THE MARS BAR

After patronizing The Mars Bar in Hamtramck I can finally say unequivocally that first impressions aren’t everything.

Angela Lynn Davis

Last night I was invited to attend an album release party for my good friend Angela Lynn Davis  at the Mars Bar.  Typically I don’t go out on Sunday nights and a bar in Hamtramck would be last on my list of things to do.  However, the occasion was special and I wasn’t going to let my friend down.

The exterior of the Mars Bar is quite bland.  The building is small and black, if it wasn’t for the neon sign, “Mars Bar” out-front I would have missed the place.

Parking is a definite problem.  There is no designated lot and the only parking is located on the street in front of the bar.  All of the spaces on the main street in front of the bar were occupied by patrons of the bar and pizza place next door.  After a few laps around the block I was able to find a spot a block away on a dark side street.

I made the one block walk wearing six inch heels.  There was no long line, no people outside or no bouncer at the door.  I immediately thought, dive, this place was going to be a complete waste of time and money.

To my surprise there was no cover charge.  Once inside it was surprisingly a bit upscale.  The atmosphere was very laid back.  The dimly lit lights, candles on the tables, and red hue of the room gave it a very sensual feel. 

There are plenty of booths and seating, which comes in handy when you’re wearing six inch heels.  The bar was fully stocked and offered everything from hard liquor to wine. The drinks are moderately priced and the bar staff was very attentive.

On this night there was a live band playing original music and renditions of popular R&B and Jazz songs.  If you aren’t into live music than this is probably not the place for you because the space is small and the music fills the room.

I definitely recommend the Mars Bar for an outing with an intimate group of friends or for a night out alone.