Bar Mario

- 365 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

Introduction / Overview

If you're in the New York area and seeking an authentic, vibrant Italian dining experience outside of the typical Manhattan hustle, look no further than Bar Mario in the charming, waterfront neighborhood of Red Hook, Brooklyn. Seamlessly blending the relaxed feel of a classic neighborhood pub with the culinary sophistication of a top-tier Italian restaurant, Bar Mario has quickly become a beloved local destination. It’s an ideal spot for a date night, a casual dinner with friends, or simply enjoying a perfectly made cocktail at the bar.

The concept is brought to life by an all-Italian team, with owners hailing from the culinary heartlands of Florence and Turin. This deep-rooted regional expertise is evident in every dish, offering New Yorkers a genuine taste of Northern Italian gastronomy. The atmosphere itself is a key part of the experience—it’s lively, cozy, and trendy all at once, featuring design elements like deep teal velvet seating, black-and-white checkered floors, and a modern, welcoming aesthetic that recalls a retro, vaguely 70s decor while remaining firmly modern Brooklyn. It's the kind of place that feels both new and like an established neighborhood institution, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and groups looking for great food and high spirits. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or settling in for a multi-course meal, Bar Mario provides a warm, authentic slice of Italian charm right on Van Brunt Street.

Beyond the excellent food and drink, the establishment is particularly noted for its warm hospitality. Customers frequently praise the friendly, engaging service, which contributes to the "feel like home" atmosphere. It’s a place where the staff genuinely welcomes you, and even the bartenders are known for their delightful, highly skilled work, making personalized drink recommendations that go "beyond expectations." The vibrant environment makes it a great choice for various occasions, including those seeking a comfortable spot for solo dining.

Location and Accessibility

Bar Mario is perfectly situated at 365 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA, placing it right on a corner in the distinctive Red Hook neighborhood. Red Hook itself is known for its industrial-chic aesthetic, cobblestone streets, and unique waterfront feel, making the journey part of the destination.

For those driving, the venue offers the convenience of free street parking nearby, a valuable amenity in NYC. In terms of payments, the establishment is modern and flexible, accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

A significant highlight for all patrons is the focus on accessibility. Bar Mario is fully inclusive, offering a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring everyone can comfortably enjoy the dining experience. The restaurant also provides a Gender-neutral restroom and Wi-Fi, further demonstrating its commitment to modern hospitality. There is also outdoor seating available, perfect for enjoying a meal or a cocktail during warmer New York evenings.

Services Offered

Bar Mario operates as a versatile destination, functioning as a full-service restaurant, a lively bar, and a cozy pub. Their commitment to excellent service is reflected in the numerous options they offer to patrons:

• Dine-in Service: Full table service with both indoor and seasonal outdoor seating available.
• Takeout & Delivery: Convenient options for enjoying their authentic Italian fare at home.
• No-Contact Delivery: An option for those who prefer an extra layer of safety.
• Reservations Accepted: Guests are encouraged to plan ahead, as this popular spot often fills up quickly, especially during peak dinner hours.
• Full Bar Service: Offering a wide range of beverages, including a renowned selection of cocktails, wine, beer, and hard liquor, with food service available directly at the bar.

Features / Highlights

Bar Mario is celebrated for several key features that set it apart in the competitive Brooklyn dining scene, making it a favorite for locals and a must-try for visitors:

• Authentic Regional Italian Cuisine: The menu showcases regional classics from the owners’ home cities of Florence (Tuscan inspiration) and Turin (Piedmontese inspiration), offering dishes like vitello tonnato, fritto misto, and specialty gnocchi.
• The Legendary "Spaghetti Hangover": A highly recommended and frequently praised signature dish—fresh noodles tossed in a robust mix of olive oil, capers, anchovies, chiles, and tomatoes. As one reviewer noted, it’s an "outrageously robust" and incredibly delicious plate.
• Expertly Crafted Cocktails: The bar is known for its high-quality mixed drinks, particularly the Negronis, which are often described as "immaculate." The staff can also create custom, inventive cocktails based on preferences, like a mezcal drink that was "beyond expectations."
• Well-Curated Wine List: A thoughtful, two-page selection of wines is available, with options ranging from glasses priced around $15 to $28 and bottles from $55 to over $300, complementing the Northern Italian fare.
• Lively, Cozy, and Trendy Atmosphere: The interior design, featuring jewel-toned velvet seating and black-and-white checkered tiles, provides a sophisticated yet casual "disco-vibe" backdrop perfect for social gatherings.
• Speed and Efficiency: Patrons frequently highlight the Fast service, which is a major convenience in a busy setting.
• Menu Favorites: Beyond the signature pasta, other popular and highly-rated items include the Mario's Secret Meatballs (Polpettine Langarole), Pici Cacio e Pepe, and the Fritto di Calamari & Shrimp.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, or to place an order, you can contact Bar Mario using the details below:

Address: 365 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA

Phone: (631) 616-5695

What is Worth Choosing

Bar Mario stands out as a top-tier choice for New Yorkers for its powerful combination of high-quality, authentic Italian cuisine and a genuinely welcoming, lively social setting. It's more than just a restaurant—it's a destination where you can taste the culinary traditions of Florence and Turin, thoughtfully executed by a passionate team.

For the Food Enthusiast: The menu is filled with tempting regional classics. The pasta dishes are a non-negotiable must-try, particularly the famous Spaghetti Hangover for those who appreciate robust, savory flavors, or the rich Pici Cacio e Pepe. The appetizers, such as POLPETTINE LANGAROLE and FRITTO DI CALAMARI & SHRIMP, consistently earn high marks for their quality and flavor.

For the Cocktail and Wine Lover: The Great cocktails and Great wine list are celebrated highlights. Whether you’re looking for a classic Italian aperitivo like an immaculate Negroni or a unique, bartender-created concoction, Bar Mario delivers exceptional drink quality. The availability of food directly at the bar also makes it a perfect, casual spot for happy hour or an early evening snack.

For the Local Experience: If you value a place with a distinct personality, where the atmosphere is casual yet trendy, and the staff greets you like family, Bar Mario is your spot. It has the authentic feel of a "real-life Bar Mario" imagined by the owners—a classic, yet modern, Italian hangout. The fact that it is Popular for Solo dining further underscores its comfortable and friendly vibe. In short, Bar Mario offers a complete, satisfying, and authentically Italian experience that is well worth the trip to the heart of Red Hook. It’s an essential addition to any New Yorker's list of go-to Brooklyn spots.

Bar Mario

365 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA