The Whisky Parlor

OUR ARTICLE

Whiskey or as the scots spell it, Whisky is the amber nectar of the gods. Around the world and throughout the ages, many different variations of this magical elixir have been masterfully curated and enjoyed thoroughly by the masses. We could marvel for days at the intricacies of Irish whiskey, the differences between bourbon and rye, or what “Bottled in Bond” means in terms of American whiskey, but we’ll bet by now that you’re already picking up what we’re putting down.

If any of this made your eyes go wide like Wile E. Coyote with his sights set on the Road Runner, we have just the place for you: Whiskey Parlor in Detroit, MI.

For you aficionados out there, there are some delicious and remarkably rare finds available

Situated above the occasionally rowdy Grand Trunk Pub in the heart of Downtown Detroit, Whiskey Parlor advertises itself tastefully as “The oldest new bar in Detroit — A room for relaxation, conversation, damn good whisky, a comforting glass of wine, and a whole lot of fun,” and there’s no fooling around when it comes to that statement.

A speakeasy-style tavern done right, lit by flickering candlelight and filled with thoughtfully gathered decor and hidden trinkets throughout, Whisky Parlor sets the mood before your lips even touch a glass. It’s an ambience that makes you want to sit back, relax, and drink something marvelous.

With over a hundred bottles to choose from, there’s no need to feel intimidated by their encyclopedic list of brown spirits. Just wave your white flag and let your bartender guide you through your experience, practically anointing themselves your boozy personal advisor.

Whiskey flights are available and highly encouraged for those who like to explore new territory. For you aficionados out there, there are some delicious and remarkably rare finds available, and as far as scotch goes, get ready to geek out. Additionally, anyone who says the prices are too steep simply doesn’t understand the craftsmanship involved in creating such a spirit and the exclusivity of some of these bottles.

With that being said, there are more frugal options available than a 17-year-aged scotch, and Whiskey Parlor also hosts a very affordable happy hour including a selection of $6 whiskey-based cocktails, such as Whiskey Sours and Manhattans, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Speaking of cocktails, this is another area where the well is sure to never run dry at Whiskey Parlor. We recommend The Long Flight, made with fruity and spice-forward Rittenhouse Rye, Yellow Chartreuse, crème de violette, and lemon juice, or the much sweeter Churchill’s Breakfast, made with Old Pulteney Scotch, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and frothy egg white.

If you prefer a cocktail made with a spirit other than whiskey, fear not — these are mixologists behind the bar, people! Let them know what you prefer and they’re sure to wow you with anything they conjure up.

They also host a range of live music, including jazz nights and a DJ on weekends if you’re into a little date-night dancing. On that note, Whiskey Parlor is great for a one-on-one sort of evening or an outing with some of your closest pals. We only mention closeness because who else are you going to buy a glass of $32 Bushmill’s 21 Irish Whiskey for in good conscience? Save us a seat!