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We needed to take a little break during our visit of Detroit and our friends had recommended this spot. "Sous terre" means underground in French so obviously this is a basement spot. During the day, this is a coffee shop and apparently at night, it's more like a bar. We were there late morning so it was pretty quiet. They have signs about not working on computer or tablets there. The decor is great with the exposed brick and green tiles. I had a chai latte and it was good! I'm very curious of how different it is at night. I had a peak at the whole menu and prices seem to be appropriate for the vibe and area.
This is a really cute spot, I love stopping in for a drink day or night! The café items are decent, but it's truly the atmosphere and location that makes this place so fun. It is lovely to just be walking around and step in. I went to vinyl wednesday for the first time and that was a lot of fun! The drinks were all so festive and thoughtful. I really enjoyed my spiced punch.
Love the ambience and feel of this place. I would like a better selection of Wines. The Cocktails are ok. I've been in more than a few times now and still have not found one I really like. Pricing is steep for what you get. The Espresso Martini was way too sweet for me. The Pineapple Daiquiri, was basically just Pineapple Juice and Rum. There wasn't much to it. It was bland. The staff is always friendly and service is great.
It'd be easy to miss this basement cafe located just on the outskirts of Wayne State University. The door is discreet, but I loved that they had a sign out front advertising vinyl nights where they spin records. They have the place for it! The interior of this cafe is so chic and cute! I loved the decor and there were plenty of folks set up grabbing a drink and doing some studying or hanging out. I just stopped in for a matcha and was very pleased with what I got! They're making well-crafted and intentional drinks and that was very clear! Be patient as great drinks take extra minutes to prepare! I enjoyed the much needed caffeine boost during a busy conference week at the university!
Incredible ambiance at night- a true cultural experience. From the entryway on, you feel transported to Europe, or somewhere dreamy, intimate, and safe. Cozy, well thought out decor and seating. The service was fabulous. My one complaint is that they were completely out of baked goods and desserts when we came in for a coffee after dinner! Also, cortados could be paired with the customary cup of soda water for a more serious coffee experience. A few small tweaks and this place is over the moon. Oh! Another epic part of the experience is the live music we were privy to Sunday night. When the gentlemen weren't playing, we were treated to some really nice jazz through the speakers.
This was a fun spot that we decided on because our planned location was closed. It's a pretty neat spot that is a both a coffee shop and bar. There were a ton of students in there studying but also groups of people mingling. We enjoyed our drinks and then moved on. Definitely a cute spot.
Cafe Sous Terre has always been one of my favorite spots in the D, with the most BEAUTIFUL interior tucked away in a neighborhood with free, 15-minute parking. The quiche lorraine was delicious, with a crisp crust and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth inside. I've always been a fan of their matcha here; it has consistently been good! I would highly recommend adding the fig bergamot syrup with it; it is SUPERB and adds a slightly darker, nutty flavor. Workers are always welcoming and talkative, making it more of a communal space than your regular shop!
The vibes were great and the lattes were delicious. The service was quick and they brought our drinks out to our table which was nice. I wish there were a few more stools in the back area for seating and it was a little dark in there to be able to do work
Super cozy inside. Great pastry with great coffee! Fun place to sit and visit with a friend.
I've been here for an engagement party before and loved the space, but I just came back with a few friends for Vinyl Wednesday and had such a great time. Drinks are well made (despite the lack of beans in my espresso martini) and the live music was such a great vibe. Seating can be a little sparse if you get there at a busy time, especially during events like this when the DJs are at the corner booth. But a great lowkey spot!
Such a dreamy little spot! The iced matcha lattes were smooth, not too sweet, and super refreshing, definitely a must-try. The vibe here is cozy and aesthetic, with beautiful floral arrangements and a soft, moody interior. Great place to catch up with friends or just chill with a book. Will be back to try more drinks and soak in the vibes again!
Super cute coffee shop, espresso flavor was good, service was fast. They have outdoor seating. Would come back
Stopped in here before hitting the DIA and wow, all I can say is WHAT A VIBE. I loved the low lighting, the ambiance and music that was playing. We ordered the quiche Lorraine and croque monsieur (quiche not pictured because we ate it so fast) The staff was so nice and when I brought something to their attention they responded quickly and fixed my issue without arguing with me or making me feel crazy. Coffee was absolutely delicious and the food was even better. If I lived here, this would be a weekly visit for me. Love that they also have a little bar as well.
2 months ago
4 months ago
Cafe Sous Terre is such a cute, cozy, and sexy little coffee shop with an atmosphere that's hard to beat. The vibe feels intimate and tucked away--perfect for catching up with a friend, having a private conversation, or even a little "secret rendezvous" . I ordered the Croque Monsieur and an espresso, and both were absolutely delicious. The Croque Monsieur was rich, flavorful, and satisfying, while the espresso was smooth and perfectly prepared. If you're looking for a place to work, it's great for solo productivity, reading, writing, or answering emails. However, it can get a bit lively and loud, so I wouldn't recommend it for virtual meetings or calls. For focused work without meetings, though, it's a perfect spot. Overall, Cafe Sous Terre offers great food, excellent coffee, and one of the most charming atmospheres in Detroit. I'll definitely be back! Oh and the service epic - read more
3 days ago
2 months ago
We needed to take a little break during our visit of Detroit and our friends had recommended this spot. "Sous terre" means underground in French so obviously this is a basement spot. During the day, this is a coffee shop and apparently at night, it's more like a bar. We were there late morning so it was pretty quiet. They have signs about not working on computer or tablets there. The decor is great with the exposed brick and green tiles. I had a chai latte and it was good! I'm very curious of how different it is at night. I had a peak at the whole menu and prices seem to be appropriate for the vibe and area. read more
10 months ago
This is a really cute spot, I love stopping in for a drink day or night! The café items are decent, but it's truly the atmosphere and location that makes this place so fun. It is lovely to just be walking around and step in. I went to vinyl wednesday for the first time and that was a lot of fun! The drinks were all so festive and thoughtful. I really enjoyed my spiced punch. read more
1 year ago
Love the ambience and feel of this place. I would like a better selection of Wines. The Cocktails are ok. I've been in more than a few times now and still have not found one I really like. Pricing is steep for what you get. The Espresso Martini was way too sweet for me. The Pineapple Daiquiri, was basically just Pineapple Juice and Rum. There wasn't much to it. It was bland. The staff is always friendly and service is great. read more
1 year ago
It'd be easy to miss this basement cafe located just on the outskirts of Wayne State University. The door is discreet, but I loved that they had a sign out front advertising vinyl nights where they spin records. They have the place for it! The interior of this cafe is so chic and cute! I loved the decor and there were plenty of folks set up grabbing a drink and doing some studying or hanging out. I just stopped in for a matcha and was very pleased with what I got! They're making well-crafted and intentional drinks and that was very clear! Be patient as great drinks take extra minutes to prepare! I enjoyed the much needed caffeine boost during a busy conference week at the university! read more
Incredible ambiance at night- a true cultural experience. From the entryway on, you feel transported to Europe, or somewhere dreamy, intimate, and safe. Cozy, well thought out decor and seating. The service was fabulous. My one complaint is that they were completely out of baked goods and desserts when we came in for a coffee after dinner! Also, cortados could be paired with the customary cup of soda water for a more serious coffee experience. A few small tweaks and this place is over the moon. Oh! Another epic part of the experience is the live music we were privy to Sunday night. When the gentlemen weren't playing, we were treated to some really nice jazz through the speakers. read more
This was a fun spot that we decided on because our planned location was closed. It's a pretty neat spot that is a both a coffee shop and bar. There were a ton of students in there studying but also groups of people mingling. We enjoyed our drinks and then moved on. Definitely a cute spot. read more
Cafe Sous Terre has always been one of my favorite spots in the D, with the most BEAUTIFUL interior tucked away in a neighborhood with free, 15-minute parking. The quiche lorraine was delicious, with a crisp crust and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth inside. I've always been a fan of their matcha here; it has consistently been good! I would highly recommend adding the fig bergamot syrup with it; it is SUPERB and adds a slightly darker, nutty flavor. Workers are always welcoming and talkative, making it more of a communal space than your regular shop! read more
The vibes were great and the lattes were delicious. The service was quick and they brought our drinks out to our table which was nice. I wish there were a few more stools in the back area for seating and it was a little dark in there to be able to do work read more
9 months ago
Super cozy inside. Great pastry with great coffee! Fun place to sit and visit with a friend. read more
I've been here for an engagement party before and loved the space, but I just came back with a few friends for Vinyl Wednesday and had such a great time. Drinks are well made (despite the lack of beans in my espresso martini) and the live music was such a great vibe. Seating can be a little sparse if you get there at a busy time, especially during events like this when the DJs are at the corner booth. But a great lowkey spot! read more
Such a dreamy little spot! The iced matcha lattes were smooth, not too sweet, and super refreshing, definitely a must-try. The vibe here is cozy and aesthetic, with beautiful floral arrangements and a soft, moody interior. Great place to catch up with friends or just chill with a book. Will be back to try more drinks and soak in the vibes again! read more
11 months ago
Stopped in here before hitting the DIA and wow, all I can say is WHAT A VIBE. I loved the low lighting, the ambiance and music that was playing. We ordered the quiche Lorraine and croque monsieur (quiche not pictured because we ate it so fast) The staff was so nice and when I brought something to their attention they responded quickly and fixed my issue without arguing with me or making me feel crazy. Coffee was absolutely delicious and the food was even better. If I lived here, this would be a weekly visit for me. Love that they also have a little bar as well. read more
2 months ago
Awesome little place for a bite (the Croque Monsieur was as good as any I've had in France!), a coffee, or a nice glass of wine. Super cute decor, friendly service, and overall good vibes. Could spend hours here doing some work, reading a book, or just hanging with friends. read more
such a fun cute spot!! i found this place online and wanted to try it out, it's door is hidden and lowkey !! the inside had a nice atmosphere, dimly lit and nice decor:) i got an iced chai and it was yummy! i love the branding and i'll be returning to check out their night time events too!! read more
1 year ago
Great iced coffee. Got an iced americano. A bit dimly lit but cozy. Very kind staff. Cheap prices. Free WiFi. Free water and sparkling read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
I was looking for a coffee shop in mid-town early on a Monday morning and lo and behold, this little subterranean spot beaconed me from the street. Down the stairs and into the delightful art-deco space, i found a French coffee and pastry shop. The barista was dressed very Euro. I tried the brewed coffee - flavorful, hot and full of fruity notes. My companion enjoyed a lovingly made Cortado. The Mushroom Quiche was fresh, hot and light as a cloud. My Gougère savory cheese puff pastry was warm, crispy on the outside and deliciously buttery-airy on the inside. The inner space is beautiful. Music - jazzy and soft in the morning. As i lingered more and more patrons took to the tables nearby for laptop meetings. I WILL return readily! read more
How cute! This is such an adorable spot! Perfect for getting a couple hours of work done or having a girls night of cocktails and desserts. We loved the crème brûlée- it needed a little bit of more caramelization on the top, but the flavor profiles were there. Loved the ambiance and chill vibes. read more
4 months ago
really cute coffee shop in midtown. great spot to work or study. coffee & pastries are delish! read more
3 years ago
I'm so happy I discovered this cafe in Detroit. I've never found a cafe I "loved" though I tried, until now. Long story short: vibes. This cafe is dimly lit (bright enough to read but may cause trouble if you struggle with that) creating an intimate, chill environment. I would describe this place as super laid back and social. Everyone is truly doing their own thing and nobody is judging anybody or staring. Some are talking, some are on the phone, some are vlogging-- it's a space for everything! I feel comfortable coming here whether I'm just gonna sit on my phone, meet a friend, do work, or read. It's worth noting that they play moderately loud music, but personally I'll say it's amazing music every time! If you have issues concentrating, there are always people coming and going, ordering at the counter, delivering food to a table, or going to the restroom, so there are plenty of *potential* distractions. If you're like me, you tune them out with ease though! I haven't tried much of their food, but I tried the quiche Lorraine and I didn't like it at all. I love quiche but to me it was extremely mushy and inedible due to the overbearing gooey cheese. I have sensory issues though so maybe you'll like it, just know I warned you! The coffee and tea does it EVERY time though! They also have free ice cold water at your convenience. In addition, they bring your order to your table and everyone that works there is super duper sweet. Other than that, the bathroom is clean and the seating is comfortable and spacious. They can accommodate a group of 4 or probably even 6 by moving tables. There's bar seating, chairs, and booth style. Lastly, beware that they sometimes sell out of certain food items as the day goes on, and they have parking on the street in front but it's going to be taken if it's during the workday usually. (Paid parking nearby) I'm sitting here waiting for a meeting so I had a LOT of time to give this thorough review lol! I hope you enjoyed, and to close, I recommend checking this place out for yourself. Lovely little gem, lovely area, and lovely people. read more
I love this French cafe in midtown! It's a coffee shop and a bar, and they serve French food too. Such a lovely hidden gem, down the stairs, where I feel like I'm transported to Paris. Cool and chill vibe, colorful aesthetic. Friendly service. The drink, coffee, and food menus are plentiful. So many great choices! read more
2 years ago
This place is in the lower level on a pretty lowkey building near Wayne State (not entirely sure if it is accessible for wheel chairs/strollers). The interior is picture perfect. The design of the space is gorgeous. Best part is the coffee and food match the vibe! My favorite duo is the iced latte and quiche. Every time I've been in, the staff has been quick and friendly. I plan to come back for cocktails soon! read more
2 years ago
I've only been to cafe sous terre in the daylight, but i can already say i'm obsessed. I love that they ban computers after 5 and really transform the space to a bar. It's cozy and stunning with a modern Parisian cafe vibe. The coffee is delightful and the lavender isn't overpowering and just adds to the coffee without passing that threshold. Would 10/10 recommend read more
2 years ago
I absolutely love the environment here. It was subtly decorated for halloween and the dim lighting is perfect. I met up with a friend on a Friday around 5pm and it wasn't crowded at all! Free street parking around as well. The iced matcha with caramel syrup was mid for $7 lol so I would pass but my friend enjoyed her decaf coffee along with her raspberry sweet treat. read more
2 years ago
Tucked behind an unassuming entrance, this spot opens into a dimly lit, cozy space that transitions from an intimate café to a chic cocktail bar. The aesthetic gives off classic speakeasy vibes. Service was great, and both the food and coffee were equally good. read more
11 months ago
the best place for a good matcha, cocktail, mocktail, and music! so happy i stumbled upon it one night read more
3 years ago
Adorable "underground" cafe. Stopped by in the evening for a bite. Ordered wine along with a Gougeres - a delightful puff pastry with cheese inside. Followed this up with a rich flavorful Quiche Lorraine that did the job. Slam dunk. Would have loved to try a coffee, as the aroma is readily available, maybe next time. read more
Cafe Sous Terre is cool spot located in a Detroit neighborhood. Whether you're in the mood for a latte or a craft cocktail, Cafe Sous Terre is an experience. Located in the basement of a former home, this space has been transformed into a quaint cafe. They serve sandwiches and bakery goods, but I would suggest getting there early as things sell out fast. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
Went with some friends to just chat and we went to this café. It is a nice cozy, intimate relaxing place. They have a little bit of everything for their amazing coffee, more of their nighttime beverages. There is street parking nearby. read more
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More info about Cafe Sous Terre
445 W Forest Ave
Detroit, MI 48201
Midtown, Cass Corridor
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http://Www.cafesousterre.com
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Ask the Community - Cafe Sous Terre
How is the noise level?
Pretty quiet during the daytime. Conversational in the evenings and night. Things are louder during our Wednesday vinyl nights.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?
We're located in the basement of a converted 19th century home, so unfortunately we are not wheelchair accessible.
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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
3 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
3 years ago
2 years ago
Cafe Sous Terre - cocktailbars - Updated September 2026
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