PJ's Lager House

PJ’s Lager House is a Detroit live music venue and bar with a history stretching back to the Prohibition era, originally operating as a furniture store to conceal its sale of alcohol. Today, it continues to serve as a significant cultural hub, hosting both local and nationally touring musical acts, and offering a diverse range of events.

History

The building’s origins date back to the Prohibition period, when it functioned as a front for the illegal sale of alcohol disguised as a furniture store. Following the repeal of Prohibition with the 21st Amendment, the establishment transitioned into a beer garden, initially known as Doemer Beer Garden and later as Doemer Brothers Tavern. It officially became The Lager House in 1965. The venue has a history of serving as a gathering place for various groups, including teamsters and union autoworkers.

Paul “PJ” Ryder purchased the Lager House in October 2007. Ryder, a former record store owner who returned to Detroit after a 23-year stint in Ann Arbor, revitalized the venue. He previously owned a record store for 15 years, from 1981 to 1996. Ryder also worked in Detroit real estate for ten years before acquiring the Lager House. In March 2017, Ryder celebrated his tenth anniversary of ownership.

Geography

PJ’s Lager House is located at 1254 Michigan Avenue in Detroit, Michigan. The venue is situated in the heart of Detroit, making it accessible from various parts of the city. The surrounding area features a mix of residential and commercial properties, contributing to a vibrant urban environment. The building itself is a historic structure, reflecting the architectural style of the era in which it was originally constructed.

The layout of the Lager House includes a main bar area, a live music stage, and a basement that now houses a record store. In the 1990s, the kitchen space was repurposed to accommodate a larger sound system, demonstrating the venue’s commitment to live music. The building also contains two apartments.

Culture

PJ’s Lager House is known for its dedication to independent music and its welcoming atmosphere. The venue regularly hosts local and touring acts, providing a platform for musicians to showcase their work. It has hosted a diverse range of artists, including Protomartyr, Parquet Courts, Orville Peck, The Detroit Cobras, Greta Van Fleet, Thee Oh Sees, Lightning Bolt, Wand, Bob Log III, Mo Lowda & the Humble, Scott H. Biram, Jeffrey Lewis, and the Beaches.

The Lager House also functions as a quality eatery and features a record store in its basement. In 2024, the venue hosted Detroit artist Big Sean. The venue’s hours of operation vary, with extended hours on weekends, opening at 9 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays and remaining open until 2 a.m. or midnight. Hours may also be adjusted for special events.

Getting There

PJ’s Lager House is located on Michigan Avenue, a major thoroughfare in Detroit. Public transportation options are available, with several bus routes serving the area. Street parking is generally available, though it may be limited during peak hours or events. Ride-sharing services also provide convenient access to the venue.

The venue’s address is 1254 Michigan Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226, and its phone number is (313) 500-1473. Potential visitors can find information about upcoming events and the menu on the Lager House website.

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