Good Time Charley's Named Best Bar in Ann Arbor
The South University Avenue staple earns top local honors for its student-focused environment.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Food and Drink
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Good Time Charley's has been named the Best Bar in Ann Arbor for 2026. The establishment is recognized for its commitment to service and unique student-driven menu offerings.
Why it matters
The award highlights the bar's successful strategy of creating a comfortable environment tailored to the local student population. By involving staff in recipe development, the business maintains a rotating menu that reflects current consumer sales performance.
The bar received the Best Bar title in 2026. The menu prominently features rotating fish bowl-sized cocktails that are developed by student bartenders based on specific sales performance.
The players
Steve Ivy
Steve Ivy serves as the general manager of Good Time Charley's.
Chad Feldman
Chad Feldman serves as the nighttime manager of the bar.
Justin Colorundo
Justin Colorundo serves as one of the social media managers for the establishment.
Jeremy Colorundo
Jeremy Colorundo serves as one of the social media managers for the establishment.
The details
Located on South University Avenue, the bar hosts themed events every day of the week to foster a home-like atmosphere for students. Staff members cultivate the menu by testing new cocktail recipes and keeping those that prove popular with customers.
Timeline
The bar earned the 2026 Best Bar title throughout the year.
Industry Dynamics
This accolade fits into the long-standing model of successful campus-town hospitality venues that prioritize local student demographics. By fostering a specific atmosphere, the business avoids the franchise fatigue seen in larger chains.
Students and visitors can expect daily themed events and access to a rotating menu of signature cocktails. The bar remains open for service on South University Avenue for those looking to experience the award-winning environment.
The takeaway
Building a successful local establishment often relies on direct involvement from the core customer base. Business owners looking to replicate this success should consider how staff and customer feedback can drive day-to-day operations and menu curation.
Further reading
For more on the local culinary scene, visit Ann Arbor Food and Drink.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Michigan Daily.
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