Post Overview: Best Bars in DUMBO
Ask any New Yorker what the prettiest neighborhood in Brooklyn is and the honest ones will mention DUMBO. Which is perfectly appropriate given the stunning surroundings, quaint cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views of lower Manhattan.
And with such amazing views of the iconic skyline, come great responsibility. It would be a shame not to sprinkle some wonderful drinking spots to nurse a glass of rose at.
Not to mention DUMBO is the ideal location to pop a bottle and toast to any upcoming celebrations.
Whether it’s a promotion, a birthday or hell, even if it’s just a “hallelujah, we made it to Friday” — every occasion is worth celebrating at one of the many great bars in DUMBO.
But hey, enough of the small talk. Here is our list of the best bars in DUMBO that will have you feeling like a local in no time.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Bars in DUMBO
Gair
Gair may be the new kid on the block but that doesn’t stop them from being one of the most charming bars in DUMBO.
Since opening their doors in late 2022, the bar quickly gained a loyal following and became a local hot spot.
The interior is romantic, modern and soaked in light thanks to the incredible corner windows. And as if that wasn’t enough, expect to have your jaw on the ground with the stunning Manhattan Bridge as your backdrop.
What’s more, the talented team behind the impressive cocktails make it extremely clear that quality is a priority. Gair is a great spot to visit for celebrations or a dreamy date night.
As far as food goes you’re in luck. The few dishes they offer are equally as incredible and you’ll be tempted to order everything!
Locals Tip: Not only is Gair one of the best bars in DUMBO, it’s conveniently perched on a corner on Washington Street. The same street where people flock to take the famous NYC picture you see on Pinterest.
Address: 41 Washington St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Henry Street Ale House
Comfortable and cozy, Henry Street Ale House is a home away from home for countless Brooklynites. As one of the best bars in DUMBO, the pub has a warm and inviting aura that draws folks in like moths to a flame.
Classic bar fare like burgers, mac & cheese and fish & chips will keep you comfortable between rounds of cold, crispy ales. There are 16 brews on tap, plus an additional arsenal of canned and bottled beer at this beloved bar in DUMBO.
If the weather is nice I suggest snagging a table outside, but if it’s chilly the well-worn wooden tables are the better way to go. The no-frills, straightforward comfort is a prime reason Henry Street Ale House is one of the best bars in DUMBO.
Address: 62 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Gran Eléctrica
Gran Eléctrica is one of DUMBO’s top bars if you enjoy tequila. Fresh tortillas, beautifully prepared food, and a good margarita are just a few of the many things that the Mexican restaurant has mastered.
The menu pays homage to Mexico and most ingredients are sourced from local markets, guaranteeing freshness
However, if you’re searching for a mean drink, the vast range of mezcal and tequila alone makes the trip worthwhile. Consider buying a flight if you’re unfamiliar with Mexican spirits; otherwise, the cocktail menu can quickly become overwhelming.
I’ll also give one last tid-bit, Gran Eléctrica is a popular bar in DUMBO, so I strongly encourage reservations.
Address: 5 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Harriets Rooftop
You’ll be hard-pressed finding a rooftop bar in DUMBO with better views than Harriet’s Rooftop. Found on the shore of the East River atop the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge you have a direct view of Lower Manhattan, the land of skyscrapers and magic.
The DUMBO bar has unmatched charm and pizazz that provides two different but equally pleasant experiences.
Reclaimed wood furniture outside gives the area a backyard-like feel. With its outdoor bar, umbrellas, and crowds of people coming and going, Harriet’s Rooftop seems like a quaint little getaway inside the city.
But that’s not to say Harriet’s Rooftop doesn’t have a swanky side. Harriet’s lounge is an enclosed space and has impressive floor to ceiling windows providing ample views of the skyline.
Allow yourself to sink into the cushion of the plushy chairs as you sip on an expertly crafted mixed drink.
I will mention Harriet’s is one of the most popular rooftop bars in DUMBO. I strongly encourage you to make a reservation. Just be sure to allocate ample time for your visit. Harriet’s is notorious for slow service but luckily you have a view while you wait.
Address: 60 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Cecconi’s
With its flagship location in London, Cecconis is a global symbol of elegance and prestige. They also have locations in Berlin, Barcelona, Miami, and Istanbul.
The location in Brooklyn is home to one of the best bars in DUMBO, perfectly dim lit and intimate. If I was hoping to be proposed to (which I’m not, I’m happily married) Cecconis would be one of my first choice spots.
The food revolves around Italian delicacies including handmade pastas that will put you in a food coma unlike anything you’ve experienced. There is also seafood and pizzas available that are both filling and delicious.
But if you are more interested in the views than the food, Cecconis is one of the best bars in DUMBO to linger. Ordering a glass of wine and soaking in the iconic skyline views is a great way to catch up with friends and pass the time.
Something to Note: SoHo House Members and Friends receive a generous 20% off all food and drink from 4pm Sunday until Wednesday. For anyone curious, a membership to the SoHo House will offer access to exclusive clubs and in this case discounts.
Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
The Binc
Intimate and polished, The Binc is one of the best bars in DUMBO for a date night. The menu boasts more than a dozen original cocktails that provide a perfect icebreaker to a free-flowing conversation.
But the fun cocktails aren’t the only reason The Binc is one of the best bars in DUMBO. The food doesn’t play second fiddle! Any one of the flatbreads is to die for and butter shrimp will have you licking your fingers.
Not to mention the meat is all organic and free range, which is always a plus.
So if you’re looking to impress without needing to wear a suit, the Binc is one of the best bars in DUMBO. Just be sure to bring your appetite to make the most of your visit.
Address: 60 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
The Rooftop Bar at the Time Out Market
The Timeout Market is a collection of some of the best restaurants in New York City. By bringing 21+ unique dining experiences together under one roof, Timeout Market has made choosing a place to eat so much easier. But the real fun starts to happen when you head up to Time Out Rooftop!
During sunset the 5th floor rooftop bustles with both tourists and locals alike, and it’s not hard to see why. As one of the best bars in DUMBO, the views of Manhattan are unreal.
What’s more, if you visit during the week (between the hours of 4 to 7PM), the Time Out Market Bar offers fantastic happy hour drinks. For this reason alone, I consider this one of the best (and most affordable) bars in DUMBO.
Not to mention the picturesque location provides stellar views of the East River, could it get dreamier than that?!
Try to go during sunset (it’s busy, but worthwhile ) to watch the colors of the skyline ablaze in warm shades of orange and red while you’re nursing a cosmopolitan.
Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Best Bars DUMBO (Post Summary)
- Evil Twin Brewing
- Time Out Market Rooftop Bar
- The Binc
- Randolph Beer
- Cecconi’s
- Harriets Rooftop
- Gran Eléctrica
- Henry Street Ale House
- Gair
- Fifty Henry
Map of The Best DUMBO Bars
And there it is friends. The best bars in DUMBO, according to yours truly. If you think we missed a spot, leave a comment down below — we love to hear from you!
Cheers!
Leave a Reply