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First Place Lounge: A Taste of Detroit with Live Jazz and Authentic BBQ

Welcome to First Place Lounge, a beloved local gem nestled in Detroit. Located at 16921 Harper Ave, this inviting spot boasts a relaxed atmosphere where "everyone knows your name." Renowned for its authentic BBQ, cooked on-site, and vibrant live jazz, First Place Lounge creates delightful culinary experiences that resonate deeply with patrons. Owner Delroy's Jamaican cuisine, particularly the jerk chicken tacos and soul food brunch, is a standout that keeps guests returning. With its laid-back vibe and genuine community spirit, First Place Lounge is more than just a restaurant; it's a true haven for food lovers and music enthusiasts alike.

Photos & Gallery

First Place Lounge: Reviews & Ratings

Bruno Lucarelli
Bruno Lucarelli

Great local joint with REAL BBQ from a smoker out back! Phenomenal live Jazz and other music, check schedule!

Lisa Drayton
Lisa Drayton

It’s a place where “everyone knows your name” and no 1st timer is a stranger. Delroy, owner, is the man! His Jamaican cuisine is fire!

Andrew P
Andrew P

One of the hidden Detroit dives. Great music on Thursday nights with Brendan Linsley and the gang and awesome food anytime Delroy is cooking. You have to try the jerk chicken tacos Tuesday and also the jerk chicken meal on Thursday. This one doesn't make the lists but that's what makes it great- no hype, all Delroy.

John Hicks
John Hicks

Love this place very laid back now serving brunch on Sunday best soul food I ever eaten and there chief shaquita perfect in the kitchen she really put her foot in her cooking

Edward Foster
Edward Foster

It's a nice atmosphere, an older crowd and a really chill place to go, I didn't have the food but definitely .

DVA W
DVA W

It’s the “Cheers bar” on Detroit’s Eastside, everything is good the food, music, live bands, the Respectful and welcoming atmosphere of new family members to the bar, The prices are still pre-Covid prices and especially “Delroy” who sets the tone for the entire “1st Place Lounge!!!! See ya soon

Daniel Kuhnlein
Daniel Kuhnlein

Excellent dinner. Worth driving the distance. Delroy and group go above and beyond. Certainly a regular spot for me.

Danny Oakes
Danny Oakes

Great place! The food was 5 stars! The staff are really friendly and made me feel like I was at home. Coach was the best bartender ever! I'll definitely be back!

Location

Welcome to First Place Lounge, a hidden gem located at 16921 Harper Ave in Detroit, MI. This inviting establishment feels like a home away from home, where “everyone knows your name” and every newcomer is greeted like a long-lost friend. Bursting with character, First Place Lounge is renowned for its exceptional BBQ, crafted meticulously in a smoker out back that delivers authentic flavors true to the art of barbecue.

The heart and soul behind the dishes is none other than Delroy, the owner, who brings a fiery passion for Jamaican cuisine to the table. Guests rave about the jerk chicken tacos available on Tuesdays and the classic jerk chicken meal served on Thursdays. These dishes exude vibrant flavors that transport you straight to the Caribbean seamlessly blending spices and smoke.

Beyond the culinary delights, First Place Lounge is a haven for music lovers, hosting phenomenal live jazz and other musical events throughout the week. Bruno Lucarelli captures the essence perfectly, remarking on the “phenomenal live Jazz” that breathes life into the lounge’s welcoming ambiance.

Sunday brunch at First Place Lounge is a must-try, featuring soul food that even soul food aficionados rave about—John Hicks describes it as the “best soul food” he's ever tasted. The culinary expertise of Chef Shaquita ensures that every bite is infused with love and tradition, as mentioned by patrons who feel like they're dining at a family gathering.

If you’re on the hunt for a chill evening filled with great food, lively music, and a warm atmosphere, First Place Lounge is your destination. With its laid-back vibe and engaging crowd, it stands as one of Detroit’s best-kept secrets, offering a slice of joy in every meal. Come for the ambiance, stay for the incredible flavors, and leave with a sense of belonging.

For more information or to check the live music schedule, give them a call at +1 313-885-0109. Discover the culinary treasures that await you at First Place Lounge!

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards