Willis Show Bar, in Detroit’s Historic Cass Corridor, is an live entertainment venue and classic cocktail bar. It has been revived from its 1949 “Show Bar” era when it was a hot spot jazz club until it closed its doors in 1978. The legendary bar lives again in its original Art Moderne style with a floorplan that captures the attention of every seat in the house. The very unique main stage is still behind the bar and features amazing live music and sometimes cabaret performers, deejays and comedians.
Willis Show Bar is available for exclusive private functions and we can play host to a variety of menu options and entertainment selections. We can comfortably accommodate seated guests.
Comfortable seats line our one-of-a-kind 55 foot long bar, which spans the entire main room. Two sets of romantic banquette seating face the main stage, with tables for guests, while our plush upholstered booths are perfect for larger groups on our upper tier.
We love hosting special events and our space can be tailored to fit your needs. To learn more about how we can help you craft a unique and memorable event, please email [email protected]. You may also view our private event brochure.
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A NOTE ABOUT RESERVATIONS Willis Show Bar is a cocktail bar. We do not serve Dinner. Each early seating, ranging from 7:00-7:30pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday allows for a recommended leisurely 2 hours to enjoy their experience including the first musical set from 8:00-9:00pm. If you would like to stay longer than two hours please alert your server or bartender so we can do our best to accommodate you, as well as the following guests. Our later seatings begins at 9:30pm and ensures your table or bar seats for the rest of the evening, with a set by the band from 10:00-11:00pm. Willis Show Bar is a 21+ venue.
“My grandfather played the trumpet at Willis Show Bar in the 1920s. I still have the trumpet today.” “My grandfather owned the Willis from the late 1930s through mid 1960s. I remember going there when I was a kid, he owned the whole block with many store fronts. I guess all my roots really started with Willis. I live in Oakland, California but can’t wait to get back to Detroit to come and visit. It looks like the owners have done an amazing job recreating that early vibe with music, interior, and great cocktails.”