Congress Bar

- 208 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

When Brooklyn locals talk about the best spots for a perfectly balanced cocktail, a friendly vibe, and a top-notch selection of drinks, Congress Bar in Cobble Hill consistently comes up. This intimate neighborhood bar, nestled right on landmark Court Street, has been serving the community for years, establishing itself as a beloved local fixture. If you're searching for a destination that merges the sophistication of craft mixology with the welcoming, low-key feel of a true neighborhood staple, Congress Bar should be your next stop.

Since opening its doors in December 2013, Congress Bar has carved out a unique space in the vibrant Brooklyn bar scene. It’s known for more than just its drinks; it’s celebrated for its cozy, trendy, yet casual atmosphere that attracts both long-time residents and first-time visitors alike. The establishment proudly serves a curated menu of craft cocktails, alongside a deep bench of draft beer and wine options, making it a perfect spot for any type of night out, whether you're looking for a quiet evening drink or a lively gathering with friends. The space itself has a compelling history, having been formally "Jim & Andy's Produce," a nod to which can still be seen in the original storefront signage and hand-designed interior wallpaper, adding a layer of authentic Brooklyn history to your experience.

Congress Bar is ideally situated in one of Brooklyn’s most charming and accessible neighborhoods, Cobble Hill. Its location on a main artery, Court Street, makes it an easy destination to reach for anyone in the New York area looking for a quality drink.

The full address is: 208 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA.

Accessibility is a key priority for the establishment. For guests with mobility considerations, the bar features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all members of the community can comfortably enjoy the space. The prime location in Cobble Hill is well-served by public transportation options, making it simple to get to from other parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan. For those driving, paid street parking is available in the surrounding area, though, as with any popular New York neighborhood, availability can vary. The inviting atmosphere extends beyond the interior, with ample outdoor seating available, perfect for enjoying a seasonal cocktail on a pleasant evening.

Congress Bar is dedicated to providing a full, high-quality bar experience, focusing on exceptional drink offerings, friendly service, and a comfortable setting. The following services and options are available to patrons:

• Alcoholic Beverage Selection: A comprehensive array including Beer, Cocktails, Wine, and Hard Liquor.
• Happy Hour Drinks: Discounted prices on menu cocktails, draft beer, and wine, offered throughout the week to help you unwind without breaking the bank. Happy Hour generally runs Monday through Thursday from 4 PM to 7 PM, with a special Late Night Happy Hour on Thursdays from 10 PM to 2 AM. On Fridays, the happy hour extends from 1 PM to 7 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays, you can catch the specials from 1 PM to 4 PM.
• Full Food Menu (Limited): While primarily a bar, some food items are offered, and the policy allows for outside food.
• Seating Options: Both indoor and comfortable outdoor seating is available, with the outdoor space often being a popular spot in the neighborhood.
• Service Style: Order at the bar service is typical, noted by customers for its efficiency and attentiveness even during busy times.
• Payment Options: For convenience, the bar accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Private Events: Inquiries for booking private events can be made, suggesting the space can accommodate group gatherings and celebrations.
• Amenities: The bar provides a well-maintained Restroom for customer use.

The appeal of Congress Bar is rooted in several key features that make it a standout choice among New York’s countless bar offerings. These highlights are what draw loyal locals and curious new visitors to 208 Court Street.

• Great Cocktails & Mixology Expertise: The bar is celebrated for its craft cocktails, which are described by patrons as "on point, well made, and interesting." The staff is recognized for their knowledge and skill, indicating a serious commitment to the art of the drink. Their cocktail list is seasonal and constantly evolving, ensuring repeat visits offer something new to try.
• Exceptional Happy Hour Value: The happy hour specials are a major draw, offering $2 off Menu Cocktails, Draft Beer, and Wine for generous stretches of time on weekdays and weekends, including a late-night option on Thursdays. This makes high-quality drinks more accessible to the Brooklyn crowd.
• Great Beer and Wine Selection: Beyond the cocktails, Congress Bar boasts an excellent list of both Beer (including draft options) and Wine, catering to all palates and preferences.
• Fast and Attentive Service: Customer reviews frequently praise the speed and attentiveness of the bartenders and staff. The service is friendly and professional, with staff ensuring all patrons, even during peak hours, feel acknowledged and served promptly.
• Intimate, Cozy, and Trendy Atmosphere: The bar provides a dim-lit, cozy space that is perfect for conversation. The ambiance is casual yet trendy, making it an ideal setting for both a date night and a casual meetup with a group of friends or fellow locals.
• Strong Local Reputation: The bar has received recognition in publications like The New Yorker and Gothamist, which named it one of the "10 Best New Bars In NYC," solidifying its reputation as a serious contender in the city’s bar scene.

For more information, or to plan your visit, here is the essential contact and location information for Congress Bar:

Address: 208 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA

Phone: (347) 916-0802

Current Operating Hours: The bar maintains late hours throughout the week, making it a reliable evening destination.

• Monday - Thursday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
• Friday - Sunday: 1:00 PM – 2:00 AM

Note: It is always recommended to check the official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours and holiday scheduling.

For New Yorkers in the know, Congress Bar represents the ideal trifecta of location, quality, and ambiance. What truly makes it worth choosing over other options in the city is its unwavering commitment to high-quality mixology in a genuinely unpretentious setting. Many cocktail bars in NYC can feel overly formal or inaccessible; Congress Bar manages to deliver seasonal, expertly crafted cocktails—including house specialties like the Rosemary's Stepdaughter or a unique Guinness Espresso Martini—with the warm, welcoming spirit of a classic neighborhood haunt.

If you are a connoisseur of fine drinks, the great cocktail menu and the expertise of the bartenders are a compelling reason to visit. If you're a Brooklyn resident seeking a regular spot, the consistent, generous happy hour and the community atmosphere—a place where the crowd is noted to be groups and friendly locals—make it the perfect weekly destination. For anyone exploring Cobble Hill or seeking a cozy, dimly lit retreat, the combination of fast service, a great draft selection, and the intimate decor promises a superior bar experience. It’s a bar that respects the drink and respects the patron, offering both a sophisticated product and a relaxed environment—a truly rare find in the hustle of New York City. Whether you are craving a pre-dinner glass of wine, a post-work beer, or a complicated craft cocktail, Congress Bar delivers an experience that is consistently satisfying and definitively Brooklyn.

Congress Bar

208 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA