Maison Premiere

Nestled in Williamsburg’s bustling Bedford Avenue, Maison Premiere transports diners to a bygone era of New Orleans’ gilded age with its opulent oyster bar, absinthe rituals, and a hidden garden oasis. This James Beard Award-winning establishment [4] masterfully blends Crescent City charm with Brooklyn’s avant-garde spirit, creating an experience that’s equal parts sophisticated and whimsical.

Ambiance & Design

Step past the unassuming facade into a dimly lit sanctuary where ceiling fans whirl above a sprawling marble bar. The centerpiece – a gleaming absinthe fountain replica from Bourbon Street [5] – sets the tone for the bar’s theatrical service. Velvet drapes, antique mirrors, and staff in crisp white jackets complete the vintage New Orleans aesthetic.

Seasonal Garden
From April through November, the courtyard transforms into a French Quarter-inspired retreat [1], with ivy-clad walls and wrought-iron furniture beneath a canopy of string lights. This hidden gem becomes Brooklyn’s most romantic al fresco dining spot, particularly enchanting during golden hour.

Culinary Highlights

Maison Premiere’s menu celebrates oceanic treasures and Southern flair:

• Oysters: A rotating selection of East and West Coast varieties, shucked to order and served with classic mignonette or spicy cocktail sauce [2]
• Crudo & Caviar: Delicate fluke crudo with yuzu kosho and Osetra caviar served with blinis [5]
• Lobster Roll: A buttery brioche stuffed with chilled Atlantic lobster, lightly dressed in lemon aioli [2]
• Duck Confit: Fall-off-the-bone tender with dirty rice and pickled mustard seeds [4]

Liquid Artistry

The bar program is where Maison Premiere truly shines:

• Absinthe Service: Expertly poured using vintage silver louches over sugar cubes, with over 15 varieties available [5]
• Signature Cocktails: The Old King Cole Martini (gin, dry vermouth, orange bitters) arrives tableside with optional caviar garnish [5]
• New Orleans Classics: Roffignac cocktail featuring Armagnac and raspberry shrub [5]

Practical Magic

• Hours: Daily oyster service until midnight weekends [1], with absinthe flowing until 2 AM
• Reservations: Essential for prime garden seating – book via Resy weeks in advance [4]
• Pro Tip: Ask about the “Bartender’s Whim” for off-menu cocktail adventures

Maison Premiere’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to make every visitor feel like a Jazz Age socialite discovering a speakeasy. As one TripAdvisor reviewer notes: “It’s not just dinner – it’s time travel with better cocktails” [2]. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving transportive dining, this Williamsburg institution delivers an experience that’s truly sui generis.