Mama Joy’s
1084 Flushing Ave., at Porter Ave.
Bushwick
(347) 295-2227
What is it: Perfectly placed between the Morgan and Jefferson L stops, this Southern food slinging bar is home to a rotating selection of 8 drafts, a $4 beer and shot combo and 45 different whiskeys. The walls show off half exposed brick and half old wallpaper and wooden panels. The owner said that in the process of renovating, he decided he liked the pulled off wall paper look and left it as is – we like everything about it.
Why We love it: So many reasons. Spacious inside, backyard in the summer, knowledgeable bartenders, great southern food and again, 45 whiskeys and a $4 beer and shot combo. The owner and bartenders are knowledgeable about all things booze and super nice. They are what gives this bar a true neighborhood feel.
Who to bring: People that complain about not being able to find good southern fried chicken and people who like whiskey. There are also tables that can be pushed together to accommodate large groups as well as retro style booths. Mama Joys is pretty versatile meaning you can bring friends, family or dates.
What to order: Fried chicken and hush puppies are the key foods to hit paired with any one of their rotating drafts. Want a whiskey but unsure with their large selection? The bartender or owner will be more than happy to provide some 101 info and if you’re nice, a taste or many.
Mama Joys fun fact: If you talk to some of the bartenders about infusing they may just pull out an unadvertised bottle of booze they are working on. Bacon fat vodka anyone?