This is a very delayed review as I visited over the summer. Our party of 4 visited on an early Saturday evening and was able to be seated right away. The vibe is very much dark and moody. They were setting up for what looked like a guest DJ of sorts? Once the DJ started their music, it was VERY loud which was a little disappointing. We didn't try any of the food. We did try some of the cocktails though and they were all great. Also tried the paper bag beer because we couldn't resist the mystery. The beers were 16oz cans of craft beers. not bad! Overall, really liked the place! read more

See all

Very moody, vibey lounge, restaurant, and bar in downtown New Haven. Stopped in before a late dinner nearby on a Wednesday night around 6. There are couches in corners, tables, and bar seating. Only the bar tender seemed to be serving so service was very slow. I liked the aesthetic and Dj Kamakaze provided tunes or else I'd give a lower rating. Would return for an evening outing, good place to get lost. read more

Firehouse 12 - Jazz & Blues Near Me - New Haven, Connecticut

See all

Disappointing Experience Due to Unprofessional Behavior I came in for what should've been a great night--amazing music from DJ Hugh and a solid atmosphere. Unfortunately, the experience was ruined by Megan, the manager, whose energy was anything but welcoming. She poured water directly into my mezcal by mistake, and when we kindly addressed it, she responded with unnecessary attitude. Later, I simply reached near the garnish area to grab a straw and was shooed away with more disrespect. When I asked directly for a straw, she claimed she didn't hear me--still no apology, just more bad energy. As a fellow business owner, I was honestly shocked by the lack of professionalism from someone in a leadership position. Customer service is everything--here in New Haven, and period. That kind of energy does not belong in hospitality. read more

Anyone with less than 6 stars here is insane. Not to diagnose them, but they should probably go see a doctor about it. Meegan and Stefania are beautiful breaths of fresh air, not to mention creating an immaculate vibe. So immaculate, Madonna is jealous. read more

So I went on a recommendation here not realizing that the main part of it was closed. I'm just figuring that out now. However, I walked in tonight after finding parking and taking 20 minutes to get to the location and once in the door, I was directed down to a beautiful lounge and bar area with the Dreamius music playing, and it was such an esoteric feeling to my experience there. However, that was stopped short when I sat down and reviewed the menu, four times, and then waited, then waited some more, I'm by myself, so I continue to wait. Then Inn walks three different sets of people, and the next thing I know the one bartender is making drinks for all of the different people who have showed up, but there's nobody servicing the actual lounge and people that are waiting for food and drinks. I promptly stood up, took my bag and walked out. I was really looking forward to trying their delicious vegetarian options and a martini for starters so I can't really say much about the food or the drink, but I can say I felt extremely neglected walking in the door as a first timer. I just want to state that I have edited my review and given them five stars, I heard from their manager, Megan and I truly appreciate the follow up and sweet invite to come back and try fire house 12. I'm here for another few days. I'm gonna give it a whirl again tonight it was actually a beautiful place so maybe I just came in at a really crazy time- thanks again! read more

terrible management, went to have a good time with friends that were hosting an event here and was asked to leave because a blonde woman "didn't like" all three of my friends and i's completely valid IDs. she refused to provide a reason and was quite hostile towards us asking her to clarify why, claiming that she "was not arguing with us". im 24 years old and never had an experience like this in nhv, left willingly because i don't argue with Stupidity and can clearly have a better night somewhere else. will not be returning here. if your ID assessment skills are subpar, get a scanner. update: "due diligence" very poor & inaccurate. had many friends there that night tell me they knew of 18 & 19 yr olds at the bar the same night. again, i am 24 yrs old with a completely legit license, so any "signs" and the manager of this bar are just plain wrong. scanners avoid inaccuracy and unpleasant experiences. read more

Never went before the renovation, but now that it's open, it may be my favorite bar in New Haven. We went during cocktail week and the drinks were so unique and well made. Definitely the coolest venue in town, love the unique wooden ceiling. Great DH spinning real vinyl and an excellent taste in music. The food was excellent, which is hard to do with vegan food. Absolutely will be coming back again and again. read more

See all

My husband and I came for a drink on a recent weekend evening. The bar downstairs feels like a lounge-y bunker. (There's really no other way to describe it!) The benches along the sides are definitely the most comfortable way to go, though bar and table seating is available. For being a small place, they have a pretty solid whiskey selection, including the ever scarce Angel's Envy Rye. The beer selection is small, but they had a local IPA to my liking. This spot is intimate without being stifling. I'd definitely come back for a drink or a show. read more

Not impressed. I brought a friend here for Valentine's Day and was underwhelmed at every chance Firehouse 12 had to make the night a nice classy outing. We seated ourselves in a booth and looked toward the bartender expecting a menu to be brought to us. Apparently, NOT here. You have to go order and then get back up to retrieve your own drinks. Not that it was too busy for him to serve us at our table, either. Second, the music was terrible (generic rock) and didn't add to or create any type of ambiance. Third, my friend didn't enjoy her drink and mine (Prohibition Punch) tasted like a hurricane with cheap liquor and too much ice. Tasted like something I would get at Friday's or some other suburban chain restaurant. I think the decor I saw online tricked me into having the wrong expectations for Firehouse 12. Similar places in NYC and other cities are considered upscale. This place has so much potential to tap into an unserved market of places for young people to have a nice date or even just mingling without yelling over the music. If you're seeking a "grown and sexy" evening keep on trekking. read more

I don't know how they get the potatoes so crispy, but even with the sauce and packaged to go they stay super crisp.

I've been here twice - once when the bar was at capacity, and once when it was fairly empty. Firehouse was solid both times. The space is lovely - a cozy little cavern a flight of stairs below Crown with comfortable loungey seats and warm low lighting. The cocktail menu seems heavily tilted towards brandy and whiskey, which I usually don't like, but all the drinks I tried were good and quite, quite strong. Definitely the place to take a date when you're hoping someone will make a bad decision. The bartenders are great, and my second time here I heard Built to Spill playing! I was really excited because they're my favorite band and I rarely hear them when I'm not looking to, like, on my iTunes. It turned out the bartender was running his iPod, and we happened to have pretty much the exact same taste in music. Hipster joy aside, the cool bartender with his iPod just really fit in with the relaxed atmosphere of the place. I'll definitely be going back. read more

This is a cute little bar that has live music from time to time. This review is for the bar only -- I did not get to come during a time with music, unfortunately. The bar is not bad. The drinks are neither weak, nor strong. They have a decent selection of cocktails, though I am sure they could whip something up for you that is off-menu. I was sad my old fashioned came with multiple ice cubes, rather than one large misshapen cube. I was really disappointed they do not serve any fries! How do you sell alcohol and have no carbs to absorb it?! The ambiance is hip and dark, and service is good. I would give this place another chance. read more

So I'm not a huge fan of dark, quiet bars with low seating. It's just not my favorite thing. Every time I go to Firehouse 12, I think "Oooh this place is trendy and fun and people love it! Let's go!" and then I get there and think "Eh... Can we go to Liffey's?" The staff is always nice; everything is always clean and orderly; it's never crazy busy; the drinks are good and not expensive... but it's just not my type of place. Maybe I need to come back for a jazz show. read more

Never made it here while officially on campus because it's a bit far (all the way down Crown Street past 116 Crown) but so glad I finally made it! It's a pretty small space, but has a curious combination of an underground and lounge-y feel. The cocktails are excellent-they have a ton of specials so you can get many of them for cheap. I tried a whiskey sour when I went (think it was on a Wednesday-$4 well drinks!) and it was the perfect balance of tart and strong. Ambiance wise it's pretty dark and intimate, so would be a good spot for a casual date as well. read more

I remember how the exterior looked before it got renovated. It sat in a sad dilapidated state for a very long time. It's nice to see somebody saved a part of urban history and blended it with contemporary form and function. I can't speak for the upstairs studio/auditorium, but the architects did a good job with the basement bar. Swank NYC design best describes it. Ultra tiny too. But as small as it is, the entire front wall is open and airy. During the day it takes advantage of natural light shining through the front windows. The result is a room that doesn't feel cramped or confined. Not bad for a hundred year old basement. When sitting there, I can't help but stare at the outlines of the original basement windows in the brick wall. They're totally sealed today, but they were really big windows in their day. I can only guess there wasn't a building next door when the firehouse was built. It's little things like that, where the old is saved and tells a bit of a story, that I find really interesting. The beer/wine list isn't extensive but it has a little bit of something for everybody. For example, for beer, they have everything from Dilirium Tremens for $8 to Pabst Blue Ribbon bottles $1.50 (PBR specials are Wednesday nights according to their website). On the surface, this place has the potential of being some ultra posh, pretentious, secret hangout for pseudo intellect types, but I have found the people and atmosphere to be really down to earth. It's not surprising that the bartender continuously gets voted the city's "best bartender" by the Advocate year after year. read more

Firehouse 12 - I want these doors for my house - Jazz & Blues Near Me - New Haven, Connecticut

I'm definitely not hip enough to really "get" this place, but I don't think it really matters - I love it anyway. The atmosphere is, as everyone has already said, amazing. Cozy corners, beautiful nooks with gorgeous wallpaper and drippy candles. Cool but not pretentious; I've seen 20-somethings and 40-somethings coexist here without any problems, and I think it's probably due to the relaxed vibe given off by the doorman and the bartenders...all equally chill. I love the carefully edited (i.e. short) wine list and appreciate that they give generous pours. This is a great place to come at the beginning of the night, when it's not crowded and you want to sit quietly and gaze at your companion across the table...but it's also fun with a small table, and it's become a favorite locale for birthday celebrations, too. read more

This is a very intimate and chill type of bar. You're likely to walk right past the front door the first time you go because the entrance is pretty nondescript. Once inside, you go immediately downstairs to a relatively small bar/seating area, but that's sort of the appeal. The seats range from regular chairs, to couches and small ottoman-type seats. Gives it more of a lounge feel. Interestingly, and sort of counter-intuitively for a small, chic bar, are the reasonable drink prices. They have a few drinks on tap and their bottled drinks (I had a cider) are as cheap as $3 or $4. Their drink menu also has a list of old-fashioned cocktails if that's your thing. Firehouse 12 also does a pretty good Friday happy hour including a few trays of catered food from local restaurants (I think). Last time I went they had some grilled cheese & onion sandwiches which were very tasty. Another time they had large buffalo wings along with some pita and hummus. read more

I absolutely love the bar at Firehouse. It's small, but every time I've been there it's never felt overcrowded. The clientele is varied, but always respectful--you won't get any rowdy college students or drunks here. The downstairs bar space is hip and funky at the same time. And the drinks...oh, the drinks. There is a reason that the bartenders keep getting BONH time and time again. I recently saw a jazz show with the BF and, while I enjoyed it, I'm not sure I would go back. The performance space is a recording studio by day--and you get that feel. I was a little disappointed at how short the set was as well-definitely expected it to be longer. When I think "jazz" I think somewhere like The Beehive in Boston--small, smokey and the ability to jam to the music over a glass of wine. Firehouse is definitely not that. At least check out one performance for yourself--the band was good. And definitely check out the bar! read more

Just ordered the burger, beans and corny pasta salad and it is SO FREAKING GOOD. My omni partner is devouring it all and he never eats vegan. This was my first time ordering and definitely will not be my last! Thank you for these delicious vegan options. Keep them coming!!! read more

This place is a nice little gem in New Haven. It is in a quieter part of town, and is located downstairs in what seems to be the basement of what used to be a firehouse. Now it is a bar with a dimly lit and cozy setting with plenty of comfy seating areas. The vibe is mellow and it is never really too crowded or loud. The bartender is nice and accommodating. They have a reasonable selection of house cocktails and a good selection of beers, wines, and spirits. There's nothing too fancy here, but there's definitely something for everyone and the prices are very reasonable. The food menu is actually pretty impressive. They have a selection of very reasonably priced small plates and flatbread sandwiches that have very unique flavor profiles. There was this dish that had grilled white cheese topped with olives and pickled watermelon that was really tasty. Also, there was a cheesy flatbread sandwich that was also pretty delicious. Firehouse 12 is a great place to go for a drink or a snack in New Haven, especially if you are looking for a quieter place to enjoy time with friends in a nice environment. They apparently have live music at times, but I've never encountered it. read more

Intimate is the perfect word to describe this bar. Tucked away in a basement, the decor is swanky and cozy. Plenty of nooks to hang with a group or just a date. The cocktails are well made and strong, the price is not too high. They also have a decent selection of beer, for PBR to local brews. I definitely recommend. read more

You tell me you're on tour and a musician but you're not a musician you're a stage hand and "help out in the studio" but I know the band DOKKEN and they have a great engineering team. When you run down the block pick up food for your TM. Lies. read more

My girlfriend and I went to Firehouse 12 for the first time tonight, had a fantastic time at the downstairs bar, and decided to blindly pay $40 to see the band playing that night upstairs based on the promise of a Spanish piano player and local guitarist ... but it was nothing but atonal noise. We walked out after one song (which another couple did as well). Instead of asking for our money back, we asked if they would credit us for another show because we REALLY did like the place and wanted to give it another shot - but they refused and essentially said it was our fault for not knowing what the band sounded like. The manager even made some reference about how if you go to a Rolling Stones show you should know what the Rolling Stones sound like. Honestly, I never complain when I'm out. Even at restaurants when I get the wrong dish I won't say anything because I feel bad. But for the first time in my life I felt offended. I won't give Firehouse 12 zero or one star - because honestly the bar downstairs is fantastic - the bar alone deserves 5 stars. I would have honestly made Firehouse 12 my weekly bar to go to, but I was so hurt by the way I was treated (especially after trying to be accommodating) that I will never go there again. read more

This is a cool space on many different levels, first, the design is beautiful. It used to be an old firehouse. Second, for a bar, it is always consistently on point. Prompt attentive service, great, correction, awesome bartenders, no matter how crowed it gets. It can be standing room only or slow, it's always a toss up on the crowd level. I like to meet friends here and come when I'm flying solo. It's thankfully not a pick up scene and I've had some good conversations with other patrons. Upstairs, there is a small space for concerts. Tickets are inexpensive and different genre of music are featured. Really worth checking out and supporting independent music. Lastly, it's conveniently close to the train station. 5 stars, for great bartenders, good drinks, well made dirty martini, good atmosphere and vibe. read more

So far all the reviews here have been on point. A-1 Bartenders. Cool, somehow cozy atmosphere. A great time whether it's dead or hoppin'. The wine list is small, and hasn't changed since the place opened. However, the bar manager always has a stash of interesting wines on hand, if you're wise enough to ask. I have found many new (to me) wines at Firehouse, and it's the main reason I continue to stop in. read more

This is my favorite bar in CT. The ambience is like no other - situated far enough away from the clubs that you don't get club goers after hours, you walk downstairs into a dimly lit, beautiful space with couches and some cool wallpaper - please examine on your next visit. Cool music too. Bartenders are relaxed and friendly, selection of beers is terrific, and the cocktails strong & tasty. The place is rarely overcrowded, but occasionally it's a little too eclectic, if you know what I mean. Good for a group of friends or to impress a date. If I'm in New Haven, I will end the night here. read more

A hidden gem for innovative drinks, a downtown-NY feel, and, believe it or not, world-class live jazz. Firehouse 12 is an old firehouse-turned-modern recording studio-turned-jazz performance space-turned bar/lounge. Every step of its evolution has added another layer to its charm: the brick from the old firehouse, the insanely good live jazz on most Friday nights, and, of course, the classy, tasty drinks and bar food that hold it all together. If you're looking for something unique but reliable, definitely head over to the Firehouse. If you appreciate jazz and it happens to be a Friday night during the fall or spring, even better. read more

Vibe: pretty chill. Drinks: pretty good One particular staff girl: disrespectful. I asked a simple question when she walked by if they made specialty shots. And her reply was okay, she said of course we do, with a smile and walked away. What I didn't appreciate was when she went back to the bar she was making fun of me with her coworkers that some guy asked a stupid question about having shots. I only found out because my friend was up getting a drink at that time and over heard this girl degrading me. Anyhow, I just think it's uncalled for. It was an innocent question and I been to places, albeit less common that didn't do custom shots. read more

Went recently for the first time to the bar, which is in the basement...has a laid back and sophisticated vibe. Small spot, but cozy. They had $3 happy hour drafts and a nice wine and mixed drink list. There are small tables and couches around the perimeter of the room plus some bar stools around the bar, which is small but adequate. Was there with a group of about 20 ladies and we basically had the place to ourselves...didn't get too loud and were able to hear each other over the chatter. Will definitely go back and maybe check out the other levels of the place. Only negative is they only serve bar snacks...no food. read more

I love Firehouse 12. I can't say it enough. Definitely the best place in New Haven to get a beer and the second best place in New Haven to order a mixed drink. The bartenders are cool as hell, the music in here is amazing and when there are live jazz performances I'm in heaven. It's got nooks and crannies to canoodle in, it's dark and the music is amazing, did I say that already? If you've never been, GO! read more

Grandiose rustic entryway. Industrial bear cave vibe in the basement. Limited amount a seating space, but great for pairs at the centrally located tables or small groups along the walls. Drink menu is limited, but robust at the same time. If you appreciate quality beer or cocktails that don't come from premade mixes, check it out. read more

I am hesitant to write this review for fear that more people will find out about this bar. This is easily the best bar in downtown new haven. It's never to crowded, they play great music, and they have quality bartenders. I hope this bar stays the same for as long as possible. read more

One of the best bars in the area. The atmosphere is fantastic. Really interesting architecture throughout, friendly service, and great drinks. And you can see some really interesting jazz acts upstairs in the studio. read more

Went in here on a Saturday night expecting some live music and a lively atmosphere. It was dead quiet in there and just groups of silent folks hushed around their comfy seats. Apparently live music only on Friday nights. The two stars are for the beer selection and comfortable seating. Head elsewhere for a fun non Friday night with your peeps ! read more

If I had to pick a word to describe Firehouse 12, I'd use the word "hip." The vibe is hip. The bartenders are hip. The music is hip. It's all very... well, hip. First of all, big props for playing old-school Nas (the Illmatic era). You aren't gonna hear that too many places, and it's always great to hear some great jams on the radio. Every time I'm here they have something good playing, which is good, cause there aren't any TV's or any of that other stuff. The ambiance is pretty serious. I don't even know how to begin to describe it. Between the stone walls and the enormous booths and the subtle but attractive lighting, it definitely has a pretty chill vibe. They also have some of the best bartenders in the city. You'll notice they continue to win Best of New Haven awards for their bartenders, and there's a reason for it. They have a few decent beers on tap, like Hoegaarden and Palm. It's a little on the pricier side but not crazy. The only caveat is that it's not the best place to fly solo, because there's no TV's, so if you're at the bar by yourself, be prepared for a lot of awkward glances around to see if you know anybody. Great place to hang out with friends. It does get a little crowded for the limited seating and bar space, and if it IS too crowded, you can prepare yourself for a fairly awkward walk back up the stairs and out, but hey... worse things have happened to people. Overall I generally enjoy myself there, between the chill atmosphere, the friendly people, and the awesome music, it's a great place to enjoy a few drinks with friends. read more

I usually come here for the music, which is the best deal in town, considering the talent. The bar downstairs is also very cool. One of the nicest front doors in all of New Haven. read more

This food is so good. They are not open during Covid but they do delivery and pickup. They have a rotating menu of creative and delicious vegan menu items. I've tried a BBQ Yuba sandwich, watermelon salad, Yuba shawarma, rosemary fried potatoes, and impossible burger. Prices are reasonable. My favorite is everything with Yuba. My non-vegan partner also loves their food. Probably my favorite place in New Haven. Highly recommended. read more

I loved this place. Beautiful room, perfect lighting, good music, mature crowd...but not really a crowd in the sense that, on a Saturday night, there was breathing room. The bartender was fantastic. She was great at answering questions about the wines. Also, they had a half-price bottle of wine special (still on a Saturday night!). Amazing special for a weekend. I recommend it for anyone who wants a quiet-ish, non-college bar type scene. I will definitely go back any time I'm in New Haven! read more

Really great dim place for a stiff drink, or just a beer with friends. It's a little hard to find...it's not exactly in the epicenter of downtown, but it's really cool. Actually called Firehouse 12 because it was previously a firehouse! So awesome brick interior, high ceilings, Not too many places in New Haven where you can go with friends and enjoy some quality live music over a drink or two. I know this bar has had some really incredible local talent, and world-famous talent play here when they were just getting started, so make sure to catch some of the live performances. You'll be glad you did. read more

Cool place. Love the repurpose. Lyman Center jazz concert drew me in. Can't wait to return to New Haven