The 15 Best Wine Bars in Brooklyn You Need to Visit

Published April 25, 2025• Updated April 25, 2025• By Siavash - Urban Experiences Blogger
Title Photo of a wine bar in Brooklyn

Discover the top wine bars in Brooklyn with our local expert guide. From cozy neighborhood spots to chic tasting rooms, find the perfect place.

Brooklyn's vibrant energy extends deep into its wine bar scene, offering an eclectic mix that mirrors the borough's own diversity. Finding the Best Wine Bars in Brooklyn means exploring cozy corners perfect for intimate conversations, discovering sun-drenched patios ideal for afternoon sips, and diving into bustling spots where natural wines flow freely alongside creative small plates. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just looking for a relaxed place to unwind with a glass of something delicious, Brooklyn delivers.

This guide is your curated passport to the borough's top wine destinations. We've sipped and savored our way through countless spots, from Williamsburg's trendy mainstays to Bushwick's hidden gems, to bring you a list that highlights the unique character and offerings of each place. Get ready to discover your new favorite spot for everything from a casual weeknight glass to a celebratory bottle shared with friends.

What Makes Brooklyn's Wine Bar Scene Special

Brooklyn's wine bar scene isn't just about serving wine; it's about creating an experience. What sets it apart is the sheer variety and the distinct neighborhood personalities reflected in each establishment. You'll find rustic Italian enotecas pouring regional specialties next door to minimalist havens championing obscure natural wines from Slovenia. There's a palpable passion here, often driven by owner-operators who genuinely love sharing unique bottles and stories.

Many Brooklyn wine bars emphasize natural, organic, and biodynamic wines, reflecting a broader borough-wide trend towards sustainability and mindful consumption. This focus often translates into exciting, ever-changing lists featuring small-batch producers you won't find elsewhere. Furthermore, the atmosphere is key – whether it's the intimate glow of a candlelit corner in Cobble Hill, the industrial-chic buzz of a Bushwick warehouse conversion, or the leafy charm of a Williamsburg garden patio, these spaces are designed for connection and enjoyment. Add inventive food pairings, from simple cheese boards to full-fledged culinary creations, and you have a scene that's dynamic, authentic, and endlessly explorable.

Our Selection Criteria

Choosing the best wine bars in a borough as rich as Brooklyn requires a thoughtful approach. We based our selections on the following key criteria:

  • Wine Selection Quality & Variety: The depth, breadth, and uniqueness of the wine list, including by-the-glass options and a focus on interesting regions or styles (especially natural/organic).
  • Atmosphere & Ambiance: The overall vibe, decor, comfort, and suitability for different occasions (e.g., date night, casual drinks, groups).
  • Service & Knowledge: The friendliness, attentiveness, and expertise of the staff, particularly their ability to offer informed recommendations.
  • Food Pairings: The quality, creativity, and suitability of the food menu offered alongside the wines, from small bites to more substantial plates.
  • Value: The price point relative to the quality of wine, food, and overall experience offered.
  • Location & Accessibility: How easy the place is to get to and its integration within its neighborhood.
  • Community Feedback: We analyze large datasets of online reviews and user feedback, cross-referencing public opinion with our expert assessments to establish authority and provide recommendations you can trust.

Each spot on this list has been carefully considered, and we visit most places multiple times to ensure consistency and quality. Our goal is to provide a reliable guide based on genuine local experience.

The 15 Best Wine Bars in Brooklyn You Need to Visit

Ready to explore Brooklyn's finest spots for a glass (or bottle)? Here are our top picks.

Best for Specific Occasions/Categories

Best for Natural Wine Lovers

  • Ops: Sourdough pizza + extensive natural wine list = perfection.
  • The Ten Bells Brooklyn: Dedicated exclusively to natural, organic, biodynamic wines.
  • Farm To People: Thoughtfully curated list focusing on sustainable producers.

Best for Date Night

  • Maison Premiere: Unbeatably romantic New Orleans vibe and garden.
  • La Cantine (Sunsets): Intimate evening transformation with great wine and small plates.
  • Ops: Cozy, candlelit atmosphere perfect for sharing pizza and wine.

Best for Oysters & Wine

  • Maison Premiere: The ultimate destination for oysters and elegant drinks.
  • The Ten Bells Brooklyn: Excellent happy hour oyster deals paired with natural wines.

Best for Casual Weeknights

  • The Brazen Head: Relaxed neighborhood pub feel with great beer and decent wine options.
  • Lion's Milk: Cozy cafe setting for an early evening glass of wine or beer.
  • Bacàn: Great happy hour deals in a stylish but comfortable setting.

When to Visit/Practical Information

Brooklyn wine bars come alive in the evenings, especially from Thursday through Saturday. Weekends often mean crowds, particularly at popular spots in Williamsburg and Bushwick.

  • Reservations: Highly recommended for weekend evenings, date nights, or groups at places like Maison Premiere, M. Wells, Ops, and La Cantine (Sunsets). Many spots use Resy.
  • Happy Hour: Many bars offer great deals on drinks (wine, cocktails, beer) and small plates (like oysters) typically between 4 PM and 7 PM on weekdays. Check spots like The Ten Bells, Bacàn, Farm to People, and Pitanga.
  • Walk-ins: Often possible on weeknights or earlier in the evening, especially at more casual neighborhood spots. Bar seating is usually first-come, first-served.
  • Daytime Sips: Some cafes like Lion's Milk, Land to Sea, and La Cantine offer wine and beer during the day for a more relaxed experience.

Getting to Brooklyn

Accessing Brooklyn's wine bars is generally straightforward via public transport.

  • Subway: The L train is key for Williamsburg and Bushwick. The G train also serves Williamsburg and Cobble Hill. The M, J, and Z trains access parts of Bushwick. The F train runs through Cobble Hill. Check the MTA website or app for specific routes to your destination.
  • Bus: Numerous bus lines crisscross the borough, offering connections between neighborhoods and subway stops.
  • Parking: Street parking can be extremely challenging, especially in popular areas like Williamsburg and Bushwick during peak hours. Metered parking is available but often limited. Using public transport or ride-sharing services is usually the most convenient option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best wine bar in Brooklyn for natural wines?

Ops in Bushwick and The Ten Bells Brooklyn are fantastic choices for natural wine lovers. Ops pairs its sourdough pizzas with an impressive natural wine list, while The Ten Bells focuses exclusively on natural, organic, and biodynamic wines alongside delicious tapas.

Are there any Brooklyn wine bars good for a date night?

Absolutely! Maison Premiere in Williamsburg offers a stunning, romantic New Orleans vibe with oysters and cocktails. La Cantine in Bushwick transforms into an intimate wine bar 'Sunsets' at night, perfect for a cozy date. Honey's in East Williamsburg also offers a trendy, moody atmosphere.

Which Brooklyn wine bars have great food pairings?

Many Brooklyn wine bars excel at food. Bacàn offers delicious Italian small plates, M. Wells provides avant-garde Québécois fare, Ops serves incredible sourdough pizza, and Maison Premiere is famous for its oysters and seafood.

Do Brooklyn wine bars usually require reservations?

It varies. For popular spots like Maison Premiere or during peak times (weekend evenings), reservations are highly recommended. Smaller or more casual places like The Brazen Head or Lion's Milk might be easier for walk-ins, but it's always wise to check ahead, especially for groups.

Are there affordable wine bar options in Brooklyn?

Yes, you can find great value. The Ten Bells Brooklyn and Bacàn often have excellent happy hour deals on drinks and small plates. Neighborhood spots like The Brazen Head also offer reasonably priced drinks in a relaxed setting.