Visiting Bohemien Bar in Brooklyn Heights was a delightful experience. The restaurant exudes a charming, vintage feel complimenting its design and texture with floor-to-ceiling speakers at the front of the bar. The beautiful architecture and the integrated sound system struck a perfect balance, providing an enjoyable setting with a smooth ambiance that wasn’t overwhelming or noisy. When you enter Bohemien, you’re immediately drawn to the grand circular bar adorned with various drinks and wine glasses. Despite the late hour and dimmed lights, the warm lighting and natural tones create an acoustic experience adding a special touch to the ambiance. The host shared that the restaurant had been reserved for both a wedding and a 40th birthday party that same night when we checked in letting us know that it’s pretty popular in the area. Bohemian Bar includes two semi-private sections available for reservation, providing guests with an intimate and stylish setting for gatherings of up to 25 people.
Image courtesy of Bohemien Bar
The space, designed by the Husband-and-Wife team, Tarek Debira,(formerly at Hotel Costesin Paris and Nobu London) and Patricia Ageheim, (formerly at Bond St. and Indochine), reflects a mid-century Scandinavian style, paying homage to Patricia’s background and heritage. This homage to Scandinavian aesthetics seamlessly integrates with the bar’s infusion of high-fidelity sound. The custom speaker system, designed by Perry Brandston, a prominent figure known for his work across New York’s diverse entertainment spaces, enhances the overall experience. The strategically placed, hand-built speakers by Pete Raho of Gowanus Audio create a unique dining experience, allowing sound to travel without interference. With floor-to-ceiling speakers and a DJ booth curated by Tarek, featuring playlists in consultation with Shawn Schwartz of Halcyon fame, Bohemien Bar presents an immersive fusion of design and auditory delight.
Image courtesy of Bohemien Bar
For dinner, we ordered the crispy Zucchini with zaatar, paprika, and tzatziki, Fried Chicken Tacos with chipotle aioli, Mac & Cheese Bites with bacon jam, and Duck Flatbread with leeks and smoked gouda. Our absolute winners were the crispy Zucchini and Mac & Cheese Bites. Bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection, they immediately triggered a craving for more. I tend to be tough on restaurant sides, but theirs didn’t disappoint.
Turning our attention to drinks, I opted for the Smokey Moon (Mezcal, Shochu, lychee puree, yuzu juice) and Mambo No. 5 (3 Rum, apricot, almond, coconut water, spices, curry leaves, clarified milk punch). I’m always up for drink experiments, especially if recommended by the waiter. It’s a good idea to bring a friend for shared sips and to explore various options. My friend tried the Butterfly Cocktail and the popular Birdy Num Num. Bohemien Bar is renowned for its creative drink menu, adding an extra layer of delight to the overall dining experience. Dessert was a memorable affair with the Warm Chocolate Ganache Cake and Crème Brûlée Cheesecake. Both were decadently delicious, striking the right balance between rich sweetness and a hint of bitterness. A perfect way to conclude our meal – an experience worth repeating.
Bohemien Bar is located at 97 Atlantic Avenue and is open Monday – Thursday: 5 pm – 1am, Friday – Saturday: 4 pm – 2 am and Sunday: 4 pm – 1am., with reservations available through Resy.
While scarves blew awry and the colorful garden of wool mittens filled the courtyard, Lotte had the crowd covered! While the bar was stocked with apple cider, hot toddies, and champagne, trays of hot cocoa came circling around. Chef Bill Leonard, Lotte’s Head Pastry Chef, warms the crowd with his grandmother’s hot chocolate recipe. It was the perfect remedy for a night cold enough to see your breath!
