DETROIT, MI -- All across Metro Detroit there are those neighborhood bars that set themselves apart from the clubs, restaurants and national chains as special places to simply get a drink.

MLive is looking to pit the best in Detroit, and its suburbs, against competition selected from cities across the state.

Once the nominations are in and the online polls have closed, MLive entertainment reporter John "Gonzo" Gonzalez will tour the state rating his favorites.

What makes a neighborhood bar?

There is no official Merriam-Webster definition, but here's what we're looking for:

A place where you feel welcomed. Of course, a place with a little attitude is always fun, too. So, you decide the definition of “fun.”

Location, location, location. It can be out in the boonies, downtown, near a factory or in a hipster neighborhood. We want a great variety.

Every great, neighborhood bar offers something unique: Games (darts, pool, foosball), a jukebox, decor, signature food item, appetizers, discount drinks, craft drinks, craft beer, etc.

Characters: Every great bar also has its share of characters/regulars who bring a lot of energy to the place.

We’re not looking for dance clubs or concert venues where you pay a cover charge; no chains.

And we’re not looking for restaurant/bars where patrons feel compelled to order food.

Most of all we want a great ambiance with maybe a little history.

How to nominate your favorite neighborhood watering hole:

• Beginning today, use the comments section to tell us where to find the best neighborhood bar. Please include the name, city and address if possible.

• Or, if you're not online much, send me an email: fburns@mlive.com and put "Best Neighborhood Bar" in the subject line.

• Make sure to be as detailed as possible. Describe the history, atmosphere, uniqueness, specials and the reason you always go back.

• The nomination deadline is 5 p.m. Sept. 4.

• Once we have the nominations, we will give you a chance to vote online for your "People's Choice" winner in a poll in each market.

• After we have poll winners, we'll possibly add one or two more local favorites, and then we will hit the road about Sept. 12 to visit each finalist. After our trip we'll select our Top 10 list.