Brooklyn Social

- 335 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

Welcome to Brooklyn Social, an essential stop on any tour of Smith Street's vibrant nightlife and a cornerstone of the Carroll Gardens bar scene. More than just a place to grab a drink, this establishment offers a truly unique, vintage New York experience, one steeped in local history and celebrated for its expertly crafted cocktails. Since opening its doors to the public in 2004, Brooklyn Social has distinguished itself by maintaining the authentic ambiance of its previous life, inviting locals and visitors alike to step back in time.

Often described as a speakeasy-style bar due to its unassuming facade, the true magic of Brooklyn Social lies in its past. The venue is located in the former home of the Società Riposto, a private Sicilian social club that for 70-odd years served as a gathering place for its members, celebrating South Brooklyn's deep Italian-American roots. When you walk inside, you're not just entering a bar; you're entering a preserved piece of neighborhood history. The original red pressed-tin ceiling, the antique clock over the curved deco bar, and the walls lined with charming, ancient photographs of the original tuxedo-clad club members from the 1920s all contribute to an atmosphere that is both cozy and genuinely authentic. This commitment to preserving the vintage club aesthetic makes Brooklyn Social a one-of-a-kind destination in New York City, a world away from the generic modernity found elsewhere.

The bar’s reputation is built on two things: its remarkable atmosphere and its phenomenal cocktails. The bartenders, often noted for their professional attire of ties and sharp shirts, take their mixology seriously, focusing on simple twists to classic recipes. Favorites on the menu, such as the famous Matt's Ginger Old Fashioned, the 'Brooklyn,' and the 'Neapolitan,' have earned rave reviews from New York’s top publications. This dedication to quality drinks in a perfectly preserved, low-key setting is what makes Brooklyn Social a neighborhood treasure worth traveling for.

Location and Accessibility

Brooklyn Social is situated in the heart of the desirable Carroll Gardens neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. The bar’s precise location at 335 Smith Street places it on one of the borough's most popular and bustling thoroughfares, easily accessible from several surrounding neighborhoods including Gowanus, Cobble Hill, and Red Hook. For New York City residents, getting there is straightforward, contributing to its status as a favorite local hangout. The unassuming, all-black exterior with its recessed door is a purposeful design choice that hints at the private, hidden history within, adding a sense of discovery for first-time visitors. The bar is well-connected for those traveling via public transit. It is conveniently located near the Carroll Street subway station, serviced by the F and G lines, making it an easy and reliable destination for a night out in Brooklyn. Furthermore, the establishment is committed to inclusivity, as evidenced by its wheelchair accessibility for both the entrance and the restroom, ensuring a welcoming environment for a diverse crowd of patrons.

Services Offered

Brooklyn Social operates as a full-service bar and cocktail lounge, specializing in drinks and offering light food options. The variety of services and features ensures a comfortable and accommodating experience for all guests:

• Full Bar Service: Featuring a wide selection of offerings including expertly crafted cocktails, a great selection of draft and bottled beer (such as Peroni and Brooklyn Lager), wine, hard liquor, and specialized happy hour drinks.
• Signature Cocktails: The cocktail menu includes unique and highly-rated drinks such as the Matt's Ginger Old Fashioned, the Neapolitan, the Brooklyn, the Fellini, and the Riposto (named after the original club).
• Dine-in and Seating: Patrons can enjoy their experience with comfortable seating options, including cozy corner booths.
• Outdoor Seating: A fantastic, cute backyard patio is available, offering a great spot to socialize and enjoy drinks during the warmer months, or year-round as weather permits.
• Takeout Service: Options are available for those who wish to enjoy some of their selections elsewhere.
• Food at Bar: A limited, but satisfying, menu of hot pressed sandwiches and snacks is available for enjoyment.
• Accepts Digital Payments: The bar is modern with payment options, accepting both debit cards and NFC mobile payments.
• Games and Entertainment: A pool table is located in the back room, providing a social activity for guests.
• Happy Hour: The venue offers happy hour specials, providing discounted drinks for patrons looking to unwind after work.

Features and Highlights

Brooklyn Social offers a unique blend of history, sophisticated drinks, and a genuinely relaxed atmosphere, which sets it apart from many other bars in the city. Its most celebrated features contribute to its loyal following in the New York area:

• Historic and Vintage Atmosphere: The bar is housed in the former Società Riposto, a Sicilian men's social club dating back to the 1920s. This history is maintained through the original preserved decor, including the red pressed-tin ceiling, antique clock, and framed photos of original members, creating a cozy and nostalgic 'old-man's club' feel.
• Exceptional Cocktail Program: Renowned for its classic and inventive cocktails, such as the highly praised Matt's Ginger Old Fashioned, the bar provides sophisticated, clean, and precisely mixed drinks that avoid overly sweet flavors. The 'Riposto' cocktail is a direct nod to the building's past.
• Cozy and Welcoming Vibe: Despite its trendy status, the atmosphere remains casual and inviting. The setting is dimly lit, conducive to intimate conversations, and features comfortable seating for groups or date nights.
• Outdoor Backyard Patio: The establishment boasts a charming and highly sought-after outdoor space, providing an excellent escape for socializing during spring and summer evenings.
• Inclusivity and Safety: Brooklyn Social is widely recognized as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, fostering a welcoming environment for all patrons.
• Entertainment Options: The presence of a pool table in the back room offers guests a fun, recreational activity to enjoy while they socialize.
• Fast and Professional Service: Customers frequently commend the staff for their quick service and friendly, expert bartending, further enhancing the overall positive experience.

What is Worth Choosing at Brooklyn Social

For New Yorkers and those visiting the city seeking an authentic, high-quality, and memorable night out in Brooklyn, Brooklyn Social should be at the top of your list. It's more than just the quality of the ingredients; it’s about the quality of the experience. The main draw is the palpable link to Brooklyn's past. In a city where venues are constantly changing, Brooklyn Social offers a tangible piece of history, an environment that feels both louche and elegant, a 'romantic Brooklyn ideal' as noted by press.

The dedication to classic cocktail making is evident in every pour. If you're a connoisseur of classic drinks, the meticulous attention to detail on offerings like the Matt's Ginger Old Fashioned—hailed as ambrosial and strong—is reason enough to visit. However, even for those simply looking for a laid-back spot to gather with friends, the bar delivers. The combination of its 'non-members welcome' ethos, the low-key buzz of the interior, and the option to retreat to the great backyard patio or shoot a round of pool creates a dynamic yet consistently cozy environment.

Customer reviews repeatedly praise the perfect vibe, the delicious drinks, and the professional, friendly staff. Whether you’re stopping by for a pre-dinner martini or settling in for an evening of conversation and cold draft beer, Brooklyn Social offers an experience that embodies the best of old-school Brooklyn charm blended with modern cocktail excellence. It's a place where history and trend meet, resulting in one of the borough’s coolest, most rewarding nightspots. If you cherish strong, well-made drinks and an atmosphere that tells a story, make your way to Smith Street.

Contact Information

Address: 335 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA

Phone: (718) 858-7758

Brooklyn Social

335 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA