Picture this: a cozy spot in the heart of Detroit’s Corktown, where the scent of fresh pages mingles with the smooth aroma of Michigan-made wine. The lighting is just right—soft enough to get lost in a book but warm enough to spark conversation. The energy? It is a perfect balance of chill and engagement, and that’s what Sip & Read Book Bar is about to bring to the city when it opens in Spring 2025.
At the helm of this fresh concept is Tamela Todd, a three-time published author and mental health advocate who understands the power of a good book. For her, Sip & Read is more than a business—it reflects her journey, her love for storytelling, and her belief in how books and community can heal.
“Reading has helped me heal through life’s challenges, showing me that change is possible and teaching me to stay positive even when things don’t go as planned,” Todd says. “Writing has been just as important—a way to process, grow, and inspire others.”
That personal connection to literature is the heartbeat of Sip & Read. It’s not just a bookstore, and it’s not just a wine bar. It’s a space where people can come together—whether diving into a novel, vibing at a poetry night, or having deep conversations over a glass of wine.
The location at 1620 Michigan Ave, Ste 122 is no accident. With its mix of history, creativity, and ever-evolving energy, Corktown is the perfect place for a concept like this. Todd wants Sip & Read to add to Detroit’s storytelling legacy. “Detroit has always been full of storytellers, and I want to celebrate that—whether through book clubs, poetry nights, or just good conversations over a glass of wine,” she says.
Inside, Sip & Read will have a curated selection of books highlighting diverse and independent authors. This isn’t just a place to pick up the latest bestsellers—you’ll find fresh perspectives, underrepresented voices, and books that might not be on the mainstream radar but deserve a spot on your shelf.
And because a good read deserves a good pour, Todd is introducing a “wine-brary” concept, where books are paired with hand-selected Michigan wines, craft cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. Picture yourself unwinding with a perfectly poured glass in hand, completely absorbed in a book that speaks to your soul. That’s the kind of carefully crafted atmosphere Sip & Read is creating.
The space will also come alive with events that bring people together through storytelling and shared experiences. From Sips & Sounds to Memoirs & Mocktails and Silent Book Club Days, each gathering is designed to spark conversation, connection, and a deeper appreciation for literature. Whether you’re pulling up solo, on a date, or catching up with friends, there will always be something happening to bring the community together.
Of course, a vision like this doesn’t come without challenges. Todd has been intentional about every step, especially regarding funding. “One of the biggest challenges has been finding the right funders—because not all money is good money,” she says. “As an entrepreneur, you have to ask the right questions and have proper legal representation, or you can end up in a situation you don’t want to be in.”
Finding the right contractor was another test, but Todd never lost sight of what she was building. “It’s not about rushing—it’s about getting it right and building something I truly believe in.”
With the grand opening set for late spring 2025, Sip & Read is on track to become a must-visit spot in Detroit’s cultural and literary scene. Whether you’re here for the books, the wine, the vibes, or all of the above, this space is about connection, creativity, and the joy of storytelling.
“We’re blending two of life’s greatest pleasures: books and wine,” Todd says with a smile. And really, what could be better than that?
Stay tuned for more details on the grand opening and upcoming Sip & Read Book Bar events in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood.
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