Brooklyn’s culinary landscape is as diverse and exciting as its neighborhoods, and when it comes to bars that serve amazing food, the borough truly shines. From cozy neighborhood pubs serving comforting classics to trendy cocktail bars plating up innovative small plates, the options for enjoying a delicious meal alongside a carefully crafted beverage are seemingly endless. Whether you’re a local seeking your new favorite haunt or a visitor eager to experience the best of Brooklyn’s bar scene, this guide is designed to help you find the perfect spot.
This article explores the best bars with food in Brooklyn, covering a range of cuisines, atmospheres, and price points. We’ll delve into the establishments that offer not just excellent drinks, but also exceptional food – places where you can enjoy a satisfying meal while soaking in the atmosphere. We’ll guide you through a gastronomic journey that spans the borough, ensuring you discover hidden gems and beloved classics alike. Prepare to explore some of the best bars with food Brooklyn has to offer!
How We Picked the Best
The bars featured in this guide were selected based on a combination of factors. We considered their reputation, as gleaned from customer reviews and online recommendations. We’ve personally visited and experienced many of these establishments, and we consulted with local experts to provide insights and recommendations. Our selection process emphasized:
- Food Quality & Variety: We prioritized bars with food menus that go beyond simple bar snacks. We looked for establishments offering a diverse range of options, from classic pub fare and comforting comfort food to sophisticated small plates and cuisine-specific creations. The focus was on restaurants that take pride in their culinary offerings.
- Atmosphere: The atmosphere of a bar is crucial. We looked for bars that offer a welcoming and enjoyable environment, whether it’s a lively and social atmosphere or a more intimate and relaxed setting. Consider whether the establishment has comfortable seating, good lighting, and well-curated decor.
- Drink Selection: A great bar needs great drinks. We considered the breadth and quality of the drink menu, from craft cocktails and extensive beer lists to well-curated wine selections. We looked for bars that offer unique drinks and that clearly understand their mixology craft.
- Value for Money: We consider the value of a bar’s offer. This means considering the price of the food and drinks in relation to the quality and experience provided. We sought a range of bars to offer different experiences at different price points.
- Neighborhood Character: Brooklyn is a borough of distinct neighborhoods, and we considered how well a bar fits into its surroundings.
Exploring the Culinary Landscape: Bar Experiences in Brooklyn
Williamsburg’s Vibrant Scene
Williamsburg has become synonymous with all things hip and trendy, and its bar scene reflects that reputation. You can find everything here from rooftop bars with panoramic city views to intimate speakeasies. Here are some Williamsburg gems, offering exceptional food offerings.
- The Woods: This iconic Williamsburg bar is a longtime local favorite, known for its expansive outdoor patio, especially appealing in the warmer months. Its kitchen focuses on hearty, satisfying fare, making it a perfect spot to settle in with friends and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Their offerings include a good selection of pizzas, burgers, tacos, and an all-around impressive menu. The drink menu is equally impressive, featuring a wide selection of beers, craft cocktails, and a friendly staff.
- Rye: For a touch of sophistication, Rye offers a refined ambiance with a menu to match. While known for its handcrafted cocktails, Rye also boasts a kitchen that serves up a delicious menu with American comfort food, from crispy chicken wings to delicious burgers.
- Westlight: If you are seeking a bar with an exceptional view, then look no further. Located atop The William Vale hotel, Westlight offers stunning panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. Beyond the vistas, it features a selection of small plates and carefully crafted cocktails, perfect for a refined evening.
Park Slope’s Neighborhood Charm
Park Slope is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and its charming, tree-lined streets. The bars here tend to reflect that vibe, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on quality food and drink.
- The Owl Farm: This neighborhood spot exudes warmth and comfort. Known for its craft cocktails, The Owl Farm also offers a food menu featuring elevated pub fare that satisfies both heart and soul.
- Commonwealth Bar: This is an inviting and stylish spot with a great food menu. This bar offers seasonal dishes, with a range of classic cocktails, as well as a curated selection of beers and wines. This is a perfect place to meet with friends, whether for a casual get-together or something more special.
Bushwick’s Artistic Flair
Bushwick is a hub of artistic expression and diverse cultures, and its bar scene reflects this energy. Here you’ll find creative cocktails, unique food offerings, and a lively atmosphere.
- Roberta’s Pizza: While primarily known for its incredible wood-fired pizzas, Roberta’s also boasts a vibrant bar scene and a relaxed atmosphere. A quintessential Bushwick experience.
- The Rookery: A cozy British-style pub with a menu that is both familiar and elevated. This is the perfect place to catch up with friends. This bar is also known for its selection of craft beers and a well-stocked bar.
Elevated Dining in Pub Settings
Many of the best bars in Brooklyn have elevated their pub fare, offering creative and delicious food in a comfortable and convivial setting.
- The Brazen Head: The Brazen Head, a historic pub, offers a menu of classic Irish dishes alongside an impressive list of beers. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a casual night out.
- Brooklyn Social: With its vintage decor and a laid-back atmosphere, this bar serves up elevated comfort food. Brooklyn Social provides the perfect atmosphere for a get together with friends, or a relaxing evening.
Craft Cocktails and Complementary Cuisine
Many of the most sought after bars in Brooklyn have carefully curated menus that offer a wide range of high-quality cocktails, complemented by snacks and more substantial dishes that make them ideal destinations for an evening.
- Clover Club: Located in Cobble Hill, Clover Club is a cocktail-focused bar that serves expertly made drinks in a stylish setting. Its food menu is designed to complement the cocktails, featuring small plates and substantial dishes to satisfy any appetite.
- Attaboy: Known for its speakeasy-style ambiance and personalized service, Attaboy also offers a selection of carefully crafted cocktails to be enjoyed with a selection of snacks.
Beyond the Usual: Bars with Specific Cuisines
Brooklyn’s culinary diversity shines through in its bar scene.
Mexican Delights
- El Bornesito: A beloved Mexican bar, this offers a great selection of Mexican food, tacos, and cocktails, alongside a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for a fun night out.
Pizza and Pints
- Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop: This is a great option, with a variety of wood-fired pizzas and a wide selection of beers, perfect for a casual and delicious meal.
Other Factors to Consider
- Outdoor Spaces: Brooklyn’s beautiful weather invites bars to have outdoor spaces for their customers. Make sure to check for the best bars with patios, rooftops, or sidewalk seating.
- Happy Hour Deals: Happy hour is an essential part of the Brooklyn bar scene. Look for the bars that offer happy hour specials, providing great value for the cost.
- Late-Night Experiences: Whether you are looking for a place to relax late at night, or just want to keep the party going, Brooklyn has many bars open late, serving food and drinks.
- Live Music and Entertainment: If you want to experience the best music and entertainment, check out the establishments that have live music, DJs, and other forms of entertainment.
- Budget-Friendly Choices: The best bars in Brooklyn don’t always have to be expensive. Look for the bars with great value and affordable prices.
Conclusion: Your Brooklyn Bar Adventure Awaits
Brooklyn’s bar scene is a testament to the borough’s vibrant culture and its dedication to exceptional food and drink. This guide has offered a glimpse into the best bars with food Brooklyn can offer, from the bustling streets of Williamsburg to the charming neighborhoods of Park Slope, Bushwick and beyond. We have traveled from Mexican delights to pizza and pints, each offering a unique vibe and something for everyone.
Now, it’s your turn to explore! Use this guide as your starting point, venture out, and discover your new favorite spot. Try the recommendations and share your experiences with friends. Cheers to exploring the amazing world of bars with food in Brooklyn!
