Long day? Whether you just moved into a new apartment with us or just had a long day at work, we know it can be really nice to treat yourself to a drink or two. If you’re located in Brooklyn, or nearby, you’ve got a lot of options – bars, clubs, pubs etc… Possibly too many options to count. But we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ve put together a list of our absolute favorite cocktail bars in Brooklyn, and you have GOT to check them out. Each bar on this list offers a different vibe, list of specialty drinks, and social experience. We hope that you enjoy what they have to offer!
1. Maison Premiere
In our opinion, Maison Premiere is one of the very best Cocktail Bars in downtown Williamsburg– not far from the Grand St-Bedford Ave metro station.
Inspired by Paris cafes, New Orleans cuisine, and New York tradition, Maison Premiere specializes in absinthe cocktails and oysters dishes.
Their Absinthe list boasts the largest collection of premium Absinthes in New York City and in honor of this Maison premiere has on display the world’s most accurate working replica of the Absinthe fountain which once flowed in the Olde Absinthe House of New Orleans. Maison Premiere also has a huge list of oyster dishes – including over 30 different varieties of oysters.
Due to its popularity and delicious food, this cocktail bar is on the expensive side of our list, but we couldn’t recommend it more. To make a reservation, or just find out more, check out their website below.
2. Tooker Alley
Tooker Alley is another one of our favorite cocktail bars in Brooklyn. It’s located just outside Prospect Park near the Brooklyn Museum and public library.
This bar is known for its hip retro vibe, and fun social atmosphere. It was originally inspired by a Bar called The Dil Pickle Club in Chicago which was famous for attracting a highly diverse group of patrons – including jazz musicians, politicos, anarchisti, professors and others. Like The Dil Pickle, Tooker Alley prides itself on bringing together a crowd drawn from all corners of society.
If you are looking to meet some new friends, get a new perspective on something, or just chat with whomever while you enjoy a cocktail, definitely check out this bar. It has a lovely, high-spirited atmosphere and it enables pure, simple, fun, and free-flowing banter.
3. Fresh Kills Bar
Across the street from Maison Premiere in Williamsburg is the Fresh Kills Bar. Want to branch out and try some new cocktails for a good price? This might be the place for you. Celebrated mixologist, Richard Boccato is the brains behind this Williamsburg bar, and it shows. The list of interesting cocktails is vast, the bartenders are extremely knowledgeable, and the price is very reasonable.
Furnished with modern leather booths, gray marble and wood beamed walls that curve overhead, we can confidently say that – this is where the cool kids are drinking.
4. Dirty Precious
This casual cocktail bar in the heart of Gowanus likes to go by the sayings – “Life is short. Take big gulps,” “Work hard, Play hard,” and “Appreciate the simple moments.”
If you are looking for a place to make new memories with close friends, meet new friends, or just hang out and have a couple drinks this could also be the place for you. On top of all your favorite cocktails, dirty precious is known for having a variety of beers and ciders, so in one night you could be getting your favorite cocktail, your favorite beer, your favorite cider, your favorite shot, or all four!
5. Clover Club
Clover Club is another one of our favorite cocktail bars in Brooklyn, and in many ways this is the quintessential Brooklyn bar! It has exquisite cocktails, real food, an atmosphere of true hospitality and inclusivity, but also a low-key neighborhood vibe, live jazz from time to time, and a cozy back room with a fireplace.
Clover Club sits in the Cobble Hill district near Boerum Park. It’s roughly a block from the Smith St-Douglas St metro station.
If you are looking for a place to feel comfortable and relaxed but also have a delicious cocktail, definitely check out Clover Club.
Whether you’re a Brooklyn native or exploring it for the first time, these five bars are sure to make your night special. So special, in fact, you might just want to move here.
