Crown Heights, Brooklyn, boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, offering a range of bars to suit every taste. From cozy neighborhood pubs to trendy cocktail lounges, this guide highlights 18 of the best bars in Crown Heights, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next night out. This list includes options for craft beer lovers, whiskey aficionados, and those seeking a lively atmosphere or a quiet, intimate setting. We've considered factors like ambiance, drink quality, and overall experience to bring you this curated selection.
Dive into Crown Heights' Thriving Bar Scene
Crown Heights' bar scene is as diverse as its residents. You'll find everything from classic dive bars with a neighborhood feel to upscale cocktail bars with creative concoctions. Whether you're looking for a casual drink after work or a celebratory night out, Crown Heights has something for everyone. Let's explore some of the neighborhood's gems:
Cozy & Casual Spots: Perfect for a Relaxed Evening
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The Crown Inn: A quintessential neighborhood pub with a welcoming atmosphere, The Crown Inn offers a wide selection of beers on tap and a comforting menu of pub fare. It's the perfect place to unwind after a long day or catch up with friends.
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Bar Lunatique: Known for its intimate setting and friendly staff, Bar Lunatique is a great spot for a quiet drink and conversation. Their wine list is impressive, and they also offer a selection of craft cocktails.
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Brooklyn Brewery: While technically not solely a bar, the Brooklyn Brewery's tasting room in Williamsburg (a short distance from Crown Heights) offers a fantastic opportunity to sample a range of their award-winning beers in a lively atmosphere.
Craft Beer Havens: For the Hop Head
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Oxbow Tavern: This gastropub features a rotating selection of craft beers on tap, along with a delicious menu of elevated pub food. Their knowledgeable bartenders can help you find the perfect brew to complement your meal.
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The Caribbean Restaurant & Bar: While specializing in Caribbean cuisine, this spot also boasts an impressive selection of beers from various Caribbean islands, offering a unique and flavorful drinking experience.
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Greater Good Bar: This popular spot offers a broad range of craft beers and a menu that perfectly complements their diverse selection of drinks.
Upscale Cocktail Lounges: For a Sophisticated Night Out
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The Franklin: Known for its innovative cocktails and stylish ambiance, The Franklin is a Crown Heights gem. Their expertly crafted drinks are a testament to their dedication to mixology.
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NoName: This hidden gem boasts a speakeasy vibe with expertly-crafted cocktails in a refined yet unpretentious atmosphere.
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Chavela's: While primarily known for its delicious Mexican cuisine, Chavela's offers a curated cocktail menu perfect for pairing with their flavorful dishes.
Lively & Social Bars: Perfect for a Night Out with Friends
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Eugene & Co.: This bustling spot is known for its creative cocktails, delicious food, and lively atmosphere. It’s a popular choice for groups of friends looking for a fun night out.
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Sister Louisa's Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium: A quirky and unique spot, this bar combines ping pong, a lively atmosphere, and a diverse drink menu. It's an unforgettable Crown Heights experience.
Unique & Memorable Experiences
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Bed-Stuy's Alibi: While slightly outside of Crown Heights proper, this Bed-Stuy bar offers a welcoming atmosphere and a fun selection of beers and cocktails.
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House of Yes: This isn't your typical bar. House of Yes is an immersive performance venue and bar combined, offering unique and unforgettable entertainment.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Discover the Unexpected
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Shea Stadium: A beloved neighborhood bar with a relaxed vibe and a friendly atmosphere, Shea Stadium is the perfect place to unwind and socialize with locals.
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DeKalb Market Hall: While technically a food hall, DeKalb Market Hall in Downtown Brooklyn (a short subway ride from Crown Heights) offers several bars and eateries, creating a lively and diverse atmosphere.
For a Different Kind of Night
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The Owl Farm: This more subdued bar offers a calm environment with a selection of beers and cocktails.
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Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club: Looking for something unique? This spot blends shuffleboard games with a creative selection of cocktails, perfect for a fun night out with friends.
A Crown Heights Classic
- Lilia: While reservations are essential, Lilia is worth the effort. While primarily a restaurant, their bar offers a fantastic ambiance and a cocktail list that’s worth the visit alone.
Finding Your Perfect Crown Heights Bar
This list offers a starting point for exploring the diverse bar scene in Crown Heights. Remember to check each bar's website or social media for hours of operation, special events, and any potential reservations policies. Happy bar hopping! Cheers to discovering your new favorite Crown Heights bar!
