Damballa

This place was really interesting! When I found out all the cocktails were on tap, I was a bit…read moreskeptical. What do you mean you're not going to mix my cocktail right in front of me? However, I was quickly proven wrong. Not only was the service topnotch, but the drinks were surprisingly delicious and refreshing. There's a ton of options which is also surprising considering the tap only format. Upon further reflection of how tiny the bar is, it makes sense why they would go this route. It would be challenging for one person let alone two to be behind that bar shaking and stirring. I also heard there's a back area with more seating but we didn't explore much further than the front bar stool seating. Seems like a cool spot for happy hour or late night drinks and I would definitely return!

Vibey bar for sure. Solid set of classic drinks, and some interesting signature drinks too. Most…read more(if not all) are coming pre made from a tap not made to order. Service was quick and not overly crowded for 1030pm on a Friday. I wouldn't go out of my way to try it again but definitely worth a shot. Oh also the dirty martini is practically like drinking salad dressing. I wasn't a fan but my girlfriend loved it

Interior bar view

Aperol spritz

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Palmetto

4.3(38 reviews)

0.8 mi•Bushwick

Every cocktail I had was delicious. I got there when they opened at 5pm and a few people walked in…read morethe first hour. Then i around 630/7p it started to get busy and definitely loud at 8pm. I had the passion fruit cosmo, hibiscus cosmo and gentlemen's buck - all were delicious! $16 a drink and you have to order at the bar. There is AC but not blasting. So it will take you a minute to get cool. The music was amazing, lots of old school hip hop. Got harder to talk as the night went on because it got louder with the music or people talking.

As a whole, Buschwick still has margins of neighborhoods that are quite unassuming. This restaurant…read moreis representative of that. Environment The environment didn't leave much to be desired. The music selection was quite exceptional and there was ample seating when I arrived in the late evening. If you're a lover of either bar or booth seating you'll find both of your desires will be met. SIPS I settled on the Passionfruit Spritz which was both refreshing and packed a small punch. If in need of a more spirit forward or herbal option there were plenty of other options in their menu. Overall, Palmetto was a delightful experience. The cocktails, environment and service all worked together for a seamlessly pleasant experience. Happy Sips!

The bar

At the bar.

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Ice. and nothing else

Abe's Pagoda Bar

4.3(157 reviews)

I always order takeout here but my gif the food is amazing. Love your burgers and fried rice. And…read morethe Mac salad is to die for.

We've been coming during covid. Noticed one day thay they serve food. We thought it was just a…read morebiker bar. Boy we're we pleasantly wrong. You order food at the bar and grab it from the kitchen. The food is surprisingly good. This isn't your typical bar food wings and nachos. They have this sweet and tangy guochang wings. The wings have some good meat to it. Their chicken yakitori skewers comes with a black sesame dipping sauce. Pairs well with a cold beer. The crab lagoon and burger will always be a crowd pleaser. Their cocktails and drinks are great! Doesn't matter which bartender, they maintain the same standard. We opt to go early as they get pretty packed on the weeekend/ evenings. They have pool in the bar room. This is surprisingly a big space and ghe crowd is always vibes.

Pain Killer

Veggie Dumplings

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Outside

Lovejoys

4.2(76 reviews)

Wheelchair accessible

Live music

I just returned to Love Joys after about a year away and instantly wondered to myself what took so…read morelong! The bartenders are soo incredibly welcoming and chill. They didn't even have a problem with me bringing in a hot coffee, which was super nice of them! I came for their monthly open mic and I really love how they maximized the space. It was a packed house (which I love), yet I was quite comfortable given all the great seating and it never once felt overcrowded. I also love how I can always find a parking spot nearby on the block. Though if you're a subway only kind of commuter, then you'll enjoy the fact that the L train stops literally 1 block away. I'll be back soon!

I was invited to Lovejoys for a birthday celebration. On this day in particular, it was rainy and…read morevery cold. So there were a sprinkle of people inside of the venue. I could tell on a day where the weather was better, there would be more of a crowd. Nevertheless, the DJ was pumping R&B music. The vibes were good. I would return at a later time just to see what a different crowd brings to Lovejoys.

Really beautiful bar. Doesn't feel like you're in Bushwick.

Disco nova

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Lovejoys & Palme D'or

The Keep

4.4(84 reviews)

1.1 mi

This bar is really nice. The vibes are very chill with very cozy hints too. The music isn't that…read moreloud so it's a bit relaxing. The drinks pair well a lot. I brought a few close friends so we got to talk a lot while drinking. The staff was also very polite and chill.

Very cool Space they are cocktails are $15 each and their wine and beer are around $10. Really…read morepretty and nice space. There is a back yard. Can get a little noisy there and ppl smoke as well. The service was a bit slow bc there was one bartender and at 7pm a group of 8 ppl came at once. They also have board games. And when i was leaving at 9 p.m. there was a tarot card reader.

Habanero

Inside

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Stage

Tora

4.5(69 reviews)

0.9 mi•Bushwick

I'm so happy that this restaurant is just a 2 min walk from my apartment. The food here is amazing…read moreand the ambiance is nice and peaceful. Food and alcohol is fairly priced and food is flavorful/well seasoned which is hard to find in a Japanese restaurant. The service is quick and food didn't take a while to come out. We ordered shishito peppers, corn ribs, beef sukiyaki, pork belly wrapped enoki mushrooms, and Miyazaki a5 Wagyu hot stone grill. * Shishito peppers 5/5 My favorite out of everything we ordered. It's a MUST TRY! The sauce it's in has yuzu so it's nice, savory, a lil sweet, a lil sour, and a little citrusy - it's perfect for my tastebuds. Literally could not get over how good the sauce was. It also tasted good to dip the corn ribs in that sauce!! * Corn ribs 5/5 Grilled corn ribs with seasoning and cheese, super simple but super tasty. Can never go wrong with corn ribs! * Beef Sukiyaki 5/5 Nice and flavorful broth, the meat is tender, there's also a knot of clear noodles at the bottom of the bowl. * Pork Belly Wrapped enoki 5/5 GOOD. Who doesn't love pork belly AND mushrooms (only crazy people) ?! Amazing flavor, nice and smokey, with crunchy enoki mushrooms * Miyazaki A5 Wagyu 5/5 Good, nice to order once just to try since it is a little on the pricier side bc it's A5 Wagyu, personally I'd rather go to an A5 Wagyu restaurant if I want A5 Wagyu. Nonetheless, it was nice to try! This was enough food to share between my sister and I, without feeling overly full and bloated. Definitely will be coming back regularly since it's so close to home.

I'm going to give Tora some extra points because it's SO hard to find good asian food in this area…read moreof Brooklyn. Tora I think is a true jack of all trades, while many restaurants try to excel in one area I think Tora does amazing at multiple. It's good for sushi, ramen, noodles, etc. Just an overall really well-rounded japanese spot. I think their serving sizes are also very good. Though I'll say I don't think Tora particularly excels in one thing it's not going to be the best ramen or sushi you've had in your life but, for something that's close? Affordable? Has no line? It's definitely the best. Very above average in every regard. Haven't eaten here in person so can't speak on their service but at least their food? Great get pick-up/delivery all the time

Dining Area

Salmon Don

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Zaru Soba Chashudon Katsu Curry

Ra-Ra Rhino

4.5(28 reviews)

Had the awesome pleasure of stopping in for a few happy hr drinks…read more Ra Ra rhino is located in the back of another establishment. Upon entry you're greeted with a plush velvet interior. I'd already eaten so I was only stopping in for drinks. I indulged in the happy hr special which included 10 buck select drinks. Atmosphere was laid back. Service was good. I'd definitely stop in again.

What a fun speakeasy! This one has been on my list for awhile and I finally made it for a friends…read morebday. When you first walk in, it is a burger joint (unfortunately no gluten free options) and then you pass by a Photo Booth to go to the bar. I LOVE a Photo Booth and this one took very good pictures and they give you a digital copy both in photo and video. On a Saturday night, they had a pretty good DJ playing Afrobeats and reggaeton. The bartenders were nice and the margaritas were pretty good. Considering it's a speakeasy, I would say it's pretty spacious with a few booths and table, but would recommend you go there early if you want to be there with a large group. They allow birthday cakes from outside as well.

Dimly lit vibes

I love when the menu has the glass type next to it. The drinks are incredible.

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The purple rhino

Carousel

4.3(24 reviews)

0.9 mi•Bushwick

Loved the theming here! This 70s themed bar is huge with lots of spot to sit, dance, and they even…read morepool tables in the back! I came in here on a whim after seeing a shot at Company XIV. The vibes were so fun and the cocktails were top notch. I couldn't find the menu online, but I had a rum based cocktail with coconut and strawberry. It was so delicious! Tasted sweet, without being a dessert cocktail. Definitely recommend stopping in here for the cocktails and the vibes!

This place has such a chill vibe, with a massive bar, cute hanging lanterns, and dim lighting that…read moremakes it feel cozy. It's super spacious, so it never feels stuffy, and there's no cover. There's a bar in the center and another on the left, with a layout that lets you walk a full circle around the space. The drinks were great, the service was friendly, and even the bouncers were nice.

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Every drink is super aesthetic

Carmelo's

3.9(56 reviews)

0.9 mi•Bushwick

Whoever the security guard was tonight, he was absolutely disrespectful. Me and my friend were…read morewaiting for an uber and he would not let us stay in the bar even though It was not closing yet. Called my girl friend a bitch and made us get out even though there were multiple other patrons in the bar. Whoever that security guard was, I hope your pillow is warm and soggy. But our bartender was great though! Truly loved him and gave him an amazing tip. But truthfully, any security guard who is calling a woman a bitch and is complaining about working his JOB should not be there.

A cash only bar Dark and dank and divey bar*…read moreShady characters *good place to finish the night, weird place to start the day

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Left Hand Path

4.2(52 reviews)

Left Hand Path is my go-to Bushwick bar because of: a. the…read moredraft list b. the dumplings c. the space d. the backyard (e.) all of the above

Crowd, drinks, atmosphere all nice would def go back to start a night or a midweek date night.read more

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Entrance

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Nicholas F.

1 year ago

Damballa exceeded all expectations! We hosted a surprise 35th birthday party for our friend, and the team went above and beyond to make it unforgettable. Special shoutout to the incredible hostess, Danielle, who was warm, welcoming, and made the entire experience seamless. From planning to execution, Damballa's staff were consummate professionals. The food, drinks, and atmosphere were all top-notch. If you're looking for a great spot to celebrate a special occasion, look no further than Damballa! Highly recommend! read more

Jason T.

2 years ago

Went to Damballa after seeing some buzz on social media and had a dope time. The space is beautiful, and the vibe was just right from the second we walked in. Great music, cool lighting, and a fly crowd that was clearly there to have a good time. The staff is friendly, and the bar tenders really know their craft - every drink we ordered was on point. Whether you're looking for a laid-back night out or want to dance a little, this place hits both notes. This is definitely my new go-to spot read more

Emilia G.

1 year ago

Tonight was my first time visiting Damballa. The ambiance and music were excellent, but more importantly, the drinks were delicious!! Danielle is a talented mixologist and incredibly charismatic person! She set the tone for our evening-- offering drink suggestions and engaging us in conversation. She truly made us feel safe and welcome in the space! I will be returning soon with more friends. Thank you Danielle and Damballa for a lovely experience! read more

T T.

2 years ago

We walked in & the ambiance hit just right. It had incredible decor, and the music from the DJ set the perfect tone for our night out . Cocktails were on point--creative, well-balanced. It's rare to find a spot that nails both the drinks and the vibe, but Dambala delivered. What made it even better.... It was right across the street from Erzulie--so, it was the perfect place to keep the night going. Brooklyn needed a spot like this. read more

Geraldina A.

2 years ago

I stopped by Damballa last week and had an amazing time! We were seated right when we arrived and the ambience felt elevated and cozy. We had the steak, Mac and cheese, elshrimp and salad. The waiter suggested different drinks to go with the dishes which made our experience feel even more special. My favorite was the sorrel. There was even a a live dj playing vinyl during our dinner! Will Definitely be back read more

Yvon L.

1 year ago

My wife and I decided to find a new local spot in Bedstuy/bushwick and we were lucky enough to get a seat at the bar of Damballa. The staff was welcoming and the environment was cool and inspiring. We ordered the steak skewers and shrimp mac and cheese and both were divine. As a Haitian guy i was blown away at the ambiance and overall experience. Speacial shout to ISAIAH who was an amazing bartender! read more

Alex R.

2 years ago

I've been a few times since they opened. This place is great. A good combo of a high end lounge / wine bar but also has a dance floor / DJ some nights so you can choose the vibe. Our server was super attentive and nice. I realized after getting my drink that I should have ordered a different cocktail and she said it was no problem at all and made me the new one. Great new spot!! read more

Claire B.

2 years ago

Great vibes here. I heard about it from a friend who went to one of their music events and it did not disappoint. The place itself is really beautiful and the drinks and food were unique and tasty. We started off with having dinner there then stayed for the dance scene later in the night, it had a decent crowd but the service was still quick. read more

M J.

6 months ago

I recently came here for food, such a great vibe, I ordered the burger and fries and my friend tried the salad which was flavorful. The service was nice I was greeted as soon as I entered. The music was good too I think there was a party after dinner and we came back to enjoy later in the evening. I hope they do brunch in the future! read more

Hae Yeon K.

1 year ago

Eugene, the bouncer is such a great guy. Great service. Extremely polite and very welcoming. Overall, I can understand why there's a line. Classy and music is great. It was a Sunday and had such a great time. Erica was also a great bartender as well. Try the PB&J whiskey, it's sweet and smooth just like the ambiance inside. read more

Sarah S.

6 months ago

Dani and Marvin were so attentive and engaged - from the moment I walked in to closing out the check, I did not have to wonder about anything! Food is delicious and not your common bar food, drinks are lovely and the experimental cocktails were so yummy! All in all, incredible experience and highly recommend. read more

Orland P.

1 year ago

wow, just wow. The bartenders SinN and Nila made my night so wonderful. the drinks were soo delicious. BUT the food... was really shockingly amazing. Chef Bobby did his big one. I had the prawns and a side of vegetables and I am beyond blown away. I love this place. The ambience is amazing. read more

Luis T.

1 year ago

Don't have to say much but get the prawns and the yuca fries!! It was all very amazingly delicious. Danielle and Mavit were also great! Danielle suggested everything and Mavit mixed some great cocktails, the Rodrigo and the gardener to be specific! read more

Chloe S.

6 months ago

wish I had come sooner! had several small plates and the chicken sandwich and everything was super tasty. drinks were great and the music was a vibe. will come back --- the bartender was lovely and staff were accommodating read more

Mark Andrew L.

2 years ago

This place has incredible ambience and delicious cocktails & food. The dinner vibe is more low key and it gets progressively busier throughout the course of the night. Overall great spot no matter what mood you are in. read more

Jack C.

2 years ago

This is legit one of the best spots in all of NYC. The vibes are incredible, the music is always on point, the food is unreal. Go for dinner and stay for dancing, guaranteed to have a good time. read more

Nathaniel J.

5 months ago

I had one of the best chicken sandwiches I have had in my life. The waiter, Joel and the bartender Danielle were magnificent. And the chef is great and cute. Come to Damballa!! read more

Derrick S.

1 year ago

We had such a great experience thanks to Danielle! Our drinks were never empty, the food came out quickly, and they even checked in to make sure everything was perfect read more

C J.

1 year ago

Came for the drinks and enjoyed the Haitian patties and music. I enjoyed damballa did not try the other meals. On a Friday night at 8 pm it was easy to get a table. read more

Kenechi M.

1 year ago

Danielle was an amazing waitress today for us!! She was on time with all drinks and was very intentional with us!! I will come again for this type of service!! read more

Damballa - musicvenues - Updated November 2026

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The space is small and cozy but full of character and vibes. Doing it via IG and loved the idea of…read morethe DJ playing vinyls while the patrons jammed over drinks and signature wings. Invitation accepted! Bae and I pulled up on a Wed around 6:30 and it was way too soon as we were practically the only people there. We wasted no time in getting to the heart of the matter: wings and drinks. I had the Blueberry Mule a nonalcoholic spritzer with a ginger beer base, blueberries and lime with fresh rosemary. It was so refreshing I could've had 6. He had the Bust It Baby Bourbon with rye, grenadine, pineapple, orange, lemon, Demerara, angostura. He loved it! I ordered the Brown Butter Buffalo wings and he had lemon pepper. We shared an order of fries hot out the deep fryer with light seasoning and he added mozzarella sticks. We were happy to big back down everything but the mozzarella sticks which had no pull and were very dry. The service was immaculate. Our order was timely, drinks made to perfection and we got what we went there for . Good eats, great music and vibes. We had errands to run so we left and then came back shortly after 9:00 and could barely get on it was so packed. Overall, there's only one way to sum this place up- think Cheers but black-owned. Everyone knows each other by name and gives hugs and there appears to be a strong sense of community amongst staff and patrons. I'll be back real soon.

Stopped in after having dinner/drinks at another restaurant close by. It seemed like they were…read morehosting an event because it was packed and everyone had on name tags, but we asked someone and they said there wasn't an event. We decided to join in on the festivities and make some tags for ourselves. Very small spot with limited seating. They had a live DJ and the vibes were really good. Drinks were ok. They have an interesting/creative lineup of drinks/names. We had the "THE DRINK DRAKE DRINKS" which has TEQUILA PEACH PROSECCO RUBY GRAPEFRUIT but it wasn't strong at all for $17. It was more refreshing than anything. We ended up switching to regular flavored margaritas which were better. Food: we just ordered all 3 flavored wings they had and they were all good.

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This is top level NYC nightlife. The place is always packed, the rhythms are always good.read more

This will be the first time I'm writing a yelp review of a place I didn't eat at…read more.. I've been here a few times just to turn up. Music is always a vibe and so are the people.

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