This is the sixth in our series on the venues featured in the second Brooklyn Beer Book. This week we’re featuring Iona, a classy little spot in Williamsburg you could take that special someone — or scout around for that new special someone.
180 Grand St., (at Bedford Ave) Williamsburg
What it is: An old candy store turned bar/performance space/occasional dance hall/UK sports mecca. It wears many hats.
Why we love it: The antithesis of the so-called pretentious h-word bars that scatter the area around it, Iona’s space is warm and inviting yet not overly cozy or claustrophobic. The outdoor patio in the back houses a ping pong table for the warmer months and a heated area perfect for sitting outside with a beer in hand on those cold winter nights. The bar area features multiple LCD-screen televisions and a menu of savory pies, paninis, and BBQ, making this the perfect place to catch a game or a bite to eat.
Who to bring: Soccer fans: the bar opens early on the weekends for Premier games; A group of close friends or a date: The casual yet intimate atmosphere caters to just about any sort of occasion.
What to order: Choose from any of the 21 beers on tap, though we hear that the Old Speckled Hen with its distinct toffee-malt flavor is the one to try.
Iona fun fact: The bar is named after an ancient, historic island that was the burial place for numerous Scottish kings.