The Twenty-Nine Best Bars in Bushwick, NYC: From Dive Bars to Cocktail Havens
Introduction
Ever get that feeling? That Friday night urge, the one where you just *need* to unwind, discover something new, and soak in the authentic energy of New York City? If that urge pulls you towards the vibrant, artistic heart of Brooklyn, then look no further than Bushwick. Bushwick has transformed from an industrial landscape into a cultural epicenter, a haven for artists, musicians, and anyone seeking a genuine, unpretentious experience. And at the center of this incredible evolution is the thriving, electrifying bar scene.
Bushwick’s nightlife is unique, a tapestry woven from gritty dive bars, sophisticated cocktail lounges, sprawling beer gardens, and everything in between. The beauty of it all lies in the sheer diversity. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a cheap beer and a good time, Bushwick has a bar with your name on it.
This curated guide is your passport to navigating the very best of Bushwick’s watering holes. We’ve scoured the neighborhood, sampled countless drinks (it’s a tough job, but someone had to do it!), and assessed the atmosphere, the vibe, the drinks themselves, and the overall experience to bring you this definitive list of the top bars in Bushwick. Prepare to discover hidden gems, local favorites, and the perfect spot for your next unforgettable night out. We’ve considered factors such as atmosphere, drink quality and price, and that special spark that makes each establishment truly memorable.
Dive Bars: Embrace the Grit
Bushwick wouldn’t be Bushwick without its classic dive bars. These are the places where you can kick back, grab a cheap beer, and strike up a conversation with the regulars. No pretense, just good times and strong drinks.
The Narrows
This spot exudes old-school charm. Dim lighting, worn leather booths, and a jukebox filled with classic tunes create an intimate and inviting atmosphere. They offer a great selection of beers, both on tap and in bottles, and their well drinks are generously poured. The Narrows is the perfect place to unwind after a long day and enjoy a truly authentic Bushwick experience. Address: Grover Street, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $. Best For: Casual drinks, a low-key night, meeting locals.
Pearl’s Social & Billy Club
Don’t let the name fool you; while Pearl’s does have some amazing cocktails, it’s also a phenomenal dive. Dimly lit, pool table in the back, and strong drinks make this place a local favorite. Address: St. Nicholas Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $. Best For: A solid night out with friends.
Miles
Miles is a beloved neighborhood staple. It’s everything you want a dive bar to be, dark, cheap beer, and the perfect place to listen to some music. Address: Wilson Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $. Best For: Kicking back with some buds.
Craft Cocktail Destinations: Sophisticated Sips
For those with a more discerning palate, Bushwick boasts a growing number of craft cocktail bars. These establishments take their mixology seriously, using fresh ingredients, innovative techniques, and expert bartenders to create truly exceptional drinks.
Yours Sincerely
This is not your average cocktail bar. Yours Sincerely specializes in pre-batched cocktails that are complex, flavorful, and surprisingly affordable. The atmosphere is stylish and modern, but still welcoming and unpretentious. Address: Harrison Place, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Creative cocktails, a date night, impressing friends.
Sycamore Bar + Flower Shop
A unique combination, Sycamore seamlessly blends a charming flower shop with a cozy cocktail bar. Enjoy beautifully crafted cocktails surrounded by lush greenery, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Their seasonal menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and their bartenders are passionate about their craft. Address: Cortelyou Road, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Romantic drinks, unique ambiance, flower lovers.
AP Cafe
During the day, it’s a great coffee shop, at night, AP Cafe becomes a cozy, cocktail bar. With delicious eats, and carefully curated cocktails, AP Cafe is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Address: Morgan Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Dinner and drinks, or happy hour.
Beer Gardens and Outdoor Oases: Sunshine and Brews
When the weather’s warm, there’s nothing better than enjoying a cold beer in a spacious outdoor setting. Bushwick’s beer gardens and patios offer the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun, socialize with friends, and enjoy the neighborhood’s vibrant energy.
Nowadays
More than just a beer garden, Nowadays is a sprawling outdoor space that hosts a variety of events, from DJ sets to film screenings to community gatherings. They offer a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as delicious food options. The atmosphere is relaxed and inclusive, making it a perfect spot for a day or evening of fun. Address: Meeker Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Outdoor events, large groups, a sunny day.
The Well
Another Bushwick staple, The Well, has a huge selection of beers, and a ton of space. Perfect for bringing a big group of friends and enjoying a solid night. Address: Meserole St, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Big parties, and hanging outside.
Elsewhere Rooftop
The ultimate rooftop experience with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, delicious bites, and a vibrant atmosphere high above the bustling streets of Bushwick. Often features live music and DJ sets, making it a perfect spot for dancing the night away. Address: Morgan Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$$. Best For: Amazing views, a special occasion, dancing.
Bars with Live Music and Entertainment: Groove the Night Away
Bushwick is a haven for artists and musicians, so it’s no surprise that many of its bars feature live music and other forms of entertainment. From indie rock bands to DJ sets to comedy shows, there’s always something happening in Bushwick’s vibrant nightlife scene.
House of Yes
This is more than just a bar; it’s an experience. House of Yes is a legendary performance venue that hosts a wide variety of events, from aerial acrobatics to burlesque shows to immersive dance parties. The atmosphere is wild, theatrical, and unforgettable. Address: Wyckoff Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$$. Best For: A unique experience, dancing, performance art.
Market Hotel
A legendary DIY venue, that is a must-see in the Bushwick landscape. With cheap drinks and a space to see some of the best up-and-coming bands, Market Hotel is a one of a kind experience. Address: Broadway, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $. Best For: Seeing live music, and a cheap night out.
Brooklyn Steel
Okay, this technically isn’t a bar, but with a huge space and solid selection of beers, Brooklyn Steel is perfect for a concert. With an open floor, and some of the best bands coming through New York, Brooklyn Steel is a must see. Address: Frost St, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Seeing live music.
Date Night Destinations: Romance in Bushwick
Looking for the perfect spot to impress that special someone? Bushwick has plenty of bars that offer a romantic and intimate atmosphere, perfect for sparking conversation and creating lasting memories.
Mood Ring
This quirky and atmospheric bar is decorated with zodiac-themed artwork, creating a unique and whimsical ambiance. They offer a creative cocktail menu with drinks inspired by the astrological signs, making it a fun and engaging experience. Address: Stockholm St, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: A quirky date, astrology enthusiasts, unique cocktails.
Sea Wolf
Great place to bring a date, with food and drinks, you can settle in for the night. Order the oysters, or the lobster roll. Address: Wyckoff Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$$. Best For: Dinner and drinks.
The Rosemont
Dark, candle lit, and intimate, The Rosemont is the perfect place to bring a date and enjoy a delicious meal. Address: Montrose Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$$. Best For: Dinner and drinks, date night.
Themed Bars: Escape the Ordinary
Sometimes you want to escape the everyday and immerse yourself in a different world. Bushwick’s themed bars offer a unique and immersive experience, transporting you to another time and place.
Short Stories
Named for the classic dive bar, Short Stories serves delicious cocktails and a selection of beers. While the bar itself is not themed, the drinks are all named after famous short stories. Address: Morgan Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Cocktails.
Heavy Woods
Although it’s primarily a Cajun restaurant, Heavy Woods is a bar first and foremost. With cheap eats, and a laid back vibe, it’s like bringing New Orleans to Brooklyn. Address: Wyckoff Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Drinks and food.
The Three Diamond Door
Great for dancing or just taking a picture, this place has some unique decor, and a fun vibe. Address: Starr St, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Dancing and drinks.
Group Friendly Gathering Places: Fun with Friends
Gathering a group of friends for a night out? These bars are perfect for large groups, offering spacious layouts, communal tables, and a lively atmosphere.
Lot Forty Five
A huge place with plenty of room for dancing, Lot Forty Five is perfect for a night out with friends. Address: Suydam St, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Dancing and drinks.
Left Hand Path
Another brewery with a lot of seating, Left Hand Path is the perfect place to sit with a couple friends and have a couple beers. Address: Wyckoff Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Beers with friends.
Grimm Artisanal Ales
This brewery and taproom is perfect for beer lovers. They offer a wide selection of handcrafted beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, and the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting. Grimm Artisanal Ales is a great place to sample some of Brooklyn’s best craft beers with a group of friends. Address: Metropolitan Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Craft beer, groups, a casual atmosphere.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites: Discovering the Undiscovered
Bushwick is full of hidden gems and local favorites, bars that are off the beaten path and offer a truly unique experience. These are the places where you’ll find the real heart and soul of the neighborhood.
Bossa Nova Civic Club
A long time Brooklyn staple, Bossa Nova is the perfect place to dance with friends. With cheap drinks and good music, Bossa Nova Civic Club is a must-see. Address: Stockholm St, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $. Best For: Dancing.
Hinterlands Bar
Great burgers and great drinks, Hinterlands is a casual spot for a great night. Address: Wilson Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Burger and a beer.
Boobie Trap
Named after a woman, this bar serves great cocktails and is open late. Address: Bushwick Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Cocktails and a late night.
Sports Bars: Catch the Game
For sports enthusiasts, Bushwick offers several bars where you can catch the game with fellow fans. Enjoy cold beers, tasty food, and a lively atmosphere while cheering on your favorite team.
Pine Box Rock Shop
This unique spot is housed in a former coffin factory, adding a touch of macabre charm to the experience. They offer a wide selection of craft beers, as well as delicious pizza and other bar snacks. Pine Box Rock Shop is a great place to watch a game, listen to live music, or just hang out with friends. Address: Grattan St, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Craft beer, pizza, watching sports.
The Keep
While not strictly a sports bar, the keep has solid drinks, and plenty of tvs to watch whatever game you want. Address: Central Ave, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Casual drinks, and watching sports.
Momo Sushi Shack
While it primarily serves food, Momo Sushi Shack has cheap drinks and a chill atmosphere that is perfect for watching a game with some friends. Address: Bogart St, Bushwick, NY. Price Range: $$. Best For: Casual drinks, and watching sports.
Beyond the Bars: Exploring Bushwick’s Nightlife
Bushwick’s nightlife scene extends beyond just bars. You can also find a variety of clubs, music venues, and late-night food options. For a truly immersive experience, explore the neighborhood’s street art, attend a performance at House of Yes, or grab a late-night slice of pizza.
A Note on Safety: Remember to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable night out. Utilize ride-sharing services or public transportation, and always travel with friends if possible.
Conclusion
The bar scene in Bushwick is as vibrant and diverse as the neighborhood itself. From gritty dive bars to sophisticated cocktail lounges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your friends, explore these twenty-nine incredible bars, and discover the magic of Bushwick’s nightlife. Don’t forget to share your favorite spots and experiences in the comments below! What are you waiting for? Go and explore the best bars Bushwick has to offer!
We would also like to suggest our other guides to the best eateries in Bushwick, and the art scene that you can explore there.
