Last night was my second time here and both experiences were great. We got a table even on a Friday night. The place has a great atmosphere and the beer selection is amazing - lots of drafts and even more bottles. We had some great beers, some cheese, and pretzels with mustard. Everything was very enjoyable and we had a great time. We will definitely be back. Covenhoven is a great place to have in the neighborhood. read more

Moving from Jersey City to Brooklyn was not without its sacrifices. While in general Jersey sucks, between Super Buy Rite and a few smaller stores my beer needs were met. There's definitely no shortage of beer stores in Brooklyn, but they aren't necessarily convenient to me or even passable in some cases. After shopping around a bit, I think I've found what I need in Covenhoven. Right off the shuttle train, this place is like Brooklyn's version of Good Beer in the East Village, in terms of the hybrid bar/beer store setup as well as the level of quality. Covenhoven's space is long and narrow but they make the most of it. The front is a long line of tables for people to sit and chill at. There's a garage door in front that I imagine they'll open up over the summer in addition to a backyard in back that I didn't get to check out. (it was raining when I visited). I also saw people who brought food from the outside, so apparently that's allowed even though they have a limited food menu. In back of the tables is a small bar area along with the beer coolers. Tap list is about 15 beers long with a wide variety of different styles, including classics (Sierra Nevada Hoptimum, Full Sail Session Black Lager) and more unique offerings (Newburgh Doppio, Grimm Double Negative). This is definitely not a new-to-craft beer kind of place, although the bartenders seemed competent to guide someone around if need be. Regardless of what you get, I found the prices to be quite reasonable--much lower than beer bars in Manhattan. This extends to a lesser extent to the big refrigerators of beer across from the bar. Their selection seems a bit unorganized, but I'd compare it to mixing in chocolate eggs in an Easter basket rather than just throwing them on top. Trying to find what you're looking for is part of the fun! It's not a massive amount of different options, but it's more than it looks like and the quality is certainly there (check out them on BeerMenus.com). On my first time visiting, I got the Newburgh Doppio on tap, and picked up Prairie/Evil Twin Bible Belt, Prairie Puncheon, Off Color Apex Predator, and some Westbrook Gose. The damage was a little over $40, which is a little below or on par with what I'm used to paying. Between that, some good music, good bartenders, and overall a cool vibe, I'm going to be back sooner rather than later. Covenhoven may not have been around forever but they definitely seem to know what they're doing. read more

A crazy thought that the true pure blood Manhattanite I am ended up stumbling across this gem in a foreign place known as Brooklyn...After visiting a few awesome exhibits in the Brooklyn Museum, it was only right to explore what this borough had to offer and I'm so happy that I did. This spot was incredible - the staff was so friendly, the beer selection was endless and the vibe was so cute (not to mention the outdoor space that was packed when I went, wahhh) First off, the staff - I'm not a big beer drinker but I've been trying to find my niche so after trying about 5 beers on draught and liking none I was just going to be that girl to opt for the wine. Luckily the bartender stopped me. We had a discussion of the types of beers that I have liked in the past and I shared the descriptions (that of course I have saved for times like this) and she went into the fridge and pulled out a Saison that I fell in love with. I literally bought all the ones left in the fridge and took them to go. Oh and they fill growlers to go also! The place seemed to be filled with locals, some with their babies, which I was very skeptical about upon arriving because I'm not a baby person. However, all the babies were very well behaved and most importantly CUTE! I did not mind sharing my space, and staring at them while i sipped my beer secretly contemplating how I could kidnap one (totally kidding, don't call the cops). In a nutshell the place is laid back, cool, tasty, and cute! Highly recommend. read more

Covenhoven - Beer Bar Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I went to Covenhoven with a group on Saturday, and I think I speak on behalf of many of them when I say it was a jolly good time. The outdoor space was particularly lovely in the nice weather, a good amount of seats and plenty of places to stand and chat. Great selection of beers on tap, a bunch of different styles and different price points. I didn't ask any questions so I don't know how knowledgeable the staff is about the beers they offer, but they were friendly, so they get points for that. Reserving a five-star review for when they start selling more food (they said a cheese plate and picked vegetables are coming soon). I could also do without the $2 capping fee for any of their retail bottles, but that's just because I'm used to other places in my own neighborhood with the retail/tap combo that don't charge you. read more

I wish i lived closer. Never mind, I'm glad I don't live closer because then I would go broke. James was behind the bar and he was excellent. Extremely knowledgeable about beer in general, the beers they served, what was coming in, what was on its way out, and he had a lot of specialized knowledge about niche brewers and beer styles. Even better, when he didn't know something, he said so and immediately researched it. Overall he was friendly, funny, and oozing beer enthusiasm. The beer selection was impressive as well. Several of the taps were from brewers I was not previously familiar with (BFM, Fritz Briem) and several had offerings from more familiar brewers I hadn't heard of yet. Oh yeah, and they had Jai Alai on tap, which was quite a treat. The ambiance of the place is also a major reason to come here. Very laid back environment with a self-serve water jug and a large cooler/fridge with an even more impressive bottle selection. They had some vintage floor fans battling the heat and beer trays adorned the walls from breweries near and far. They also have an outdoor area out back, but I didn't check it out. If you like beer, like REAL beer (not that BMC crap) then this should be on your radar. read more

Lived in the neighborhood awhile and always wanted to try it. Drinks are good, the service was great! The food was just ok. Will probably go back to give it another chance. read more

This place is terrible. You should never come here. Still reading? Ok, here's the truth - this bar is so awesome I don't want to tell anyone. You can actually TALK to your friends here, which is why I don't want anyone to know how great it is and fill it up so it's not great anymore. Beer-on-tap selection is good, and there's more options in bottles for a small "uncapping fee" ($2 I think?). Bartenders are friendly and willing to let you try before deciding on a pint. I do wish there were more wine options - right now it's just "red" or "white." The vibe is great, low lighting, soft 90's music, QUIET patrons - great to catch up with friends or do a little laptop work with a beer in hand. The backyard is darling, and I'll be here more often when the weather cooperates. read more

Overall this spot is a real gem. Fantastic tap list and very relaxed space inside as well as in the backyard. My only gripe is that the markup on their bottles recently seems to be soaring. This was once a reasonable option for picking up a few to-go bottles on the way home. By and large this is no longer the case. Regardless, this remains an excellent place to sit down and enjoy a pint or two of excellent beer. read more

Do you like hanging out in big groups? Do you like hanging out with young people? Do you like hanging out in big, annoying groups of young people at an establishment that looks like it was plucked out of Greenpoint? Then you'll love this place! But it is not for me. The thing I like about this general part of town is that it doesn't reek THAT strongly of gentrification. The newer folks and the older folks intermingle a bit in a way that never happens in north Brooklyn, and it's nice, but this place seems strictly for the newer folks. But hey, if I ever develop a propensity for hanging out in big, insular groups, maybe I'll be back! read more

The perfect beer lover hangout. Always a great selection on tap, and a mind boggling array of bottles of delicious craft beer to satisfy any palate and fairly priced as well. At the bar or at the small table in the back are my favorite places to sit - the front gets crowded but is ideal seating if you are a party of 5 or more. I have yet to try out their backyard but with summer encroaching I am eagerly looking forward to it. The bartenders are consistently friendly and knowledgeable and happy to let you sample a beer you haven't tried before. Their helpful attitude coupled with a generally pleasant crowd of imbibers contributes to an entirely irresistibly convivial vibe. The highlight of the CovenHoven experience for me is the level to which the owners are present and involved in the bar. They are passionate and informed about breweries and beers and exude an enthusiasm and warmth that could not be faked. It gives the place a genuine family business feel - like being escorted into the friendliest coven on the planet. read more

Came here on a hot day to grab a drink and cool down - what a pleasant surprise!! A million beer and cider selections, really friendly and knowledgeable bartenders, and snack size charcuterie! Free loaf of bread to top it all off - and an amazing backyard courtyard, and I have to say this is one of the sweetest, most excellent bars I've been to in recent memory. What a treat!! read more

Great service at the bar, great selection of beers and cheese. They have nice selection of board games too. They forgot our order and to make up for it they offered us cheese and were very apologetic though it didn't really matter. Great service!! read more

Fantastic new addition to the neighborhood. Great beer selection on draft and bottles available as well. They sell Pelzer's pretzels, which are made just down the street and are delicious. The bar has a clean, sleek, modern appearance with a garage door front that will probably be open in the summer. There are long pews along the wall with tables. Prices for beers are standard for craft brews mostly $7. A great spot for beer lovers. read more

Nice place, great location and an even better beer selection! I enjoyed #8 it was a salty sweet wheat ale.

This place is great. Huge selection of beer and cider, delicious sandwiches, cheese platter and beet salad. Attended a birthday party here. The owners and staff were incredibly gracious and attentive. I will be back. read more

The atmosphere at Covenhoven can't be beat. Whether you are there during the day on a weekend, casually sipping from a can they have in their cooler or a draft on tap, playing uno with your sister and her friend while listening to Marvin Gaye on a Saturday night or on the most comfortable date you've ever had, Covenhoven is the place to be. I've admitted this before and I will continue to do so: my knowledge of craft beer is limited (read: nonexistent) so I can't actually say much about the selection except that there are plenty of options and everyone else I know who are much more picky about their beer than I am seems to love this place. I'm a huge fan of their cider selection in the case area. Check it out if you are looking for something dry, sweet or just not beer. Great music, great people, great vibes, this place makes a great casual day or night spot. I highly recommend going in nice weather, their backyard is positively lovely (although I think they close it down at 10 PM for neighbors). read more

Tiny, chill spot serving up the most diverse brews from all over with taps that rotate daily. Come for the beer; stay for the vibes, grilled cheese, board games, and, of course, the beer. It's candle-lit and has a small backyard too. I'm hesitant to share this place because it's such a gem! read more

This is my favorite beer bar in Brooklyn. And I am so picky about beer bars! The draft selection changes daily, always has local options, national and international selections. Very well curated, as is the bottle and can collection to go or to stay. They have a counter pressure growler filler but you must use the wide mouth 32 and 64 oz growlers. Your medicine bottle style growler won't be filled. The staff is knowledgeable but also friendly and approachable. The owners are there frequently and will chat with you. The front is a large garage door usually open to the street. There is art on the walls, and a cute and comfortable back yard. There is a lot of wood and it feels cozy. There are large tables for groups and tables for two. They only serve the best beer here but they are not snobby about it. You can usually ask to taste a few drafts before you buy, and the staff will help you and offer a recommendation if you like. There is minimal food, grilled cheeses and build your own cheese or meat plate. I'd like to see them improve that. But they focus on beer, and they do it very well. read more

Super dope bar, swanky music, tons of unique beer selections, a great set of board games. They have an outdoor seating area as well. read more

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I live within a block of this place and that has proved to be both blessing and a curse. Their craft beer/cider selection is the best and most diverse in Brooklyn and probably NYC. Any beer you could want is in there and they rotate new product all the time so you get to try such an amazing variety of IPAs, stouts, sours, blondes, coders, and everything in between. Staff is super friendly and really beer knowledgeable. They can point you in the right direction if you give them an idea of what you like. Ambience is cozy and lowkey. Great place to catch up with some friends or a first date. Trivia is really fun on Tuesday nights! read more

This is a great addition to the neighborhood. The tap list is broad and varies daily, and the refrigerated beer selection is on point. The atmosphere of the place doesn't seem to have really gelled yet, but this is a good location to enjoy a relatively quiet, tasty beer with a friend. Some of the draft beers are probably a buck overpriced, which leads me to often turn to a bottle from the fridge. Of course, there's a 2 dollar fee... Still, very glad to have this option nearby. In general I've had good service but the girl who was working last night seemed very uninterested in being there and took about 10 mins to take my order (nobody else was waiting--what gives?) read more

Awesome spot, love the help yourself fridge loaded with options, where you can stay with your beverage and play games, or take it to go. The backyard is perfect, and the tiki torches keep bugs away. I'm taking my friends here! read more

This is a fun neighborhood spot. Large selection of beers on tap and even larger selection of cans/bottles that you can either drink in house or take home with you. Cute backyard spot. Fun trivia night every Tuesday. Also very excellent grilled cheese. read more

Like Good Beer But less bright. Backyard, growlers, And sixteen delicious craft beers on tap. read more

Went for the Sixpoint Beast Mode launch, stayed for...the other beer? Excellent selection and very reasonable prices. Unfortunately, the place was packed to the gills the one night I went, however the people were all friendly and it wasn't too loud. I saw some folks order food and got very jealous. Next time Covenhoven...next time. read more

Great beer selection, good vibe with great potential. However, the service is VERY poor there. A bunch of guys trying to act cool but very unprofessional. We paid high prices for their canned/bottled beers and they don't even offer you a glass (imagine a cold one?). read more

I went to Covenhoven for the first time last weekend and will definitely be returning! It was a chill crowd, excellent beer selection, helpful bartenders who let me try a bunch of different beers before deciding on a great IPA that I'd never had before. If you're lucky enough to grab a table or a few of the precious bar stools, you'll end up staying for hours. A great addition to the neighborhood. If only they had food! read more

I've been here 100 times and never took the time to write a review. Just the best. If you like great beer, variety, always friendly service, quality and eclectic music, this is your place to spend a weekend afternoon. Lexi's the bomb. Treat her well and enjoy yourself. It's places like this one that make being a beer lover in Brooklyn worth the price (via beer, rent, and all things really). My home away from home on a Saturday at 2pm. My fave. read more

This is a cool little spot. That's literally what I said as I walked through the door at Covenhoven. And I meant it. There's a vibe at Covenhoven that is sincerely casual yet intimate without letting itself get carried away with 'creating atmosphere'. So many small Brooklyn bars fall prey to some sort of Napoleonic complex that they try to make up for their size with excessively long menus and too much decorative 'stuff'. Covenhoven keeps the decor simple and menu at good quality. The beer menu is extensive enough without hitting a point of diminishing returns. And the beers are goooood. Not once have I sat with friends where each of us ordered completely different beers and every single person was more than satisfied with their pick. There's always the one that falls flat you know? Not this time. Every single person chose something totally new to them and every single beer was great. Ok Covenhoven... I see you! Well, I see your good beer selection. I almost didn't see your door though. Late night, small name printed in dark letters, and the name is at the same level as the parked cars so you don't see it from across the street. Yeah, I walked right by looking for it. So minor word to the wise, google image the address before heading out. It's getting cold out, folks shouldn't be wandering while trying to find Covenhoven. But they definitely should be giving it a try. Nice spot, good beer selection, chill atmosphere that epitomizes "unbothered" makes it worth a trip. read more

Cool place for a chill Sunday. Hated that the patio was paaaacked (why wouldn't it be, it was a gorgeous summer day!). Beau and I chilled inside (A/C was on BLAST, thankfully!!). He had a sour beer, I had water (because: hangover)...we played Jenga. They've got an impressive selection of beers and I can't wait to come back with some friends to check 'em out! read more

The beer selection Is on point! AND they have wine* Wish it was bigger! *winos, i love you but get a fucking beer here read more

Good bar, great beer list, and a nice selection of cheeses/smoked meats, and beer in the back.

Highly recommended for any beer lovers. Great spot for a quick drink or long convos. The patio area out back in the summer is perfect. The beer selection is the best in town and the ones on tap are amazing too. read more

Always a great atmosphere with friendly bartenders and a wonderful selection of craft beers and ciders. Grab a pretzel with champagne sweet mustard or a gourmet grilled cheese, try the newest saison, and just chill. One of my favorite spots in Brooklyn, hands down!! read more

Wonderfully low-key and casual place for drinks, but without the grime and grit of a grungy dive bar. Staff are very knowledgeable about their beers on tap, and along the back of the room are numerous bottles of other booze that are available for drink. Affordable and welcoming to a group of friends that want to chill over beers and chat for hours. read more

I went there on a Sunday evening and the place was unexpectedly busy. One of the staff alerted me when there was a table available for my party of three, which I thought was nice. Having Celiac Disease I was pleased to find that they had a good selection of ciders. The staff was pleasant and helpful. This is definitely a place that I will frequent. read more

They have a ton of beers on tap and bottles in the fridge to drink there or carry away. It's not too loud and there's a nice outdoor space out front and in back. It's a cool place to meet people where you can actually hear them talk. read more

Awesome backyard and incredible selection of beers. Every time I have been there, there were nice dogs out front. Hey also have board games. Only downside is it can get crazy crowded. I've been a bunch and have only been able to sit outside once. read more

I went here for the first time with a group a friends on an early Saturday evening. We ordered some grilled cheese and when it was finally ready ( 30 minutes later) the server delivered the food and dropped it. They had to remake the food. So after another 20 minutes, I go to the " grilled" cheese man to ask how much longer. The person making the sandwiches was extremely rude when he was asked about the food and how long it would take. The guy making the food even has the nerve to ask if I " would help him carry it out". And as I was helping him bring the long awaited food out he was bad mouthing me the whole walk outside where our group was. My boyfriend heard how he was talking to me and tried to defend me. When that was getting him no where he tried to talk to the manager. The manager the was a complete a**hole and didn't want to listen about how the disrespectfully they treat their customers. If you would like to be treated horribly and wait an extremely long time for food then yes do come here. read more

Great, cozy beer bar with beautiful wood finishing. Their beer selection was impressive to even the snobbiest beer snobs in our group, and the vibe is very chill. read more