, olive, celery, and pickle along with the rim being dusted and salt none of that happened, but did we ever get a chance to tell them? No because in an hour and a half it took us to get our food and drink with no napkins offered and no silverware impossible to find a staff member they linger in the back, but don't give a flying F about you. we finally got the manager over to tell him about the drinks, missing the toppings. The wings being burned and the dressing was gelatinous and he apologized and we said we were leaving and they said no problem so we left walked out the door because at this point, we still have not gotten anything that we could eat. This is the only time they move fast. We tried leaving the restaurant and our waitress with a stink face. A manager and what appear to be the owner chases down in the parking lot preventing us to leave. I told them there was no car service and how long are we expected to wait for someone to pay attention to us and that is funny that it takes us leaving after an hour and a half of BS that ruined our day completely that they can make it outside and 20 seconds flat because they sure couldn't move their butts inside the store. I told them to call the police if they had a problem or that in fact, I would call the police. I said I'm refusing to pay for this meal. It wasn't what was advertised, they did not card us for my friend's alcoholic beverage, no silverware, no napkins. And the guy said most people don't use napkins or silverware because they pop it off their fingers like gross nasty. Anyway, I see this place slowly falling into obscurity. I don't think in the last 20 years of my life that I've had a worst experience. read more

Was here for work and stopped in for drinks and we decided to get some food as well, the wings were very good I have to say. The server was outstanding and and had had a cool vibe as well. read more

My youngest son and I arrived at the Sweetwater Tavern around 2:30 on a Sunday afternoon with the Lions playing at home. We were promptly seated. Most of the bar (employees too) were enjoying the Lions game. That didnt deter from the service. The menu was extensive but I had to land on the wings, since that's what they were known for. Wings were very meaty, tasty, and recognition was well deserved. Fries were seasoned perfectly. Our waitress was extremely nice. Overall if you are in Motown you need to go to the Sweetwater Tavern. It's a great vibe with great food options and service! I'll definitely return. read more

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The food was freshly prepared and very good. We enjoyed both the chicken wings and the chicken tenders.

In town for a concert and stopped in for a drink because this place looked cool and local. The moment we walked in everyone was friendly and we had a blast. Got a drink and then saw the chicken wings and the awards so, when in the D. They were awesome! The dry rub and marinade made those wings outstanding. Pissed we only got a small order. lol. Highly recommended must stop when in Detroit. Go out of your way to visit. read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Chicken 1/2 Order Sweetwater Wings - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

A great place to watch the Lion's football game. It is casual and friendly. Our server, Tiffany, was attentive and patient. Most of all, the wings are great! read more

Would give it 0 stars if I could.. I ordered what was supposed to be catfish and got mystery fish.. people that eat catfish know what the taste and texture is and they want it.. That was the last visit for me. read more

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07/03/2025 tried to stop by but they had a kitchen fire and will be closed for a few days. Please check back and I hope someone posts when it opens. read more

Food and service was great. My only complaint was paying $6.50 for a beer, but that's on me. I would go back there next time I'm in the area. read more

Messy floors, the entire staff was clearly disgruntled or just flat out unhappy. I ordered food on DoorDash to be picked up. DoorDash said 16 minutes I waited 25 it still was not ready. I walked around outside for another 20 minutes came back. It still was not ready now. I'm on over an hour and I still don't have a basic sandwich with french fries. read more

service is awful, just god awful. chicken sandwich was dry and overcooked, and wasn't even the correct sandwich. I ordered the spicy chicken and received plain. Sandwich didn't even have any lettuce, tomato and mayo, I also ordered seasoned fries and received plain fries. Wait time for pickup was crazy, especially after arriving at the restaurant and seeing the lack of patrons. The first time I ordered, Sweetwater was outstanding, but they really dropped the ball this time around. read more

Loved this place! The wings were delicious! The fries were perfect and the greens?? Best I've ever had. The best part was the service! I had so much fun with Brandy and her Aunty. Need to go one more time before I leave Detroit. If you like a good neighborhood bar with good food and great drinks, head over to Sweetwater! read more

I have never once had a bad experience at Sweetwater. But after yesterday's visit I feel like I have to leave a review. Honestly, I'm ashamed with myself. I regretfully forgot just how good Sweetwater is. And now that I don't live in Detroit anymore, I don't pass by as much. But yesterday I wanted some chicken. And where do you go for some good chicken in Detroit? Popeyes? Yeah right. This place has great steaks, burgers, sides. Really good burgers actually. But let's be real that's not why you come here. You come here for the chicken. Specifically the chicken wings but OMG their tenders are so damn good too. We got the chicken tenders appetizer, Mac & cheese and greens combo, a spicy chicken sandwich w all the goodies and some seasoned fries. And of course, the AWARD WINNING chicken wing. Everything was excellent. But GOT DANG is that chicken wing out of this world. Idk what's better the tenderness of the chicken or the flavor of the sauce it's tossed in. I don't even eat chicken on bones - I exclusively eat boneless. But when one is at Sweetwater he loses his inhibitions. I'm sorry Sweetwater, idk who I thought I was. I'll never stray again lol. Fr though, if you've never been there you should absolutely go. Excellent drinks and all the staff are chill and friendly. Really cool downtown location too. read more

Me and the hubby were just hungry and this place was open so we decided to go ahead and eat here ( it was later in the evening) things on sunday in Detroit close early. Service was so bad. Took forever to get a water and to even place our orders and it wasn't even busy because everyone was just sipping on drinks or had dirty plates infront of them. Then the catfish sandwich I ordered didn't have everything on it like the menu stated it would. I didn't get my coleslaw either. I told the server about the Coleslaw since the topping wasn't to much of a big deal because I knew I wasn't going to finish and didn't want it to get soggy. I had to ask twice for the coleslaw. I had to ask twice for a folk . At least my hubby enjoyed his wings and frys. I will say the fish was cook well and seasoned. His wings were good and the seasoning on the frys was really yummy. But the Service was so trash I won't be trying this place again . read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Wings with frys - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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First the place is FILTHY. Just ewww. Not friendly staff--server never once came to check on us. The entrance is dilapidated and the restroom; we won't even go there! read more

My wife went with fish (not her favorite a little to grease) and chips. While I decided on the best wings in Detroit. The wings are awesome!!! This is not a Military friendly restaurant. It's not a bad place just felt super rushed to eat and get out!!! read more

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Little hole in the wall tavern a quick walk from the river walk and hart plaza. Came here for the NFL draft and oh my goodness did they fill up QUICK! if there is an event downtown and you plan to come here, I recommend getting there early. Bartender and staff were excellent, especially at getting tables cleared off so the line wasn't too bad. The Cobb salad was to die for and my brother highly recommended the wings! Street and garage parking available. read more

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There are not a lot of options for late night dining on a Sunday in Detroit and we almost passed up on coming here. We were thinking that the kitchen was already closed for the night but were pleasantly surprised when they said that they were still serving food. When you think of a tavern you think of burgers and bar food not ribs, pulled pork, collards and mac n cheese. lol I was hesitant about the ribs but I have been craving me some ribs lately. I asked our server if she could choose between the ribs and the Reuben which would she go with and she didn't hesitate when answering ribs. I am so glad I went with the ribs. They were the most tender ribs I have ever had. The meat literally came off the bones clean. They were so flavorful and the sauce was the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The mac and cheese was so freaking good. It reminded me so much of the mac n cheese my mom made growing up. I really enjoyed the greens as they had really good flavor but way too many rib pieces for my liking. The hubs had the Big Pig with coleslaw. He said that the pulled pork was really tender and flavorful but after trying my ribs, he would have gone with the ribs over the sandwich. lol This place is not one to sleep on. We saw several people who had ordered the wings and the meat was just falling off the bones. Everything we saw coming out of the kitchen looked so good. We will definitely be back here the next time we are in town visiting family. read more

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These are hands down the best wings you will ever have. The quality of chicken is great, the cook of the chicken is perfect, and the sauce is unreal. The service was great. The atmosphere is a great vibe. Hands down 10/10. read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Sweetwater Wings - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Nice old school bar and restaurant. Way too much sauce for me. Service was good!.only been once but could tell it had a big following

They are known for their wings and they did not disappoint! They were fabulous! I had a side of fries, seasoned, which were ok but not cooked enough. The service was great. Our waitress was friendly and attentive. The woman's bathroom was one toilet that you have to somewhat climb over to get into the bathroom and close the door. If you are a woman with ample assets you may have difficulty. Maybe there is another bathroom available that I didn't see with more room to maneuver? The place was mostly clean. Our table was a bit sticky and there was a random fork in the window sill - but nothing that would have caused me to run for the door. I'd go back again. read more

Just order the wings. Really awesome place. Worth it if you are in downtown Detroit. Great service. Fast at tatsy.

First time!! Delicious mac and cheese. Service was great for being a busy game night. Cozy vibes & southern comfort food. Only bottle & canned beer, they also have white claw. read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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I haven't been here in over 10 years and it was awful. The service was awful. The music was blaring and I couldn't hear. It was not clean. It was not busy but took 10-15 minutes to take our order. Rude staff. Crap strewn about on the bar. Ordered a burger, waitress came back 5 minutes later and threw menu at me "no burgers ". Didn't take a drink order. Crap all over the floors. Smelled like weed. Random equipment laying on the floors. Someone call the health department. read more

best wings in TOWN! Every time I am at Saint Andrews hall, my lunch and dinner consists of Sweetwater Tavern. Thanks for always being super cool. read more

My coworker and I stopped in here while visiting from California. We enjoyed the burger and steak bites. Unfortunately didn't try the famous wings. We'll have to come back! Delicious food and nostalgic ambiance. read more

Sweetwater Tavern - Steak bites - Bars Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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