But the Detroit dive bar’s location in the heart of one of the hottest parts of the city and indeed next door to a pretty potent dining option (Slows Bar BQ) gives it new context as the perfect anchor to otherwise explore the area. Late dinner reservation? Stop in for a beer. Long wait at your preferred destination? Grab a round? Simply have a hankering for a Jello shot? LJ’s Lounge is the spot for you. Outside, the eye is inevitably drawn to the sign over the door inscribed with LJ’s Sweetheart Bar, a different spin on what is more officially known as LJ’s Lounge online.
The collection of decorations here does dive bar heritage proud, the sheer density of vintage Budweiser mirrored frames an impressive feat before taking into consideration the rest of the collection. What looks to be a full set of “Great Kings of Africa” Budweiser pieces is the star attraction, the depictions of some of history’s greatest rulers paired with the implication that if they were still alive, Budweiser may very well be their drink of choice. Other beer brands make appearances, of course, including a few co-branded pieces with Detroit sports teams.
Behind the bar, the curiosities continue, including an aquarium that looks like it has seen better days perched above the LJ’s Lounge cash register. The bar itself is fairly standard, a lineup of cooler doors that look like they could be original below a few illuminated platforms filled with liquor bottles. Between the large mirrors that run almost the entirety of the length of the space behind the bar sit tall, reflective, copper-colored columns that add yet another distinct element to the appeal of LJ’s Lounge.