A Manhattan at Rappourt in Ann Arbor, MI

Rappourt: A Hidden Gem in Ann Arbor

Tucked away on the backside of the Plymouth Road Mall, Rappourt might not be the easiest spot to stumble upon, but it’s well worth seeking out. This gastropub has built a reputation for its impressive beer selection—best explored via Untappd—and a menu that blends comfort food with adventurous flavors.

A Family-Friendly Gastropub

Rappourt offers a relaxed, communal atmosphere with shared seating at large picnic tables and counter ordering with table service. The high ceilings and lively crowd make it a vibrant place, though it does get loud enough that my kids have dubbed it The Loud Place. We come prepared with noise-canceling headphones—just in case.

Despite the buzz, Rappourt is an easy choice for a family outing. Their kids’ menu is reasonably priced and keeps little ones happy with simple staples like grilled cheese and buttered noodles. Free WiFi is a bonus, completing the ultimate Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs for my kids.

Must-Try Menu Items

While Rappourt’s beer selection gets much of the attention, the food holds its own. A few standout options:

• Vegetarian Chick’n Sandwich – A reliable winner for those looking for a meat-free option.
• Cowboy Burger – I swap out the cheddar for American (because I’m basic like that), but either way, it’s a solid choice.
• Crispy Masala Chickpeas ($2!) – A shockingly affordable snack that the whole family enjoys.
• Szechuan Cauliflower Bites – A must-try if you’re into bold, spicy flavors.

The Manhattan: A Rye-Forward Classic

While beer is the star of the show at Rappourt, their cocktail program holds its own. I opted for the Rye Manhattan:

Rye Manhattan
Bulleit Rye, Sweet Vermouth, Angostura Bitters — $13

Flavor Profile

I’ll admit—I’m a bourbon Manhattan person at heart, you can find my Manhattan Recipe over on Cyber Mixology. But I respect the classics, and Bulleit Rye is a strong choice for a spirit-forward cocktail like this. It brings a bold, spicy kick, which pairs well with the bitters and vermouth.

Speaking of vermouth, Rappourt sticks to standard-quality options like Dolin or Martini & Rossi. While serviceable, they don’t add much complexity to the drink, making it a bit more straightforward than some of the best Manhattans in Ann Arbor. That said, it’s still a solid execution of a timeless cocktail.

Presentation

The drink arrives in a no-frills rocks glass, garnished with a bright red maraschino cherry. No surprises here—just a well-mixed, no-frills Manhattan.

Final Thoughts

Rappourt delivers good food, solid drinks, and a welcoming neighborhood vibe. Whether you’re stopping by for a beer, a casual meal, or a well-made classic cocktail, it’s a great addition to Ann Arbor’s north end. Just be prepared for the noise level—and maybe grab some Crispy Masala Chickpeas for the table while you’re at it.