Part 1: Starting Strong at The Holler
My Bed-Stuy bar crawl began at The Holler, a lively corner spot that feels like stepping into a divey New Orleans outpost. The second I walked in, I was hit with the sound of a jukebox humming a 90s slow jam and the clack-clack of pinball machines in the back. While frozen cocktails are the signature here, I stuck to a cold draft beer—perfectly crisp and no fuss. This place doesn’t try to impress you with flash; it wins with comfort, charm, and a little Southern soul. It’s a low-key gem that makes it easy to settle in longer than planned.
Part 2: C’mon Everybody with Molly, Bar Babe of the Month
From The Holler, I made my way to C’mon Everybody, one of Bed-Stuy’s most vibrant LGBTQ+ watering holes. It was just opening up when I arrived, giving me the rare chance to see the space before the crowd rolled in. I struck up a great conversation with Molly, the Bar Babe of the Month. She’s a staple here—sharp, welcoming, and clearly someone who makes the vibe what it is. C’mon Everybody is the kind of place where the people matter as much as the playlist, and even in the quiet moments, the energy is unmistakable.
Part 3: Chill Mode at Moot Bar
After the warm, welcoming vibe at C’mon Everybody, Moot Bar felt like a natural next stop—unfussy, easygoing, and just right for a low-key reset. It’s sleek but unpretentious, a spot where the beer list runs deep and trivia night reigns. I snagged a seat by the bar, ordered a local saison, and joined a few strangers watching a game on the screen. The vibe was relaxed, the drinks solid, and the dart board in the back made it feel like a place where regulars form friendships one round at a time. Moot is the kind of bar that gives back exactly what you need—a pause, a laugh, and a damn good drink.
Part 4: Closing Time at Cookies
I ended the night at Cookies, my personal favorite neighborhood bar in Bed-Stuy. It’s cash only, which feels like a throwback, but nothing about Cookies is trying too hard. I had a perfectly poured Guinness, a soft pretzel that slapped harder than expected, and a deep, easygoing conversation with the bartender about music, the kind of conversation that meanders through genres and personal stories. One of the bar’s signature old films played quietly in the background. The backyard here is a whole secret world: spacious, clean, and perfect for late-night hangs. It’s the kind of place you selfishly want to keep to yourself, but bars like this deserve the love. Just promise me you won’t ruin it.
Four bars, one night, and a whole lot of Bed-Stuy personality. This is exactly what NYCThirst was made for: finding the realest spots, having good conversations, and soaking up the spirit of New York, one neighborhood at a time.
Be sure to check out NYCThirst in the coming week as these bar pages go live on the site—each one packed with photos, updates, and all the details you need to plan your next Bed-Stuy outing!
— Sean Pisano, Founder & CEO of NYCThirst