3 stars for the bar itself, 5 stars for the events that happen here. 4 star average. I've been to a few concerts here, plus a Muppet Vault event. The events are always impeccable. Sometimes the sound is terrible, but that seems to depend on the sound guy that each band brings. The downstairs space can be crowded, but not so crowded that I wouldn't go. Prices for the event and prices for drinks are about run of the mill, so I'm always excited when there's stuff going on here that I'm interested in. The bar itself though, is always mega crowded and full of people who are dressed to the nines. Not quite my scene. And this afternoon (Sunday), there were inexplicably a whole room full of people with toddlers. And those toddlers (AND INFANTS) were taking up the whole bocce ball area. PARK SLOPE WHY ARE THERE ALWAYS BABIES IN YOUR BARS? I AM A TEACHER. I WANT CHILD-FREE WEEKENDS. Union Hall, get rid of the babies, bring on the events. Let's go. read more

I have to admit, it does have a cozy interior. I love the first few feet of space, with the stuffed chairs and the parlor/library feel. I also love that little raised deck area in the back, behind the bocce ball courts. They have decent bar food, and a decent selection of beer on tap. That's where it ends. It is almost always superfluously crowded with yuppies and other people who exude the feeling that they try to hard. When I go to this place (I live right up the street and would usually rather walk to a different pub), I don't spend a lot of time. When entrenched Park Slopers talk about the good ol' days of the neighborhood, I enter this place and I know exactly what they mean. The downstairs performance space is okay, too. The bartender down there is usually a cool guy. I just don't understand what about band playing spaces that turn relatively normal people into assholes. Like seriously, you're not that cool if you're in a band. read more

Bocce. In a bar. The irony kills me. Go here once, and you'll remember the place for the rest of your life. read more

I've been attracted to this place for a while before got the opportunity to finally go. Union Hall has the classy look of an old library. Filled with books and bookshelves, it looks like a place where Sherlock Holmes would hang out. Dim and mysterious, Union all serves up a friendly and inexpensive Happy Hour. It has the LOOK of a place that might be pretentious, but it is NOT at all. In fact, t is quite laid back. Enjoy some Bocce Ball! (I've never done it, but it looks cool!) Downstairs is a cool music venue, too. They have nice bathrooms (always a plus). I love the cushy couches, and the cool staff that let me sit there for hours even though I only drank one beer. read more

Entering the doors I immediately get a good feeling about this place. A winter person since birth, I always appreciate a big fireplace. The cozy armchairs made me wanna sink down in them and enjoy a glass of red wine, chit chatting with my friends. Unfortunately, when ordering our drinks the barkeep did not at all seem to like his job, and it didn't get better when a really rude and possibly high bouncer started to usher us out ten minutes before closing time. We were complying, but he still got aggressive and even stepped on my friends heels the whole way to the door. I've never been treated so rudely in a bar in my entire life. Will not come back! read more

[My review is solely based on an event I had this Saturday] I was looking for a space that could accommodate about 40-50 people and after searching high and low I found Union Hall. I was able to reserve the entire back space (has chairs, couches and tables) 3 weeks prior to the date. I communicated w/the manager Tim and he was great. Responded promptly to my emails and was able to answer all my questions. There's no fee to rent the space, you just need to spend about $300 in food and drinks. (which was not hard since I had a lot of people). I ordered a few items from their catering menu and all the stuff was pretty good. The chicken n eggplant sammie was a hit w/everyone. We had a bunch of pitcher of beers, soda and water. All fairly priced. All my guests had a great time and even got a chance to play some bocce. I think the only complaint was that some people felt that the shots were watered down (I'm not sure if that's true or they just drank way too much at that point lol) Thank you Union Hall for a memorable night ! read more

The real attraction to this place is that the Secret Science Club meets here once a month (I would tell you more, but, you know, it's secret). Other than that, it's decidedly downscale (which can be cool, but in this case it's just downscale), dark, and big without a lot of character. The food is so-so and the bar scene? Eh, I've seen better. Other than the SSC, I think I'll find another place in Brooklyn for a beer. read more

My friends always seem to find a bar and call it home. Typically it's easily accessible, low-key, smoker friendly, and won't break the bank. Something they will not often stray from. After driving ten hours from Michigan and reacquainted with old friends, I was introduced to their new "home." It was much bigger than I had suspected and was even equipped with dueling bocce ball courts... wait just a darn minute.. my friends fall under the artsy fartsy rejects category more so the athletic type...silly me, bocce ball set up in an antique library doesn't require athleticism or a varsity jacket. And this is just the upstairs. I didn't really venture downstairs, but I have heard plenty of good things about the tunes coming from below. One thing I really did enjoy was their abundance of outdoor seating. Although I am no longer a smoker, I can only imagine the heaven I would be in if I was having a place to sit while puffin' on a grit. The prices didn't seem outrageous considering I was in New York.. this definitely wasn't "home" (see pt o'malleys yelp) where a pitcher is a mere 3 bucks. Beers at Union were a 5 spot... which seemed to be pretty common in nyc. I'm sure I will come back to Union again soon, but if I move to new york, I am not sure I will be calling this bar my new home.. read more

It's almost too great for its own good. The library set up in front, the bocce ball set up in back. It's great. But everyone else thinks so, too. I've never once been able to actually play bocce there, despite the numerous times I've been to the bar. Most times, I can't even find a seat. If you're looking for a *great* bar to go to with friends mid-day on a weekend, I would strongly suggest you give it a whirl. It has a big turnout on weekend nights, so just know that on those nights you probably won't get to take advantage of the things that make this bar special. read more

I really dug this bar which does feel more like a hall, converted as it was from a warehouse. It's a big space with wooden bar, cabinets and trim, exposed duct ceiling, velvet and leather couches and chairs, a brick fireplace and -- best of all -- bookshelves filled with real books! A side table or two were accented with potted plants. Felt a bit like sitting in someone's home study so it's easy to relax quickly -- for sure on a week night -- and stay a while. Also liked that you can look out onto the lit street through the big, untinted front windows. (A plus for those of us who would almost always choose to be outdoors.) That's the front half of the hall. Booths and bacce ball are in the back and both courts were being played with enthusiasm on the weekend night we were there. Apparently there's also a downstairs bar which doubles as the live music venue. Good drink menu. Dinner is served nightly, and brunch on weekends. I can only comment on the cookies. They were generic, as expected. Pretty good mix of ages and friendly feel about the place. No doubt another of my "I'm moving to Brooklyn" threats was made here. read more

My group and I came to Union Hall on a Friday night around 12:30 am. After going to a few places that weren't to my taste I knew walking in that I was going to like this place. It had a good mix of living room type space for a more intimate setting for couples or groups just looking to talk, but also provided a lively space by the bar and farther back for people looking to socialize more. While I didn't play myself, a few of my friends enjoyed playing bocce ball and the rest of us were able to sit comfortably nearby to watch. There was a good mix of people at the bar, bumping into the odd few every now and then. To me that makes the night all that more interesting. Downstairs there's a space for shows, whether it be live music or a DJ. Overall this place is great and I can imagine suits the needs of a bunch of different types of crowds. The bar service was quick and friendly and the atmosphere very fun. read more

Twas only here for a hour on a rainy Friday night...which was just enough time to have a hard cider, make note of the bocce ball court (!!!), and watch my good friend do a sexy lil shimmy for our amusement. All in all, the book covered walls were amazing, the vibe and atmosphere wasn't too hipsterish/douche-baggy, and I intend to return when I have time to battle one of those cute boys on the bocce ball (!!!) court. *Sorry, I get really excited over the prospect of bocce ball; a sport I had previously associated with cool old men who drink wine and wear suspenders, like my grandpa. read more

Brunch is delicious at this massive pub! Who knew? It starts off with a delicious basket of scones and cinnamon sugar butter. The menu is short, but everything's interesting. Flatbread with pesto eggs, dried figs, and cheese is delicious and light; for something heftier, there's a bowl of chili with two poached eggs. For once a pub cleans up real nice the morning after. This one's a keeper, kids. read more

Get to the Chase: Pros: 1) Bocci Ball was great! Loved how that was right inside the bar 2) Downstairs you can pay extra ($8-12) for dancing and/or burlesque show Cons: 1) Ok so yes there is a Bocci Ball Court but prepare to wait 2+ hours for your turn...everyone's going to want to play with it, and if you're like me who has never played the sport...you'll never know when it is rightfully your turn and the game is over 2) Drinks are overpriced...$13 for a midori sour? 3) People spilling drinks all over the place 4) Predominantly white crowd...not mixed at all read more

Union Hall is by far my favorite Park Slope bar. Upstairs, there's the bar (obviously), areas of couches and tables nestled in floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, three bocce ball lanes, high top tables, booths, and a raised area in the back with couches, coffee tables, armchairs, and more books. Downstairs, there's a music venue with another bar and the unisex bathroom (don't be alarmed when there's someone of the opposite sex at the sink). Usually, to me, a bar is a bar is a bar. But Union Hall is a place I bring people who are new to the 'hood and a place that will likely always be a mainstay for me. The crowd is generally quite chill and the bartenders are typically nice (as long as it's not really crowded, then they get a little testy). On my birthday, as I sat at the bar drunkenly tearing up because it was my first birthday away from home, the bartender did tequila shots with my friend and me. That's a neighborhood bar. I've found that the vibe is really different during the week as opposed to on the weekends. I prefer the week feel--fewer people, chance to chat with the bartenders and other people at the bar, options of seating locations, and quiet enough to talk. However, if I've had a few, I can handle the crowd on weekends as well. read more

The past few years I've been sort of weary of Brooklyn, mainly due to the influx of hipsters in the area, permeating like the smell of dog feces in an enclosed corridor on a humid summer's day. That being said, I met this awesome girl a few months back, and she resides in Brooklyn. I said to myself....awesome?? Brooklyn?? How could this be? Is Brooklyn perhaps not the bane of my existence like I thought it was when I blindly and unfairly judged it a few years back? She made it her mission to show me the coolest spots in Brooklyn, and this was the first place she took me to. I have to say, this night single handedly made me realize how much I've been missing out in regards to Brooklyn bars, and I've been missing out big time. The local beers on tap, the bocce ball, it all made me so excited that I wanted to run to the nearest Duane Reade and pick up a plastic pair of dark rimmed glasses and take mirror shots of me wearing flannel. I couldn't recommend this place enough. Also, if you like the idea of being in a library but rather than reading, drinking beer, the décor will be right up your alley. read more

Union Hall was my first introduction into "Brooklyn." We came there for the Michael Showalter / Eugene Mirman comedy nights on Sundays. I'm so glad to live 5 minutes from there now! Asides from that, Union Hall is super relaxed and a great place to have a sit down and chat with a friend or two. Tons of books and a huge roaring fire place! Cozy seats too! The sliders on the menu have gotten better since the lat time I was there and the alcohol menu is what you'd expect. And there's a bocci ball playing area upstairs too! That's not my thing, but I think it's very cool! The downstairs area is for intimate shows. I only have been there for the comedy events, but it seems that there are tons of interesting looking indie bands that roll through there. Drinks are well priced too! Asides from Sidecar (which is around the corner from me) Union Hall is my favorite place to bring people that visit me. read more

As with any ole bar there are good nights and bad ones, however, the closer you get to the weekend the more relevant this review becomes: It's the kind of place where everyone is looking to get laid but nobody does because they're all idiots. Keep an eye out for a popped collar, spilled drinks, or a stray punch from someone who clearly can't handle their booze. On the bright side it's big, normally crowded, bartenders are pretty slow, and don't expect a buy back... wait that's not good. I will say that the crowed is mixed - think white (real white), blended with a part 21-27 youth who are too educated and jaded to even be doe eyed anymore. Part whatever we are calling Park Slope's version of the classic yuppie.. and part whoever else finds this crowed entertaining. Also, the bocce ball court is packed, disorganized, and ruined. I really hate bashing a bar... bars are the cornerstone of civilization. Places to drink, celebrate, commensurate, masturbate.. places to steal kisses, shot glasses and toilet paper... places to feel right at home or to drift, anonymously into the alcohol soaked fabric of the bartenders' weave. This place doesn't do that for me. Never did. read more

I really like this place they should have a little dance Floor with a dj spinning " since you don't need a cabaret license in New York City to dance amazing drinks and friendly bartenders read more

1. There is no such thing as a Brooklyn accent 2. The slang term 'slush fund' is nautical in origin and comes from the practice of selling off extra rendered pork fat by Navy cooks when they return from sea 3. The official sign language gesture for Harlem is a gun What do these factoids all have in common? They're all things I learned within the confines of Union Hall. In addition to all the UH virtues expertly covered by previous yelpers (bocce, jukebox, food, fireplace, etc), I wanted to highlight the great programming they feature downstairs. From the aforementioned Adult Education's monthly themed lectures to Eugene Mirman's weekly comedy smorgasbord "Pretty Good Friends" to "Karaoke Killed the Cat" parties to great local/national indie artists, there's something for every Brooklynite (and maybe for the adventurous Manhattanite too who occasionally dust off their passport and venture across the river). Downstairs is cozy, which we all know from apt hunting vernacular means small and tight, but it's one of Brooklyn's great intimate rooms for catching just the right performance. Decor is a taxidermists wet dream and downstairs bar is cash only so heads up. Good times, good times! read more

Union Hall has the best of both worlds, depending on what time of the day you get here and what floor you are on. Come here during the day for a relaxed, chill atmosphere whether you're sitting by the fireplace or playing bocce (there are two lanes here!). Young families bring their kids here during the day while they have a drink or bite to eat. Union Hall carries a vast selection of craft beers, as well as a decent food menu. On Friday and Saturday nights, it does get crowded so be prepared for a different scene. Downstairs they have bands performing (check their schedule on their website) or a DJ spinning some music so you can get your groove on. There is a weird vibe in the basement that makes you feel like you're at a house party but that's what makes it Union Hall. During certain weekends especially on holidays, they host a variety of events. On Halloween weekend, they had projected 80s cartoons and served old school cereals and cartoon themed drinks in the basement. On the main floor, I was a minority surrounded by parents dressed up with their babies who were in matching Halloween costumes. So whether you're still in college, a young working professional, a parent, or a kid - Union Hall will welcome you! read more

Very a cute spot in a pretty accessible location. I went to see a show here and thought to just grab a bite to eat prior, for convenience sake. The overall ambiance is just beautiful, I love the lighting, the library theme and the fireplaces. On a Friday until 9PM, the sound was fine, it wasn't overly crowded, and the drinks are very reasonably priced. The food is pretty good. If you like beer cheese (I don't) they have some of that for you too! Next time we go, I have got to try bocce ball....since they have two courts inside! The staff were nice, the place is sweet, and I'd definitely go back. read more

Union Hall has pretty much everything that you would need from a bar. Whiskey, comfortable chairs, mood lighting, dancing, and indoor Bocce ball. Lot's of room, even when it seemed pretty crowded. We were able to get on the Bocce ball court without much of a wait and those who did not want to play were able to get some comfortable seating nearby. I like the juxtaposition of the well designed and comfortable space on the first floor and the grungy dance room downstairs. While there wasn't anything going on down there when we were there, I like the idea. It makes sense to me, get sweaty and gross, rubbing up on one another, or act all refined and shit upstairs. The best of both worlds. A diverse crowd as I would expect with the previously mentioned juxtaposition. I enjoyed the weirdos rubbing elbows with the yuppies. As it should be. People were pretty friendly. It was easy to get your hands on a drink. Staff were good at what they do. read more

It's like Floyd on Atlantic Ave. Or is Floyd like Union Hall? The two are interchangeable: Leather chairs, books, too many men, bocce ball, Brooklyn-priced drinks, good intentions. Just don't get drunk and head out looking for State Street. Because boy will you have yourself a walk. read more

Hipster schmipster -- I dig this spot. Bookshelves & fireplaces. Bocce ball and solid tunes. Music hall downstairs. Friendly bartenders. Did I mention the bathroom? read more

I've been to this place several times now. On most occasions it was to see Tearing the Veil of Maya, a decent Sunday night comedy show in the basement. However, over the last few years, this place has gotten progressively worse. The space itself is nice, the beer selection is good and not too expensive, and everyone's food always looks and smells very good. But as Jeanette (2/6/10) wrote, it's the crowd that kills it. I don't know what's up with these people, or where most of them come from. This place just happens to be frequented by rude assholes who will bump into me and my wife repeatedly w/o so much as an "excuse me." And many like to hog couches and seats (which are at a premium, b/c the place is always packed) and act stupid when you ask them to move their shit and share the couches. Now, I'm not one to use the word "hipster." It's a silly, made-up term. That being said, if these are the types of people the word is supposed to refer to, then I can see why the mythical hipster is so loathed. It's not the way they look, or dress, or their race (although overwhelmingly white), or where they're from (although it doesn't seem like many grew up around these parts). No, it's the way they act. Despite my pacifistic tendencies, I find myself wanting to smack the shit out of someone every time I come. Also, the shows are chaotic. They generally start at 7:30. There are no announcements. You just gotta keep your eyes open to spot a line forming upstairs. Then you stand in a long ass line for a very long time like an idiot while servers and patrons constantly bump into you. Still no announcements. When you finally go downstairs, you'll find out that the approx. 25 seats have been filled very quickly. Your only option is to stand in a cramped room for the entire show. And don't expect a discount for the lack of seat. And some people take bocce way too seriously. read more

I try to go here each time I visit Brooklyn. It is a fun spot and I love the decor. Would not recommend it to people who do not enjoy overly pack bar though. It tends to get very crowded later on in the night. I love the decor of the spot and often wish they had something similar in Philadelphia. The biggest plus to this place is the Bocce Ball courts indoor. A fun game to play while having some beers. Though the hardcore players can be a bit intimidating. Downstairs they have a great little dance hall space, so it really appeals to those who want both options of a pub and dancing. The outdoor spot is convenient for smokers so you don't have to stand out front. They also have a pretty good beer selection on tap. read more

This bar should be amazing considering how many great elements it has (old school library feel, downstairs performance space, mini-patio off to the side). However, I have never had a fun time there. I don't play Bocce, and because the two lanes take up so much space, the bar gets realllllly crowded on the weekends. I know it's one of the major draws for some of the patrons, but I'd rather they use the space for additional comfy seating. I think that's the thing. There's something uncomfortable about the place. Maybe I should go on a weeknight, when I'm not being endlessly jostled by hipsters or waiting an eternity for a slightly overpriced drink. Except that there's something about the vibe of the place in general I can't pinpoint, something off. Off, like the last glass of wine I had there, which made me sick to my stomach (it tasted weird but I foolishly drank it anyway). read more

I ate at Union Hall with Michelle, who has written a review as well. She's right -- the flatbread with pesto eggs is light and tasty, though I'd say good and not heavenly. However, let me impress upon you carnivores how out of this world the chili and poached egg -- Michelle's dish, I might grumblingly add -- was. It comes with corn tortillas on the side, warm and ready to carry the chili flavor into my mouth. My spoon dips into the bowl, I begin to draw up the chili, and -- oh, what's this? A magical surprise in the form of poached, rich egg hiding underneath! My tortilla has room for every morsel, as does my mouth. And I don't even like chili THAT much. I rarely order it. But the corn, egg, and chili taste combination was interesting, hearty, and I'm still fantasizing about it months later. By the way, did I mention you get to eat said chili on a leather couch of the sort I can't ever imagine having the wherewithal to purchase on my own? read more

This place was really cool. I had a blast here, and played bocce ball! Who knew?! I went with a couple of my brooklyn bros to chill and we wound up staying for hours. It was a really cool laid back vibe. Their beer selection was pretty awesome and bartenders were friendly and accessible. They let me try a couple of different drafts and helped recommend a new faorite, which I appreciate (not that I need any more of a beer belly!!) This seemed like a cool mix between being a regular spot and a quasi hip place to go hang out. I guess it has probably been around a while but most places in BK are new to me! The only thing to be aware of, as others have mentioned, is that I hear it is reeeeally crowded on the weekends. I went on a Wednesday night, and it was totally chill. So if you are looking for breathing room and want that chill atmo, ya might wanna avoid the Friday/Saturday night crowd. read more

The straw finally broke this camel's back--no more chances, i'm done with you Union Hall. Done. I've always liked the look of this place, I like the bocce, I like the performance space, and I even like the bathrooms (best idea for a venue bathroom i've ever seen). But every single time I'm astounded by the breadth and depth of douches I see here, men and women, patrons and staff. The last time I went in there, I was tired after running errands on a Sunday and just wanted an afternoon beer before I headed back to my neighborhood. I went in there on the off chance that maybe on a Sunday afternoon it wouldn't be so bad. Wrong again. There was nowhere to sit, frat-ish behavior by the bocce players, strollers, and music that was so loud that I had to shout into my boyfriend's ear. Really, guys? read more

This earns 5 stars because they deliver on so many levels. Drinks: Ample beer selection. Good cocktails. Good happy hour specials AND good any hour specials. Atmosphere: There are comfortable seating areas with leather couches, coffee tables and sofas. The decor is that of an old university library, complete with leather bound books on the shelves and portraits on the walls. Entertainment: There are indoor bocce ball courts! Downstairs, there is a music venue that does not charge high covers and has music, comedians, open mic's, and dance parties. Staff: The bar tenders are friendly and attentive, no big deal, but the bouncers are also polite. BONUS: There's an outdoor smoking area AND a Taco truck is usually parked outside! There are no negatives. read more

For a while I was upset about having to move out of Bushwick into Kensington. The main issue: no convenient bar that wasn't for old retirees drowning their misery with alcohol. Everything was so depressing, that is, until I found Union Hall. First things first, the bartending staff is just excellent. Heather is my absolute favorite. She knew who I was by the end of my second visit. I've never seen her overlook a customer or play favorites. She doesn't need to; she's quick with your drink and keeps track of whose next. Speaking of, the Hall has an awesome drink selection, Alagash White is my fav beer (and Heather always remembers). It's convenient from anywhere. A short walk from the F/G, the R and the Q. Basically if you're in Park Slope it's close by. They have an awesome and diverse atmosphere. Quant library vibe in the front, tons of books and even a couple fireplaces. In the back there's two Bocce lanes that get a ton of attention when the bar is busy but tends to be open on off-peak hours. Downstairs is a big room with a cash bar. They have concerts, karaoke or sweet dance parties, depending on the night. Every night has a different vibe and it never disappoints. Bring your sig other or try to find one here. You'll have a good time. read more

This is the golden age of Union Hall. I don't even try to go Thursday-Saturday nights, as it's always packed to the gills. Try it on a Monday to enjoy a little more space and maybe even get a round on the bocce court (if that's your main concern maybe try Greenwood Park in South Slope). The whole place looks like a British hunting lodge from the 1890s, it's very fun and "Brooklyn" should you want to bring friends from out of town. The venue space downstairs hosts acts you might see soon in bigger venues; Mike Birbiglia is there often working on new material, you might see locals like John Hodgeman, etc. I don't go to Union Hall much because of how crowded it is all the time, but when I can get in I love it. read more

I have not reviewed Union Hall? Is this possible? I must be slipping. This place is excellent all around. Indoor bocce, live music downstairs, a gorgeous fireplace and solid food- what is there to hate? We go here a lot more lately, and we always have a good time. The drinks are standard, and they have good beer on tap. The sandwiches are great, the cajun fries are fresh and hearty, and I love sitting by the fireplace laughing and talking. It's definitely a great neighborhood hang out, and anyone in the area should check it out. I guarantee they have something for everyone. read more

We had a lovely time at Union Hall for drinks and appetizers on a Sunday afternoon (Easter, no less). Wings were tasty, and cooked well - loved the twist of using cucumber on the side instead of celery. Fries were delish. I also really appreciated that they had serve-yourself water at the end of the bar. We shall return! read more

I first went to Union Hall to see a friend's band play downstairs a couple of times, and I always loved this venue. The upstairs is so cozy with the books, the furniture, and fireplaces. With the bocce, good beer list, and fun bar food... I decided this would be the perfect place to throw my boyfriend a low-key 30th Birthday. I shot an e-mail to their events person and arranged to reserve the raised area with all the couches behind the bocce courts on a Sunday evening. No charge for reserving the space? Perfect. A full month before the party, I put in a catering order for several food trays... an order well over $300 in food. Everything seemed to be in order. Upon arrival, the space was reserved for us and I spoke with the bartender about our bar tab and when the food would be put out... then I went to enjoy the party. An hour and a half after I arrived, and after I had checked on the status of the food a second time, the manager who I had been emailing came out to tell me that some dates got mixed up on his calendar and they wouldn't be able to complete the catering order. Initially, I was super annoyed, but he offered to give us a few pitchers on the house and a discount on whatever I decided to order from the kitchen. I ordered a ton of things off of their menu, and it was sent out quickly.... with some extras. While I was still bummed that they took SO LONG to notice their mistake, I was impressed by the way the manager dealt with the issue and made it up to us. And in the end, it was a great birthday celebration in a fantastic venue (perfect space for a winter party) and everyone enjoyed the food, the bocce, and chilling on the couches. I highly recommend this place for organized get togethers or just a random night out. read more

hipsterrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr Walking in I was expecting to love this place, but then started hating on every idiosyncrasy that was jammed packed in here. The library as they like to call it encases a few booths where people were sandwiched on top of one another sweating. The bocci ball court is a great way to say "Hey! Look - We're fun and low-key here." Mmhmm. About as low maintenance as those strategic holes in your sweater and those ultra-tight t-shirts you picked up from Thrift. And then you retreat to the smoking area where you go to either smoke or escape all of the irony only to be hit with sub-zero temperatures forcing you back inside. I wasn't impressed at all by this sh*t. If you are trying to be my living room and backyard while hostessing all 300 art school kids I already couldn't stand - then by all means, you'll love Union Hall. I usually like these off-key, eccentric bars that justifiably remind me why I hate clubs and dressing in stilettos only to get gawked at by an array of douchebags. But this place takes it to the entire other end of the spectrum; the part that reminds me why I am glad I am sarcastic and charming, and not just one witty one-liner after another. Or why it's great to be unique and different, but not if you are in the middle of 50 other of the most unique and highly different people you've ever seen. Maybe I'm just mad that there was no one whatsoever that would have been a potential lay. Alas, the woes of Brooklyn. read more

This is my fave bar in Brooklyn. I've hosted several parties here for separate occasions and it always turns out extra fun. There are sofas next to the fireplace (cozy), bocce along the back of the bar (sporty), booths with food delivery service (yummy), an elevated couch area surrounded by fun knick knacks like an encyclopedia (sophisticated-y), and a downstairs stage usually hosting drunk karaoke (dancey). Gender neutral bathroom. Cheap $6 beers. What's not to love about this place?! It's also quite huge so it's a great place for a big group (I had my moving away from NYC party here). The only thing is, cell phone service does suck a bit so it made for coordinating a bit hard. I absolutely love the crowd here and often made new friends/dates here. Sad to leave this place! UH. read more

I love this bar and wish it were closer to me, but we all know a bar like this cannot exist in Manhattan (this bar is huge). I feel like I'm in the game Clue when I come here. I swear it was Professor Plum with the candlestick (sorry, that was corny). And then the Bocce court bumps the awesomeness up a notch. I mostly go downstairs for the comedy show on Sunday. It's not a bad setup. This guy I went out with said Union Hall was filled with hipster frat boys. He lives in park slope, so maybe he knows a little more than I do. But I've never really heard of 'hipster-frat boys' before, and he looked more like a hipster than anyone else in that area. So now I'm just as confused as you are. read more