Belle’s Lounge by Valentine Distilling

I have the faintest memory of when Valentine first opened over a decade ago, hell maybe 15 years now. Craft beer was just starting to be my thing and all of a sudden here comes this new wonder known as craft cocktails and mixologists slinging unique drinks and flavors. Valentine was my first foray into this world and it's the one spot I always come back to. I wish I had taken more pics over the years to capture the drinks I've had but at least this time I took a couple. This delicious beauty is the Eastern Dalliance and it might be my absolute favorite drink at the moment. Peanut infused rye, soy, brown sugar and I'm sure some other magic ingredients go into this delight and it's really quite perfect. The front of the distillery is now known as Belle's Lounge although aesthetically it hasn't changed as far as I can tell. The back room is a party area. A friend of mine had her birthday party there and it is a beautiful space. All in all this has remained one of my favorite places consistently over the years. If you love brilliant cocktails this is the place you want to start, either before dinner or to end your night.

The drinks are tasty and crafted with Valentine products. It's a little dim to read the menu but phone flashlight for a second and you're good to go. The decor is very cute and relaxing. There is a fire pit on the patio, I look forward to going back when it's warmer/not raining.

I've loved Valentines for years! I was so happy to see they now have a lounge with their distillery. The vibes are immaculate. Perfect evening sitting outside sipping cocktails, enjoying the weather and lovely ambiance. They have signature dishes as well as spirits and cocktails. Loved the friendly staff and prices weren't bad!

I decided to get the Detroit style Dirty Martini aka the pickle drink. i love pickles but this one was not for me. I thought the gin was too strong but if you are pickle obsessed and enjoy gin, this drink may be your go-to option.

So I'm not exactly sure if they changed ownership for the tasting room which they now call Belle's Lounge or it's just a branding thing but i for sure have noticed a difference going in. Now , I have been going to, evangelizing and bringing people to the tasting room for years and it's always been a " go to" for a cool spot and REALLY great drinks and service. Unfortunately, this is not the case now. We stopped in on a Sunday evening and were presented with a menu with 5 drinks and we were told that was all they were offering. seemed odd but we had to talk the bartender in to making something like a cosmo for my wife. why is that odd? arguably one of the top 3 vodka drinks ordered and... they distill a couple of fantastic vodkas. I ordered their Manhattan and was told they ran out of large cubes the day and " ... have not had a chance to make more". Really? Again... this lounge is known for vodka and bourbon drinks and used to have several on the menu and a willingness to make for you, whatever they could. It's disappointing to see so much effort get put into the outside and the event room, yet lose so much of the quality and service. I bought a bottle of the berry blossom vodka which I feel is outstanding and would suggest you give it a try if you have a chance

Cool place to check out! The vodka and whiskey were great to try, you receive tree tastings at the visit. Whitefish spread and caprese were delicious apps. Sam the manager was incredibly kind and welcoming! Will return again with guests to show what Detroit has to offer!

This place is great, the cocktails are delicious. They have a nice patio as well. They offer pours of their phenomenal bourbons for there or to go!