Grand Army

- 336 State St, Brooklyn, NY 11217

Introduction / Overview

In the heart of Brooklyn, nestled on the corner of State and Hoyt Streets in the vibrant Boerum Hill neighborhood, lies Grand Army—a true New York City gem that effortlessly blends the casual comfort of a neighborhood bar with the refined offerings of a top-tier cocktail destination and seafood restaurant. For those living in or visiting the New York region, Grand Army has established itself as a must-visit spot, celebrated for its creative culinary program and a cocktail list that is consistently lauded by locals and critics alike. It's more than just a bar; it's a complete dining experience built around a passion for high-quality raw bar selections and innovative drinks. The venue strikes a perfect balance, maintaining a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere while providing an upscale experience that is welcoming to everyone, including groups and the LGBTQ+ community, affirming its status as a transgender safespace. This unique blend of refined service and laid-back Brooklyn charm makes Grand Army an ideal location for a solo nightcap, a casual dinner, or a lively group gathering.

Grand Army is officially categorized as a bar, a cocktail bar, and a restaurant, meaning whether you are looking for a quick bite at the bar, a full-service dinner, or simply a perfectly crafted happy hour cocktail, this Brooklyn establishment delivers on all fronts. Patrons frequently highlight the fast service and the quality of both the drinks and the food, making it an excellent choice for a consistently great experience in a bustling city. The establishment prides itself on rotating its seasonal cocktail menu, sometimes even using clever themes—like one inspired by the MTA—to keep the experience fresh and exciting for regulars. This commitment to innovation, alongside a steadfast dedication to quality, is what cements Grand Army’s reputation as a standout spot in New York's competitive hospitality scene.

Location and Accessibility

Grand Army is conveniently situated in the sought-after Boerum Hill section of Brooklyn, a neighborhood known for its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and easy access to public transportation. The exact address is 336 State St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA, located right on the corner of State Street and Hoyt Street. This prime location makes it an easy meeting point for Brooklynites and those commuting from other boroughs.

The location offers excellent accessibility via New York’s public transit system, the MTA. While there is no station directly named 'Grand Army' in the immediate vicinity of the bar (the well-known Grand Army Plaza station is further east near Prospect Park), the bar is within walking distance of several major subway hubs. A very close and convenient stop is the Hoyt–Schermerhorn Streets station, served by the A, C, and G trains. The Jay Street–MetroTech station, with the A, C, F, and R lines, is also nearby, offering a wide array of transit options. Additionally, the Nevins Street station (2, 3, 4, 5 trains) and the Borough Hall station (2, 3, 4, 5, R trains) are viable and close alternatives, making Grand Army extremely accessible from nearly any part of Brooklyn or Manhattan.

For patrons requiring enhanced accessibility, Grand Army is committed to providing a welcoming experience. The establishment features a wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring all guests can easily enter and exit the premises. Furthermore, it includes a wheelchair accessible restroom and dedicated wheelchair accessible seating, demonstrating a thoughtful commitment to accommodating all members of the New York community.

Services Offered

• Table Service: Enjoy a comfortable dining experience with attentive service at your table.
• Reservations: Grand Army accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially during peak dining and happy hour times, to ensure you secure a spot.
• Dine-in: The primary service option, allowing guests to fully enjoy the atmosphere and menu.
• Takeout: For those on the go, a selection of food and drinks is available for takeout.
• Happy Hour: Offered throughout the week, featuring specials on both food and cocktails. Hours are generally Monday to Thursday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and on Friday from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with weekend happy hour available on Saturday and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
• Bar Service: Full food and drink service available at the bar, perfect for solo diners or casual drinks.
• Payment Options: Accepts major Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments for a seamless transaction.
• Pet-Friendly Patio: The venue offers a pet-friendly outdoor area, allowing guests to enjoy their time with their furry companions (seasonal availability may apply, inquire directly).

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Cocktail Program: Renowned for having 'Great cocktails,' the bar features creative, rotating themed drink menus that keep the experience new and exciting, often using uniquely shaped ice cubes as a signature touch.
• Premier Raw Bar: A cornerstone of the menu, featuring high-quality seafood selections like East Coast Oysters, Littleneck Clams, and Shrimp Cocktail, as well as impressive Lowbrow and Highbrow Towers for groups.
• Refined Food Menu: Beyond the raw bar, the food menu includes popular, refined plates such as Roasted Oysters, Garlic Butter Crab Toast, Lobster Rolls, Deviled Eggs, and the widely praised Crispy Potatoes.
• Excellent Beverage Selection: Highlights include a 'Great wine list' and a 'Great beer selection,' ensuring there is a high-quality pairing for every plate and palate.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: The vibe is described as Casual, Cozy, Trendy, and Upscale. It’s a popular spot for groups and is specifically noted as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace.
• Fast and Attentive Service: Customers consistently praise the 'Fast service' and the helpful, attentive staff, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable visit even when the bar is busy.
• Ideal for Solo Dining: Grand Army is recognized as 'Popular for Solo dining,' making it a comfortable and enjoyable spot for individuals looking for a great drink and a sophisticated bite.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: Amenities include a Gender-neutral restroom, further highlighting the establishment's dedication to an inclusive environment.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, make a reservation, or inquire about current seasonal specials, you can use the following contact details for Grand Army:

Address: 336 State St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA (Corner of State and Hoyt Streets)

Phone: (718) 643-1503

What is Worth Choosing

Grand Army offers a compelling package that makes it one of Brooklyn's most noteworthy destinations. What truly sets it apart is the trifecta of a world-class cocktail program, a superior raw bar, and an incredibly welcoming atmosphere. This isn't just a place to grab a quick drink; it’s an establishment that provides a curated experience. The commitment to rotating themed cocktail menus ensures that even the most frequent visitors will always find something new and inventive to try. As one customer noted, the drinks are truly 'the star.'

For seafood lovers, the Raw Bar is a non-negotiable choice. The fresh East Coast Oysters, often a feature of the generous happy hour food and drink specials, are consistently rated as phenomenal. Pair this with the inventive, savory plates—such as the truffle dog mentioned in a review or the highly recommended Garlic Butter Crab Toast or Lobster Roll—and you have a complete, satisfying dinner. The upscale-casual environment means you can dress comfortably while still enjoying a level of quality and sophistication usually reserved for much more formal settings.

Moreover, for New Yorkers who value inclusivity and a comfortable neighborhood vibe, Grand Army excels. The effort to provide a diverse and welcoming space—noted as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace, along with the provision of a gender-neutral restroom—shows a dedication to community that resonates deeply in Brooklyn. For a guaranteed fantastic evening where the service is fast, the food is refined, the cocktails are brilliant, and the atmosphere is perfectly pitched between cozy and trendy, Grand Army in Boerum Hill is unequivocally worth choosing. It’s an essential Brooklyn experience for anyone seeking the best of New York’s bar and restaurant scene.

Grand Army

336 State St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA