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By Sage Lazzaro
Ready for a night on the town? With all that Williamsburg has to offer, there’s no need to end up at the first Irish pub you see. RoomZoom rounds up three Williamsburg gems that have defined the bar scene in the neighborhood since before we had all these glass towers and before Sephora and the Apple store came to Bedford Ave.
Barcade
388 Union Ave
Photo: Barcade
This Willamsburg haunt may not seem like much from the outside, but walk through the doors and you’ll be jolted back in time to a retro arcade housing dozens of classic games like Frogger, Pac-Man, and Donkey Kong. These seemingly archaic machines aren’t for decoration, though—everyone is playing, for only 25 cents. To match their roomy warehouse space, Barcade touts a huge variety of drinks that includes 20 rotating microbrews on tap. If you’re ever wanting to embrace nostalgia, Barcade on Williamsburg’s north side (or one of its sister locations in Jersey City or Manhattan) is the place to go.
Maison Premiere
298 Bedford Ave
Photo: Foursquare
This bar features a cozy atmosphere, a beautiful outdoor patio, and an oyster happy hour, during which 20 or so varieties are served for around $1 each. Their other specialty? Absinthe, and the two are a match made in heaven. Bow tie-clad waiters echo the vintage ’20s vibe as they shed their expertise on eager guests looking for the perfect pairing. This place is a must for all seafood lovers, but make sure to call ahead for a reservation!
Radegast Hall & Biergarten
113 North 3rd St.
Photo: Foursquare
We couldn’t forget this drinking destination, which features as many events as it does varieties of beer, including jazz brunch, beer tasting sessions, and nightly live performances. The venue is huge and is separated into a few areas, including a dark, candlelit bar, a grand beer hall, and a spacious outdoor courtyard. They serve a wide variety of sausages among other foods, and while Radegast is perfect for any night, there’s especially no better place to celebrate Oktoberfest.
