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Old Town
Categories: Nightlife Bars Restaurants American (Traditional) Bars, American (Traditional) [Edit]
122 W Liberty StAnn Arbor, MI 48104
Neighborhood: Downtown Ann Arbor
(734) 662-9291
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11:30 am - 2 am
Sat-Sun 4 pm - 12 am
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Late Night, Dinner
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Yes
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
53 reviews for Old Town
Review Highlights
"...Quesadillas, the Turkey Reuben, and the Sweet Potato Fries."
(in 6 reviews)
"...is the best though - a tin ceiling - lots of old pictures."
(in 5 reviews)
"I miss the Del Rio sometimes."
(in 4 reviews)
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53 reviews in English
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Review from Jenna S.
Chicago, IL
8/13/2011
Though I came too late to sample any of the food, the beer list was pretty impressive. The bar itself gets a bit crowded at night (especially on weekends) but that's to be expected I guess since it's a bit small.
There's table and bar seating and smoking outside. Specials each day of the week and happy hour starts again at 10 p.m. to closing. I was glad the beer I was drinking was on special because it was cheaper as the night went on.
I'd come back for more beers and good conversation with friends. Pretty happening place with a non-Frat Boy Douche Bag crowd. That's a hard crowd to avoid in Ann Arbor, but Old Town manages to keep 'em out.Listed in: Ann Arbor
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Review from Sam G.
10/2/2011
Yargh! Yelp! I want my half-stars!
This here bar gets 3 1/2 stars in my book. Why? I like bars that predominantly service locals. I like my servers cheeky and seasoned. And I like the fact that after a drink or two, many patrons look mighty fine (if you're into the refined hip academic thing or the I'm-not-leaving-this-town-if-it-kills-me impressive determination of hip youth).
Aaaand, if you go for a smoke outside you are bound to strike up conversation with someone, whether it be a street wanderer or other fellow patrons.
Why not 4 or 5 stars? Well, this place, like most bars, has serious demographic changes throughout the day and night. But unlike most divey bars (I know I know, apples and oranges), if you come here early, instead of surly men drinking on their own, you are inundated with groups of business people eating after work or getting smashed at 8pm.
Point being, if you come to drink and be merry, you might wanna come late.
The well whiskey shots are generous and aren't too shabby. As many have mentioned, the beer runs cold and deep. And your pocket won't be emptied.
In general, it feels like a place that's better either flying solo and sitting at the bar, or being with a 4+ group of friends. Pairs don't seem to work as well for me.
Love, love the servers and love, love the unplanned encounters outside. Otherwise it's neither here nor there. -
Review from Jessie S.
7/9/2011 4 Check-ins Here
I've found myself falling into these little ruts now that so much information is available through the internet. "What movie do you want to watch?" now turns into scrolling Netflix for 45 minutes and still not settling on a movie. "We should go out to eat" turns into my looking on Yelp for 45 minutes while my hunger level rises and I become frustrated with having too many options. It's times like these that having tried and true fall backs are so important.
Old Town has instantly become my Ann Arbor "go-to" bar and restaurant. After all, what isn't there to like? They serve affordable food. They have a full bar. Their waitstaff is incredibly friendly (Liz!).
What I particularly enjoy about their menu is how the portions match the price. In some instances like with the quesadilla and the nachos, half portions are available. The menu isn't overly imaginative, yet the food is consistent and tasty. If you're in the mood for something a bit on the heavy side, I recommend the tempeh ruben with sweet potato fries. I love sauerkraut! If you're in the mood for a lighter meal, the half order veggie quesadilla is perfect.
Old Town is the perfect neighborhood bar and grill. It's great to have a fall back when I just want to sit down and have someone serve me some food and a beer and not have to over think it. -
Review from Ron F.
Flushing Township, MI
11/16/2011
Nice bar with good selection of beers and nice, causal atmosphere, but the wings weren't done and the rest of our meals were bland and unappealing. Maybe we just hit it on the wrong night.
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Review from Susan C.
4/13/2011
Most of what I could say about Old Town has already been said. I've been coming to this bar for years, and it is truly my bar of choice. So much so that my work pals threw me a "showerette" (Bachelorette party/shower combo) there this past weekend. How great is it that Old Town let a bunch of loudly laughing ladies come in to party AND let us bring our own cake? Pretty awesome I'd say.
Our server was so nice and helpful, and just added to the fun atmosphere. We got a few raised eyebrows from some of the crustier patrons. Luckily our twilight-themed party favors scared them off. I should say our "ironic" twilight-themed favors.
The chicken sandwich with added bacon and cheddar I had was delicious. And the three or so long islands were as strong as they come. I do love the beer there too, but decided mixed drinks were the way to go that night. We got a seat in the back under the huge naked lady picture, but up at the front in the windows are the two best tables in the house. -
Review from Holly B.
Ann Arbor, MI
7/13/2011
Old Town is a great go-to place for drinks with good company in a proper tavern atmosphere. I especially appreciate the menu, which actually lists prices for spirits and popular mixed drinks--It's never fun getting a check and seeing a bill much higher than you expected. This is a big plus for me since I'm not much of a beer drinker. If you are a beer drinker, then Old Town offers a respectable selection of beer and cheap pitchers (about $13) of Bell's, etc.
I've not had a chance to try the food, but it looks reasonably priced and fairly tasty. The service can be a bit hit and miss, but other than that, I wouldn't be surprised if I popped in more regularly in the evening hours. Plus, I've heard from two sources that it's a good place to take your ladyfriends if you wanna get some action afterwards... Classy, innit? -
Review from mariah c.
Ann Arbor, MI
Updated - 8/3/2010 2 Check-ins Here
There are times in life when what you really need are a few beers, a lot of friends, and some pretty unhealthy fried chicken. You're not going to find mind-blowing fried chix-stix here, but you will indeed find some of the most fried-up chicken tenders downtown, with some sauce options to boot. As Tara mentions, the brew here isn't made on-site, but they do usually keep some Bell's on tap, and in the summer, you're guaranteed a large slice (no slivers here) of orange for your Oberon.
Friends? They're going to show up here. It's like some weird hive mind thing is happening. The same pals you ran into hanging out in that alley (yes, I hang out in alleys sometimes) last week will turn up here, as will folks who can fill you in on the results of the day's primary voting. You'll recognize that girl from the roller derby, but you'll also see some respectable gentlemen having a cordial business-y seeming beer.
You'll hear about your friends moving out of town, out of state and out of the country here (hey, we live in Michigan, this happens). And then, if or when they come back, you'll probably spot them here too. I'm no bar fly -- I'm really only here a few times a month. But when I need some A-OK comfort food (kitchen is open until 10 most week nights, and 'til 10:30 on Tuesdays), a dose of brew and another stronger dose of friends, inspiring folks and acquaintances, this is the spot.
I may long a bit for the Del Rio (RIP), but a place that had been among my top 3 from the time I started drinking in bars -- Old Town -- stands on its own merits. Between this and the Eightball, I think I'm comfy. Thanks, Old Town.Listed in: Offices Away from Home, WiFi or Die!, Ann Arbor Waterin' Holes
3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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9/10/2009
The staff is still friendly, and apparently I'm still guaranteed to run into other people I know!… Read more »
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Review from Robert C.
8/9/2010 1 Check-in Here
So simple. So unpretentious. Old Town really is one the best bars in the city for its laid back charm, stiff drinks, and good company.
If you're looking to impress a date, I wouldn't invite them here. But, if you were looking to test whether they can enjoy good drinks in a low-key atmosphere where conversation reigns, then here's that place. -
Review from Deborah C.
Ann Arbor, MI
10/19/2010
"some times you want to go, where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came. . . "
Some places just embody the essence of what they should be - a proper local pub in the British sense or an authentic Cheers. At Old Town you'll have great beer choices and strong mix drinks, affordable solid food, and friendly service. The crowd is a mix of townies and some grad students, embodying all age groups and types. You don't have to worry about whether your outfit is tight enough or if you have enough money on you, but you are guaranteed a good time in a relaxed setting.
Old Town, please don't ever leave. Del Rio's loss was too heart-breaking. -
Review from Alicia M.
Ann Arbor, MI
4/18/2011
I suggested we check out this place on the recommendation of a fellow vegan (and a previous comment from an out-of-town friend that stated "I want to go THERE!" when we on our pre-determined martini crawl). By no means is this a "vegany" place, but they do have several items featuring tempeh (and good tempeh, at that), including a reuben, which I tried. I make my own reubens at home that are scary close to the "real" thing(using seitan and marinade, via a Chicago Diner recipe), and while these don't resemble those, I can certainly appreciate tempeh and 'kraut on caraway bread. My waitress picked up right away on the direction I was going when I ordered "no cheese" and asked if I wanted the thousand island dressing. Their version is very heavy on the mayo and not remotely vegan. I asked for mustard instead, and she stopped by later to ask if I liked sharp mustard, and brought me a jar of sweet/sharp mustard that ended up being a great replacement for the thousand island. My husband ordered the traditional reuben and said it was good, not outstanding, call your mom good, but a good sandwich nonetheless.
They have a very reasonably priced alcohol menu (with actual prices listed...love not getting bill-shock!), featuring a decent number of local beers/liquors. The atmosphere is right on par with the name; it's a very cozy, homey, tavern. There were only a few others in there at the time, mostly at the bar, and they struck me as easy-going regulars.
The food was good, the service was excellent, and I look forward to returning here in the future. -
Review from Amy S.
Ann Arbor, MI
3/31/2010
Old Town is, no question, the "townie" bar. It's a block away from where I work, and directly on my walk home. Needless to say, I am there quite often. The staff is super friendly and wonderful, there are almost no d-bags in attendance, and I almost always run into people I know.
For lack of a better description, it's sort of my "Cheers," although -- thank god -- not everyone knows my name and, generally, no one who does yells it out when I enter.
The food is good too. It's not the Best Food You've Ever Had, but the sandwiches are tasty, the spin-art dip is tasty, the nachos and burritos are tasty, the soups and salads are tasty.
Bottom line: I'd highly recommend it. One caveat to out-of-towners: I mean it pretty literally when I say it's the townie bar. I have seen servers be all kinds of rude to people they don't know. That said, I still recommend it. It's pretty much one of the most affordable, most laid-back bars in Ann Arbor. -
Review from Tara R.
Chattanooga, TN
4/18/2010
When I lived on the west side of Ann Arbor, Old Town was always my favorite bar. Of course, that was when I paid twice as much in rent and thought five bucks for a pint of beer was a perfectly good deal.
Nowadays, I either want my bar beer dirt cheap or fresh brewed. Old Town offers neither. Nor does it offer particularly good (or particularly bad) food. The atmosphere is fine. I like the hardwood floors, paneling and booths and the old timey naked lady pictures. The place has character and that character is slightly stodgy, intellectual townie.
The only time I go to Old Town is when one of my grad student friends is having a celebration. It can be a good spot for a crowd, as long as you can shove a bunch of tables together. The servers might get a little surly, but they're working hard. Liz is probably the best bar server in Ann Arbor. Tip her well.
As Mariah noted, running into someone you know at Old Town is inevitable. This can be a good or bad thing, often both in one night. I imagine that if I were to leave Michigan and come back to Ann Arbor in five years, I would still run into someone I know at Old Town. And for that reason, I'm glad it sticks around. -
Review from Matt S.
Ann Arbor, MI
12/19/2010
I finally have come to this place since the smoking ban in in place. Previous visits here were too smokey for me. Finally had a chance to try the food on a couple of occasions and it is good. From my conversations with the employees, it sounds like they make a lot of the food in house, not just a heat-n-eat concept. It appears that many takeout orders are processed through this place, so that tells me the food is good.
The service level has been hit-n-miss. I've had great service even when busy and slow service even when slow. Why this establishment allows the employees to use their phones during work is beyond me. -
Review from kelly w.
Brooklyn, NY
8/27/2008 ROTD 4/22/2009
You walk into Old Town and here are some of the things you will consistently find:
1. "Starving artist" sippin' on a brew writing down new song lyrics in his/her journal-- isolated in the corner or solo in a booth-- how poetic.
2. Family sitting down enjoying their din-- kids playing with their food rather than eating it, but none the less, decently well behaved.. this isn't denny's folks.
3. 20/30 somethings gathering for some good 'ol fashioned pub chat.
4. Always friendly staff-- it makes you wonder if they pass out a valium with their time card.
5. kickin' chili-- get it. love it. -
Review from jen h.
Pittsburgh, PA
Updated - 3/14/2010
MAGGOTS FALL FROM THE CEILING ONTO YOUR HEAD AT THIS PLACE!!!
Ok, that's not entirely true, but 'sky maggots' just has a better ring to it than Coleoptera larvae, (hey, I was an entomology major in undergrad)....In the interest of cleaning up my internet presence for fellowship interviews, I recently removed the bits of my Old Town interview that described having what looked like it could have been a pube muddled into the orange in my old fashioned. Well, I have signed my fellowship contracts, so screw it....
The last time I was here, a warm, 2 inch long beetle larvae dropped from the ceiling onto my shoulder: I was wearing an off-the-shoulder shirt, so it landed on my bare skin. I imagine that the little guy was just trying to keep warm up on that steam pipe near the ceiling, but EWWWWWWWWW! This happened a few weeks ago, and from time to time, I still feel that thing crawling on my shoulder. In public health school, we learned that if an insect infestation is in a restaurant to the degree that the patrons are encountering insects, it's likely HEAVY. Just keep that in mind....So, if you like hairy drinks and insect larvae falling onto you, check out Old Town!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/21/2007
This place has been consistently growing on me. The waitress was awesome and really knowledgeable… Read more »
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Review from Aaron M.
Ann Arbor, MI
12/4/2010 1 Check-in Here
What a strange mixture of dive and veggie-friendly-chill-spot. Maybe those aren't really different things.
When smoking was still tolerated, this place sort of killed me, but in the absence of cigarettes many of its charms shine more clearly. Personally, I like the fact that I often run into people I know here. I also like the feeling I have that somebody might get decked by one of the waitresses (not that they are unfriendly... just that they don't take shit).
Good vibes. Part of what keeps Ann Arbor's soul together. -
Review from Molly H.
This is the only bar I really like going to in Ann Arbor. And I love bars. Seems to cater to the mid-to-late 20s/early 30s set and locals, which is great. (Not an undergrad playground.) Awesome atmosphere--warm without being dingy; very inviting. Love the giant painting in the back. The drinks are made well, i.e. nice and stiff. I haven't had anything more complicated than a basic mixer, so I can't speak to craftsmanship on, say, a martini. Service is pretty good, a couple times I've had to wait too long to get my drink refilled or pay my bill and I've gotten unwarranted attitude a couple times, but normally it's very friendly and quick.
Also, three words: pulled. pork. sandwich. It is wonderful. So wonderful. Besides that I haven't had much of the food, but what I have had I've liked. -
Review from Aaron B.
Ann Arbor, MI
3/15/2010
I don't know why anybody would ever come here. It's a terrible crap shack with blah food, loud noise, heavy smoke, and poorly crafted drinks. The only reason people go here, I'm convinced, is because they don't know any better. If this place were in any real city then it would have closed down...either from lack of business or the health inspector. I've often been invited to go here for a meal or drink because of it's proximity to home and my evening hangouts downtown, and quickly learned to decline the offers. Regret coming here you will...unless you have no nose, no taste buds, and no common sense.
In reference to Jen's review I will add: Is the whole place crawling with creepy maggots? You don't have to find larvae to answer 'yes'. -
Review from Jeffrey C.
Detroit, MI
6/19/2011
Old Town is a great stop. The place feels exactly how a local tavern should feel and their food is equally enjoyable. Adding in Sunday night music and this place is golden. If you need a place to go in Ann Arbor this is it, you won't regret it.
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Review from Sara G.
9/14/2009
I miss the Del Rio sometimes. I really do.
Old Town is (in my opinion) the Only Townie Bar Left in A2. The vibe is like opening an old book and inhaling the sweet aroma of the past with a leathery top note of the present. Aging hipsters watch the young ones with amusement, and the young ones watch as old farts try to pick up the yuppies. This place is welcoming and neighborhoody like no other bar in this city. My favorite bar in town, fo' sho'.
The food is pretty good too! Try the beef nachos or a burger with that beer.
Two down sides:
1. The garish sports-bearing TELEVISION above the bar. With sports bars aplenty in this town, why don't they just dial up a John Waters movie or Adult Swim? Still, this doesn't prevent me from huddling into a booth and making sweet love to a dirty martini w/extra olives.
2. SMOKE. This place accumulates and holds cigarette smoke faster than a pothead at an Amsterdam hash bar. The ventilation system (if it exists) needs work. I cannot WAIT until this place goes non-smoking (I can only hope!). But again, this doesn't prevent me from metaphorically copulating w/a concoction of vodka and vermouth in a corner booth. I just don't linger as long, sadly.Listed in: Ann Abhors The Usual.
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Review from Marie H.
Washtenaw, MI
7/20/2009
This is my favorite bar in town. It has a wonderful neighborhood feel and the staff is really nice. The pours are generous and they keep good beers on tap.
This is also one of my favorite restaurants in town. The food is delicious. I especially like the Quesadillas, the Turkey Reuben, and the Sweet Potato Fries. I don't like their deserts much, but you can't win them all, right? -
Review from Adam T.
Austin, TX
9/22/2008
Old town is the most adeptly named bar I've ever been to. Show up for dinner and, if you can find a table, you'll see the culmination of nearly every demographic in Ann Arbor-- from Ypsi people who can't afford to live in A2 anymore, to a family of five having their big night out "downtown".
Look for the photo of the guy with a parasol and an eyepatch next to the big round table. That's Jamie Monger, former Old Town line-cook and guitarist for the Great Lakes Myth Society. On any given Sunday, you'll see town music staples play there: Jim Roll, Jamie's Brother Tim....the list is as long as it is grand.
Their late night menu is one of the more tolerable in town, especially now that Leopold's is off the table.
If you're new to Ann Arbor, a grad student at UofM, or just passing through, go here and you'll have officially arrived. It's one of a very few locales left in town that isn't 't homogenized yuppie crap.
If it's packed, try the basement of The Heidelberg a few blocks away. -
Review from Steve G.
Ann Arbor, MI
6/2/2011
One of my favorite bars in town. Good selection of beer (including usually a Bell's seasonal or two) at decent prices. I usually don't order food here so I can't speak to that, but you do get free peanuts with your beer if you ask.
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Review from Theresa T.
Ann Arbor, MI
3/26/2009 1 Check-in Here
I am a faithful regular at Old Town. They have GREAT food. My favorite dishes include the Pumpernickel Grilled Cheese and the steak fajitas. **yum**
The wait staff is fabulous, definitely sit in Liz's section and leave her a big fat tip, because she's the best server in town. That's right, I said it! THE BEST.
This is a great joint for touring bands to stop by and grab some inexpensive food, it's close to live venues and you'll probably be seated next to the same people you run into at The Ark or The Blind Pig or where ever it is that you'll be playing.
They feature live music every so often, so keep an eye on their schedule. -
Review from Liz H.
Ferndale, MI
10/4/2008
I haven't been here since I was in school -- and yikes (!!), that's six years! But, I remember Old Town with fondness.
I worked two doors down at Bella Ciao and this was the after-work spot of choice for all of us -- from 19 to 39. And yes, they did serve me before I was 21, but I think that was more a function of the fact that it was a townie bar and not many students (or at least underage ones) came in there.
In fact, even though I went there so many times over the years with lots of great friends and boyfriends, my favorite -- or I guess I should say funniest -- Old Town memory is when some meathead in a summer class asked me out. He tried to take me to Mitch's, which, for the uninitiated, is one of the frattiest, college-y-est, cheesy bars in town. Well, the minute we stepped in the door the bouncer asked for my I.D. I was underage, but had a pretty bad fake and I handed it to him. He took one look at my I.D. and said, "This is fake," and put it in his pocket. I just went, "uhhhh...." and looked at my date. He said, "Where do you want to go now?" I had been going to Old Town after worked and loved it so I said, "Well, have you ever been to Old Town?" The guy looked at me and seriously said, "Uh, is it for OLD people?" Ahhhh hahahaha!
No. It's not for old people. But I would say that it is for old-ER people. And that's a good thing. In the two years I went there underage, I was definitely the exception. And I think I passed because I looked older and was always there with people in their late 20s and 30s.
I just love this place because it's laid back and so not a college bar. The food is pretty good, too. I don't know if I would go there specifically for the food. But for a late night bite and some drinks, that place just felt comfortable. Like, "ahhh, now I can relax...." A great after work spot for local restaurant workers. -
Review from Erich Z.
Berkley, MI
8/8/2007
Something tells me the 3-star reviewers don't get outside Ann Arbor much. This place is an unassuming pub, serving lots of different beers - not just your average MGD, Bud, and Labatt's.
But a word here on pub grub. Usually, pub food is severely limited to a burger, nachos, pizza, and that's it. Maybe Ann Arbor is different on average, but it's really hard where I come from (Lansing) to find somewhere you can both eat a good meal and drink a few drinks. Not so with Old Town. The sandwiches are hand-made fresh, and you can't go wrong with their veggie sandwich or quesadillas. Not bad price-wise either.
Actually, for price you could compare the Old Town favorably to one of those crappy TGI & Erma's chain joints, but the atmosphere and quality of food is sooo much better. And again, much better beer on tap. I could compare it to the Red Hawk over on State, but Red Hawk is so pricey for food it's silly.
Yeah, it gets noisy, and that can detract from it a bit, but I'll admit our group isn't afraid to contribute to the noisy atmosphere either. -
Review from Ben A.
Los Angeles, CA
5/12/2011
Woohoo! As good as it gets!
Yeah well...
...this IS Ann Arbor we're talking about. Best burger in town. They never EVER have kickass cheap drink specials, the servers are ... not necessarily the most alluring, but suitably chummy.
Best burger in town. Southwest Salad is always good. -
Review from Coco C.
Chicago, IL
4/6/2007
[Editor's note: I have actually lived in other places besides Ann Arbor, and by "other places" I mean "actual cities", and yes, this place totally deserves its middle-of-the-road three stars. Sorry, James C.]
I like Old Town. I like to imagine myself as an 65-year-old retired alcoholic dude when I go there (actually, now that I think about it, that's not too far from reality...). Anyhoo, they have pretty tasty bar food, semi-decent drink prices (they have late-night happy hour specials - always a good thing!), and are good for a group outing.
This place does get loud though, especially if you sit in the back at a table instead of a booth. -
Review from Matt M.
San Francisco, CA
2/10/2008
This location has a cool, low-key atmosphere, and everything feels kind of old (pun intended). Even the TV on the bar is like, 1970's vintage. Also, there are cool old newspaper articles framed on the walls along with very old pictures and paintings. Lots of wood, too. I genuinely enjoy stopping in for a Bell's Amber, chillin', and not being jostled about (smaller crowd) and not having some crazy undergrad girls screaming at the next table (the crowd seems at least a little bit older).
I have not encountered bad service there. They also have pretty excellent hamburgers if you're feeling like a bite. -
Review from Tyler B.
6/25/2008
I wanted to write a three word review for this place:
Drink. Cheap. Good.
But that's selling it a bit short.
I mean not real short. But this place has sweet happy hours, the occasional troubadour in the corner, and a genuine local watering hole feel. The people who drink here seem to get it, and you're not surrounded by a bunch of d-bag frat guys or upwardly mobile dill holes in suits. You gotta keep that head on a swivel man.
So yeah, want some cheap booze with your pals at a place with decent service and a real old school bar feel? Old Town. Drink. Cheap. Good.Listed in: Happy Hour
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Review from Becki B.
11/1/2008
Old Town is awesome. The inside is cozy and beautiful. The stamped tin ceiling is a great detail along with the gorgeous bar and the old framed pictures on the walls. Things really haven't changed much in the over ten years I've been going here, except I didn't see Jen or Phillipe last time I was in.
If you'd like a little something to nibble on while you drink, the chips and salsa are fabulous. I've been known to stop in just for chips and salsa and accidentally meeting up with someone I know and staying for a drink or two. -
Review from Laura M.
Ann Arbor, MI
6/15/2010
Love, love, LOVE.
The food isn't fancy, but it's delicious. There's a surprising selection for veg folks (good salad (FAB ranch), quesadillas/bar food, sweet potato fries, grilled cheese with veggies, hard-to-eat but very tasty veggie pita).
Lots of beer on tap, not particularly cheap, but not overpriced, either. Probably in the $4-5 range for the pints I tend to get, lots of Bell's and other good things.
I like the staff, even if some of them are occasionally salty, they're usually extremely nice and always part of the experience.
Beautiful atmosphere, lots of old wood, few-to-no obnoxious people. Sometimes there's live music (Sunday nights?), and it's loud, but it's good.
This place is my favorite. -
Review from Jenn V.
Wyandotte, MI
11/22/2009
I could totally be giving them more credit than they deserve-- I am friends with every single one of the cooks there, and have been hanging out there with them for years.
First off, it is THE only townie bar in Ann Arbor in my book. It's so nice to get away from the obnoxious student bars and the Main St crowd. Just a nice, laid back tavern. Good beer selection, fair prices and heavy mixed drinks (for the most part, but it depends who is pouring that night). The food is good, but I wouldn't say great. My boyfriend loves the burgers, steak fajitas and reubens, and they get their meat from Knights. I have had just about every single thing on that menu, and can't stand eating it anymore. But that is my problem-- it really is a step above 'bar food'. Their clam chowder is fantastic! Served only on weekends, and I would only have it Fri or Sat.. by Sun it's a little uhhh, you know.
I know they have a Happy Hour, but I don't know much about it. I think it's after 11pm during the week, and includes mixed drinks and maybe beer. But check out the table tents for more info.
Most nights the music is provided via the staff's iPods, so it is usually pretty decent stuff. The buzz of the crowd on the weekends makes it so you can barely the music anyway sometimes. I do not recommend going on Sundays though. They have rotating folk-type bands, and the crowd is progressively older and hippier than usual. The music usually makes my ears bleed, and I if I'm there I will take off as soon as they start setting up for the band.
Great place to grab a window booth, bring some cards and a few friends. I know it's smokey, but when will people get over the fact that (1) it's a bar and (2) it's Michigan, which has not banned smoking like some states. They do not have a ventilation system that I know of, so if you hate smoke but love the bar, go elsewhere. I don't think it gets that bad-- it's not like you are hit with a thick cloud as soon as you walk in the door.
You will see people from all walks of life. Anywhere from young to old, hipster to grads, local workers and the real old regulars who were forced to find a new spot when Del Rio closed. Luckily, this crowd does not include the frat boys and dumb chicks that strut up and down South U every weekend in search of the next place to get a pitcher and "whoop it up" like assholes. -
Review from Sarah W.
Brooklyn, NY
5/27/2008
A cool chill place to get something to eat or have a few drinks. They have some pretty decent food. A burger made with knights meat and thick steaks fries which is really inexpensive. And there is some kind of spinach dip which is sooooo good. Don't forget to check out their food specials too, my best friend loved their friend chicken.
They also have good LATE night drink specials. I can't remember the exact time but it starts at 11pm or midnight. Where they hell can you find deals at that time of night. You can hit up a bar on Main Street and on your way to Bab's fill up a bit here.
Oh, and don't forget to get a window seat if your a townie. You never know what scandalous story may pass right before you eyes! Better than TV. -
Review from Michael C.
Warren, MI
5/31/2008
You know, maybe if the WAB had food like this, I'd eat there more often.
I like Old Town for a couple of reasons: as many have said, the decor is fantastic. It's like a mix between a British pub and a bar from a 1973 cop movie, you know, the one where the drunk gets thrown onto the street and while he's stumbling home the opening credits roll. Actually, that's how I felt every time I stumbled out of this place... but I was never thrown out.
I've said before that Charley's is the place in town to grab a mixed drink. If that's the case, then Old Town is the place to grab a beer; they have a fantastic selection of brews, including some of my favorite Bell's. Orange anyone?
The food is great. Someone else mentioned bar food; I'm not a fan of bar food by and large, since it usually consists of burgers, and I can't eat red meat all the time. I've also encountered places in Detroit and Ann Arbor, like WAB, who serve food but it's really hit or miss. OT isn't the sort of place that just heats stuff up in a microwave; they make the stuff by hand and it shows. I'd recommend the club, since it goes easy with any palate and it's super tasty to boot. -
Review from Lisa W.
Flint, MI
6/28/2008
First, grab the table by the window. It's a great spot to people watch, and also a way for your random townie friends to spot you and join you throughout the night. Then, order a beer and some beef nachos. This was a tradition with me and my crew. Even the 2/3 nachos are large enough to feed a couple of friends who need a snack fix.
If you want to find a place on Sunday to hang out with someone but not have to talk to them, then try Old Town. They have live music and it's impossible to hear yourself guzzle your cosmo.
Their menu is hit or miss. Their burgers are amazing, however, and they use Knight's meat. I would stay away from any of their burritos or enchilada dishes. A bowl of their chili with extra chips on the side is a great small meal if you want most of your calories to come from the tap.
Did you order a beer? Then make sure to ask for your complimentary peanuts in the shell! -
Review from Rebecca W.
Ypsilanti, MI
11/20/2009
Tonight was the big send-off for our co-worker and friend, who's headed across the pond for 6 months. We started at ABC with beers and some snacks, but some of us weren't ready to call it a night at....7:30. Tried to head to the Jolly Pumpkin for dinner, but the wait was 2 1/2 hours, so we wound up at Old Town instead.
This is the third time I've "wound up" at Old Town when the wait everywhere else was too long, or everyone was being indecisive or argumentative about where to go. Clearly we should just start coming here on purpose!
They seated 9 of us quite quickly (in the back corner under the large nude painting, of course), and we ordered a range of beers, booze, soups, sandwiches, meats, and appetizers.
It's just chill here. The beer is decent--no pressure for it to be extra special, because they don't brew it--so you just pick what you like and you know you'll be happy. The food maybe took awhile to come, but with beer and good company, who cares? It's a little loud and a little smoky, as bars are wont to be, and if you're seated near the path of people waiting for tables, you probably get lots of butts and purses to the face. But if you can avoid/ignore that, it's just relaxed--good for hanging out and catching up. And eating. And drinking.
My club sandwich was tasty--not too much mayo--and made me miss my friend JZ, a club sandwich connoisseur. The chips were fine, nothing special--should have upgraded to the sweet potato fries, but for some reason, after like five beers, felt compelled to save $2.
I was right smack in the middle of the table, and I only wish I could have equally participated in the conversations at either end (the one about motorcycles, and the one about facial hair)....but if too much good company is your only complaint, it's a pretty good night! -
Review from Marissa B.
Chicago, IL
7/28/2007 2 photos
Old Town Tavern is one of my favorite spots in Ann Arbor. The bar is cozy and hosts a number of regulars, townies and grad students alike.
When you enter Old Town your first responsibility is trying to figure out where to sit. You can always tell who the newcomers are because they hesitate in the doorway, unsure if they'll be seated or if they're supposed to just make themselves at home. You're supposed to make yourself at home. Occasionally on a busy night the manager will greet you at the door and assist you in finding a spot for your group.
The bar fills the right-side wall in the front section, which is the smoking section. The back section is the non-smoking section, and offers a number of square tables and two booths tucked in the back, near the restroom. The mood is casual, people tend to sit at their tables and chat with who they came with - it's not really a place to meet new people, unless you are sitting at the bar. The lighting is low and not too harsh; I love looking up at the original tin ceiling and reading the history of the building, which is printed on the back of the menus.
The crowd is a combination of townies and grad students, it fortunately has not been tapped by the younger, freshly 21-year-old crowd as "the place to be". Thank goodness!
The drinks are usually well made and one of the great things about Old Town is that they have a beverage menu which actually lists out all the liquors they sell and what their prices are. How nice is that?! I love being able to know exactly what I'm paying for something ahead of time. Our groups are always happy with their food, the chicken sandwich and the sweet potato fries always seem to be a hit.
The service can be spotty, depending on who you get, things can be pretty slow. However, if you're lucky enough to get Liz as your server, you will never have your needs unmet. She is spot on, attentive but not obtrusive. She recognizes her regular customers and greets them kindly, even when she's bustling about.
BOTTOM LINE: A great place - fair drink prices, good food and a nice, relaxed atmosphere. -
Review from Kristin B.
Ann Arbor, MI
11/18/2010
Old Town hasa cozy Ann Arbor feel, but without the Schmann Arbor pretension. The ambience is perfect - brick walls, tin ceiling, low lighting. The food is decent-tasting and even more decently priced. The staff is friendly, but definitely not overly-attentive (you may wait a while for food/drinks).
Bottom line - if you want a bar with a local, casual feel, Old Town is the perfect choice. -
Review from Kate M.
Seattle, WA
9/14/2009
Dark (but not too), cozy, great drinks and a pretty impressive lunch and dinner menu. REALLY good sweet potato fries. Also, the prices are right. This is a regular lunch spot for my office but I've also been here on a Saturday night, post Michigan game and pre-Blind Pig show, with friends for drinks. On both occasions, I was a happy camper with the food, libations, and service. Thumbs up for a "new" old standard.
