102 Best Bars in Brooklyn, New York City

Outstanding regular performers, such as Mamady Kouyate's Mandingo Ambassadors and the Django Reinhardt-channeling Stephane Wrembe, spin threads of folk and global into 21st-century music. There's also Slavic Soul Party!, a Baltic brass band, weekly. Shows take place in the back room, while up front the divey bar has a laid-back vibe and a full cocktail menu.

You wouldn't think a premiere live music venue would be in such a secluded, industrial district, but perhaps that it's Brooklyn appeal. Formerly a steel factory, this venue from the Bowery Presents group hosts many rock and indie acts to large space that holds 1,800 guests across its main floor, balcony, and three bars.

Greenpointers flock to this favorite neighborhood bar, named after a play by Mae West, with speakeasy vibes, creative concoctions, and oysters served daily. Its dimly lit, art deco aesthetic sets the mood, whether you settle into a booth or cozy up to the bar, for seasonal cocktails categorized as either "shaken" or "stirred." In the warmer months, the pleasant backyard is open for outdoor enjoyment.

Housed in a former corner market, this easygoing neighborhood craft beer and cocktail bar, led by head bartender Patty Dennison, changes their cocktail roster seasonally, each with funny names to go along with the season's quirky theme. The kitchen keeps up, preparing light bites to pair with them. 

This award-winning brewery shines in crafting brews across the whole beer and ale spectrum, especially IPAs and sours. However, they're now also partnered with Physica, a sister wine program of local, natural wines. In addition to their already sprawling taproom that's adjacent to their tanks and barrels, is a large outdoor/indoor rooftop space, where you can use your beer or wine to wash down slices of Brooklyn-style pies from La La’s Apizza.

Transport yourself to New Orleans in this dimly lit, yet lively cocktail and oyster bar, known for an extensive absinthe selection, a menu spanning light fare to hearty braised beef cheeks, and above all, an impressive selection of oysters hailing from both coasts. Cozy up at the horseshoe-shape bar or dine at a cast-iron table inside—or in the back garden on warm days.

This neighborhood standby has something going on just about every night. On the main floor, two bocce courts and library nooks with couches are popular hangouts. There's a backyard patio open in good weather. Their menu of tasty burgers, wings, and hot dogs served in three styles means the patrons tend to settle in for the evening. Downstairs, there are smart comedy shows with both high-profile and up-and-coming performers, eclectic talks, or DJs spinning. Events are either free or have a modest cover (from $5).

Perched atop the Arlo Williamsburg, overlooking its rooftop pool, this ambitious bar is one of four party venues within the hotel. Not one of New York’s actual iconic water towers, but rather a conical glass structure made in tribute to them, the bar is unabashedly upscale, with inventive albeit pricey cocktails. The 360-degree views are some of the city’s best, and if you’re looking for a comprehensive night out, starting with drinks and ending with a DJ dance party, this is your ticket.

This corner bar has been a cozy outpost for Greenpointers during much of the riverfront's transformation from industrial to industrial chic. With a wood-burning stove for warmth in the winter, and outdoor space to drink and dine alfresco in the summer, Achilles Heel is known for simple, yet creative cocktails, and Korean-inspired banchan (small plates) including a banchan of the day. Often crowded on weekends, get there on the early end to snag seats, or reserve a table in advance.