Eastside Tavern

Imagine a place where time seemingly stood still a century ago. Eastside Tavern is a legendary bar in Mount Clemens, located in the basement of a cozy white farmhouse. It is the oldest drinking establishment in the county, preserving the authentic spirit of the Prohibition era in the USA.

Inside, guests will find a truly intimate setting: a tiny space with low ceilings, natural wood finishes, and the soft glow of vintage Tiffany lamps. It is believed to have been one of those very speakeasies where people gathered decades ago to escape prying eyes.

The bar's unique character stems from its basement origins—taller visitors (over 180 cm) often find themselves having to duck. However, it is precisely this snugness, combined with its 1919 historical marker, that makes the establishment a must-visit for fans of atmospheric and unusual locations.

To plan your visit to this legendary spot, it's helpful to check the contact details in advance. Below is the up-to-date information to help you find the venue and get in touch with the staff.

The main reason people flock to Eastside Tavern is for the unique, old-school gastronomic experience. Be sure to try their famous fresh local beef burgers or the fried bologna sandwich. A unique part of the service is that bartenders prepare the food right before your eyes behind a small counter, creating a cozy, home-like feel.

You can spend hours examining the walls lined with memorabilia and old photographs, including shots of the famous baseball player Mark "The Bird" Fidrych. It’s common to play cards here, chat with regulars to the sounds of the jukebox, or simply soak in the buzz of a friendly crowd in a genuine dive bar setting.

On Saturdays, the place comes alive with live music performances. This is a great excuse to arrive early, snag a corner spot near the makeshift stage, and spend the evening immersed in the rhythms of blues or rock alongside the locals.

The establishment is located in Mount Clemens at 126 Avery St, right near the scenic Clinton River. Look for the small white farmhouse as your landmark. Don't be put off by its residential appearance: look for the sign by the covered staircase that leads directly down into the famous basement.

The most convenient way to get here is by car or taxi from the city center. Free parking is available for guests right next to the building. If you plan to use public transport, it’s best to check local bus routes serving the Avery Street area in advance.

The history of this place began over a century ago when a deep basement was dug under an ordinary farmhouse. Initially, it served as a simple meeting spot for locals looking to enjoy a quiet, affordable beer.

Everything changed in 1920 with the ratification of the 18th Amendment in the USA, ushering in the era of Prohibition. During this time, the basement transformed into a true speakeasy—a secret bar known among locals as a "blind pig." Its secluded location allowed the establishment to operate successfully outside the law until 1933.

After the repeal of Prohibition, the bar was legalized and received its official name—Eastside Tavern. Today, it boasts the oldest liquor license in Macomb County, with a 1919 historical marker displayed at the entrance confirming its unique status.

For a standard visit, including lunch or dinner with a signature drink, 1–2 hours is usually enough. This provides plenty of time to appreciate the interior and soak up the spirit of old-school America.

However, if you plan to visit Eastside Tavern on a Saturday evening for the live music, we recommend allowing at least 2–3 hours. The venue is very popular and small, so it's worth arriving early to secure a table and fully enjoy the performance.

The bar is open daily, offering guests a place to relax during the day and evening. On weekdays, the establishment usually stays open until 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM, while on Fridays and Saturdays, the doors remain open until late into the night—until 2:00 AM.

The schedule is provided below; however, we recommend checking the official website before your visit, as hours may change during holidays:

• Monday and Tuesday: 10:00–22:00
• Wednesday: 10:00–23:00
• Thursday: 10:00–23:30
• Friday and Saturday: 10:00–02:00
• Sunday: 12:00–20:00

A stroll around the neighborhood after visiting the bar will help you get a better feel for the historic atmosphere of the area. Exploring the sights of Mount Clemens can significantly enrich your trip, adding interesting architectural and cultural landmarks to your itinerary.