Castalia at Sfumato — Restaurant in Detroit

What a awesome experience!! Detroit's smallest gem might be It's brightest.

This is long but deserved.

Booked a 6 person reservation for my wife's birthday. The entire communication and booking was friendly and smooth sailing. Kevin is awesome to work with to try to make this event as special as I'd envision.

The place isn't as hard to find as some reviews state but parking may be. It is small but that adds to the experience as you're not over stimulated and the customer service from the employees is top notch and COVID protocol safe (they also refunded 2 of our seats when a couple couldn't attend...they initiated it and wasn't expected).and brought out a lemonade for a member of our party while she waited for her drink to arrive. There are plenty of restaurants near by and within walking distance too.

The drinks and experience was awesome! Pretty much every custom drink can be made w/o alcohol so no one in your group will feel excluded. I started with the War Horse (a good strong old fashion style drink) that was perfect to begin this trip of scent and sipping. It pairs with a tobacco inspired scent that reminds me of what a transportation to a business meeting on the set of Mad Men might be. Next, and my final drink because these have the right amount of strength was the Curtain Call, which is a mint-chocolate infused cocktail that is paired with a basil scent. This drink is DELICIOUS and to me a perfect way to find a dessert in a glass.

I've been telling all my friends about this place and...

This has been on my must do list since it opened, and we finally made it in last night. I adored it!! First off, it's gorgeous. Every tiny detail is so well thought out from the beautiful stairs leading to the door, to the custom lights that represent molecular structures, to the bar top inlaid with quotes written in Morse Code, and the woodwork...everything! It's so cozy! The staff members were very gracious, knowledgeable, and engaging. I love the concept of choosing your cocktail or mocktail based on a fragrance profile. As suggested by our server, I tried the drink alone first and then in combination with the fragrance strip...think sniff and sip. Wow! Very interesting experience. The cocktails are fabulous on their own, but when combined with the natural aromas of the paired fragrance create a very unique flavor profile. I will be back for sure and can't wait to bring guests visiting Detroit. This is a gem!! One note though, the space is very small. It's perfect for date night or to enjoy with a friend or 2, but definitely not large groups. Also make sure to go when you aren't rushed so you can really relax and enjoy the whole ambiance!! You'll leave feeling (and smelling) like you just left the spa. I included a photo but it's not the best. You really have to see it...

Castalia at Sfumato – A Multi-Sensory Experience That Delivers

Tucked behind an unassuming storefront in Detroit’s Midtown, Castalia at Sfumato is not your typical cocktail bar. It’s an immersive experience that blends craft mixology with perfumery, creating something truly unique and memorable. Each cocktail is thoughtfully paired with a scent from Sfumato’s fragrance line, enhancing both aroma and taste in a way that feels experimental but never gimmicky.

The space itself is intimate and sleek, with an almost speakeasy vibe—low lighting, cozy seating, and a sense that you’re in on a well-kept secret. What’s remarkable is how balanced and nuanced the cocktails are—whether citrusy and bright or dark and complex, each one manages to be bold without being overwhelming.

A standout part of the experience is Dupree, one of the bartenders. Equal parts mixologist and host, he brings an infectious energy to the bar. He’s knowledgeable without being pretentious, quick with a joke, and clearly passionate about what he’s serving. His presence adds a layer of warmth and personality that elevates the evening even further.

Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just someone looking for a unique night out, Castalia at Sfumato is a gem. Highly...