The list, in my order
5 I’d go back to and 1 only if it suits you. My verdict on every one, and the ones nearby from my other lists.
The Rooftop Bar at the Time Out Market

- Address55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- From my guide, updated February 2024.
The Timeout Market is a collection of some of the best restaurants in New York City. By bringing 21+ unique dining experiences together under one roof, Timeout Market has made choosing a place to eat so much easier. But the real fun starts to happen when you head up to Time Out Rooftop!
During sunset, the 5th-floor rooftop bustles with both tourists and locals alike, and it’s not hard to see why. As one of the best bars in DUMBO, the views of Manhattan are unreal.
What’s more, if you visit during the week (between the hours of 4 to 7 PM), the Time Out Market Bar offers fantastic happy hour drinks. For this reason alone, I consider this one of the best (and most affordable) bars in DUMBO.
Not to mention, the picturesque location provides stellar views of the East River; could it get dreamier than that?! Try to go during sunset (it’s busy but worthwhile) to watch the colors of the skyline ablaze in warm shades of orange and red while you’re nursing a cosmopolitan.
Cecconi’s

- Address55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- From my guide, updated February 2024.
With its flagship location in London, Cecconis is a global symbol of elegance and prestige. They also have locations in Berlin, Barcelona, Miami, and Istanbul. The location in Brooklyn is home to one of the best bars in DUMBO, perfectly dim-lit and intimate.
The food revolves around Italian delicacies, including handmade plates of pasta. There is also seafood and pizzas available that are both filling and delicious. But if you are more interested in the views than the food, Cecconis is one of the best bars in DUMBO to linger. Ordering a glass of wine and soaking in the iconic skyline views is a great way to catch up with friends and pass the time.
Something to Note: SoHo House Members and Friends receive a generous 20% off all food and drink from 4 pm Sunday until Wednesday. For anyone curious, a membership to the SoHo House will offer access to exclusive clubs and, in this case, discounts.
Gair

- Address41 Washington St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- From my guide, updated February 2024.
Gair may be the new kid on the block, but that doesn’t stop them from being one of the most charming bars in DUMBO. Since opening its doors in late 2022, the bar quickly gained a loyal following and became a local hot spot.
The interior is romantic, modern, and soaked in natural light, thanks to the incredible corner windows. And as if that wasn’t enough, expect to have your jaw on the ground with the stunning Manhattan Bridge as your backdrop.
What’s more, the talented team behind the impressive cocktails makes it extremely clear that quality is a priority. Gair is a great spot to visit for celebrations or a dreamy date night.
As far as food goes, you’re in luck. The few dishes they offer are equally as incredible, and you’ll be tempted to order everything!
Locals Tip: Not only is Gair one of the best bars in DUMBO, it’s conveniently perched on a corner on Washington Street. The same street where people flock to take the famous NYC picture you see on Pinterest.
Gran Eléctrica

- Address5 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- From my guide, updated February 2024.
Gran Eléctrica is one of DUMBO’s top bars if you enjoy tequila. Fresh tortillas, beautifully prepared food, and a good margarita are just a few of the many things that the Mexican restaurant has mastered. The menu pays homage to Mexico, and most ingredients are sourced from local markets, guaranteeing freshness.
However, if you’re searching for a mean drink, the vast range of mezcal and tequila alone makes the trip worthwhile. Consider buying a flight if you’re unfamiliar with Mexican spirits; otherwise, the cocktail menu can quickly become overwhelming.
The Binc
- Address60 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- From my guide, updated February 2024.
The Binc, a polished bar in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood (a scenic walk from DUMBO) is a great option for a first date. The dozen cocktails on offer serve as a perfect icebreaker to free-flowing conversations that last well into the night.
Don’t sleep on the food either (I’m partial to the flatbreads are amazing). Plus, all the meat is organic and free-range, which is a big plus. If you want to impress without feeling too stuffy, The Binc gets my vote.
Henry Street Ale House
- Address62 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- From my guide, updated February 2024.
Comfortable and cozy, Henry Street Ale House is a home away from home for countless Brooklynites. As one of the best bars in DUMBO, the pub has a warm and inviting aura that draws folks in like moths to a flame.
Classic bar fare like burgers, mac & cheese, and fish & chips will keep you comfortable between rounds of cold, crispy ales. There’s 16 brews on tap, plus an additional arsenal of canned and bottled beer at this beloved pub near DUMBO.
If the weather is nice, I suggest snagging a table outside, but if it’s chilly, the well-worn wooden tables are the better way to go. The no-frills, straightforward comfort is a prime reason Henry Street Ale House is one of the best bars in DUMBO.
