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Cliff Bell's
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Jazz & Blues Nightlife Jazz & Blues Restaurants American (New) Jazz & Blues, American (New) [Edit]
2030 Park AveDetroit, MI 48226
Neighborhood: Downtown Detroit
(313) 961-2543
- Hours:
Tue-Fri 11 am - 2 am
Sat 5 pm - 2 am
Sun 11 am - 12 am
- Delivery:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Valet
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Classy
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
Xiang L. said: "one of the places i have readily enjoyed visiting is detroit seafood market. my first time there was about eight months ago, when i first arrived. a new friend, who moved from dearborn to detroit downtown and wanted to explore his…" read more »
112 reviews for Cliff Bell's
Review Highlights
"Their mac and cheese rivals that of Slow's in Corktown."
(in 14 reviews)
"try the hot chocolate martini- i am in love."
(in 3 reviews)
"Cliff Bell's has a nice little happy hour."
(in 9 reviews)
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112 reviews in English
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Review from Rob R.
Avondale, Chicago, IL
1/16/2012
Sometimes the best way to get over a crush on someone is simply to spend more time with them. At best the object of your affection fades into a more realistic and multifaceted version of itself, but at worst you'll have a "what the hell was I thinking?" revelation and move on.
The nice thing about having a crush on a physical space, like Cliff Bell's, is that there's no limerance(1). You know upfront it's just a building and it will never love you back. You probably won't get THAT hurt if it lets you down.
After countless visits, Cliff Bell's remains unique. I've never found another place on earth where I could feel like I'm drinking a campfire(2) inside a giant tree(3) with live jazz in the background. There probably used to be lots of places like this back in the day, but the only ones I ever see are in black in white and my attempts to order mixed drinks through a movie screen have always been in vain. I still can't get over how f'n beautiful this place is. It's an organic, timeless, natural beauty made of mahogany and brass. You can come here in a t-shirt and jeans, live the modern proletariat dream of PBR happy hour with a cheap cup of grits, and sit next to jazz-age bourgeoisie downing Manhattans and Tom Collins, made the way they're supposed to be made. I've played both roles.
My letdown from my Cliff Bell's crush was fairly soft. Occasionally spotty service. A bartender who upsold us on beer without asking permission and retroactively charged more (because our selection had run out). The departure of the surreal burlesque series "Torch with a Twist" to another venue and the end of a stirring poetry open mic series hurt a bit more, for sure, but there's still jazz.
And yet, Sunday brunch is a hit and when the jazz is on, it's on. Even if Cliff Bell's isn't as good as I had romanticized it to be or even as good as it was a few years ago, it's still about as good as it gets.
...
1) I learned this word at a dinner party this weekend! Limerance: "an involuntary state of mind which seems to result from a romantic attraction to another person combined with an overwhelming, obsessive need to have one's feelings reciprocated." (thanks Wikipedia!)]
2) The campfire is Laphroaig, possibly the smokiest mass-produced Scotch available. A fine Scotch with a nose of post-July 4 bottle rocket embers and a hint of kerosene spilled on asphalt, and the flavor of muskrat bathwater with the coarse brackishness of rocky tidal pools
3) Unlike its Chicago counterpart the Green Mill, this place is still beautiful if you look up. Even the ceilings are made of wood (rosewood or mahogany?).Listed in: Vacationing in Detroit, Speakeasies, Blind Pigs, and…
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Review from Elibe E.
Seattle, WA
1/15/2012
Cliff Bell's is a great spot for a date. This lounge has so much character and soul. The friendly waitstaff and bartenders CARE about the place's reputation.
The food is great and many dishes are easy to share.
Fellas:
1. Bring your girl here for to see a jazz band
2. Order some wine + small plates
3. Let the good times roll
I enjoy bringing my friends here, as well. There are many people in the 'burbs that are missing out on this Detroit legend. -
Review from Cortney R.
Arlington, VA
12/31/2011
This kind of venue is just what Detroit needs! Not only is the interior stunning, but the services is great and most of the staff pretty friendly. They seemed to take pride in their establishment and their city.
I grew up in the Detroit suburbs and since I moved away haven't explored much of the city. Hope for holidays for almost 2 weeks I was tipped off and headed down to this place. I loved it so much I went back the night before I left to convert another friend to the cause.
I took a look at the menu and immediately honed in on the shrimp and grits and mac and cheese. Weird combo, but delish and I highly recommend. The Gin Fizz with egg yolk, the Cliff Bell and the Delicious Sour are the ways to go. -
Review from Tiffany N.
Denver, CO
12/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
I wanted to pack Cliff Bell's in a box and bring it home with me after a recent trip to Detroit! It reminds me of Dazzle, one of my favorite spots in Denver, but it's even cooler. The decor is fantastic with muted tones, cozy booths, and a very sexy feel. The cocktail menu is quite nice and the food is good.
I order an array of items rather than an entree so I could sample a few different things for dinner. I chose a simple salad (mixed greens with figs, cheese, and a vinaigrette dressing), Mac and Cheese (only $5 and deliciously covered in bread crumbs then baked), and brussel sprouts that came covered in goat cheese and bacon (these were up there in my top experiences with brussel sprouts and I eat a lot of those things!) I also order a slice of cheesecake to end the meal and it was a very happy ending, mainly because it had way more crust than many cheesecakes do and if I'm being honest that's my favorite part.
As a heads up - once the music gets going conversation is next to impossible so this probably isn't a great first date spot unless you don't like talking on your first dates. However, if you and your companion are jazz lovers then this would be an excellent place to visit.Listed in: It's Me in Motor City
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Review from John N.
Manhattan, NY
1/26/2012 1 Check-in Here
A few local yelper told me to give this place a try esspecially if you enjoy hearing live jazz music. So of course I love hearing live things especially music so I mark this place down and came here on a Friday nite. We were 1 1/2 early but decided on paying the $10 fee anyway so we sat by the bar and kept drinking but evenually we couldn't wait any longer plus we had to wait up early to take a road trip to Chicago so we left but they were soooo nice and refunded our money back to us. I wish we could have spend more time there so I can hear some Jazz. I am pretty sure I would love it. The only reason I am giving them a 3 because I didn't get a chance to hear the music but if I did, it would move up to a 4.
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Review from Jennifer L.
Detroit, MI
11/14/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Oh, the style of the 1930's. The clothes, the hair, the fedora's. 1930's Detroit must have one-upped the rest of the world with its Jazz culture. I can't think of anywhere else to be. Will someone invent a time machine already? What sounds better than a night out in a speakeasy style bar, complete with beautiful mahogany and low-lighting, classic cocktails, and the sound and passion of jazz permeating the room?
Cliff Bell's brings the 1930's back to life the moment you walk in. I'll admit to not knowing much about jazz, but I can tell you I love to listen and watch musicians play like it's the last time they ever will. Sit back, enjoy a cocktail, and just take in the atmosphere. This can be a very romantic spot!
The romance ends there, however. The food is a bit of a miss. I had the New York Strip (not on the regular menu), but I'm sad to say it was really quite chewy. The zip sauce was great, but the only flavor coming from the fingerling potatoes was the zip sauce I was bathing them in. The fried brussel sprouts with goat cheese and bacon was a winner. Obviously, I was disappointed in the food. I thought about writing a jazz tune to emanate my feelings, but alas I cannot read or write music. I'll leave that to the pros.
Other than that, a night at Cliff's is a good night. A destination spot? Yeah, I'd say so. -
Review from Annie D.
11/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Annette J. knows what's up, clearly, which is why she brought Tiffany N. and I to Cliff Bell's for dinner on Thursday.
The first thing I noticed was how great the vibe is. Totally the kind of place you could bring a date or a grandma. It's as if it was untouched for near a hundred years, yet no cobwebs in sight. The walls are covered in dark murals and the booths are nice and cozy (we got to sit up on the stage).
My gin fizz and the rest of my meal was very solid, though there were no culinary acrobatics in my dish. I ordered the salmon with haricot verts and a brown rice pilaf. Totally standard and totally good, but the sauce it came with was a bit too sweet for my tastes (almost cinnamony). I also tried a bite or three of the fried brussel sprouts with goat cheese and bacon. Seriously, how could that not be delicious? Trick question: It can't.
For dessert, I recommend the cheesecake. They were out of the apple tart that I would've ordered, so I ordered some kind of chocolate cake with caramel pudding, but I ended up with a brownie somehow. I just ate it since it was in front of me and I didn't feel like sending it back, but it really wasn't impressive. The cheesecake, however, was delicious and more like a cheesecake bar than a slice. The more crust, the merrier, as far as I'm concerned... so I loved it.
When the jazz started toward the end of our meal, it was very loud since we were sitting on the stage and it was a dectet. If you're there for the music, awesome. If you want conversation, I'd ask for a table away from the stage.Listed in: Hey Motown!
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Review from Randy Z.
Livonia, MI
2/1/2012
Went to CB's on recommendation from a buddy. I took a date and was pleasantly surprised. I was happy to see people still appreciate old taste and uphold the history of the city of Detroit. With that said. The service was a bit slow. I didn't mind considering the relaxed atmosphere. My manhattans were perfect and they had a great selection of booze. Entertainment was on point. The menu still held some items or remnants that my grandfather used to prepare there back during his time in the kitchen at CB's. The next day I asked him if he ever remembered Cliff bells growing up and it turns out he worked there for years. Talk about making an old mans day after I told him it was reopened. I'd recommend Cliff's for a great night out. Dress up and enjoy the nostalgia.
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Review from Coco O.
Detroit, MI
1/30/2012
I went on of the best dates ever here. Music and food is good. My favorite date spot in Detroit.
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Review from Joe B.
Saint Clair Shores, MI
12/11/2011
Had dinner before going to the Fox Theatre for a concert on a Saturday night. The food was great! I had the Salmon and my wife had Scallops. Both meals were exceptional. There was a Jazz trio playing which would of added a nice atmosphere if they could of been heard over the crowd noise. Service was average and slow. We had to rush once our meals arrived to make the concert. I'd try it again on a week night or when I didn't have somewhere else to go. A little too crowded and noisy for me otherwise.
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Review from Paul F.
Berkley, MI
1/6/2012
Ok, I will start by admitting Ciff Bells isn't perfect, they were out of lot of things, have a Hoegarden tap but not the actual beer, and sometimes parking makes me nervous, but all the negatives are insignificant to being at a place like Cliff Bells. We've been there before but this was the first time since they started serving dinner. I ordered the chicken paillard and it was awesome. Others ordered the scallops which also got rave reviews. The band (Scott Guinnell) was great. Walking into Cliff Bells is like walking into a time machine, I wish there were more pieces of Detroits past left for us, but at least we can still get a glimpse at Cliff Bells.
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Review from David D.
Detroit, MI
9/29/2011
We went for restaurant week and had a nice evening. I've usually been there for the Moth and it's much better when not packed to the gills.
Beautiful space, tasty food, good music, and nice that you could show up dressed up or in jeans and feel fine. -
Review from Haroun K.
10/25/2011
Cliff Bell's has a nice little happy hour. There is a short list of cheap appetizers - I had never eaten grits in a jazz club before, so 5 stars for that. There is a pretty good selection of beer, and the bartenders are knowledgeable and very friendly. I was surprised to see how much the restaurant filled up on a Tuesday afternoon. The background music is a nice jazzy mix, and judging from their calendar of events, they attract some good talent. The decor is quite lovely, in a fedora-age kind of way. I think they should try to keep the panhandlers away from the entrance, though.
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Review from Nikki C.
4/29/2011 ROTD 7/25/2011
I've only been to this venue 2x thanks to Metro Times.
Both times, I left saying: "I've got to get back here more often"
The first time was a part of Metro Times' monthly bar outing. Well, actually the second time was for the same reason, but it's now called "Drinks x Design".
Anyway, their Happy Hour menu is one of the best. $3 appetizers! I SAID $3 APPETIZERS!!
Last time, I had the cocktail shrimp which was served with a spicy cocktail sauce. Yum. It was so good, I ordered it twice.
This time, I had the macaroni & cheese... which was interestingly topped with what I believed to be crumbled Ritz crackers. Not sure if I cared for that too much. But the macaroni & cheese underneath was pretty darned good. I also had the fried calamari, which had a couple of octopi fried up and snuck in there. I calmly removed them from my dish.
My bartender this time (would give her a shout out, but she never told me her name) was great. Read: My drink was great.
Although I've read reviews on Yelp and remember reading about the trek to the ladies room, I completely forgot when I was there. I was reminded that it was through the woods and halfway to grandma's house. I needed a trail of breadcrumbs to find my way back. But anywho, I made my way onto and past the stage, up the stairs and around the corner to the restroom, which was nice & tidy.
I love the interior of Cliff Bells. That whole theater feel. It actually puts me in the mind of an old fashioned train car. I love the tiny tables at the bar. I didn't care for my knees being in the most awkward positioning sitting at the bar (not at one of the cute lil tables). I had to sit to either the left or right side because my knees were being smashed into the bar or I'd have to sit like a dude with my legs wide open and i didn't want to do that, either.
Other than that, good place. I'd love to return for other drinks, other food and their wonderful entertainment that I keep reading about. -
Review from Erica M.
Ferndale, MI
3/30/2011
I would love to give this place 5 stars, and if I were basing it on the ambiance, the music, or the drinks I would. Unfortunately the cuisine, and especially the service, leave much to be desired.
I went there for dinner to celebrate my 30th birthday. We dined with another couple and then I had about 20 friends meet us later for drinks and entertainment.
My husband had the filet and it was delicious.
I had the scallops and they were so salty I could only have a few bites.
When the waiter (who we didn't see very much of) came by, we told him and he went to get the manager.
I have never met such a cocky, rude, condescending nasty human being in my life. He told me that it looked like I had already eaten most of the meal (not true) and there was nothing they could do. I explained that it was my birthday and that I would be staying for the show and paying the cover, not to mention having my 20 friends also pay the cover and buy their expensive drinks, but it did me no good.
He made me feel stupid for complaining- like I was just trying to scam a free meal. I am not cheap in any way, but if I'm paying $24 for 3 lousy scallops, they'd better be delicious. It should be a crime to charge such prices and treat your guests with such little respect. His attitude truly ruined my night.
Even though I love the music and the drinks, I will not be returning to Cliff Bells. In fact, if I didn't have plans for so many people to meet us, we would have left and gone somewhere else right then and continued my birthday celebration (and spent my birthday dollars) elsewhere. -
Review from Scott H.
Royal Oak, MI
4/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
When I want to really impress an out-of-towner (especially those who doubt Detroit) I make sure to stop here.
It's absolutely stunning interior is only enhanced by the top knotch bartenders. And the food... oh yes, the food is sumptuous!
It's like a time capsule taking you back to the 20's and 30's and with tasty drinks and eats!Listed in: Best Bars
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Review from Annette J.
Dearborn Heights, MI
3/3/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Gin fizz! With egg whites! I'm so happy to see you in Detroit!
After a week in Nashville of drinking these babies I was sad to return to Detroit where there was no Gin Fizz to be found*. Enter Cliff Bells who saved the day with their fabulous cocktail menu. It started my meal off right.
Also kickstarting the meal was the calamari and shrimp appetizer. Fried and served with what was to be a spicy dipping sauce but was a bit more garlicky aioli than spicy. Which was a-ok by me since I prefer garlic to spice. The shrimp was definitely the highlight of that app and I wish there had been more of them in the dish! So tasty!
Most of the rest of our orders came off the specials menu. I got the wine braised short ribs with a wild mushroom bread pudding. Holy cow was this good! The ribs were perfectly cooked, juicy and flavorful (not overwhelmingly wine tasting, either), and the bread pudding was just...wow! I really loved that part. It was so interesting. The sauce served with it was fantastic. Cream based and not sweet but a hint of cinnamon lent itself to a warm spiced flavor that made it feel more sweet than savory when paired with the bread pudding. Sounds weird but it really worked! I also had more than my fair share of bites of a dish (whose name escapes me) of shaved pork topped with pickles and aioli over a bun. This was also fab. Almost like an open faced schwarma. The pickles were the highlight and I'm not really a pickle person! Very tasty.
By the end of the main course our tummies were busting but dessert was necessary. I always need to end on sweet so we split the Tin Roof sundae. It was pretty good. The ice cream was fabulous, creamy and rich. The peanuts were a nice salty touch. As a self-confessed chocoholic I would have liked a richer chocolate sauce but overall it was a nice send off to a great meal.
The space, as others have pointed out, is fabulous. Lots of wood detailing and nice brassy colored touches here and there. The stage is lovely, although we were there earlier so there wasn't live music happening yet. I concur with other folks that the service can be slow. Our server, while very nice, wasn't exactly The Flash. Normally this wouldn't stress me out too bad except we were hitting a show at the Fox so our dessert and check paying portion of the evening felt a little rushed since everything up to that point had taken longer than expected.
But in the end fabulous cocktails, tasty food, a beautiful atmosphere will have me coming back to Cliff Bell's again and again. I'll just be sure to get there a little earlier next time!
*If you, dear reader, know of another kick ass place for a Gin Fizz do let me know! -
Review from Liz R.
1/9/2011 ROTD 2/14/2011
We checked it out for brunch today, plus I wanted to get the lay of the land if I bring the Momma back for dinner. Reading the other yelps, I was expecting woodwork like what you find in the Whitney. The interior of Cliff Bell's gradually grew on me, and in the end I was in love with the place.
Yes, service is slower than molasses. But with $10 bottomless mimosas and/or Bloody Marys, well, I didn't care about the wait after two drinks. And they were out of liver and onions (which made me shudder even though I know it was their play on a foie gras title). Damn!
We sat in one of the mini curved booths on the stage floor. Great for people watching and some snuggling.
Started with the calamari and shrimp appetizer, served with aoili dipping sauce - loved. Very seasoned, but we like salt so no complaints. Ken had the french toast with a side of bacon (more to come on that). I had the Benedict du Jour, which was prosciutto and bernaise sauce today. Ken's dish came with fresh berries, and mine came with a side bowl of honeydew and pineapple with what I think was creme fraiche. Nice portion size and good tasting all around.
Ken's bacon. Damn, it was good. Crispy and chewy and glazed with some magic elixir of awesomeness. Tasted like the best Easter ham. Loved that bacon! $4 for 4 thick slices. Ken said he'd come back and order Bloody Marys and bacon only! Speaking of Blood Marys, they make their own mix - so very complex flavors - horseradish, pickle juice, Wor sauce (our waiter named about a dozen ingredients but I'd already had 4 mimosas by then...).
Our waiter did a very nice job answering all my questions re cover charge, parking, busy-ness on early Saturday evenings, the http://restaurant.com certificate, etc. Plus he gave us a history lesson. So cool we still have a place like this in Detroit! -
Review from Keith G.
Northville, MI
Updated - 3/15/2011
Recently, stopped in for a few beers, prior to Tosh. Really wish they'd offer more Michigan craft beers.
Watch out for their killer cover charge once the nightlife kicks in, as you better be there for the entertainment and not just one more nightcap.
FYI: If you think you can amble through the parking lot next to the Fillmore as a shortcut to Park Ave, think again: it's blocked by chain-link fences. You'll have to go around and walk down Elizabeth.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/15/2010
If you're wondering just how to approach Cliff Bell's, don't stress. Yes, it's a throwback to… Read more »
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Review from dea a.
11/17/2010 1 Check-in Here
$10 cover
$12 each for the weakest martinis in Detroit
2 total servers for 40+ people
20 minutes of my life lost from trying to cash out when we were with a group of 6 or more (18% gratuity)
The interior is impressive -- especially factoring in that the place was essentially restored to its former glory. I have NO idea how that beautiful bar survived so many decades untouched.
Our server was busting his ass, but that didn't make up for my lack of martini. Or his lack of manners. Rudest waiter ever. The infamous Detroit 'tude is here. The pay up sucker and enjoy what you get gives this joint an icey chill instead of the hip cool.
Two martinis should put me into a happy place. But $24 later... nothing. Than I tried to cash out. We were seated with a group. I had NO problem with paying the 18% gratuity. I DID have a problem with leaving my friend our $100 bill because Speedy the Server didn't want to take the time to figure out how to make it work. Nope, I got nothing but straight up Detroit 'tude. Luckily, Speedy was intune to my female rage about to go completely ballistic if I couldn't do the right thing and pay my damn bill. Why was this necessary to ruin a perfectly mediocre night? It wasn't. Other places split the bill even with a big party. Why the hell was Cliff Bell's being so ridiculous about it? Update your software, retrain your staff, and live up to the name you so desperately want to live on.
You snubbed me. I snub you. This place isn't worth the cost. Normally when you pay out of the nose for entertainment and drink, you are rewarded with superior service and a genuine desire to please. Not Cliff Bell's. You pay to be mistreated by rude staff, you pay to wait for a drink for 30 minutes, and you are paying for the weakest pour in the city.
I'll be spending my money at Roast -- where the staff are great and the martinis are amazing and strong. Amen. -
Review from Lynn H.
8/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
My family took me here for my birthday, and we had a blast. Food was good, Jazz was better. Service, however, was only meh. I'll go again, but I didn't get the sublime, 50's-style experience I expected.
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Review from Tara R.
Royal Oak, MI
1/16/2011
A neighbor told us to check out this Detroit hot spot. We were looking for a night out to pass the time while listening to live jazz and enjoying a swanky dinner, and we were told Cliff Bells is the place.
From first entering the decor alone sets the mood, with its curved eye catching ceilings. and dimmed lighting. Don't be fooled by the hype. With valet being a must because of limited downtown parking at $15 a car, and the $10 cover charge, I was expecting amazing food and even better entertainment.
The food to say the least was unbelievably over priced. My group of 15 people ordered an array of things from the menu such as the gnocchi and roasted pablanos. The portions were a joke, seeing as they were meatless entrées they included approximately 8 noodles and maybe 3 bites of food. The men were left starving and planning their next meal before we even left.
The only plates that were satisfactory were the maple cured rack of pork and steak and eggs, both of which were delicious. The steak was cooked perfectly but the portion left the consumer wanting more. The pork was stunning on the plate with fresh apples pomegranate seeds and a savory potato pancake. The meat was moist and seared to perfection. The best part of this entire meal was most definitely the DESSERT, a few of us whom were left hungry managed to choose the blini a la mode. It was a scrumptious morsel of heaven. A pancake like base fried with butter, dressed in caramelized apples and topped with the perfect amount of smooth vanilla ice cream.
The service was disappointing. We had one waiter for out entire 15 person group and we were not his only table. He was personable but hardly attentive. We got our bread baskets after our meal was served, which was blessing seeing as we were still starving. And it took 40 mins to get our second drinks once ordered.
Overall the ambiance was pleasing and the music entertaining but the food and service left me hungry for more. -
Review from Elizabeth B.
Washington, DC
4/24/2011
I went to Cliff Bells on a Saturday night to watch my friend play some jazz. It was hands down the best food, best wine, best music and best experience I've had in Detroit in a long time.
The Bibb salad is AMAZING and their french fries are equally tasty.
Move over Zola, Cliff bells might just be my favorite place to eat in Michigan now. -
Review from Robert C.
11/6/2010 1 Check-in Here
If you walk into Cliff Bells and think you've stumbled upon the USS Enterprise holodeck, you may be forgiven. Cliff Bells really is an authentic speakeasy resurrected from Detroit's glory days.
The restored decor is stunningly beautiful, the cocktail menu is clever, and the place is full of energy. Whether you're here for live jazz or the monthly Moth StorySLAM, Cliff Bells is where Motown comes alive.
The food menu is interesting, and there are some choices that I would return to try. One night, I had the Goat Cheese Gnocchi with a fried egg, brown butter, and prosciutto. The flavor was delicious, but I wished the gnocchi was warmer. The Mac and Cheese really is to die for.
So, how are the drinks? Served strong. Looking for something sweet? Try the Gypsy's Kiss. Seeking some salty goodness? Order up an Oliver Twist, complete with pickled green bean.
If you're really adventurous, go off menu and ask for "Cliff's Curse," especially if you like Sambuca. -
Review from Marissa H.
Royal Oak, MI
12/9/2010
The streets of Detroit are dark with steam rising up from the sewers. From the outside, it looks like just another dingy building. But as my date, another couple and I walk through the revolving doors, we immediately are taken back to a different time. High curved wood panel ceilings distinguish the bar from the dining portion. The rich décor and lively patrons combine to make energy from another time. We choose bar seating, and sit and drink. The conversation, now lubricated from old fashioneds, scotch and martinis turn from college memories and jobs to jazz, dancing, cars, and Freud and Fitzgerald. This is Cliff Bells.
Okay, in al seriousness though, I thoroughly enjoyed myself last Thursday. After a gala at the DIA, we headed down to CB. No cover. Great atmosphere. Lots of fun. Of course, the free-flowing booze left me in bad shape for a very long Friday morning, but overall it was completely worth it. I didn't eat, so I can't voice my opinion on the food. However, I would venture to say Cliff Bells is ideal for a week-day night drinking session, but that it might be too crowded, too expensive and too understaffed on the weekend. That's just from reading all of my fellow yelpers' reviews. It gets five stars from me! -
Review from Scott B.
11/13/2010
Cliff Bells is a really cool looking place and the food was good but the service was just awful. We were seated at a table that was barely big enough to hold a box of Tic Tacs. The server ignored us for about the first 20 minutes, then finally took our drink orders and returned after another eternity with the wrong drink. The weird food runner tried to serve us other tables' entrees on three different occasions and one of those times was after he had already served us our meals. A couple screws were loose in that guy's head without a doubt.
The food was the highlight as the filet was perfectly cooked, well seasoned and was just a great dish overall. Not a bad deal at $28 either. The menu is really odd though. It's concise which I normally like but the limited selections were all across the board. I never expected to see steak and eggs on the same menu as chicken and dumplings and the omelet of the day at dinner. Strange.
In the end, the terrible service overshadowed any positivity. When it came time to pay, the waitress walked past my credit card 3 times and ran back to the computer or the bar before finally picking it up after the fourth pass. Not cool at all. I won't write this place off completely because it seems like the kitchen is doing the right stuff. If they could deliver as well in the front of the house, this could be a really cool place. -
Review from Kate H.
Hazel Park, MI
8/11/2010 1 Check-in Here
Some friends of ours are in town from New York and staying at the Book Cadillac and we wanted to take them somewhere impressive to eat. Roast seemed too expensive for the occasion, and I'd heard nothing but great things about the food at Cliff Bells, so we decided to walk the few blocks to check it out. They're New Yorkers, so walking a few blocks isn't a big deal.
The decor is perfection. Enough has been said about that in the 63 reviews before mine, that I don't feel the need to elaborate.
There was a pre-ballgame crowd, which cleared out pretty quickly and then was replaced with people there to see the live Jazz they have on Tuesdays.
The menu didn't have the brussel sprouts I'd heard so much about, but had plenty of other exciting sounding options. In the end, I went the Beef Short Ribs and the beet salad and oh my. So amazing! That may have been the tenderest, must succulent beef I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. The flavor was totally out of this world. The beet salad was also amazing. The presentation of every dish at our table was superb.
As you've probably heard, they just started this happy hour business, so I'm gonna head back for that soon and see what the fish and chips is all about.
In the meantime, if I'm looking for a place to have a nicer meal, maybe something a little out of the ordinary, or I want to impress some out of town friends, I'm taking them to Cliff Bells! -
Review from Erin M.
Detroit, MI
3/24/2011
All I can say is - wow. This place is amazing. It looks like a regular old building from the outside, but walking in you're instantly impressed by the warm, dim lighting, the gorgeous art deco interior, and the impressive and interesting mural that stretches across the vast wall facing one side of the polished wooden wrap-around bar. It's gorgeous inside.
I've been here on several occasions, usually on Jam Night, and every single time it was incredible. The service was always good and pretty quick (sometimes I feel like Yelpers are under the impression that when they order a drink, it should appear in front of them instantly with a magical poof! These are hand-made drinks, and keeping that in mind, the service here is quick, and also friendly).
The bartenders are awesome, approachable, and incredibly knowledgeable about both the drink selection as well as the location's history. The first time I came here, we arrived a bit early on a Wednesday night and the place was almost empty (which didn't last long). Before the big late-evening rush, our bartender took the time to talk to us about the lush history of the building, as well as the decor and architecture. Definitely made for a cool experience.
They also have complimentary postcards you can fill out, and they mail them for you at no additional charge. I addressed mine to one of my favorite gals in Brooklyn, NY - and she actually received it! A very nice, personal touch that adds to the spot's unique character.
The drinks here are good (maybe not the best I've ever had, but still well above mediocre). The service is quality. The food selection is excellent. The atmosphere is unrivaled in this area - it's just not a place you would ordinarily stumble across in Detroit; it's the type of location that wouldn't seem out of place in a city like Chicago, or in a movie.
Definitely an awesome place to bring a date, but it'd also make a nice spot for a chill evening of live jazz and hand-made cocktails with a few of your more civilized friends. Nice place for special occasions, too, like holiday gatherings, birthday parties, anniversary treats, or bon voyage get-togethers. Just an overall great place. :) -
Review from Anya P.
3/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
Are you on your way to Cliff Bells now? No? Well you certainly should be!
Honestly, this place is wonderful. My ma and I went here for our birthday's and enjoyed ourselves so throughly that we ended up staying there for six hours or so. The cocktails were perfect! PERFECT. No ice in my martinis.
The music: stellar.
Decor made us feel like we were real classy ladies in a fancy jazz club.. oh wait.
My only complaint was the food. Not so great. Not bad, but charcuterie was really boring. And potentially good plates were dull. Still, not going to lose my business.
Dear Cliff Bells,
I'll be back. Soon.
Love,
Me. -
Review from Kelly S.
7/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Cool atmosphere, good beers on tap, killer decor. I got the "jazz" vibe when I was in here & I don't like jazz so I don't really think I'd come in here on a night when there was a band but we were here for happy hour & while they had some jazzy music playing it was quiet enough to not make me want to leave. We had already eaten earlier so I didn't get a chance to try any of the food but the salad the guy next to me was eating looked mighty tasty!
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Review from Brandy Z.
Royal Oak, MI
2/11/2011
I am certainly not one of those people who likes to sit around and wait to be served when nothing else particular is happening around me. In fact when I go somewhere to spend money I like to tip as well as my service is. And coming here for happy hour 10 minutes before the end 7pm put me in a lot of dissapointment as the bartender looked at me but ignored me until two minutes past seven pm telling me a rush of people came in at the last min and could not serve me for happy hour since the computers didn't register it anymore and instead of asking the manager if I can still have the opportunity to have it at that price since I was trying to get a order in ten min prior to the end..
I let it go and asked if I could still get a shrimp cocktail. I was then denied a shrimp cocktail since it was just a happy hour item
I then let that go then asked for a Manhatten sat there for ten minutes realizing I was not gonna get one. And of course I am not the one to wave someone down to repeat my request, if anything rather have eye contact whick I couldn't accomplish either.
Feeling uneasy being there by myself and constantly feeling eyes upon me since I walked in at the bar from other men sitting there with there friends or others I realized I felt humiliated and decided to leave. I ended up going to Bangkock Crossing thai restaurant down the street on Woodward Avenue and got the best service and hot delicious food on the table ten min tops and service walking in ten seconds tops. No more happy hour at those unorganized stuffy jazz bars Downtown Detroit for me. Apparently I was to underdresssed trying to keep warm with my light blue North Face 350 dollar ski jacket on while waiting for a manhatton to keep me warm should of dressed j crew or banana republic lol -
Review from Ben D.
Royal Oak, MI
7/14/2011
Wow, how do people working for tips survive with such nasty personalities?
Worst service in Detroit. Yeah, the place looks nice but that's never a good enough reason to patronize anyplace.
Everything but the decor sucks really bad and a it's a great place to get killed walking back to your car.
F' Cliff Bell's! -
Review from Dave C.
Detroit, MI
Updated - 5/27/2011
Generally in the past I've had positive experiences with cliff bells for birthdays or a fun night out, but last week's experience was an embarrassment for me to even have brought guests to. But I'll start with the positives anyway just because I've had good memories at the bar:
There is ample parking during the week on the surrounding streets -- and with people constantly going to and from other bar/restaurants around the area, you're car is perfectly safe. Avoid the pricey valet if you can.
The space is also beautiful and has (typically) great music and a nice ambiance. It's also a place I would choose to give visitors a unique and historic Detroit impression while having a few drinks.
Instead, my out-of-towner's were confronted with the passive, unfriendly, and non-attentive service that is unfortunately too common in this city, leaving me to make up excuses for why the service might have been so poor. Our waitress stopped at the table in what seemed like half hour increments, forcing me to occasionally get up and go find what we needed during our dinner. She was spacey, cold, and obviously could care less about what impression people have about her or the club. Its a little sad that there are comment cards on each of the tables and she still treated our group like we were at a coney island during rush hour. Sorry, that doesn't fly when the bill is over $115.
My second complaint was that the drinks were extremely weak. And for $9-$12 average for signature cocktails, there should be something signature about them in some way, right? Wrong- my drink was actually served in the same type of glass as my tap water, was mostly ice, and tasted like carnival lemonade.
I want cliff bells to be amazing and it is, but management has to get friendlier and harder-working people in here. People are not going to come back if they receive the same service and product that we did.Listed in: Best of Detroit
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/11/2009
Last time I went, which was before they had a menu unfortunately, was an excellent experience. Its a… Read more »
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Review from Kate B.
7/23/2010
Attended a Yelp event here recently and had a good time:
Beautiful Art Deco blue and jazz bar built in the 1920s - then fell into disrepair and abandonment in the 1970s. Fast-forward to 2008 and the bar has been restored down to the smallest detail! Even the towel dispensers are in-keeping with the lovely honey-colored wood, amber lamp shades, and other fitments. The stage is parquet and has an old Hammond organ - also restored! I'd dress up a bit to come here, it's not a necessity but it make's one feel more "in-tune" with the gorgeous surroundings.
The bar is fully stocked, the only thing they were lacking is a good American or French absinthe! I had a delicious Leyden's dirty martini and a lemon drop - expertly mixed.
Food was good:
- Mac-n-Cheese was creamy, had a hint of anise, and a buttery panko crumb top. Mmmm~
- Beet and Chevre "napoleon" salad - very good balance of flavors, spicy radish sprouts, not too earthy or overdressed.
- Asparagus and Roasted Radicchio salad - Good concept, but the Radicchio was too bitter and overpowered the other flavors. Bacon dressing was stellar, but I'm thinking a steamed spinach salad with Radicchio chiffonade on top would be better balanced?
- Fries with Bearnaise Aioli - Mmm, rosemary-redolent fried potato goodness. I could not detect any real Bearnaise flavor in the Aioli, but it made for a tasty Euro-style Mayonnaise dip for the fries. *yum*
- Calamari - Not too greasy, tender. However, the dipping sauce was again lacking in flavor. I fixed this by liberally dousing in fresh lemon juice. Make sure to not let it get cold!
We can't wait to visit again to try the steaks, and more of the cocktails, and, of course to dance and see some live music.
Prices were very reasonable. -
Review from Vonetta Y.
Washington, DC
5/30/2010
I'm one of those people who always puts herself in different time periods. Could be the fiction writer in me, but I just do. I mean, really, think about it! What would you be like had you been born like, 60 years earlier?
Well, for starters, I'd be hopelessly in love with Nat King Cole and for finishers, I would hang out incessantly at Cliff Bells.
It's so beautiful! Rounded ceilings; long, wood bar; booths that make great corners to get cozy in. Lovely. The jazz band playing Friday night was more fusion/electronic, but I could still feel what it might have felt like hearing Fletcher Henderson or The Duke while wearing a glittery flapper dress and maryjanes.
See. Cliff Bells puts you there.
The cocktails were phenomenal. We all got martinis of some sort. My hot chocolate martini was delicious, with a hint of mint. The others sucked theirs down as quickly as I did.
I think it's something you have to experience for yourself. Just close your eyes as you listen to the band and I promise you, you'll be transported...Listed in: The D List
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Review from Brandon B.
Detroit, MI
6/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
Cliff bells is an awesome bar. There food is okay, some items you may stay away from. But The music and ambience are amazing. You can literally feel the history in the bar. A little loud for a first date, and the staff is all a little stiff, but still a solid recommendation.
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Review from David F.
Pasadena, CA
10/6/2010
Walk in, soak up the atmosphere and look up at the rich dark wood ceiling.
Sit down, soak up some wine or a fine cocktail and try something from the innovative menu.
Put your drink down, soak up some great jazz and appreciate the acoustics.
What a special place. -
Review from Melanie J.
Royal Oak, MI
6/29/2010
Cliff Bells is hands down my favorite bar in Detroit. I love the chill vibe, the 20's feel and the music never disappoints. When I heard Cliff Bells was starting to serve brunch I was ecstatic. My favorite bar and my favorite weekend activity joining forces?! I'm down!
Last Sunday I got over to Cliff Bells for some brunch. Now, it was only the second or third week of brunch, so I knew there would be some kinks. The place was not very busy, but there were some larger parties seated and live piano music. The menu was pretty basic, covering all the expected brunch dishes. I ordered the omelette du jour which was with tomato and goat cheese. Trav ordered the Benedict. There were no sides listed on the menu, but I requested a side of potatoes and my dish came with a choice of fruit or simple salad and I chose the salad. The waiter was very nice, but had the whole place to himself, so was a little MIA at times. To get drink refills we finally started bypassing the waiter and going straight to the bar ourselves, but we didn't mind.
After a short wait the food arrived. The simple salad was delicious. A simple lemon vinaigrette dressing with pears. The main meals were tasty, but not amazing. Trav enjoyed his Benedict, but my omelette was a little...um...strange. The omelette itself was more like a plain egg frittata; basically a large egg patty. The tomatoes were sliced and laid on top of the "omelette" and then there was a sprinkle of goat cheese. The potatoes however were fantastic. Perfectly seasoned and cooked. I wouldn't rush back to Cliff Bells for brunch right away, but I will definitely check it out a few months from now when they find their brunch groove. Until then, you'll find me at Cliff Bells after dark. -
Review from Alexis L.
Manhattan, NY
1/18/2011
Cliff Bells is a gem.
A guy I was dating took me there on one of our first dates. I fell in love (w the bar, not him)
Cliff Bells is dark, dramatic, sexy... a perfect date spot. I've gone several times (I even spent a New Years there) and the entertainment is always good.
The only time I've eaten there was on NYE. The day after New Years we both had what felt like food poisoning. I can't say it was from our dinner there, but I'm deducting the 5th star because I'm too afraid to eat there again. (so I'm unable to judge the menu)
As for drinks, the "specialty martinis" are delicious, but I usually stick with a classic: a dirty martini, extra dirty, -
Review from Mitzi L.
Grayslake, IL
7/1/2010 1 photo
I have heard amazing things about Cliff Bell's. I concur that the decor and ambiance are outstanding. What is not outstanding is the service and the food.
Our waitress was nonplussed by our appearance in her section. Clearly she had much more pressing activities to attend to aside from pesky patrons.
When she finally mustered enough interest in asking us what we wanted to drink, she took her sweet time bringing two glasses of Malbec. Sadly, I don't remember which it was, only that they were $8 a glass. Acceptable price for acceptable wine. She did bring us ice water while we waited for them to make the trip to South America to fetch our wine selection. We gave each other befuddled looks as she dropped off the water and fled without a word.
After we verified our intentions to order something small from the kitchen she allowed us to order. We had:
Spicy Fried Oysters with citrus slaw & remoulade - $10
Hand-cut Fries with bearnaise aoili - $5
Do not order fried oysters. That is such a gross concept. I like my oysters pristine and raw. The problem is the batter was the same consistency as the oyster itself. Ick. They were labeled as spicy. They were utterly flavorless. The fries, of which I had three, were absolutely delicious. Highly recommend.
There was a live jazz band playing last night. The music was good, but extremely loud for this kind of establishment. We were screaming at each other and using random signs to communicate. We chose the booth closest to the door and farthest from the stage.
Again, the decor is gorgeous: Dark woods, leather seating, and a general style that is1920's reminiscent.
I should point out that to get to the ladies room you have to join the band on stage to get to the stairs. (Which are carpeted in a zebra pattern!). I was so perplexed that a male diner, gently grabbed my arm and asked if I was looking for the ladies. He then told me where the secret stairs were located.
I will definitely go again, but this time with eyes wide open that this is not a venue to have an intimate conversation, or a conversation at all for that matter.
N.B. My dress totally worked in that venue!
