About

Since its inception, Alvin's has been a central gathering place for artists, musicians, poets and all those nestled in the Cass Corridor. As a music venue it was ‘built for sound’ and is still a premier venue for live acts. Alvin's is under new ownership, newly remodeled with a throwback to the original 360 degree fireplace in the front, offers free WiFi, a perfectly-priced menu, cocktails and a solid beer selection.

History

Alvin Stillman first opened the doors to Alvin's Finer Delicatessen, as it was known at the time, in 1968. Located near the Wayne State University Campus on Cass Ave. in Detroit. Starting as a deli, then later adding live music, Alvin’s has become a staple of the Cass Corridor. Alvin’s was in the center of the Cass Modern Art Movement during 1968 and 1969.

When Barnie Surowitz took over Alvin’s it quickly became famous for it’s Sunday brunch, known commonly as ‘Church’. In 1982, George Korinek partnered up with Surowitz and under the new management came some changes. They got a liquor license and made the addition of the “Twilight Bar” to Alvin’s, as well as building a stage, making it a watering hole for the artists in the area. Now a bar and live music venue they stopped serving 'Church’ which many had come to enjoy.

Throughout the decades the bar grew to be an integral part of the Cass Corridor scene. Hosting many popular acts including Shadowfax, the Alvin’s house band, of which Korinek was a member. Other acts that have played over the years include Alice Cooper, Mitch Ryder, John Lee Hooker, the MC5, the Layabouts, Joni & Chuck Mitchell, The Detroit All-Stars, The Detroit Cobras, L-7, Iggy Pop & The Stooges, Amino Acids, Kid Rock and Eminem. Some of the most powerful Blues music of the area was to be found at Alvin’s Twilight Bar which featured ‘Sunday Night Tunes’ with Bill Hodgson.

A historic venue with a huge stage for live bands to play Alvin’s is now once again under new management. The front windows have been replaced by a large glass garage door that opens up for outside seating. Alvin’s is ready for business and invite you to stop in and check things out, there are new Hi-def flat screen TVs and for the first time Alvin’s now has free Wi-Fi. With a warm and friendly atmosphere Alvin’s is looking forward to once again becoming the local hotspot for great music, drinks and food.