Some Brooklyn Bar History

Hey everyone, welcome back to *Brooklyn Echoes*, the podcast that keeps the borough’s legends and memories alive. I’m your host, Robert Henriksen.

### Other Historic Brooklyn Bars

Brooklyn has a rich legacy of historic bars, many of which have survived decades of change—from Prohibition to gentrification—while preserving their old-school charm. These spots often feature original woodwork, tin ceilings, stained glass, and stories tied to the borough’s immigrant communities, working-class roots, and neighborhood life. Here’s a look at some of the most notable ones, focusing on those with deep history (pre-1900 or early 20th century).

**Teddy’s Bar & Grill** (Williamsburg, opened 1887) 

Widely regarded as Brooklyn’s oldest continuously operating bar, Teddy’s started as a family-run Irish tavern at 96 Berry Street. It later became a tasting room for the Peter Doelger Brewery in the early 1910s. The interior retains much of its original character: a long wooden bar, tin ceiling, tile flooring, and a stained-glass window reading “Peter Doelger Extra Beer.” It transitioned to Polish ownership in the mid-20th century before becoming Teddy’s, and it still serves as a classic neighborhood spot with burgers, craft beers, and a lively vibe.

**The Brooklyn Inn** (Boerum Hill, opened 1885) 

At the corner of Bergen and Hoyt Streets, this corner saloon is a Victorian gem with ornate woodwork, a massive mirrored back bar, iron-grated windows, and soaring ceilings. Originally a German establishment (owned by the Otto Huber Brewery until 1919), it evolved through various owners while keeping its authentic, unpretentious atmosphere. It’s cash-only, no-frills, and beloved for its timeless feel—perfect for a pint amid the brownstones.

**P.J. Hanley’s Tavern** (Carroll Gardens, opened 1874) 

One of Brooklyn’s true old-timers (though some sources debate the exact date), this spot was a neighborhood staple until recent years. It served as a classic Irish-Italian tavern with a loyal local crowd. While it has changed hands, its legacy as one of the borough’s earliest bars lives on in the area’s history.

**Montero’s Bar & Grill** (Brooklyn Heights, opened 1947—but building dates to the 1800s) 

A nautical-themed dive with lifesavers and old photos on the walls, Montero’s has been a merchant marine hangout since the mid-20th century. The building itself has bar roots stretching back further, and it remains a low-key, affordable spot for locals.

**Irish Haven** (Sunset Park, opened 1964) 

A quiet, unassuming Irish pub in Brooklyn’s Chinatown area, it has preserved its working-class dive feel since the 1960s. It’s praised for its authenticity—cheap pints of Guinness, darts, and a welcoming crowd—making it a holdout from the borough’s older Irish bar era.

These bars stand out for their endurance and connection to Brooklyn’s past, from Irish and German immigrant waves to the gritty 1970s and 1980s. Many have appeared in films or literature, and they continue to draw regulars who value authenticity over trends. If you’re exploring, respect the no-frills vibe—cash is often king, and the stories are free.

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