Corktown is one of the many Detroit neighborhoods that has redefined itself in the past 15 years. Previously known for beers and baseball, Corktown now attracts crowds from all seven districts and the suburbs for its unique restaurants, walkability, and charm. But even in one of the most popular neighborhoods in this city, there might still be several businesses you haven’t heard of such as DittoDitto, Hello Records, or UFO Factory.
Inspired by the popular UFO Club in the UK in the 60s and Andy Warhol’s The Factory, longtime Detroit resident and music aficionado Dion Fischer decided to create UFO Factory with his wife Alicia. The project originally started out near Eastern Market, but noise complaints and other issues forced them to relocate. Thanks to good timing and a lot of luck, Fischer found a great place on Trumbull right behind McShane’s and re-opened about one year ago.
Photo credit: My D6 teammate Amelia Suarez.
For anyone who ever went to a Tigers game at the old stadium, you might recognize UFO Factory as Hoot Robinson’s old place. Fischer still has the sign out on the patio in the back.
Dion Fischer went to Romeo High School and has been living in Detroit for 25 years. In between he tried a lot of different things but always came back to music. Fischer has been in several bands and owned records stores for most of his life, but with UFO Factory he was looking to create a place where undiscovered musicians could spread their sound.
A look inside the UFO Factory
Fischer is a laid back guy who wants to see UFO Factory do well, but profit margin is not his barometer for success. In fact, he said he doesn’t particularly care for business types or money. Today’s society might jump to label people like Dion or UFO Factory as “hipster,” but considering the word’s negative connotation, he believes that would be the wrong way to describe a place that was created simply to unite people who love music and beer.
“We have some weird art and weird music, but everyone loves hot dogs and beer,” Fischer said.
The walls inside UFO Factory are lined with works from local artists. The art changes every few months.
UFO Factory offers live music several nights per week, not just Fridays and Saturdays. If you’re looking for a more low-key night you can also enjoy a movie on Tuesdays and karaoke on Sundays.
2210 Trumbull Street
Detroit, MI 48216