Sweetwater Tavern

400 E Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226, United States
+1 313-962-2210
$$$ Restaurant
(4613 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you're wandering through the vibrant streets of Downtown Detroit, make a stop at Sweetwater Tavern, a hidden gem that promises a delightful culinary experience with its inviting atmosphere and delectable menu. Located at 400 E Congress St, this charming establishment is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, especially as a pre-game hotspot for Tigers fans.

Sweetwater Tavern specializes in comfort food with an emphasis on delicious bar fare. Prepare your taste buds for an array of hearty offerings, including their fan-favorite Buffalo Chicken Wings, renowned for their crispy texture and flavorful kick. As one reviewer raves, they’re “some of the best wings I’ve ever had,” perfectly paired with seasoned fries. The Sweetwater Rueben, packed with housemade corned beef and melted Swiss cheese, is another must-try for those seeking a satisfying sandwich option. And don’t miss the Michigan Cherry Salad, a fresh and vibrant choice that blends charbroiled chicken with sweet cherries and pecans, recommended with a drizzle of raspberry vinaigrette for an extra flavor boost.

The atmosphere at Sweetwater Tavern is as appealing as its menu. Picture a cozy pub setting where friendly staff serve with genuine warmth; you'll feel right at home. Many diners praise the attentive service, with waitstaff like Nautica and Tiffany going the extra mile to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Whether you’re focused on a quick meal before the game or looking to unwind with friends, Sweetwater offers the perfect balance of energy and relaxation.

For those with a penchant for hearty comfort food, Sweetwater Tavern should be at the top of your list when in Detroit. With generous portions and flavors that leave a lasting impression, it stands out among typical bar food, drawing in both casual diners and food enthusiasts alike. Join the many fans who keep coming back, eager to explore the enticing items on the menu and savor the inviting vibe this beloved tavern has to offer.

Ready to dig in? Call ahead at +1 313-962-2210 or walk in and find out why Sweetwater Tavern is a definitive go-to for a mouthwatering Detroit experience!

Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs available
Parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Friday

11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

4613 Reviews
ultan molloy

23 Sep 2025

Probably some of the best wings I’ve ever had, they were crispy, spicy but not super spicy and just delicious with the seasoned fries. The fish and chips also blew me away with the fresh crispiness of the batter and the Cod was cooked to perfection. Went back here a second day in a row and looked forward to it all day. Went had Alana serving us on both days and she was brilliant. If you’re in detroit come here and get wings!

Slothy DeceptiCON

21 Sep 2025

I wanna give them a better rating, but unfortunately I simply can't. It may have been an off night, but our waitress seemed to want to get rid of us the moment we sat down. Service was slow and infrequent. My partner got their specialty burger that was supposed to be served with a sauce but it wasn't on it. We tried to just eat the fries while we waited for our server to return so we could request the sauce. After eating all of our delicious seasoned fries (they tasted like funyons were dusted over them? Idk but it's true) we requested the sauce and was brought back buffalo sauce. She insisted this is the sauce we requested (though after breaking it down she knew what we wanted and retrieved it ) and after waiting long enough the burger was merely warm, the sauce was unpleasant. I will say though the potato skins were absolutely incredible.

London Brooke Apparel

14 Sep 2025

My BF and I stopped in for a carry of their infamous wings, I got mine without the spicy sauce, but the seasoning still had a little kick to it, so I gave them to my son. However, the Mac and Cheese/Collard Greens side combo was really delicious. Martez was at the carry out stand was super nice as well

TJ Pounds

23 Aug 2025

Our waitress was very friendly and attentive. Nautica (our waitress) shared with us some things to do in the downtown area. The food was AMAZING!!! I am a very picky eater, but I tried their Sweetwater Tavern Chicken Tenders and Macaroni & Cheese. The food was delicious and fresh, and it didn't take forever to get it. I love coming to Detroit for the good food, and this restaurant did not disappoint me.

Michael Marshall

19 Aug 2025

Heard this was the go-to wing spot before a Tigers game, and it lived up to the rep. The place is small with a cool vibe and super friendly staff. I didn’t realize the wings were Buffalo-style—had me sweating bad but they were absolutely worth it. Packed with flavor and cooked perfectly. Definitely a must-try if you’re in the area.

Kris Grady

30 Jul 2025

Looked up pubs while in Downtown Detroit yesterday, and Sweetwater looked like a good place, from the menu to the prices. I like smaller pubs so this looked like a good spot. We ordered the combo chicken tender + wings basket after our server (Tiffany) suggested it. It was The Best buffalo chicken wings I’ve eaten! Looking forward to coming back soon.

Luke Steffen

15 Jul 2025

Great food and nice service. I have had lots of wings but these were some of the best. Salty and spicy but not overkill on either. The Sweetwater burger was excellent also. I would definitely go back. There is a ton more I want to try.

Alexandra F (Alex)

19 Jun 2025

Great food and generous portions. Everything on the menu was by far much better than any bar food I would usually get. The Big Pig sandwich was amazing. Not too many beer options, but the menu is great.

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