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The Ultimate Guide to the Brooklyn Bar Scene

As New York City’s most populous borough, Brooklyn residents and tourists have plenty of things to do with their free time. However, any trip to “The Borough of Trees” is worthwhile if you decide on seeing the most significant landmarks in the city, including Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the Brooklyn Museum, and Coney Island. 

It’s also a great place to watch a Brooklyn Nets basketball game.

Brooklyn also has several bars scattered throughout its neighborhoods where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or light snack after a long week or if you want to hang out with your friends. However, with so many bars in Brooklyn to choose from, it might be overwhelming trying to find the best ones.

Thankfully, I compiled this list of the best bars in Brooklyn you should consider stopping by during your next visit to the city. By narrowing down these top options, you can spend less time wandering the city, and more time trying something new.


Maison Premiere

298 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 347-889-5710
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Maison Premiere
Source: Maison Premiere

The first Brooklyn bar I recommend visiting during your trip to this part of the city is Maison Premiere, located on Bedford Avenue, by the Supreme skate shop. This upscale bar has a New Orleans-style backdrop where you can enjoy quality cocktails or wine with small plates or oysters. This atmosphere also makes it a great dining option for any special occasion.

My go-to cocktail options are their Peacock Throne, Milonga Triste, Barber of Seville, and Maison Sherry Cobbler. But, of course, if that’s not your style, you can order a bottle or glass of wine. Each drink tastes great with steak tartare or warm olives.


Clover Club

210 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: 718-855-7939
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The next best place to get a drink on this list of the top bars in Brooklyn is Clover Club, found on Smith Street, minutes from Boerum Park. This bar has a retro atmosphere, making it the perfect place to enjoy classic drinks with a modern twist. They also have live jazz performances, a cozy fireplace in the backroom and offer off-site craft cocktail catering for any special events.

I recommend ordering their House Hot Toddy, Apple Turnover, Resting Grinch Face, or Kentucky Punkin’ with deviled eggs, steak tartare, or fried chicken. They also offer brunch, so don’t miss out on a bloody mary or mimosa.


The Long Island Bar

110 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: 718-625-8908
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The Long Island Bar
Source: The Long Island Bar

Nestled off the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Henry Street stands The Long Island Bar. This retro bar is an excellent place to stop by if you pass through the Cobble Hills and Brooklyn Heights neighborhoods. In addition, the bar received recognition from several press outlets, including The New York Times and New York Post. 

The Long Island Bar has a wide selection of cocktails, beer, and wine for you to enjoy. I tried their Long Island Gimlet, Dolores Del Rio, Boulevardier, and Paloma during my visit to Brooklyn. Order their fried cheese curds or rainbow trout if you stop by for lunch.


TØRST

615 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Phone: 718-389-6034
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TØRST
Source: TØRST

Are you having trouble finding the best bars in Brooklyn’s Greenpoint neighborhood? If so, consider booking a reservation at TØRST. You can find it on Manhattan Avenue, next to the YO BK – Greenpoint Bikram yoga studio. It has a hip vibe, sleek wooden surroundings, and minimal design, ideal for relaxing while dining or drinking.

TØRST has 21 draft lines where you can try the best local and international craft beers if you aren’t in the mood for a cocktail. I recommend ordering their Orangery, Onus On Us, Hot Buttered Rum, or Pinhook Bourbon. Don’t forget to try them with a ‘Shroom & Swiss Burger or cheese plate.

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The Four Horsemen

295 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-599-4900
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The Four Horsemen
Source: The Four Horsemen

Overlooking Grand Street, The Four Horsemen is another one of the best bars in Brooklyn where you can enjoy small plates and a wide assortment of red, white, sparkling, and sweet wine. It has a surprisingly snug atmosphere, emphasized by the bar’s warm lighting and woodwork decorations, ideal for spending the night out with friends or family.

In my opinion, their best wines are Roddolo, Angelo Negro, Les Maison Rouges, and Dos Tierras. I enjoyed ordering their sparkling Aldo Viola with Maine mussel skewers or grilled swordfish. Their dinner menu changes daily, so you’re encouraged to stop by as often as possible.


Grimm Artisanal Ales

990 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 718-564-9767
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Grimm Artisanal Ales
Source: Grimm Artisanal Ales

Located on Metropolitan Avenue, Grimm Artisanal Ales is your top destination for enjoying quality ale and beer in the West Williamsburg neighborhood. Its stylish and modern ambiance gives it an extra touch of class for anyone interested in tasting new flavors. Joe and Lauren Grimm offer an extensive menu for anyone to enjoy.

This bar offers several to-go beer cans and bottles for anyone short on time during their night out in East Williamsburg. I recommend sampling their New Blue Goo, Butterfly Door, or Boysen Rebus with a Salted Nut Roll, BKLYN Cured Salami, or Lazy Lady: Sweet Emotions Soft Goat Cheese.


Pokito Brooklyn

155 S 4th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: 917-909-1542
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Pokito Brooklyn
Source: Pokito Brooklyn

If you’re interested in trying cocktails with a creative Latin-Asian twist, consider visiting Pokito Brooklyn on South 4th Street. It has a casual and snug ambiance that’s perfect for winding down after spending most of the day at the Williamsburg Music Center. 

They host happy hour every Tuesday through Saturday from 5 PM to 7 PM and an all-day one every Sunday from 2 PM to midnight.

Pokito Brooklyn offers several seasonal cocktails you don’t want to miss out on! In my opinion, you should try their Hot Spider Cider, Matcha Mama, XO Martini, or Hibiscus Lemonade. They also offer Sichuan Peanuts as a light snack.


Syndicated Bar Theater Kitchen

40 Bogart St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Phone: 718-386-3399
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Syndicated Bar Theater Kitchen
Source: Syndicated Bar Theater Kitchen

One of the most unique bars I came across during my visit to Brooklyn is the Syndicated Bar Theater Kitchen, nestled on the corner of Bogart Street and Thames Street. This intimate gastropub has an outdoor sidewalk cinema and an indoor theater, giving patrons an entertaining night as they watch a movie while enjoying their favorite drinks or food.

Consider ordering their Eggnog, The Fig Lebowski, Frozen Painkiller, Requiem for a Creamsicle, or Raspberry Lemonade for your flavorful night. During their weekday happy hour from 5 PM to 7 PM, they offer tasty chicken wings or crispy cauliflower to pair with your drinks. 


Leyenda

221 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: 347-987-3260
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Leyenda
Source: Leyenda

Leyenda is a lively bar serving creative cocktails and classic and modern Latin American cuisine. You can find it on the corner of Smith Street and Butler Street. The bar’s rustic yet cozy aesthetic makes a  perfect backdrop for winding down after a busy day or week. In addition, they offer delivery if you’re too busy to stop by.

Besides your standard cocktails and wine, Leyenda offers a wide selection of flavorful spirits. Consider trying their Los Altos tequila, El Dorado rum, or Cruz de Fuego mezcal. I also recommend ordering their chicharrones, churrasco skirt steak, or vegan tacos if you love spicy treats.


Elsa

136 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: 917-882-7395
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Elsa
Source: Elsa

Another stylish Brooklyn bar we recommend visiting during your trip is Elsa, overlooking Atlantic Avenue, minutes from Van Voorhees Playground. This cocktail bar is open every day except Monday, making it the perfect spot for enjoying a late-night treat. They also offer limited patio seating for small parties up to six.

Their best house specialties are Elsa’s Dark and Stormy, Mimi’s Broach, Strawberry-Rhubarb Shrub, My Old So-and-So, and Cloudbusting Daiquiri. Still, have room for more? Then, don’t miss out on Elsa’s Olives & Pickles, PB & J, or Charcuterie & Cheese Board to help you fill your stomach and bring out extra flavors from your new favorite drinks.

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King Tai

1095 Bergen St, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Phone: 718-513-1025
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King Tai
Source: King Tai

Next up on the list of the top bars in Brooklyn is King Tai, a humble yet lively establishment found on Bergen Street. You can spot the 1,100 Block Bergen Street Community Garden right next to it. It has a hip and snug atmosphere for enjoying drinks at any time of the day. King Tai also has a live DJ, with different music genres playing every night.

King Tai’s drinks have the perfect blend of sour and bitter flavors. My favorite menu items are Up on the Roof, P. Knuckle, Queen of Corona, and Mainlander. Their mouth-watering empanadas make an excellent addition to any drink.


Westlight

111 N 12th St 22nd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Phone: 718-307-7100
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Westlight
Source: Westlight

Are you having trouble finding any rooftop bars in Brooklyn? If so, Westlight is the best option for you. Located on North 12th Street, on the 22nd Floor of The William Vale, this classy rooftop bar has an exciting panoramic view of the Williamsburg neighborhood, giving you the perfect sight while enjoying Chef Andrew Carmellini’s menu and the finest cocktails or spirits.

My go-to cocktails are Ghost Shadow, Cranberry Crisp, and Mt. Fuji. They also offer many delectable bar bites. Personally, I like pairing my cocktails with their Spiced Chicken Empanadas, Shrimp Dumplings, Crispy Herb Fries, or Thai Roast Chicken. 


Lavender Lake

383 Carroll St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Phone: 347-799-2154
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Lavender Lake
Source: Lavender Lake

Are you looking for a hip and scenic destination for enjoying your favorite drinks? Then, stop by Lavender Lake on Carroll Street to make your trip to Brooklyn more memorable. Its outdoor tables and waterside view give it an immersive and chic setting for locals and tourists to relax at the end of a long and tiring week.

My favorite bar bites are their General Tso Cauliflower, Grilled Cheese, and Fish & Chips. Each of these menu items tastes great when paired with their Hip Priest, Hot Toddy, Bug Day, or Live at the Witch Trials cocktails. Don’t forget to ask about their happy hour discounts!


Mood Ring

1260 Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11221
Phone: 917-818-1738

Mood Ring
Source: Mood Ring

Mood Ring is one of my favorite bars where you can immerse yourself in a cool setting for any casual night out or a stellar party. This bar on Myrtle Avenue is nestled in Central Avenue Station. Some main takeaways that make this bar stand out from the others are colorful lighting, not unlike a mood ring, a live DJ, a photo booth, and astrology-themed menu items.

If you’re looking for affordable cocktails, Mood Ring has the best options for you. Don’t miss out on their popular Bodega Dreams or The Aux Cord cocktails if you’re eager to give your taste buds an exhilarating experience.


Goldie’s Bar

195 Nassau Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Phone: 718-389-2348

Goldie’s Bar
Source: Goldie’s Bar

Take a piece of Vegas with you during your Brooklyn trip by booking your next night out at Goldie’s Bar on Nassau Avenue, in the heart of the Greenpoint neighborhood. It’s a short walk away from Monsignor McGolrick Park. This classy and nostalgic establishment has a full bar and a chill vibe to make any late night out enjoyable.

Goldie’s Bar offers several enticing cocktails for anyone interested in trying something new. I recommend ordering their Babo Grande, Frankie/Francine, Door Behind the Door, or Goldie’s Margarita. Goldie’s is always experimenting with new bar flavors, so be on the lookout if they add another to their list.


June

231 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: 917-909-0434
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June
Source: June

Do you prefer wines with natural flavors? June’s got you covered if you crave your natural favorites on a quiet, lonely night. This bar on Court Street is blocks away from Cobble Hill Cinemas. Executive Chef Diego Moya creates enticing small plates you can pair with European wines. It also has a sleek interior design and lighting that give it a tranquil atmosphere.

See also  The Ultimate Guide to the Bushwick Bar Scene

June’s wine list offers some of the most extensive drink selections you can find in the city. You’re bound to find one bursting with international flavor profiles, from sparkling wines to light or dark spirits. However, my favorite drink is their Hazelwood cocktail.


San Pedro Inn

320 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Phone: 718-576-3916
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San Pedro Inn
Source: San Pedro Inn

Located off the corner of Van Brunt Street and Pioneer Street, San Pedro Inn is your best option for enjoying authentic Mexican fare and cocktails. This casual destination has dim lighting and decorated walls that add extra color to the space. It also has a lively vibe where you and your friends or family can enjoy an intimate time together.

Their Spanish G & T, Michelada, Rotating Spanish, and Spicy Margarita cocktails are their most popular drinks, especially when enjoyed with an order of quesadillas, chicken enchilada, or chips with guacamole. You can also request wine or beer if you prefer something more simple.


Sycamore Bar + Flower Shop

1118 Cortelyou Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11218
Phone: 347-240-5850
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Sycamore Bar + Flower Shop
Source: Sycamore Bar + Flower Shop

Consider Sycamore Bar + Flower Shop as your next destination when narrowing down bars in Brooklyn offering the most fun. You can spot this bar on the corner of Cortelyou Road and Westminster Road. Although flowers and bourbons aren’t a combination many have in mind when searching for bars; this cozy and welcoming spot makes it work.

They serve over 75 international bourbons and whiskeys, have eight draft lines with curated beer, and offer cocktails and specials throughout the day. Be sure to stop by during several engaging events, including Trivia Tuesdays, Wednesday Vinyl Night, and B-Train Badass Burlesque, Bingo & Beats.


Barb’s

380A Marcus Garvey Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11221
Phone: 347-384-1112
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Sycamore Bar + Flower Shop
Source: Sycamore Bar + Flower Shop

If you’re passing through the Stuyvesant Heights neighborhood, there’s no better place for a refreshing cocktail or beer than Barb’s, located on Marcus Garvey Boulevard, by Millenial Nails. This minimalist and modern bar has a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy. They also offer indoor and outdoor dining.

Barb’s cocktails are the best treats to indulge in if you want to reward yourself for pushing through a hard week. During my last visit, I tried their refreshing frozen grapefruit cocktails. But, my personal favorites were Rosso Rubio and R. Spumoni. Feel free to ask your server about their daily beer specials.


LunÀtico

486 Halsey St, Brooklyn, NY 11233
Phone: 718-513-0339
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LunÀtico
Source: LunÀtico

Around the corner from Macon Libra, located on Halsey Street, stands LunÀtico, a New American bar, and restaurant. This hip establishment serves quality bar specials and Italian fare for anyone traveling through the neighborhood. They also have live music throughout the week, given that the bar’s founders were musicians.

You can order several shaken or stirred cocktails from their extensive drink menu. But, in my opinion, you shouldn’t miss out on their Star of Midnight, Creole Moon, Luna Negroni, or Raicilla Margarita cocktails. If you stop in for happy hour or dinner, try their sourdough bread, hummus, or charcuterie to complement your drinks.


Drink

768 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Phone: 347-789-3833

Drink
Source: Drink

Last but not least on this roundup of the best bars in Brooklyn is Drink on Franklin Avenue. This cocktail bar has a relaxing atmosphere and an outdoor patio to enjoy the city’s finest cocktails. Their menu consists of several sweet and spicy options for you to sample after a long day of walking through the neighborhood.

In my opinion, you should try their Tell Me No Lies, Dulce Fuego, Howling Coyote, or Espresso Martini cocktails. I also recommend ordering their soft pretzel, grilled cheese, artisanal cheese, or grilled pork ribs if you want to pair something tasty with your drink.


Finding the best bars in Brooklyn is an exciting way to relax after a long day of exploring the borough’s most popular attractions and sightseeing landmarks. Hopefully, this list can help you decide your most interesting picks and find your new favorite drinks.

Are you looking for something besides a drink? Then, check out this list of Brooklyn’s best steakhouses if you’re in the mood for lunch or dinner.

Did I miss any bars on my list? If so, leave a comment below about your favorites, and I’ll check them out soon!

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, Quora, Google Guide and Facebook.