The Brakeman
$ • Beer Bar, Pet Friendly
Hours:
22 John R St, Detroit
(313) 486-5300
About The Brakeman
Customers' Favorites
The Brakeman Reviews
Awesome. 10/10. Will come again. So should you.
Great atmosphere, great drinks, even better chicken.
Great atmosphere, great drinks, even better chicken.
Menu
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 4 - 11PM |
| Thursday | 4 - 11PM |
| Friday | 4PM - 2AM |
| Saturday | 12PM - 2AM |
| Sunday | 12 - 10PM |
The Brakeman offers a friendly and lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for socializing, watching games, or relaxing with friends. The staff is attentive and willing to go the extra mile. Guests can enjoy a variety of drafts, including craft beer, which is better than average, though a bit pricey. The bar features a unique token system for drink purchases—one token for a beer or seltzer, and two tokens for a cocktail—adding a fun twist to the experience. Visitors can play games like ping pong, foosball, shuffleboard, and Jenga, or sit outside and enjoy cornhole, even if the legs are a bit broken. The attached chicken place serves fried chicken, which many consider some of the best in the US, with homemade sauces that enhance the flavor. The fried chicken is so good that some feel they are amateurs compared to the skill used in its preparation. The bar staff, especially the bartender, are friendly, skilled, and attentive, capable of handling many guests at once with professionalism. Parking is convenient with a garage right across the street. The food, including Penny Reds biscuits, is highly recommended, especially when paired with drinks. Overall, the friendly service, lively environment, and quality food make The Brakeman a popular place for both food and drinks, whether before or after events downtown.