Restaurant
Unclaimed profileChecker Bar Detroit
Detroit, MI · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Checker Bar pours a draft list that leans on Michigan craft—Bell's Two Hearted, Short's Soft Parade, and Bell's Oberon—alongside reliable macros like Miller Lite and Hamm's. House wine is limited to Rose Bubbles and Chardonnay, with the rosé sold in 2-serving cans. A dedicated non-alcoholic section covers Guinness 0.0, Athletic, and Partake, making it a beer-first stop.
- What should I order?
- Start with Bell's Two Hearted IPA on draft, a Michigan standard. For something lighter, Miller Lite at $3.50/16oz is a deal. Non-alcoholic drinkers can opt for Guinness Draught 0.0 or Athletic Upside Dawn. If wine is needed, Rose Bubbles in a can is the practical choice.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Beer drinkers who appreciate a mix of local craft and affordable classics. The non-alcoholic range also suits designated drivers or those abstaining. Wine enthusiasts will find little to explore.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Draft beers range from $3.50 to $7.00 for 16oz. A 2-serving can of Rose Bubbles is $10.00. Non-alcoholic beers are $4.00 to $5.00.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The drink menu is straightforward: a robust draft list with Michigan representation and a notably deep non-alcoholic beer selection. The absence of a cocktail menu keeps the focus on beer and simple wine options.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Wine
Minimal house wine program: just two options, Rose Bubbles and Chardonnay. The rosé comes in a 2-serving can, which is practical but limited. No full wine list or varietal depth.
Menu strengths
- — Offers at least two house wine options for basic wine service.
Standout selections
- — Rose Bubbles – house wine in a 2-serving can, $10.00.
Pricing: Rose Bubbles $10.00 per 2-serving can; Chardonnay price not listed.
Beer
A well-rounded draft list with Michigan craft standouts (Bell's, Short's, Brew ) and budget-friendly macros. Prices are reasonable for the size. Cider and nitro options add variety.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive draft list with local Michigan beers.; Includes a variety of non-alcoholic beer options.
Standout selections
- — Bell's Two Hearted IPA – a classic Michigan IPA at $6.00/16oz.
- — Short's Soft Parade – a fruity Michigan draft at $7.00/16oz.
Pricing: Bell's Two Hearted IPA $6.00/16oz; Short's Soft Parade $7.00/16oz; Miller Lite $3.50/16oz; Hamm's $4.00/16oz.
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated low & NA section with a broad range of non-alcoholic beers, from stouts to hazy IPAs. Pricing is fair. No mocktails, but the beer selection is impressive for a bar.
Menu strengths
- — Dedicated low & NA section with multiple options.
Standout selections
- — Guinness Draught 0.0 – non-alcoholic nitro stout at $5.00/16oz.
- — Athletic Free Wave Hazy IPA – a hoppy NA option.
Pricing: Guinness Draught 0.0 $5.00/16oz; Shorts Thirst Mutilator $5.00/12oz; Heineken 0.0 $4.00/12oz.
How it sits with the food
The food menu supports pub-style pairings: a burger and a brew were positively noted. The hoppy Two Hearted pairs well with grilled meats, while a light lager like Miller Lite suits bar snacks. The can of rosé offers a crisp counterpoint to fried fare.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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