Cool, hidden bars in Brooklyn

The windowless front room of Dynaco seems almost unreasonably dark, but once your eyes adjust you will notice the relaxed atmosphere that makes you feel like you are in a winter cabin in the middle of Brooklyn. The backyard fireplace keeps everyone warm and comfortable in the winter, adding a romantic vibe. They serve a terrific selection of classic cocktails and beers. The great music is never too loud. Make sure to enquire about the owner’s wife homemade cake, and bring cash.

Below French restaurant Chez Moi you’ll find this fabulous speakeasy, which is modeled after Marie Antoinette’s own Boudoir in 18th-century Versailles. The decor is adorable with velvet walls, lots of pink, pictures of Marie Antoinette herself, and porcelain table stands shaped like ladies. The beautiful private room in the back features exposed brick from the old Atlantic Ave terminal. Cocktails are strong and tasty and come in fabulous stemware. Everything is reasonably priced.

The Hidden Pearl is literally hidden behind a Japanese restaurant (Wanpaku), which gives it a cool speakeasy-esque feel. They serve delicious craft cocktails, beer, wine, sake and Japanese small plates. It’s snug and intimate with a clean polished look, white walls, wood and gold accents. As it holds about 18 to 20 people, it’s best to try and make reservations.

Tucked away in East-Williamsburg, near Bushwick, this art deco inspired lounge is the place to go for great cocktails, friendly staff and a cool ambiance. Given that it is rather ‘narrow’, it can get bumpy at times, especially when it gets crowded. But the cute back patio makes up for everything and is amazing in the summer. They have an oyster happy hour with 1-dollar oysters until 7 pm. Cash only.

This tiny and cozy Prohibition-style cocktail lounge with white subway tiles and a bronze clad bar opened in 2008. There is no outside sign, which is why you may be forgiven for walking right past it. Just look for a door and push. The space is intimate and there’s no natural light, but the bartenders know what they’re doing; they are true mixologists and make killer cocktails. Try the Brooklyn (Rye, Dry Vermouth, Maraschino Bigallet China-China) or a house G & T. The really adventurous should request the ‘Bartender’s Choice’!