Finding a spot that doesn't feel like a cookie-cutter chain is getting harder these days. Especially in Novi. You’ve probably driven past the Novi Town Center a thousand times, maybe glanced at the spot where the old TGI Friday’s used to sit at 43200 Crescent Blvd. It’s different now. Joe Kool’s Novi Bar and Grill has officially taken over that corner of the world, and honestly, it’s a vibe that the area desperately needed.
It’s not just another sports bar. Not really.
The Bacall brothers—the guys behind the Michigan expansion of this brand—basically took a 40-year-old Ontario legend and brought it to our backyard. They didn't just slap a new name on the door and call it a day. They spent serious money on the Troy and Brighton locations before landing here, and the Novi spot follows that same "upscale pub" blueprint. Think industrial heritage meets modern comfort, with enough TV screens to make you feel like you're inside a Best Buy, but with much better beer.
What’s the Real Deal With Joe Kool’s Novi Bar and Grill?
If you're looking for a quiet, library-esque dinner, keep driving. This place is loud. It's energetic. It's the kind of spot where you go to watch the Lions (hopefully) win or to grab a beer with coworkers when the workday felt ten hours too long.
The menu is huge. It’s almost intimidating. You’ve got everything from standard burgers to things like the Rock-N-Rye Rodeo Burger, which uses that iconic Michigan soda flavor in the BBQ sauce. It’s sweet, tangy, and a little bit weird in the best way possible. They also do this thing called Jose Nachos. If you order the "Huge" version, be prepared to have your entire table covered in chips. It’s a mountain. Seriously.
People always ask: is it family-friendly? Yeah, actually.
They have a dedicated kids' menu with the usual suspects—sliders, mac and cheese bites, and spaghetti—for about $11.24. It’s a weirdly specific price, I know. But it works because the atmosphere is big enough that a noisy toddler won’t ruin anyone’s night.
The Food Most People Overlook
Everyone goes for the wings or the burgers. And look, the Jim Bob Wings are solid, especially if you get the spicy garlic or the Caribbean jerk. But if you want to eat like a local who knows the menu, you go for the Michigan-centric stuff.
The Michigan Salad (sometimes called the Harvest Salad depending on which server you talk to) is surprisingly fresh for a sports bar. It’s got those dried cherries and walnuts that we Michiganders put on literally everything.
- The Pizza: They do a square Detroit-style-ish pizza. The "Kitchen Sink" is exactly what it sounds like. It’s heavy.
- The Perch: Pan-fried Lake Erie Perch is a staple here. It’s not that greasy, frozen-tasting fish you get at most bars.
- Baked Mac & Cheese: They use cavatappi noodles. It’s bubbly, cheesy, and usually topped with breadcrumbs. It's the #2 most liked item for a reason.
The "Upscale Pub" Identity Crisis
There is a bit of a debate among regulars about whether Joe Kool’s is "upscale" or just a "bar." The owners call it "upscale pub and grub."
What does that even mean?
Basically, it means you’re not sitting on torn vinyl booths. The interior at Joe Kool’s Novi Bar and Grill is polished. It cost over a million dollars to get that industrial Detroit look right. You’ve got over 40 craft beers on tap. We aren't just talking Bud Light—though they have that too—but a rotating list of Michigan greats like Founders, Bell’s, and OddSide Ales.
If you're a beer nerd, you’ll be happy. If you just want a cold domestic, you’ll also be happy. That’s the "upscale" part—it caters to both without being snobby about it.
Timing Your Visit
If you show up on a Friday night at 7:00 PM, good luck. It’s packed.
The Novi location sits right in that sweet spot near the intersection of Novi Road and Grand River. It draws the after-work crowd from the nearby office buildings and the shoppers from the Town Center.
- Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM (usually)
- Weekends: They stay open until 2:00 AM.
- Sundays: Noon until 1:00 AM.
The service is generally fast, but when the place is at 225-person capacity, things can slow down. It’s just the nature of the beast. Honestly, the best time to go is for a late lunch or a "Social Hour" before the dinner rush hits.
A Little History for the Nerds
The name "Joe Kool’s" actually started in London, Ontario. It was a 40-year-old watering hole. The Bacall brothers bought the trademark and the moniker back in 2016. They’ve since turned it into a mini-empire in Metro Detroit.
Why Novi? Because the restaurant scene here is cutthroat, but there was a gap. You have high-end steakhouses and fast food, but that middle-ground "reliable sports bar with actually good food" was a bit thin after some of the older chains closed down.
What You Should Actually Order
If you're going for the first time, don't overthink it.
Start with the Bavarian Pretzels. They’re warm, salty, and come with a queso that people swear by. Then, move on to the Kool-A-Burger. It’s a half-pound of Angus beef that’s usually cooked better than the average pub burger.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Camp David Shrimp. It’s bacon-wrapped, stuffed with Jack cheese and jalapeños, and served with garlic butter. It’s an appetizer, but it’s rich enough to be a meal if you’re not that hungry.
Final Thoughts on Joe Kool’s Novi Bar and Grill
Is it the cheapest place in town? No.
Is it the fanciest? No.
But Joe Kool’s Novi Bar and Grill hits that sweet spot where you know what you’re getting. It’s consistent. It’s loud. It’s Michigan. Whether you’re there for the 40+ draft lines or just a plate of Irish Nachos (those are made with potato chips instead of tortillas, by the way), it’s a solid addition to the Novi landscape.
If you're planning a visit, check their social media or the DoorDash menu first—prices tend to fluctuate a bit based on the season and supply, but the "vibe" stays pretty much the same.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
Before you head out, check the current draft list online if you’re looking for a specific Michigan craft beer, as they rotate frequently. If you have a large group, it’s worth calling ahead to see if they can accommodate a "preferred seating" window, especially during prime game times or weekend nights.