ABOUT US

Welcome to Common Pub — Your Midtown Gathering Place

Located in the heart of Midtown Detroit on Wayne State University’s campus, Common Pub is more than a place to grab a drink—it’s a community hub built on connection, inclusivity, and a genuine love for our neighborhood. We’re a space where everyone is welcome, everyone belongs, and everyone should feel safe the moment they walk through our doors.

At Common, we believe a great pub isn’t just about what’s on the menu—it’s about the people who fill the room. Our team is passionate about creating an environment that’s open, comfortable, and full of good energy. Whether you’re catching up with friends, studying between classes, or getting to know someone new at the bar, we’re here to make you feel at home.

We offer a range of spaces to fit any vibe: cozy pub seating, a lively bar, a laid-back outdoor patio, and a private community room that also has a pool table for you to enjoy. No matter where you settle in, you’ll always be part of the Common community.

We also love bringing the neighborhood together with weekly and seasonal events that have become Midtown favorites:

  • Un-Common Comedy every Tuesday — a supportive, high-energy night featuring local comics and open mic talent

  • Trivia Night every Wednesday — voted Best Trivia by Metro Times five years running

  • Legendary summer pool parties — the kind of nights you talk about all year long

We’re also proud to offer catering and private event packages tailored to your needs. At Common, we believe every event is unique, which is why we offer a fully customizable catering experience designed specifically for you. Whether you're looking to buy out the entire restaurant, host a corporate gathering, plan a private pool party, or reserve our backroom for up to 50 guests, we’ve got you covered. We also provide off-site catering, and Joanna will work directly with you to craft a truly unique event. We’re proud to have become one of the official caterers for the Detroit Historical Museum, bringing our creative, locally-inspired menus to some of the city’s most memorable gatherings.

Common Pub proudly lives inside the historic Belcrest Hotel. Built in 1926, the building was named a Michigan State Historic Site in 1983 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. As one of Detroit’s earliest apartment hotels and a landmark designed by architect Charles N. Agree, it carries a legacy of welcoming people from all walks of life—something we continue today.

Here at Common, community isn’t just a tagline—it’s who we are.

Welcome to Common Pub. We’re proud to be your neighborhood space.

OUR TEAM

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JOANNA MASLACH,

Managing Partner

Joanna currently Manages the team at Common Pub and wears many hats. You may see her on the floor, or as a friendly face behind the bar or behind the scenes as ​our Events Coordinator.

Joanna is Common Pub’s Polish Princess. Born in Poland, Joanna moved to Michigan when she was 9 years old and later attended Western Michigan and Wayne State University, where she studied foreign policy. She began her illustrious career in mixology at Wayne State University’s beloved Circa 1890 Saloon in the Cass Corridor, where she worked up through the ranks to become the manager.

Joanna has over 10 years of experience planning parties and events. Her attention to detail, creativity and genuine love of her guests is evident. Her energy and enthusiasm has made her a positive addition to the Common Pub. When not working, Joanna loves to travel. ​

 

Zel Taylor,

Chef

Born and raised in Detroit, Chef Zel’s culinary journey took off after moving to Hawaii during his senior year of high school. Surrounded by island flavors and diverse cooking styles, he discovered his passion for food and decided to pursue it as a lifelong career. After graduating from Mililani High School, he returned home to Detroit and began working in the food industry, quickly building a reputation for his strong work ethic and creativity in the kitchen.

Over the years, Chef Zel has led food and nutrition operations at three major hospitals, including St. John Providence, where he spearheaded a community initiative donating over 11,000 pounds of food to local organizations such as Dishes and Loaves. His dedication to both people and food reflects his belief that cooking is about more than just feeding others—it’s about care, connection, and community.

Now proud to be part of the Common Pub family, Chef Zel loves the creative freedom he’s found here—crafting dishes that blend comfort, innovation, and flavor. He also enjoys connecting with Common Pub’s amazing clientele, often stepping out of the kitchen to chat with guests or whip up special off-menu creations for regulars and newcomers alike. For Chef Zel, it’s all about creating memorable experiences and sharing good food with great people in the city he loves.