BEER BOOK 13: Zone 1 (Above Atlantic Ave.)
Neighborhoods:
Bed-Stuy • Bushwick • East Williamsburg • Fort Greene • Greenpoint • Williamsburg
Bars:
Arrogant Swine • Bed-Vyne Brew • Brooklyn Brewery • Brouwerij Lane • BUDIN • Darlings • The Diamond • The Emerson • Flowers For All Occasions • Full Circle Bar • George & Jack’s • The Graham • Greene Grape Annex • Happyfun Hideaway • Interboro Spirits & Ales • Kings County Brewers Collective • Luckydog • Mahji • Midnights • No. 7 North • No. 7 Restaurant • Northern Bell • Our Wicked Lady • Pine Box Rock Shop • Project Parlor • The Regal • Rocka Rolla • Skinny Dennis • South 4th Bar & Cafe • The Wilky
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BEER BOOK 14: Zone 2 (Below Atlantic Ave.)
Neighborhoods:
Boerum Hill • Carroll Gardens • Coney Island• Ditmas Park • Downtown Brooklyn • Gowanus • Park Slope • Prospect Heights • Prospect Lefferts Gardens • South Park Slope • Sunset Park • Windsor Terrace
Bars:
The Adirondack • Alchemy • Bar Chord • Berg’n • Branded Saloon • Building on Bond • Canal Bar • Coney Island Brewery • Covenhoven • Fawkner • Freddy’s Bar & Backroom • Greenwood Park • Halyards • High Dive • Irish Haven • Kimoto Rooftop • Kings Beer Hall • Krupa Grocery • Lavender Lake • Lineup Brewing • Lowlands Bar • Midwood Flats • Red White & Brew • Robert Bar • The Saint Catherine • Skylark Bar • Strong Rope Brewery • Sycamore Flower Shop & Bar • Threes Brewing • Wartega
BEER BOOK 13
Bed-Stuy
Bed-Vyne Brew
370 Tompkins Ave. (At Putnam)
Twitter: @bedvynebrew Instagram: @bedvyne
Sit back and relax in this rustic space constructed with wood originating in upstate NY barns. Ten taps (including two nitro) pour craft beers from around the country, available in pints on premise or in growlers to go.
Go for the: Almost all-American rotating brews, knowledgeable staff and rustic feel.
Stay for the: Live DJ sets and outdoor space out front and on the side.
From the bar: “Great place to listen to music.” –Michael Brooks, partner
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Flowers for All Occasions (Flowers Bar)
1114 Dekalb Ave. (at Broadway)
Instagram: @flowersforalloccasionsgallery
An artist-run bar, art gallery and event space brought to you by Secret Project Robot, a not-for-profit cultural institution and living arts space by the same folks from Happyfun Hideaway.
Go for the: $6 pints and $20 pitchers of Lagunitas and Blue Point Toasted Lager; tons of bottled beer, from BaBa Black Lager to Asahi and Pilsner Urquell; food to share, like cheese plates, soft pretzels, vegetarian Sloppy Joes and daily grilled cheese specials.
Stay for the: Vintage board games on Monday nights; DJs Thursday through Saturday; monthly art shows in the gallery in back.
From the bar: “Flowers was fully conceived and completely hand built by the owners. It’s a magical space that has cute cozy booths and a bar surrounded by a driftwood awning, perfect for a date or a casual hang with friends. Hang out Monday nights for a quiet vibe with vintage board games.” —Rachel Nelson, owner
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Project Parlor
742 Myrtle Ave. (Sanford & Nostrand)
Facebook
Twitter: @projectparlor Instagram: @projectparlorbk
A cozy boozerie with 30+ beers, a selection of absinthe and avant garde cinema projected onto the walls. Spread out in the big backyard or snuggle up with a board game inside.
Go for the: Solid selection of domestic and international bottled and draft beers, including local and gluten-free options.
Stay for the: Old-timey furniture, experimental films, friendly bartenders and big backyard.
From the bar: “We pride ourselves on having a little something for everyone.” —Megyn Bruder, owner
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The Wilky (NEW in the 2017 Beer Book!)
108 Patchen Ave. (at Monroe)
Twitter: @thewilkybar Instagram: @thewilkybar
Bring your friends or make some new ones at this bona fide beer bar with a warm and welcoming environment comprised of 18 taps, knowledgeable staff and a variety of cocktails and food offerings to excite the palate.
Go for the: Tasting journey for all the senses, to find a new favorite beer based on your personal preferences. For those who know what they like, rare offerings (like Bourbon County Stout) appear regularly.
Stay for the: Pressed Cuban sandwich (a favorite for regulars); chips and dips; lettuce wedge salad; or soft pretzel “so big, it will rattle your understanding of the word “’pretzel.’”
From the bar: “You don’t need to be an aficionado of any kind to enjoy and appreciate good beer, wine, spirits and food in a warm and welcoming environment; you just need to be into treating yourself well. You deserve the pleasure that follows pulling up a stool at the Wilky.” —Brian Fisher, owner
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Bushwick
Arrogant Swine
173 Morgan Ave. (at Scholes)
Facebook
Twitter: @arrogantswine Instagram: @arrogantswine
A Carolina-style, whole-hog barbecue joint. Stave off guilty feelings in the spacious beer hall with a wide selection of drafts, bottles and whiskeys. A Carolina-style, whole-hog barbecue joint. Stave off guilty feelings in the spacious beer hall with a wide selection of drafts, bottles and whiskeys.
Go for the: Slow-smoked barbecue, 20 craft beers on draft and 40 beers in bottles.
Stay for the: 85 different whiskeys and giant Jenga.
From the bar: “The only BBQ Joint in NYC specializing in Carolina BBQ. We focus on slow smoking the whole pig.”—Tyson Ho, owner
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Darlings (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
242 Himrod St. (at Knickerbocker)
Instagram: @darlingsnyc
Classic corner spot combining easy drinking domestics and complex craft brews. New England is a focus in both beer selection and televised sports, and DJs spin selectively throughout the week.
Go for the: Two draft lines dedicated to “one-in, one-out” sixtels [small kegs] of rarer seasonal brews.
Stay for the: Sports on TV supplemented with Maine Beer Co., Wachusett and Allagash beers from the Pine Tree State.
From the bar: “We focus on New England breweries, but Guinness and Jagermeister will always be flowing.” —Daniel Heanue, partner
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Happyfun Hideaway
1211 Myrtle Ave. (Bushwick & Charles Pl.)
Facebook
Twitter: @happyfunbk Instagram: @happyfunhideaway
The happy comes from queer-friendly artist/musician bartenders and DJ nights. The fun comes from cheap drinks like $3 Franzia, vegetarian junk food and a tiki backyard.
Go for the: Seasonal beer and regular draft options for every price range, from cheap brewskis to nicer IPAs and imports.
Stay for the: Vegetarian bar junk food, from a Frito-pie to a vegetarian chicken biscuit and snack-shack style nachos.
From the bar: “Happyfun is a divey, fun local bar that caters to the artsy crowd in Bushwick. Happyfun has lots of DJs, pinball, fun straight and gay bartenders and board games.” —Rachel Nelson, owner
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Kings County Brewers Collective (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
381 Troutman St.
Facebook
Twitter: @kcbcbeer Instagram: @kcbcbeer
Bushwick’s first brewery since Prohibition, with a rotating draft selection of beers all brewed in-house. Great for groups with spacious tables and board games, plus food pop-ups on weekends.
Go for the: Tropical IPAs, roasty stouts, crisp lagers and exotic sours brewed behind the bar.
Stay for the: Settlers of Catan, King of Tokyo or Battleship; food-pop ups like Kings Kolache, Stuf’d Truck and Heros & Villains.
From the bar: “Work together, drink together.” —Zack Kinney, co-owner
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Our Wicked Lady (NEW in the 2016 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
153 Morgan Ave. (at Meserole)
Facebook
Twitter: @ourwickedlady Instagram: @ourwickedlady
Bar and venue home to 9 band rehearsal spaces, 5 artist studios, and the first rooftop bar in Bushwick. Free outdoor movie nights and food pop-ups amplify the carefully curated beers, which emphasize Brooklyn and Northeastern breweries.
Go for the: Drink menu with something for everyone—from $4 High Life to local/regional brews (Braven White IPA, Sixpoint Sweet Action, Two Roads Winter Ale, Narragansett Lager)—along with an owner-curated seasonal cocktail list.
Stay for the: Live concerts (King Khan and the Shrines, the Mystery Lights, A Giant Dog, Chain and the Gang); New York DJs (Jonathan Toubin, QUANTIC, Daptone’s Mikey Post); and free outdoor movie nights and food pop-ups with a myriad of local artists, chefs and makers.
From the bar: “Our Wicked Lady’s mission is to be the premier gathering place for musicians, music lovers and artists in Brooklyn. We strive to achieve this by being the first business of its kind to offer a full bar equipped with performance space, turntables and a vinyl collection showcasing local and carefully selected music.” —Keith Hamilton, owner
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Clinton Hill
The Emerson
561 Myrtle Ave. (Classon & Emerson)
Facebook
Twitter: @theemersonbar Instagram: @theemersonbar
Red lights, antique mirrors and a glittering bar top make it feel like an art deco wonderland. Plop into one of the comfortable booths for DJ nights or live music on Thursdays.
Go for the: 12 draft beers, cocktails, cozy booths and deco decor often including an art gallery.
Stay for the: Garden oasis on mild afternoons, or DJs spinning several nights a week.
From the bar: “You will find no pretension here, just a diverse mix of locals having a good time.”—Gina Jankowski, proprietor/manager
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East Williamsburg
The Graham
151 Meserole St. (at Graham)
Facebook
Twitter: @thegrahambar Instagram: @instagrahambar
Get turnt or just chill at this neighborhood bar with wooden booths, a photo booth and a back room for events.
Go for the: 16 taps pouring rotating drafts, decent bar food and playable Pac-Man in your table.
Stay for the: Dance party DJ nights; outdoor seating in summer.
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Interboro Spirits & Ales (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
942 Grand St. (Waterbury & Morgan)
Facebook
Twitter: @interboronyc Instagram: @interboronyc
Brooklyn’s first brewery and distillery. 20 taps rotate through house-made beers and spirits, as well as brews from other NY producers. Have a pint, flight or cocktail with food or grab growlers/cans to go.
Go for the: Big, juicy and smaller sessionable IPAs; (industrial) farmhouse style saisons; un-aged spirits and beer cocktails.
Stay for the: Hip-hop influenced atmosphere, refreshing lack of pretension and food popups from local restaurants like the Beer Book’s own Arrogant Swine.
From the bar: “We brew and distill distinctive ales and spirits. Our tasting room offers pints, flights, cocktails, food and beer to go in growlers and cans. We offer tours of our production facility as well.” —Jesse Ferguson, owner/brewer/distiller
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Mahji (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
617 Grand St. (Leonard & Lorimer)
Facebook
Instagram: @mahji_
Korean fried chicken is a must at this eatery and bar featuring a small selection of Korean, American and European beers, a spacious and modern feel, and the occasional salsa band.
Go for the: Crispy chicken wings, drum sticks, breasts or a combo of all of the above, paired with plenty of Hite Lager.
Stay for the: Soju bottles or soju/signature cocktails, like the Soju – Cee (grapefruit soju, club soda, cranberry, grapefruit twist), Seoul Mule (soju, hibiscus ginger syrup, fresh lime) or Korean Old Fashioned (Overholt whiskey, bitters, coconut sugar, orange slice); side dishes including Korean pancake and Kimchi fried rice.
From the bar: “We have Korean fried chicken that can be served soy garlic glazed, spicy glazed or half and half. Korean (Hite Lager), American (Brooklyn IPA, New Belgium Fat Tire, Harpoon UFO) and European (Stella Artois) beers on draft cover every region.” —Rich Min, owner
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Pine Box Rock Shop
12 Grattan St. (Bogart & Morgan)
Twitter: @pineboxrockshop
A former casket factory and now rocker- and vegan-minded bar serving excellent NYC-based beers, vegan snacks and award-winning Bloody Marys.
Go for the: Locally focused rotating drafts, one cask, beer cocktails and V-Spot empanadas.
Stay for the: Monthly vegan shop-up and events every night of the week, including open mic comedy Mondays and Wednesdays, Kings of Karaoke Tuesdays and live music Thursdays through Mondays.
From the bar: “TV packages for NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL!” —Heather Rush, co-owner
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Fort Greene
Greene Grape Annex (NEW in the 2017 Beer Book!)
753 Fulton St. (at Portland Ave.)
Facebook
Instagram: @annexbrooklyn
Bright and cozy neighborhood cafe featuring 10 locally-focused draft lines plus Cafe Grumpy espresso, cocktails and wine.
Go for the: Craft draft lines pouring a variety of styles, featuring many of New York’s best breweries as well as those from other states.
Stay for the: Sweet and savory pastries from the in-house pastry chef, or a grain bowl, sandwich or salad.
From the bar: “Annex is a bright and cozy neighborhood cafe. We have a few tables in the front of the cafe on Fulton Street.” —Steve Pellegrino, GM
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No. 7 Restaurant
7 Greene Ave. (at Fulton)
Facebook
Twitter: @no7sub Instagram: @no7restaurantgroup
The sunny, sandwich-filled sister of No. 7 North and No. 7 Subs featuring broccoli tacos and Sunday chicken dinners. Brunching? A “Chuck Norris” brunch dish goes very well with beers.
Go for the: Famous double-decker broccoli tacos, great beers at the bar and a friendly vibe.
Stay for the: “Chuck Norris” brunch dish (brussels sprouts, tomatoes, scallions, feta, fried garlic scramble) and Ducati sour (bourbon, lemon & orange juices, maple, amaro ciociaro).
From the bar: “Those stupid tacos, a flour tortilla smeared with black bean hummus, housing a crispy corn tortilla stuffed with sautéed broccoli, feta cheese, and fried shallots, have made us the go-to bar of the neighborhood.” —Katherine Pangaro, operations manager
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Greenpoint
Brouwerij Lane
78 Greenpoint Ave. (at Franklin)
Facebook Facebook
Twitter: @brouwerijlane Instagram: @brouwerijlane
Enjoy the laid-back locals’ vibe at this beer shop and bar boasting rotating beers brewed locally and around the world.
Go for the: Outstanding tap list, with regular appearances from the likes of Vermont’s Hill Farmstead, New York’s Suarez Family Brewery and Sweden’s Omnipollo; round the corner for an even larger selection of world-class beers in bottles and cans.
Stay for the: Chilled-out, punk rock vibe and super helpful staff, always willing to chat about the oft-overwhelming beer selection.
From the bar: “We have a fireplace keeping things cozy, constant beer rotation both in kegs and bottles from around the world, Zapp’s chips and art opening once a month. Also, we have a Star Wars-themed bathroom.” —Kimberly Mercado, general manager/beer buyer
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BÚÐIN
114 Greenpoint Ave. (Manhattan & Franklin)
Facebook
Twitter: @budinnyc Instagram: @budinnyc
Spend hours at this Nordic coffee shop by day, craft beer bar by night, with eight constantly changing drafts plus cans and bottles focusing on rare and Scandinavian-style brews.
Go for the: Coffee, craft beer, cheese plates and Danish rye bread.
Stay for the: Blue Light Speak Cheesy pop-up shop; Nordic brewery tastings occurring every few months.
From the bar: “[We] focus on Scandinavian breweries, often rare limited edition brews and other Scandinavian style beers.”—Crystal Pei, owner
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The Diamond
43 Franklin St. (Calyer & Quay)
Facebook
Twitter: @diamondgpt Instagram: @diamondgpt
A colorful craft beer bar with free shuffleboard and a back patio featuring a ski lift and quoits.
Go for the: Curated craft beer selection with newbie- and nerd-friendly menu organization.
Stay for the: Free shuffleboard table with weekly tournaments, bi-level backyard with quoits (ring toss), a ski lift you can sit in, and lots of great foodie events including chili cookoffs and free pancake mornings.
From the bar: “Most importantly, we’ve got Michael Landon.”—David Pollack, owner, referencing the bar wall emblazoned with Landon’s face.
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No. 7 North
931 Manhattan Ave. (Java & Kent)
Facebook
Twitter: @no7sub Instagram: @no7restaurantgroup
Classy for a bar and casual for a restaurant, No. 7 North offers cocktails, beers and inventive bar fare at reasonable prices.
Go for the: Small but well-selected beer menu and craft cocktails, plus the famous double-decker broccoli tacos.
Stay for the: Pool table and stuffed peacock sighting.
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Williamsburg
Brooklyn Brewery
79 N. 11th St. (Berry & Wythe)
Facebook
Twitter: @brooklynbrewery Instagram: @brooklynbrewery
Brooklyn’s original post-prohibition brewery that dates back to 1988. Get here early to snag a table in the tasting room and sip on 14+ beers, some you can’t get anywhere else. Free tours on weekends.
Go for the: World-famous Brooklyn brews, ranging from global favorites like the Brooklyn Lager, to brewery-only one-offs and rarities like the rotating staff member brew, Brooklyn Quarterly Experiment, and Brewmaster’s Reserve.
Stay for the: Beer hall-style seating, BYO-food policy and free tours on weekends; possible Garrett Oliver sighting.
From the brewery: “There is very little to get in the way of tasting and savoring some of the best and freshest beer in the whole wide world.” —Samantha Bernstein, marketing manager
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Full Circle Bar
318 Grand St. (Havemeyer & Marcy)
Facebook
Twitter: @fullcirclebar Instagram: @fullcirclebar
Let the good times roll at the official home of Brewskee-Ball, the first-ever national skee-ball league, ahead of the curve with 40 canned beers and five craft drafts.
Go for the: 40 canned beers and five rotating taps.
Stay for the: Free Skee-Ball on Thursdays and Sundays.
From the bar: “Full Circle Bar is your new favorite neighborhood bar. We have four classic Skee-Ball lanes and we are home to Brewskee-Ball, the first National Skee-Ball league (Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday league nights, [email protected]).”—Pete Marinucci, manager
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George & Jack’s
103 Berry St. (at N. 8th)
Facebook
Twitter: @georgeandjacks Instagram: @georgeandjacks
A standardly cool pub sitting quietly away from the Bedford Ave. hubbub in Williamsburg.
Go for the: Comfy stools, solid tap selection and natural lighting through stained glass windows.
Stay for the: Jukebox, pinball machines and possible pup sightings.
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Luckydog
303 Bedford Ave. (S. 1st & S. 2nd)
A locally loved dive bar once frequented by K9s and still visited by their owners.
Go for the: Dog-loving rocker vibe and tap lines featuring local and other domestic microbrews.
Stay for the: Chill or rowdy vibe, depending on the night; back area to smoke and drink away the day in spring and summer.
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Midnights (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
149 N. 6th St. (at Bedford)
Facebook
Twitter: @midnightsbk Instagram: @midnightsbrooklyn
Creative and playful cocktails are joined by an extensive wine and beer selection at this supper club-esque eatery featuring comfortable decor and outdoor seating, weekend DJs and a late-night menu.
Go for the: Smaller, curated menu of mostly-local beers with a few international selections. The bar prefers to have a couple options of different kinds of beers rather than an endless list where people can’t decide.
Stay for the: Comfortable decor; no aluminum stools or wooden benches here, and in summer, an outdoor garden patio with family-style tables surrounds you with lush green ivy and sun sails to filter the light.
From the bar: “[Our mission is] to bring an excellent food program, unique cocktails and music together to create a modern supper club-esque atmosphere with no pretentiousness. We transition from dinner to late-night in a manner that invites people to stay and enjoy drinks and music.” —Paul Kolbe, marketing director/owner
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Northern Bell
612 Metropolitan Ave. (Lorimer & Leonard)
Facebook
Twitter: @northernbellny Instagram: @northernbellnyc
A southern-style BBQ restaurant serving pulled pork, burnt ends and smoked tofu, with a patio for outdoor dining and more than 100 beers total on most days.
Go for the: 12 craft beers on tap, scores of bottles, attractive liquor cabinet and barbecue food gone classy.
Stay for the: Intimate interior, comfy outdoor porch booths and beer buckets filled with craft cans.
From the bar: “We have a real neighborhood/local following and most likely the friendliest staff in all of Brooklyn, if not all of New York.” —Michael O’Brien, owner
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The Regal (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
163 Hope St. (Union & Keap)
Facebook
Instagram: @theregal
Beer and food offering a new take on the diner experience, including classic cocktails and house specialties often featuring spirits barrel-aged behind the bar.
Go for the: Seasonal craft beer with local favorites and elevated diner fare from executive chef Seth Levine.
Stay for the: Sidewalk seating coming spring 2017.
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Rocka Rolla
486 Metropolitan Ave. (at Rodney)
Facebook
Instagram: @rockarolla_bk
Rock and roll is alive and well in this throwback bar with a jukebox heavy on the ’70s and hair metal, classic bar games, goblets of cheap beer and a handful of solid taps.
Go for the: Ommegang and other beers served in large goblets; Miller High Life nips; entertainment room in back with pinball and more.
Stay for the: People watching to see Brooklyn’s rock and rollers turn back the clock to the hair metal glory days.
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- Photo by Tim McDonnell, via Facebook
Skinny Dennis
152 Metropolitan Ave. (at Berry)
Facebook
Twitter: @skinnydennisbar Instagram: @skinnydennis
Bar making honky tonk hip with a pickup truck seat, beers served in mason jars and a nutshell-covered floor.
Go for the: Coors in mason jars, better beers in regular glasses, bourbon sweet tea and free hot nuts.
Stay for the: Honky-tonk music performed live every night, bringing smiles to Confederat expats’ and Yankees’ faces alike.
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- Get a cheap beer and shot at South 4th Bar and Cafe.
South 4th Bar and Cafe
90 S. 4th St. (at Berry)
Facebook
Twitter: @south4thbar Instagram: @south4thbar
A 10-year-old joint proud to be one of the oldest locals’ bars in the ‘hood, featuring coffee, craft beers and a book of order-in food menus.
Go for the: Judgement-free offerings of beer and coffee morning to night; make-your-own Bloody Mary bar, every weekend.
Stay for the: Free wifi, photobooth, foosball, board games, TV nights and Kings Of Karaoke every Saturday night.
From the bar: “With friendly staff and patrons, there’s always someone to talk to, and a story to hear.”—Eric Kingrea, manager
BEER BOOK 14
Bay Ridge
Red White & Brew
8910 fifth ave. (at 89th)
Facebook
Instagram: @redwhitebrewnyc
America has always been great at this beer garden where the jukebox is fired up all night playing rock ‘n’ roll classics. 14 taps include local/regional craft options and macro/international labels.
Go for the: Laid back environs, 90s to early 2000s rock and pop music on the jukebox and nitro stout.
Stay for the: Backyard beer garden with five picnic tables; sangria on weekends.
From the bar: “Safety and fun [are our mission]; we want everyone to have a great experience here and be able to be themselves and enjoy their night out.” —Mike Crapanzano, manager
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Boerum Hill
Building on Bond
112 Bond St. (at Pacific)
Facebook
Twitter: @buildingonbond Instagram: @buildingonbond
The beer tap comes from the ceiling at this cafe and restaurant owned and designed by Hecho Inc., a design firm based in Brooklyn Heights.
Go for the: Elevated bar food, six beers on tap and smart, reclaimed-focused design by Hecho Inc.
Stay for the: Trivia on Tuesdays; neighborhood locals’ vibe any day.
From the bar: “The burger is not to be missed.” —Phil Morgan, owner
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Fawkner (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
191 Smith St. (Baltic & Warren)
Facebook
Instagram: @fawknerny
Locally focused food and drink plus a variety of events will have you happily glued to your cushiony seat in this 2,300-square-foot space with a 25-foot bar, cozy booths and lounge area complete with fireplace.
Go for the: Rotating selection of craft beer, creative cocktails and delicious food options like a veggie or beef burger, buttermilk chicken sandwich or tacos.
Stay for the: Comfortable, spacious seating areas inside and out, and one of the free events that include comedy shows, lectures, singer-songwriter showcases, trivia and bingo nights.
From the bar: “Our mission is to create authentic experiences. We accomplish this with thoughtful design, exceptional service and equally inspiring food and beverage programs focusing on fresh ingredients and local suppliers.” —Matt Kelly, head of marketing
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Robert Bar
104 Bond St. (Atlantic & Pacific)
Facebook
Instagram: @robertbarbrooklyn
Another Hecho Inc.-designed bar, this one with a domino-clad ceiling, ambient lighting, a backyard and regular DJs Thursday through Saturday.
Go for the: Tasty craft beers, ambient lighting and 49,000 domino spectacle above your head.
Stay for the: DJs on weekends, backyard in summer and jukebox circa 1971.
From the bar: “The cocktail program is amazing, too.” —Phil Morgan, owner
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Coney Island
Coney Island Brewery
1904 Surf Ave. (at 17th)
Facebook
Twitter: @coneyislandbeer Instagram: @coneyislandbeer
A creative variety of eight rotating taps accompany the Coney Island brand’s well-known classics at this new space outside MCU Park. Take a tour of the brewery, then kick it in the beer garden in front.
Go for the: Refreshing, at times ridiculous, always delicious experimental craft beers that you won’t find among Coney Island’s typical bodega offerings (think Hot Toddy and Cotton Candy-inspired beers). Since the new brewery opened its doors in August 2015, it’s created more than 30 one-of-a-kind brews, most only available right there in the taproom.
Stay for the: Brief brewery tour; then, reward yourself with a beer flight and sip on the spacious patio, an umbrella-full beer garden that can accommodate approximately 100 people, weather permitting.
From the brewery: “We’re a small, friendly and welcoming place, brewing up fresh, one-of-a-kind beers inspired by our iconic neighborhood. We’re also just a stone’s throw from the beach and roller coasters!” —Devin O’Brien
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Crown Heights
Berg’n
899 Bergen St. (Classon & Franklin)
Facebook
Twitter: @bergnbk Instagram: @bergnbk
The permanent food hall from the folks behind Smorgasburg offers up vendors such as Lumpia Shack and Mighty Quinn’s BBQ, along with beers both regional and rare.
Go for the: Beer hall-environed American craft beer with regional and rare offerings, including Hill Farmstead, Other Half, Oxbow, Bunker, Barrier, Westbrook and Allagash.
Stay for the: Fabulous courtyard with seating for 50 (and room for dogs!); pinball games, indoor space thrice the size; and all-natural, bio-dynamic wines for the non-beer and cider drinkers.
From the bar: “We offer delicious craft beers from our friends and neighbors. We [also] have a killer private event room that can accommodate up to 65 guests.” —Jennifer Watson, general manager
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Covenhoven
730 Classon Ave. (Park & Prospect)
Facebook
Twitter: @covenhovennyc Instagram: @covenhovennyc
A local beer nerd’s taproom offering an outstanding choice of taps and bottles to stay or go, plus vintage beer trays lining the walls.
Go for the: Spellbinding beer selection (16 taps and 200+ bottles are available to stay or to go), candlelight and community vibes.
Stay for the: Bottle swaps, board game nights and bucolic-for-Brooklyn backyard (what the owner lovingly called a “beautiful garden with real grass that we maintain all year”).
From the bar: “We like people. We know great beer.” —Mary Bradford, owner
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Ditmas Park
Bar Chord
1008 Cortelyou Rd. (Stratford & Coney Island)
Facebook
Twitter: @barchord1 Instagram: @BarChordBrooklyn
A genre-busting good time, featuring live music, vintage guitars for sale, beer and spirits, and an extensive backyard.
Go for the: Live music every night (no cover, ever!) that accompanies a rotating selection of eight craft brews. You can always expect a stout, IPA and pilsner on draft; for cans, lots of seasonal options and $3 Modelo all year round.
Stay for the: Love of rock ‘n’ roll (plus Afrobeat, swing and everything in between), small batch tequilas and Mezcals, and ample garden out back where a mural depicting “the famous, the infamous and the locals” by local artist Juan Carlos Pinto looms.
From the bar: “Music is love and we’re giving it away.” —Christy Sheehan, owner
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Sycamore Flower Shop & Bar
1118 Cortelyou Rd. (Stratford & Westminster)
Facebook
Twitter: @sycamorebklyn Instagram: @sycamoreflowershopbar
Brooklyn’s only flower shop and bar, this lush paradise features fragrant plants, stiff whiskey and craft beers for days (and nights,too).
Go for the: Eight rotating craft draft lines, often local, plus a robust list of cans and bottles.
Stay for the: 75 bottles of whiskey and ivy-hugged garden, open year round. In chillier months, a winterized heated ski lodge-style seating area affectionately called “the Lodge” welcomes and warms.
From the bar: “[Sycamore’s mission is] to keep our guests well lubricated and smelling good.” —John Hagan, managing partner
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Downtown Brooklyn
Kimoto Rooftop
216 Duffield St. (Willoughby & Fulton)
Facebook
Twitter:@kimotorooftop Instagram: @kimotorooftop
Take the elevator up to a lounge-style club featuring Asian snacks and brews with rooftop views.
Go for the: 20 hard-to-find Japanese craft beers, whiskeys and Izakaya-style snacks like Togarashi fries and crispy Gochujang chicken wings.
Stay for the: Surreal experience of cashing in your Beer Book ticket for a Japanese brew and lower Brooklyn view.
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Gowanus
Canal Bar(NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
270 Third Ave. (at President & Union)
Facebook
Instagram: @canalbarbklyn
Small neighborhood bar (Gowanus’ oldest) with 12 ever-changing craft brews along with cider and cocktails. Free popcorn is always flowing, so come hungry and thirsty.
Go for the: Carefully selected regional and national drafts (Bell’s, Brooklyn, Captain Lawrence, Founder’s, Jack’s Abbey), plus classic and current cocktails.
Stay for the: Free popcorn, plus drink deals like $4 draughts Monday-Friday from 3-8PM; $5 Blood Mary pints every Saturday and Sunday; and a $7 PBR and well shot combo all day, every day.
From the bar: “We’re a small neighborhood bar with a very welcoming feeling. We have a nice backyard with benches and tables, along with assorted flora during the warmer days.” —Louis Turco, owner
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Halyards(NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
406 Third ave. (at 6th St.)
Twitter: @halyardsbar Instagram: @halyardsthebar
Craft beers, craft cocktails, sandwiches, pizza and snacks are here any day of the week, but take your pick of events like live music, screenings and dance parties when you’re looking for something extra.
Go for the: Craft beers and classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Sazerac or Martini, plus more inventive types like the Root & Ginger (Art in the Age Root, Gosling’s ginger beer) or Amy’s Whiskey Sour (Evan Williams Black Label, lemon, plum bitters, Luxardo cherry, Tempranillo float).
Stay for the: Live music, film/TV screenings, karaoke or dance party (a brand-new downstairs event space opened last year), depending on the night; toasted sandwiches revolving around cheese, plus pizzas from Table 87.
From the bar: “Halyards is a Gowanus bar and neighborhood gathering place with space for [events], celebrations and parties large and small.” —Jeremy Skehan, manager
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Lavender Lake
383 Carroll St. (Bond & Nevins)
Facebook
Twitter: @lavender_lake Instagram: @lavenderlakebrooklyn
Satisfy any craving with local beers and spirits, creative liquor infusions and a simple nosh menu. Weekday specials include all day happy hour Mondays and growler nite Thursdays.
Go for the: NY-dominant brews, like Barrier, Peekskill, Other Half, Finback, Descendant, Greenpoint and Stillwater; summertime hangs in the backyard bar, featuring frozen drinks and films on weekends.
Stay for the: Specials on weekdays: All-day happy hour Mondays, Neighborhood Nite Tuesdays (Burger + Select Draft Beer for $15), Chili Wednesdays (Bowl of House Chili for $10) and Growler Nite Thursdays (Growler of a Select Draft + Meat and Cheese Board for $26).
From the bar: “Go out on a budget! We have the best happy hour in the area—Monday-Friday, 4-8pm, $3 Narragansett cans, $4 select drafts, $5 house liquor, $6 select wine pours, $9 house cocktails. ” —Analisa Baduria, general manager
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Lowlands
543 Third Ave. (13th & 14th)
Facebook
Twitter: @lowlandsnyc Instagram: @lowlandsnyc
Weekly music, light fare and craft beer are great anywhere, but at Lowlands, you can enjoy all three in one of Brooklyn’s best backyards.
Go for the: Pressed sandwiches, 12 craft beers on tap plus cheap cans and bottles.
Stay for the: Old time music Monday, karaoke Wednesday and bring-your-own vinyl Thursday.
From the bar: “Our drinks are cheap, our bartenders are friendly and we’ve got a Checkers that’s open till 3am across the street. What else could you ask for?” —Paul Hamill, owner
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Strong Rope Brewery
574A President St. (3rd & 4th Aves.)
Facebook
Twitter: @strongropebrew Instagram: @strongropebrewery
New York State farm brewery and taproom offering 10 rotating drafts, ranging from reinterpreted classics to seasonal varieties, alongside select NYS wines, ciders and liquors. BYO food and ask about the brewery’s commitment to local NY producers.
Go for the: Hand-crafted ales made on-site, ranging from classic American- and British-inspired styles to seasonal varieties that utilize New York farm ingredients (the draft list rotates frequently here).
Stay for the: Relaxed environment, where guests are welcome to bring their own food or order beverages other than beer, choosing from select New York wines, ciders and liquors. Educational events are also a draw, bringing hop growers, maltsters and other agricultural experts to Brooklyn soil.
From the bar: “As a family-run business, we look to support other New York producers.” —Jason Sahler, owner
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Threes Brewing
333 Douglass St. (4th & 3rd)
Facebook
Twitter: @threesbrewing Instagram: @threesbrewing
A brewery, bar and event space serving dishes from a rotating food residency program (presently the Meat Hook) and boasting an outdoor garden.
Go for the: Table beers expertly crafted to be tasty and easy to drink all day; permanent-for-now Meat Hook pop-up food items; and the pleasant back garden area.
Stay for the: Coffee shop serving Ninth Street espresso on the second level, where you might also catch a live band, or Sunday football.
From the brewery: “We have 20 taps of craft beer, the majority of which is made onsite, as well as a killer wine and spirit program for the non-beer lovers.” —Joshua Stylman, partner
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Park Slope
Alchemy
56 Fifth Ave. (Bergen & St. Marks)
Facebook
Twitter: @alchemypub Instagram: @alchemybkny
Neighborhood restaurant good for brunch, upscale pub food, or a drink before a concert or game at the Barclays Center.
Go for the: Tasty craft beers (eight on draft, all local, four rotating) and relaxed patio hanging.
Stay for the: Concert pregame featuring $4 wines, local beers and well drinks, and $5 plates (mussels, spicy chicken wings, mixed salad).
From the bar: “Menu favorites include roast chicken with peppercorn gravy, grass-fed hanger steak and burgers, amazing shells and cheese, mussels, and seasonal barley risotto.” —Kevin Read, owner
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High Dive
243 Fifth Ave. (Carroll & Garfield)
Facebook
Twitter: @highdivebk
Low-key bar focused on a selection of local craft brews. Enjoy one on the patio or sip it over the pinball machines, Pac-Man or jukebox. Don’t forget the Leave a Friend a Drink board.
Go for the: 19 taps of rotating, seasonal beers, many brewed in the area and lots of others from abroad like Belgium, Japan, Germany and Norway.
Stay for the: Free popcorn and cheap happy hours.
From the bar: “We’re a laid back, music-loving, crafty beer and solid cocktail neighborhood bar. Pinball, growlers, jukebox, Pac-Man, free popcorn, patio and friendly bartenders included.” —Mark Korns, owner/partner and manager
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The Kings Beer Hall (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
84 St. Marks Place (4th & 5th Aves.)
Facebook
Twitter: @kingsbeerhallbk Instagram: @thekbh
The new KBH (formerly Die Koelner Bierhalle) has a redesigned menu, 30 beers on draft, 20+ in bottles/cans and grown-up arcade games like air hockey and beer pong. The bar is also kid-friendly until 8pm.
Go for the: Craft-minded and import brews (KBH House Lager, Krombacher, Blue Point Toasted Lager, Founders Breakfast Stout), wine on tap and specialty cocktails; plus, a redesigned food menu featuring favorites like the Bavarian pretzel with homemade pimento beer cheese and fried artichoke, and arugula salad with house-made caper dressing.
Stay for the: 10+ arcade games, including air hockey, a pool table and beer pong; tons of events, from private parties to monthly Simpsons trivia, coloring nights and Park Slope Parent events; and a small courtyard with outdoor games, twinkle lights and table service.
From the bar: “With beers from across the globe and seasonal, specialty beers, you’re bound to find something new and delicious every time. Our goal is to bring beer from every corner of the world and make it accessible.” —Miranda Gonzalez, events manager
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Prospect Heights
Branded Saloon (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
603 Vanderbilt Ave. (at Bergen)
Twitter: @brandedsaloon Instagram: @brandedsaloon
Western-themed gay bar and venue that welcomes all and showcases a wide variety of live performances and bands. Add to this 12 microbrews and a full service restaurant, and you’ve got yourself a new go-to saloon.
Go for the: Bloody Mary bar, microbrews and comfort food; favorite menu items include the Branded Burger, veggie Frito pie and garlic fries.
Stay for the: Diversity in clientele and entertainment; regular events include open mic comedy, country music and trivia nights, and “First Saturgays” (presented by Show Time New York) bring “a drag cast like no other—ShowBoys, ShowGirls and everything in between.”
From the bar: “We pride ourselves on being as diverse as the neighborhood we are in. We accomplish this by featuring a wide array of art and entertainment, along with exceptional food, drinks and service.” —Gerard Kouwenhoven, co-owner
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The Saint Catherine
660 Washington Ave. (at Bergen)
Facebook
Twitter:@saintcathbk Instagram: @saintcathbk
Wide window seats invite patrons to hunker down for small plates and prime people watching at this angelic locale.
Go for the: Brunch every Saturday and Sunday (10:30am to 4pm), with eight rotating craft beers on draft, along with eight to 10 cans at any time.
Stay for the: Late night kitchen serving sliders, share plates and pita melts.
From the bar: “The open space makes us a great place to meet friends and have parties. We also have a kickass trivia night every Tuesday, and a giant projection screen for the occasional movie, TV night or special event.” —Bradford Nicoll, owner
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Prospect-Lefferts Gardens
Midwood Flats
577 Flatbush Ave. (at Midwood)
Facebook
Ambient, iron-and-wood gastropub is a go-to for craft beers, spirits, and hand crafted burgers and sandwiches. 20 drafts, 50 whiskeys and a Black Angus burger everyone’s talking about.
Go for the: 20 craft beers on draft and all-encompassing cocktail list, from classic favorites to mixologists’ modern twists.
Stay for the: Grown-up fun in a casual atmosphere.
From the bar: “We are proud to offer daily happy hour specials, our celebrated weekend brunch is a neighborhood weekend favorite, and our kitchen is always open late.”—Michele Gascoigne, general manager
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South Park Slope
Freddy’s Bar & Backroom
627 Fifth Ave. (17th & 18th)
Facebook
Twitter: @freddysbar1 Instagram: @freddysbrklyn
Previously voted one of Esquire magazine’s best bars in America, Freddy’s escaped Atlantic Yards, and its new spot has the same lovingly hodgepodge decor. Take a craft beer on tap to the back for a music or comedy showcase.
Go for the: Constant free performances from opera to bluegrass … and of course, the beer.
Stay for the: Cozy backyard and consistently good bar food from noon until 2am every night.
From the bar: “Friendly and affordable, Freddy’s was originally founded as a speakeasy during Prohibition. A rotating cast of musicians, comedians, film buffs and assorted literary types fills the air with the kind of crazy-quilt, anything-goes vibe that New York City used to be famous for.”—Donald O’Finn, co-owner/manager/booking agent
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Greenwood Park
555 Seventh Ave. (19th & 20th Sts.)
Facebook
Twitter: @greenwoodparkbk Instagram: @greenwoodpark
Once an old gas station and mechanic shop, now an indoor/outdoor bar, restaurant and beer garden boasting 13,000 square feet, 60 draft lines, three bocce ball courts and seasonal food and drink menus.
Go for the: 60 tap lines with a variety of 24 local, craft, domestic and imported draft beers that change seasonally. (Check out the current featured beers at greenwoodparkbk.com.)
Stay for the: Novelties of space and sport in NYC; Greenwood Park is a 13,000 square foot indoor/outdoor restaurant, bar, beer garden and event space, with a 10,000 square foot outdoor space boasting three bocce ball courts and a cargo bar.
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Skylark Bar (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
477 5th Ave. (11th & 12th Sts.)
Facebook
Twitter: @skylarkbrooklyn Instagram: @skylarkbrooklyn
Like Grandma’s living room with beer and shot specials, this cozy neighborhood bar takes pride in its welcoming nature as much as its whiskey. 14 beers rotate seasonally and the homemade Skylark Bloody Mary promises to revive.
Go for the: 1970s living room style, with beer and shot specials like the Dirk Diggler (a Coors Banquet tallboy and shot of Dickel Rye); specialty cocktails like the Salty Studebaker (made with basil-infused vodka and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice); or revive yourself with the spicy, hearty and homemade Skylark Bloody Mary.
Stay for the: Daily happy hour from noon to 7pm, including dollar off drafts and $4 well drinks; while there, keep yourself entertained with three vintage pinball machines and array of classic board games, then fill your belly with HBH pressed sandwiches and Brooklyn Brine pickles.
From the bar: “We have good tunes, a comfy couch and plenty of whiskey.” —Cait McDonough, social media organizer
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Sunset Park
Irish Haven
5721 Fourth Ave. (at 58th St.)
Facebook
Instagram: @irish.haven
This institution dates back to 1964 and hasn’t changed much since, save for the beer selection which got wider, and the TVs, which got flatter.
Go for the: Film geek points (scenes from The Departed were shot here), plus 12 taps, ditto for bottles/cans, and a pool table.
Stay for the: Live music on Sundays and free food (with drinks) on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
From the bar: “The prices stayed low and the ol’ school jukebox is in heavy use. ” —Matthew Hogan, owner
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Lineup Brewing (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
33 35th St., 6th Floor (2nd & 3rd Aves.)
Facebook
Twitter: @lineupbrewing Instagram: @lineupbrewing
Super-small batch craft brews come from this brand-new brewery that shares its taproom with Industry City Distillery. The ESB makes for easy drinking and pairs great with a small plate and Statue of Liberty views.
Go for the: Easy drinking, small batch craft beers (English Pale Ale, Floral IPA, Coffee Dry Stout and Orange Cream Ale) made by hand by one of Brooklyn’s only woman-owned breweries.
Stay for the: Speakeasy atmosphere with views of Lady Liberty and Lower Manhattan, plus cocktails from NYC’s only vodka distillery.
From the brewery: “Lineup Brewing. Like a police lineup. Every beer has a story. Clean, quality, small batch beers.” —Katarina Martinez, owner and head brewer
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Wartega (NEW in the 2017 Brooklyn Beer Book!)
33 35th St., 6th Floor (2nd & 3rd Aves.)
Facebook
Twitter: @wartega Instagram: @wartega
Botanically-focused brewery offering creatively crafted ales that strive to incorporate herbs, spices and fruits in every batch. Wartega also shares a taproom with Industry City Distillery, along with Lineup Brewing and Arcane Distilling. Ask about Wartega coffee.
Go for the: Beers inspired by ancient ale ingredients yielding uniquely bold flavor, yet are super easy and enjoyable to drink.
Stay for the: Booze and the views. Wartega’s taproom — originally owned by Industry City Distillery, which now shares its space with Wartega, Lineup Brewing and Arcane Distilling — is one of the few places in the city you can get beer and spirits from four local producers, all made on-site.
From the brewery: “We have a gorgeous view of downtown Manhattan and the bay. We also offer private events in the space.” —Merlin Ward, owner and head brewer
Windsor Terrace
The Adirondack
1241 Prospect Ave. (at Reeve Pl.)
Facebook
Twitter: @the_adirondack
Dedication to New York State means all beers are local here, and snacks come from nearby bakers and sandwich makers as well.
Go for the: New York State craft beers (12 rotating) and wines; look out for vinyl nights and tap takeovers.
Stay for the: Pelzer’s Pretzels (of Crown Heights) and HBH Gourmet Sandwiches (of Carroll Gardens).
From the bar: “The Adirondack is dedicated to serving hard-to-find craft brews of the Empire State. We’ve also got Genny Cream Ale in cans and Labatt Blue, which is an honorary beer of upstate New York. And yes, we do happen to have a vintage Pac-Man machine in the back.” —Paul Hamill, owner
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Krupa Grocery
231 Prospect Park West (at Windsor)
Facebook
Twitter: @krupagrocery Instagram: @krupagrocery
Bar and grocery with everything on tap, from craft beer to cider to coffee to cocktails. In the morning, grab a cup of Joe or pastry to go.
Go for the: Eclectic draft offerings—the taps not only pour 10 beers, but two ciders, four wines, kombucha, iced coffee and iced tea. So cool!
Stay for the: Happy hours happening twice a day, 4-7pm and 10pm-12am.
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Brooklyn Bar Guide written by Cat Wolinski / Beer Affair. Find her on Twitter here.