Downtown Detroit is getting a touch of holiday magic this December with the arrival of Santa’s Side Hustle, a festive pop-up bar inspired by the holiday classic Elf.
The seasonal transformation of Side Hustle Lounge, located next to Mootz Pizzeria + Bar at 1226 Library Street, is already drawing crowds eager to relive the iconic movie moments with a cocktail in hand.
The pop-up, open daily from noon to midnight on Saturdays and Sunday and 4 p.m. to midnight on Monday through Friday, brings Buddy the Elf’s exuberant world to life. Visitors are greeted by a wonderland of oversized paper snowflakes, candy canes, and nods to iconic Elf moments, such as a Lite-Brite “Welcome Santa” display and a neon “World’s Best Cup of Coffee” sign.
Every detail channels the film’s playful and heartwarming spirit.
“Downtown Detroit is magical this time of year, and we wanted to add to it,” says Side Hustle Lounge operating partner Lisa Walters. “Santa’s Side Hustle celebrates the season in true Buddy fashion — where every day feels like Christmas!”
The pop-up ends on Dec. 31.
Of course, no pop-up is complete without a creative cocktail menu. Santa’s Side Hustle offers drinks with cheeky nods to the movie, like the “World’s Best Cup of Coffee,” a warm blend of coffee with Frangelico or Bailey’s served in a souvenir mug, and the “Son of a Nutcracker,” a tart cranberry margarita. For those who prefer their holiday cheer in dessert form, the “Elf’d Up” combines bourbon and eggnog with a cinnamon garnish. Even teetotalers and kids can join in with non-alcoholic options, including rich hot chocolate.
In a city that knows how to do the holidays right, Santa’s Side Hustle offers something uniquely nostalgic and fun. No reservations are required — just come with your holiday spirit and a readiness to toast the season.
For updates, follow @sidehustledetroit on Facebook and Instagram.
