Black Rabbit Coaster
The Black Rabbit is one of my all-time favorite bars in Greenpoint (actually maybe even in Brooklyn, which basically means favorite in New York City). Its decor draws very much on the ambiance of an old Irish pub without being kitschy or feeling out of place in the neighborhood. One of my favorite things about it are the booths that line one wall. Each has swinging doors that you can shut, and when you need service, you ring the bell to signal a waiter. Although we still have yet to venture from the North Brooklyn area (and I have only been to one new bar), the beer book is proving to be quite fun. In our defense, the Saturday we went to Black Rabbit was miserably rainy and cold, not very good adventuring weather.
But, perfect weather for a fireplace and cozy pub. Towards their big backyard are tables good for groups clustered near a small fireplace. If you are looking for a bar in Brooklyn with both a fireplace and hot toddies, this is your place. Unfortunately, the heat of the fireplace was cancelled out by the window next to our table labeled “do not close.” The dark wooden benches, while not the most comfortable, added to the pub-vibe.
Branching out from my usual (slightly lazy) choice of a Brooklyn Lager, I chose to use my beer coupon on the Allagash White. That is a Belgian beer brewed in Maine. I enjoyed the light, crisp flavor. Black Rabbit also serves food (including a cheese plate), but I have yet to actually try it.
Another thing I love about Black Rabbit are the little details. They have Trivial Pursuit cards on the bar and host strange events like Speed Dating to the Smiths. It is impressive that a bar can swing from very low-key to Friday-night-crowded without losing its charm and personality. If you are in the Greenpoint area, I highly recommend a stop at Black Rabbit for a pint and old-world charm.
