The Exley

- 1 Jackson St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

In the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of Brooklyn's nightlife, The Exley stands out as a sophisticated and welcoming destination. More than just a bar, it's a celebrated cocktail bar and a vital part of the city's LGBTQ+ friendly scene. Located in the heart of Williamsburg, The Exley offers a stylish yet casual atmosphere that feels both trendy and cozy. Named after the American writer Frederick Exley, the bar has a literary and unpretentious vibe that sets it apart from typical nightlife spots. It's a place where you can relax with a perfectly crafted cocktail, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment.

The Exley has built a reputation for its exceptional drinks and a friendly, relaxed environment. While it proudly identifies as a gay bar, its appeal is universal, attracting a diverse crowd of people who appreciate quality drinks and good company. The space is often described as "small, clean, and well-lit," with a beautiful disco ball that adds a touch of magic when it's turned on. The bar's atmosphere can be quite variable, shifting from a quiet date night spot on a weekday to a lively and social hub on a weekend. This adaptability makes it a versatile destination for any occasion, from a casual happy hour to a late-night gathering.

What truly makes The Exley a gem in the Brooklyn bar scene is its focus on creating a comfortable and inclusive space. The staff is consistently praised for being polite and welcoming, and the fast service ensures you'll never have to wait long for a drink. With an emphasis on great cocktails and a solid beer selection, The Exley offers a refined drinking experience without any of the uptightness often found in Manhattan cocktail bars. It’s a place that perfectly captures the elevated yet laid-back spirit of Brooklyn.

The Exley is conveniently located at 1 Jackson St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA. Situated in the shadow of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE), its location is slightly off the main thoroughfare of Williamsburg, giving it a more relaxed and neighborhood-centric feel. This spot is easily accessible from various parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan via public transportation, making it a viable destination for a night out.

The bar is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom. This is an important consideration for a bar in New York City, and The Exley's dedication to an inclusive environment ensures that all guests can enjoy their time there. The bar's strategic location also means it's a great option for people who prefer a slightly less crowded experience than the bustling bars on Bedford Avenue, while still being in a central and vibrant neighborhood.

The Exley provides a focused set of services that prioritize quality drinks and a comfortable atmosphere.

• Outdoor Seating: A significant highlight, especially during warmer months. The bar has a popular outdoor seating area that expands its capacity and provides a great spot to enjoy drinks with a group.
• Happy Hour: The bar offers happy hour drinks, which are perfect for a quick after-work drink or a pre-dinner cocktail.
• Table Service: The Exley provides seating options both inside and outside, offering a more relaxed experience compared to a standing-room-only bar.
• Wide Drink Selection: While known for cocktails, the bar also offers a great selection of beers, including a variety of craft beers on tap and in cans, as well as wine and hard liquor.
• Bar Games: A great feature for a fun night out, the bar offers games that provide entertainment and a social element, making it a great place for groups.

What truly sets The Exley apart from other bars in Brooklyn is its unique combination of quality and vibe.

• Great Cocktails: The bar's cocktail menu is a major draw. With creative options like the Penicillin and the Blanca Nieves, the drinks are consistently praised for being delicious and well-made. They are "nicer than standard gay bar fare," as noted by a reviewer.
• Creative Atmosphere: The bar's casual and cozy atmosphere is a significant highlight. The subtle mood lighting and the presence of a disco ball create a perfect backdrop for a date or a relaxed night with friends. It’s trendy without being pretentious.
• Fast and Friendly Service: Customers consistently praise the fast service and the politeness of the staff. This dedication to customer satisfaction makes every visit a pleasant one.
• Happy Hour and Drink Specials: The bar offers a variety of drink specials, including unique pairings like A Cheap Can And A Cheap Shot and a Shorty Draft Beer And A Good Shot, which appeal to a variety of tastes and budgets.
• LGBTQ+ Friendly Space: The Exley is known for being a welcoming and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, attracting a diverse crowd of people who appreciate the inclusive environment. It's a great spot for groups and has a "cliquey gay bar scene" that is still welcoming to new faces.

For more information or to inquire about happy hour specials, you can contact The Exley at the following:

Address: 1 Jackson St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA

Phone: (917) 909-1652

Mobile Phone: +1 917-909-1652

Choosing The Exley is a great decision for anyone looking for a high-quality bar experience in Brooklyn. What makes it particularly worth choosing is its successful blend of being a modern cocktail bar and a friendly, community-oriented space. The cocktails are a definite highlight, offering creative and delicious drinks that go beyond the typical bar offerings. The casual and cozy atmosphere, coupled with the great outdoor seating, makes it a comfortable spot for any kind of night out.

The bar’s reputation as a welcoming and LGBTQ+ friendly space is a significant draw, ensuring that people from all backgrounds can feel at home. The presence of bar games and the option for a quick, fast drink or a more relaxed, multi-hour stay make it incredibly versatile. Whether you're a local looking for a new hangout or a tourist seeking an authentic Brooklyn experience, The Exley delivers on all fronts, providing a great time with great drinks in a fantastic neighborhood.

The Exley

1 Jackson St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA