Hotel Delmano

Above: Hotel Delmano interior, 82 Berry St., Brooklyn, NY 11211

Williamsburg’s latest watering hole has garnered glowing praise and created buzz amongst the Burg’s hipsterati (and discerning cocktail aficionados alike). Hotel Delmano is the genius brainchild brought to us by the owners of Union Pool. Conceived by expert mixologist Jeff Hansen (Diner, Pencil Factory), the cocktail offerings include list staples such as the Commandant's Cocktail, the Last Word, Corpse Reviver No. 2, the Hemingway Daiquiri, and the Seelbach Cocktail, A standout is the Corpse Reviver, which contains gin, Cointreau, Lillet, lemon juice and Pastis, and indeed wakes the senses from the dead with luxuriously light citrus overtones that pair perfectly with anise.

The bar is a hidden speakeasy with no signage and complete with a doorman who will let you know if and when seating is available (a la Death & Co.). Once inside, one will be transported into a timeless romantic decor, complete with candle-lit side rooms, a long marble bar, subway tiles in the bathroom, and beautiful ceiling fans. Best for newcomers to go during the week to avoid a ridiculously lengthy wait. The bar staff are highly skilled, well informed, and more than willing to offer advice and create the cocktail of your dreams.

(82 Berry St., Brooklyn, NY 11211, 718-387-1945)