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At long last Milwaukee Junction’s historic saloon Kiesling is preparing to open its doors this weekend. Bar manager Rob Wilson confirms to Eater that after several delays, the cocktail bar has received its final inspections and will debut on Friday, April 13, at 449 East Milwaukee Ave. in Detroit.
The 64-seat bar is located on the base of a renovated residential building at the corner of East Milwaukee and Beaubien. The space was originally home to the Kiesling Saloon, Milwaukee Cafe, and a general store in the 1920s. It eventually transformed into a cop bar called Edith’s Hideaway in the 1970s before closing sometime in the 1990s.
Owners Carlo Liburdi and managing partner Rich Perry undertook a major restoration of the space that took two years to complete. Along the way, they discovered hidden elements of historic character such as a four-panel, hand-painted canvas mural that spans the walls of the main dining area. In addition to the main bar space, Kiesling will feature a secluded 30-seat patio and a private bar area. The owners eventually hope to expand into a space located behind the bar and may someday add a small kitchen as well.
In addition to Wilson, several familiar local bartenders — Kaytee Querro (formerly Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails) and Amanda Mentzer (formerly La Rondinella) — will also be lending a hand behind the bar.
The cocktail list features reinterpretations of classic cocktails such as the scotch-based Blood and Sand alongside original drinks like the oolong tea-infused and spiced Stay Golden. Kiesling will also offer a rotating draft cocktail and frozen cocktails. Patrons can also expect plenty of beer and wine to choose from. Scope out the full menu ahead of tonight’s opening below.
Kiesling Menu by Brenna Houck on Scribd
Kiesling is located at 449 East Milwaukee Ave. in Detroit; once open the bar will have hours Monday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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