The Rockwell Place

- 31 Rockwell Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11217

The Rockwell Place: A Brooklyn Cocktail Haven Near the Cultural District

For discerning New Yorkers who appreciate a finely crafted cocktail in a setting rich with cultural proximity, The Rockwell Place stands as an essential destination in Brooklyn. Located at **31 Rockwell Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11217**, this establishment masterfully blends the refined art of mixology with a comfortable, industrial-chic aesthetic. It is a true cocktail bar and local watering hole, a popular spot especially for those attending events at the nearby Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) and BRIC Arts.

The atmosphere here is a calculated mix of 'cozy' and 'trendy,' set within what was once an old industrial garage space. This history is honored through an industrial vibe, enhanced by decorative touches like vintage BAM posters and the welcoming illumination of a skylight. The space is specifically designed to be an approachable yet carefully considered cocktail joint—a haven for cocktail enthusiasts, theater buffs, and Fort Greene neighborhood locals alike. It successfully bridges the gap between a sleek, high-end cocktail spot and a comfortable, lived-in local bar. The focus is on exceptional drinks, nuanced bar food, and a commitment to fostering a vibrant social scene in the heart of the Downtown Brooklyn Cultural District.

Location and Accessibility

The Rockwell Place is strategically situated at **31 Rockwell Pl** in the highly sought-after **Fort Greene** neighborhood of Brooklyn (zip code 11217). This specific location places it directly within the burgeoning Downtown Brooklyn Cultural District, which significantly influences its clientele and operating hours.

Proximity to Cultural Institutions: The bar is located around the corner from major cultural centers, including the BAM Harvey Theater and BRIC Arts. This makes it an ideal spot for pre-show, intermission, or post-performance drinks, catering to a sophisticated, arts-engaged crowd.

Transportation Links: Fort Greene is exceptionally well-connected, ensuring ease of access from across the boroughs. Patrons can utilize numerous subway lines. The immediate area is served by several major transit hubs, including the Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center station (offering connections to the 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, R trains, and LIRR), and the Lafayette Avenue (C train) and Fulton Street (G train) stops are also nearby. This makes The Rockwell Place a prime meeting point for guests coming from Manhattan, Queens, or other parts of Brooklyn.

Atmosphere and Vibe: The specific location—in an old factory building that once housed various clubs and bars—lends itself to a unique "industrial chic" aesthetic. Despite nearby construction, its slightly hidden entrance adds to an "in-the-know" or hidden gem quality, popular with true locals and those looking for an authentic Brooklyn experience away from the main tourist paths.

Services Offered

The Rockwell Place provides a focused and high-quality set of offerings designed for a premium bar experience.

• Full Cocktail Bar Service: Specializing in carefully considered, inventive, and classic cocktails, often using house-made aromatic tinctures in favor of heavy garnishes.
• Diverse Beverage Selection: Offering a full range of alcohol, including beer, hard liquor, and a curated wine list (often simplifying choices to one white, orange, rosé, and red option).
• Happy Hour Program: Providing deals on both food and drinks, typically running from Tuesday through Friday, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
• Refined Bar Food Menu: Serving a concise but high-quality food menu developed by an acclaimed chef, featuring light bites and more substantial options.
• Dining Options: Offering both seating throughout the space and direct food service at the bar.
• Accessibility: Ensuring an inclusive environment with a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating.
• Takeout Option: Offering flexibility for patrons to grab their orders to go.
• Private Events: Available for hosting various private gatherings, including birthday parties, wedding events, and BAM/BRIC after-parties.
• Inclusive Amenities: Committed to creating a welcoming space with a gender-neutral restroom.

Features / Highlights

The distinctive features of The Rockwell Place are what make it a beloved fixture in the Fort Greene social landscape.

• Great Cocktails and Mixology Focus: This is the primary highlight. The venue is renowned for its inventive drink menu and expertly crafted libations, with a particular pride taken in developing the "best versions" of their offerings.
• Cultural District Hub: Its status as a popular pre- and post-show destination for the neighboring BAM and BRIC community sets it apart, attracting an arts-savvy and intellectually curious crowd.
• Industrial-Chic Design: The aesthetic—a gritty, industrial space complemented by vintage BAM decor, high ceilings, and a skylight—creates an upscale yet relaxed ambiance, often described as 'cozy' and 'trendy.'
• High-Quality, Nuanced Bar Food: The small menu, though limited, is a cut above typical bar fare, featuring items like the **Double Burger** and house-made specialties like **Mortadella Toast** and **Smothered Deviled Eggs**, ensuring the food matches the quality of the drinks.
• Inclusivity and Atmosphere: The bar prides itself on a welcoming atmosphere, explicitly stating it is **LGBTQ+ friendly** and a **Transgender safe space**, attracting a diverse and accepting clientele.
• Commitment to Simplicity: The decision to go "garnish-less" in favor of house-made tinctures speaks to a serious, detail-oriented approach to cocktail creation, valued by true drink enthusiasts.
• Happy Hour Value: The well-structured Happy Hour provides excellent deals on both food and drinks, making a high-quality cocktail experience more accessible during early evening hours.

Contact Information

Address:
31 Rockwell Pl
Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA

Phone:
(917) 909-1093

What is Worth Choosing

For a first-time visitor or a regular New Yorker stopping by for a drink and a bite, the key is to indulge in the items that truly showcase the bar's unique blend of refinement and comfort.

The best choice to experience The Rockwell Place is a combination of their signature cocktail craftsmanship and their high-quality comfort food.

**1. The Signature Drink:**
While the menu changes and creative cocktails abound, New Yorkers should always ask for one of their most inventive house drinks or inquire about a classic made in the "Rockwell way." The focus on meticulously crafted cocktails, often featuring aromatic tinctures over superfluous garnishes, ensures a pure, focused drinking experience. Start with a drink recommended by their knowledgeable staff, or try one of their well-regarded classics to understand the depth of their mixology. The rapid appreciation for their drinks is a highlight often mentioned by patrons, underscoring their "Great cocktails" feature.

**2. The Elevated Bar Food:**
Pair your drink with a substantial, yet quality, food item. The **Burger** ($16.00) or, for the truly hungry, the **Double Burger** ($19.00) is repeatedly hailed as a standout choice. It is described as having a sweet-savory flavor profile and a satisfying, yet light, feel, elevating it above typical bar food. Alternatively, the **Potato Chips & French Onion Dip** ($8.00) makes for a perfect, affordable happy hour snack that is "really good," according to local reviews, offering a simple yet nuanced taste of the bar's sophisticated approach to casual fare.

**3. The Happy Hour Deal:**
To maximize the value of your visit, aim for the **Happy Hour (Tuesday-Friday, 5pm-7pm)**. With deals on both food and drinks, you can enjoy the acclaimed cocktails and a high-quality snack, like the Mortadella Toast or Grilled Cheese, at a price point that makes it the perfect after-work ritual or pre-show warm-up. This combination of atmosphere, premium cocktails, and refined bar snacks solidifies The Rockwell Place as a premier destination in the Fort Greene and Downtown Brooklyn area.

The Rockwell Place

31 Rockwell Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA