White Star

Once again I hit the streets of Hamtramck in search of a hidden jewel, a fun escape, or a low key hang out in the form of a night club or bar.

I stumbled across the White Star.  I had never even heard of this place but upon discovery I was inclined to go inside.  The line outside suggested that this place could have potential.

There was no designated lot for parking. However, there were available parking spots on the street right outside of the club.  The small line outside moved rather quickly and the bouncers at the door were very welcoming.

Considering that it was a Saturday night I expected to pay a cover charge but none was assessed.  I inquired and I was told that normally there was a $10 cover, but since I knew a bouncer on the inside I got in for free.

Free! Yes, this was going to be a great night or so I thought.

Inside there are two floors with two different styles.  The lower level features a lounge like atmosphere with a seated bar and live DJ.  The upper level is more of a dance club with strobe lights and lots of open space for dancing.  There is also a live DJ, bar and shot girls.

The DJ struggled to string together a fluent mix of songs and the dance floor was basically empty.  The music style was a cross between techno and alternative dance music.

The shot girl/waitress was very polite and offered her services almost immediately.  I ordered a drink and requested a specific type of liquor.  Within minutes she returned with my drink.  The drink was $8, which is the normal going rate for this type of beverage.  However, upon the first sip I noticed that it tasted unfamiliar.  I order this drink all the time and I knew immediately that they did not use the brand of liquor I requested.  Strike 1!

I drank the imitation drink and headed to the bar to take note of their stock.  I realized that they didn’t even have that brand of liquor and they had obviously used a cheaper version and charged me an inflated price.  Their selection was rather limited and actually sad for a night club.

The bartender shot pass me a few times before she even acknowledged I was standing there.  I inquired about a few brands of cognac and her responses were uninformative and rather rude. Strike 2!

Despite her attitude I ordered my friend a drink.  She prepared the drink, collected my money, and before I could ask for a lime she was off to the next person.  I waited a few minutes before I finally interjected and asked for a lime.  Keep in mind she has collected money and has her hands all over the sticky dirty bar.  She picks up a lime with her fingers and drops it in my glass. Strike 3!

I scooped up the tip that I had placed there before this indecent act and stormed back toward my table.  While brooding on my way back I stepped in a puddle of spilt liquid that had been on the floor since my arrival.

Don’t let the bright sign out front fool you.  This place is a total let down.  The bar staff are rude and dishonest, the DJs are unskilled, and excitement is lacking.