Detroits

On the plus side it's pretty quiet (on a Tuesday evening) but I found it a bit soulless in all.

Cocktails a bit pricey and a strange underground bunker feel - Star Wars canteen is a pretty apt comparison.

A very pleasant surprise for this area. The entrance is unassuming and leads downstairs to an neo-70s style bar with cosy nooks. The place was not too full and had very pleasant music that allowed for normal conversation without screaming, not an easy combination to find. It is a pleasant escape from the pretentious 90s "yuppie cocktail chic" and surprisingly overlooked in this area.

An even better surprise was the actual cocktail bar, which was expertly run, clean and well stocked. I ordered one of the best Singapore Slings I ever had (wasn't even on the menu) for 7.50. It was flawlessly executed and well-sized. The staff was very friendly and professional.

Verdict: Unassuming and stylish cocktail bar that sells top-quality drinks without the inevitable yuppie atmosphere, juggling bar keepers and watery lounge music. Probably a good place if you find yourself with a larger group.

Went here last night, and was surprised how cool it was and how it seemed a little undiscovered by the tourist and wanky bankers. It was great to be able to relax and not have to shout over really loud music and people’s conversations. It is the original 80s bar which hasn’t changed in years. With intimate alcoves, and even small booths which have a curtain if there’s a need for real privacy, although i don’t think they like these to be drawn after a few incidents years ago when private just turned into steamy. Its got a good cocktail range and is in the heart of Covent Garden, what more can you want for a romantic date or a catch up with mates.

Underground bar segmented into a few funky rooms with a couple of smaller tables in nooks, it was a fun weekend spot. Despite being a Friday night with a couple of parties going on it wasn’t so packed that you couldn’t move around (it’s only a door from street level). There’s a well-stocked bar and plenty of cocktails if you like to see the barman shake a thing or two: Covent Garden prices, of course. The music wasn’t unbearably loud, and it wasn’t overrun by kids. For dark, underground, modern bars, this fits the bill.

My first time here was last night participating in a panel discussion. The nookish back area of this Earlham Street bar was perfect for just such an occasion.

This large basement venue - with its earthy underground sitting area with weird lamps and hidden spaces here and there - get points for its central location (can't beat a meet-up in the Seven Dials area) and for have a Star Wars "cantina" feel to it. However, I've gotta deduct a few points for only serving bottled beer and for being so deep beneath the ground that you can't pick up service on your mobile. Of course, I guess in some cases, that's a good thing.

As for the name, Detroit, I have no idea what that's a reference to.

For me, if it were packed, I'd find an evening at Detroit a veritable hell on earth. However, during the week, sliding in for a quiet drink, discussion, etc, it's not so bad.

underground bar with cave like rooms, and separate intimate booths!! really well made cocktails and its happy hour before 7!

Stumbling upon Detroit was a very pleasant surprise. I was trying to find a central venue for a friend’s birthday and it is perfectly located near Covent Garden and Cambridge Circus, and read about it online. I booked and they gave us one of the private tables in the crypt area, which was free, and afforded us the privacy of fitting 8 of us around the table. Their happy hour finishes at 7 so I would recommend going before then, when certain drinks and cocktails are significantly cheaper! Incredibly varied cocktail list (available on their website) and the staff were extremely friendly. Perfect for an early evening drink (we were there from 6-9) especially if it’s a big group, as there’s something for everyone. I’m already planning a return trip. Perhaps a little too intimate though - across the hall was a table for 2 where two different couples would not stop making out! Evidently also a great place for clandestine, discreet meetings! They also serve a small range of nibbles.

Was always tempted to have a drink in Detroit but never sorted one out til this month. Decided to meet girlfriend there for cocktails and we were both taken back by the cosy, intimate surroundings and the chilled tunes. Make no mistake, the drinks are not cheap but if you really want to make a classy impression come here for a great evening

This lower ground level bar has a dungeon, cave like feel to it. It’s full of media types and the like, but it has a cool if slightly pretentious vibe. The stylish, narrow bar area leads to a funky enclave area which is great if you can bag a seat. The music can sometimes be too loud but the cocktails are good if fairly pricey.