Cliff Bells
2030 Parkway Avenue
It always surprises me when I mention Cliff Bells to someone and I am met with the response of "Cliff Bells? Where's that?" Cliff Bells is right under everyone in the city's nose and they just don't know it. Cliff Bells is within walking distance from place in Detroit that even out-of-staters could recognize. Less than a block from the Fox theater and a short walk from Comerica Park and Ford Field, it always makes me wonder how Cliff Bells has stayed a secret.
The original Cliff Bells began as a speakeasy opened by John Clifford Bell and bounced around a bit from building to building before finally taking root at it's current Detroit location in 1935. The club closed for a period of about 20 years between 1985 and 2005 before being restored and opening again.
This place is definitely cool. I love the atmosphere here. Every time I have been I halfway expect Fitzgerald to walk through the door and ask if I've seen Anthony Patch or Gloria recently (a tip of my hat to you if you understood that literary reference). Everything about this place feels authentic 1920s era from the French-accents to the dark mahogany. The bar is huge and the servers are way too nice, neither of which you will hear me complain about.
While l I love the atmosphere and architecture of the place, the jazz is what people come for. With multiple shows once a week, there's always jazz to catch at Cliff Bells many of which there is no cover charge for. I recommend coming out December 23rd to see the Noah Jackson Quartet. I have known the sax player, Rafael Statin, since middle school and the group is no joke, they are something else.
Whether you're looking to grab a drink after dinner or see a fantastic jazz group, stop by Cliff Bells. It's right where you're not looking.
PEACE.LOVE.DETROIT.
-Amy
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