4th Down
750 Grand St. (Graham Ave. and Humboldt St.), East Williamsburg
(917) 744-6522
What it is: A chill sports bar in Williamsburg that prides itself on not being “so Williamsburg.”
Why we love it: For a neighborhood that’s not known these days for being very sporty, Williamsburg has a decent number of straightforward, no-frills sports bars and 4th Down is one of them. The bar, which used to be located on North 4th St., now sits above a gym (appropriately) on Grand St., tucked far enough away from the main drag that you’ll feel safe from the hype, and close enough to the L train that you won’t feel remote.
Bring a friend who “hates hipsters” (he’s definitely a hipster) or really wants to relax off the beaten path with a beer and a game on TV. There are 12 rotating New York craft drafts and 16 high definition televisions to choose from so you won’t be disappointed.The bartenders are relaxed and attentive, and the clientele just as agreeable.
What to order: The drink specials here encourage a long stay. Start with a local New York draft and stay for a shot and beer special. Buckets of beer come six for the price of five, so if your hipster-hating-hipster friend isn’t feeling the craft selection, a bucket of six Miller High Lifes will only set you back $20. If you’re hungry, go for pub classics like wings and fries.
Regular tip: Happy hour generously includes $4 craft drafts, $4 well drinks and $4 shots of Bushmills from 2 to 7pm, Monday through Friday.