The Last Word — Restaurant in Ann Arbor

Sharing its name, The Last Word is both a memorable cocktail - and establishment in Ann Arbor, MI...! Comparitively, as the cocktail has been ‘riffed’ into many iterations over the years... You might find similar 'speakeasy' bars in one's travels in terms of aesthetic or format, but The Last Word bar has remained a unique experience and solid destination; unmatched by the competition in the area… and elsewhere.

The menu is broken down by traditional categories, and easily aids both a new guest and regular patrons alike with a curated blend of ‘classics’, ‘off-the-beaten-path’ options, and an incredibly extensive spirits list that is accessible to both novices and master tasters. Additionally, as a personal enthusiast and hobbyist of Absinthe (IYKYK), I can pledge that The Last Word has a good spectrum of the ‘allowable selection’ available in Michigan. Thankfully, this particular selection is offered at appropriate pricing, not the unusually-high figures that many other bars default to when buying-into the consumer hype.

It's not just good cocktails here! TLW (switching to the abbv.) has a sentimentally-delicious food menu and has done a quality job of keeping both flavor and presentation at the forefront of their meal program. Anyone who's lived in Ann Arbor long enough knows that the often ‘lofty’ ideals of Downtown dining might last only so long, before having to adapt practice for the changes of time (or the 'college crowd')… Uniquely, TLW has kept an impressive selection of apps, entrées, and desserts over the years; keeping the pulse on classic taste and incorporating new menu items to keep things fresh and reliable.

I recently moved back to the Ann Arbor area, having lived halfway to Detroit for a decade… TLW was on the top of my list for a regular stop, having often been a patron years prior. The staff is a mix of newer faces to me, and who have been there since the beginning… Aside from OG people still knowing me/my name after all that time (WOW!), there has been zero disconnect in the quality level of service/engagement I've received from the first return-visit, and till the writing of this review. It's clear that each TLW employee is giving their ‘A’-game at any tier of the establishment, and as a patron, you get a consistent quality and accessible experience each and every time. Now, having stopped by many times in recent memory, I've had the delight and pleasure to enjoy the vibe, cocktails, food-stuffs, and make new friends at The Last Word. It's as great today as it was a decade ago, like a spectacular, nostalgic memory that you can relive again and again… and also share anew...

The Last Call has a lot going for it, especially if you’re into unique atmospheres. The speakeasy vibe is on point, with a mid-century modern (MCM) aesthetic that really ties the whole experience together. It feels like you’ve stepped into a secret club from another era. The underground setting adds to the charm, giving it that exclusive, tucked-away feeling.

The mixed drinks were solid—well-executed and enjoyable. That said, for a place with such a distinct theme, I was hoping for a little more creativity. A bit more flair or experimentation could elevate the cocktail menu without veering into “try-hard” territory. No one wants a drink that screams pretentious.

The service was fantastic—attentive and friendly. Unfortunately, we arrived too late to try anything from the kitchen, which was a bummer. I’d recommend getting there earlier if you’re hoping to eat.

The one real downside? The air had a very noticeable musty, damp smell. It wasn’t overwhelming but definitely detracted from the otherwise cool, polished vibe. It’s the kind of thing you hope gets sorted out because the space and ambiance deserve better.

All in all, The Last Call is worth checking out, especially if you’re a fan of creative spaces and a good cocktail. With a little fine-tuning, it could easily reach...

The hands down best cocktail bar in Ann Arbor. It rivals the Oakland and Sugarhouse in Detroit!

Around the corner form Live (former sight of Goodnight Gracies) the decor is reminiscent of the underground speakeasy. They have a wide array of constantly changing cocktails and they take them seriously. They use fresh ingredients wherever possible and pair the right alochols for amazing taste and flavor.

On the current menu the Boy Blue (bourbon and blueberries) and their Basil Fizz (champagne, gin and basil) are well worth while.

Want to get something truly interesting order their namesake cocktail, the last word with the pink spruce gin (aged in charonnay barrels) and with their own in house aged green chartreuse. The last word cocktail is an historically accurate cocktail that originally appeared at the Detroit Athletic Club during the roaring 20's.

Great place for a late night rendezvous, they have a wide array of bourbons/whiskey and an appreciation night for 20% off. Take you're cocktails a bit less seriously check out their Tiki Menu on...