Summer may be officially over, but a little change of season’s not standing in the way of the launch of the longest-anticipated bar in Greenpoint.
After months of uncertainty, Brooklyn Barge Bar finally opened its gangplank to the public on Friday.
Initially billed to open in May, a hugely long ‘will they won’t they’ wait for a liquor permit meant that the the crew behind Brooklyn Barge Bar missed out on operating to sun-loving crowds during all of the warmer months. The permit was finally granted last Monday, which meant it was all hands on deck to get the bar up and running to attract punters before everyone goes into autumn hibernation mode.
The barge itself is moored just off Transmitter Park, and houses a long bar and a row of tables with views of the Manhattan skyline. On the land next to the barge is a container crate kitchen, plenty more seating, and some restrooms (also accessible to those in the park).
We went along to visit on Sunday, just before sunset. It was obvious that word of the opening had not yet spread, so there was a nice mellow vibe and we had our pick of places to sit.
Still in ‘soft opening’ stage, the bar currently offers bottled and draft beer for $7, with wine and a small selection of mixed drinks priced at $9. We tried the daily special ‘Amy Crush’ ($11) which consisted of Schofferhofer grapefruit beer and prosecco served over ice in a pint glass.
The food menu is likely to grow once they get settled in, but for the time being they offer a limited menu with light bites such as skewers, salads, burgers and sandwiches. Everything comes served ‘picnic-style’ in a brown box.
Aside from food and drink there are also plans for community activities such as conservation, kayaking and sailing.
Brooklyn Barge Bar is at 3 Milton Street. They will be open everyday until October 31 – 11:30 am to 1 am (weather permitting).
pretty excited about this bar. transmitter park was too peaceful…needed some more noise.