Brooklyn Bars: The New Class

by Justine Goodman - Citysearch Editor - 34 Reviews - 38 Lists

Updated: February 02, 2009

There's no doubt about it: Brooklyn is changing. But while you may not be a fan of the rise in strollers or condos, there's nothing wrong with the rise in cocktail dens. That's why we're raising a glass to the best of the new crop of Brooklyn bars--where the booze is as plentiful as the hipsters.

Brooklyn's Finest

  1. 1 3.5 Star Rating: Average The Hideout
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    266 Adelphi St, Brooklyn, NY 11205 (map)

    Fort Greene, don't think you can escape the cocktail fervor sweeping the city! Despite its "shh, don't tell" moniker, the word is out on this delightful Brooklyn cocktail den.

  2. 2 3.5 Star Rating: Average Gutter Bar
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    200 N 14th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 (map)

    Ever wonder what it felt like to bowl in '70s-era Pittsburgh? Wonder no more! Vintage decor, pitchers of craft beer and facial hair aplenty will have you celebrating like Terry Bradshaw just threw the game-winning touchdown.

  3. 3 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Beer Table
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    427 B 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215 (map)

    In Park Slope, craft brews and charcuterie attract a laid-back crowd of beer lovers who thankfully leave the babies at home.

  4. 4 4 Star Rating: Recommended Clover Club
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    210 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 (map)

    Yes, the upscale cocktail den has officially migrated to Brooklyn. With a polite nod to '20s-era drinking, this sexy lounge may keep Carroll Gardens' flappers and dandies from crossing the bridge.

  5. 5 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Huckleberry Bar
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    588 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 (map)

    Despite its "aw, shucks" name, this Williamsburg bar eschews Grandma-chic but still takes old-fashioned as a compliment, especially when it comes to their expertly made cocktails.

  6. 6 1.5 Star Rating: Poor Weather Up
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    589 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238 (map)

    The Sasha Petraske-trained bartenders and secret speakeasy vibe give this Brooklyn a bar a definite Manhattan feel, minus the obnoxious socialites of course.

  7. 7 4 Star Rating: Recommended Hotel Delmano
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    82 Berry St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 (map)

    The future of Williamsburg is here: Manhattan prices and patronage meet Brooklyn's intentional quirk. It's also the only bar in the neighborhood with its own besuited doorman.

  8. 8 3.5 Star Rating: Average Deity
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    368 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217 (map)

    A one-time synagogue is reimagined at this bewitching Boerum Hill conversion. Having fun here is definitely kosher.