New York City has transformed into a hub for natural wine enthusiasts, with the movement originating in France in the late 1970s. This trend, which focuses on organic farming and minimal additives, has taken the city by storm, and even traditional venues are now incorporating “orange wines” into their menus. While the Lower East Side has long been the epicenter of New York’s natural wine scene, Brooklyn has also emerged as a prime location for natural wine bars and restaurants. Over the past three years, I have explored the borough and curated a list of top picks in four different neighborhoods.
Williamsburg: The Four Horsemen
Located at 295 Grand Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Good for: Discovering up-and-coming winemakers
Not so good for: Those on a tight budget
FYI: Reservations can be challenging due to limited seating (only 36 seats)
Wines: Range from $45 to $600
Website; Directions
The Four Horsemen, co-founded by James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem, is a renowned restaurant that pioneered the natural wine scene in Brooklyn. Despite its initial appeal to music enthusiasts, it has since established itself as a culinary force and earned a Michelin star. Situated on Grand Street in Williamsburg, the restaurant showcases an impressive selection of wines, including those from notable winemakers like Anne and Jean-François Ganevat, Kenjiro Kagami, and Pierre Overnoy. The focus at The Four Horsemen is on discovering lesser-known winemakers who have the potential to become stars in the industry. With a wine list boasting 800 labels and a strong emphasis on French wines, it’s a must-visit for any wine enthusiast. Additionally, the restaurant offers exceptional cuisine, with a menu curated by Chef Nick Curtola that features a range of flavors and options. Don’t forget to try the homemade bread and butter before you leave.
If you’re unable to secure a reservation at The Four Horsemen, a great alternative is Sauced, a natural wine bar also located in Williamsburg.
Prospect Heights: LaLou
Located at 581 Vanderbilt Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Good for: Enjoying a meal in the backyard
Not so good for: Those who prefer clear wines over cloudy ones
FYI: LaLou recently hired a new chef
Wines: Range from $50 to $550
Website; Directions
LaLou is a fantastic option located in Prospect Heights, offering a serene and bright atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. The minimalist Scandinavian design contributes to its natural aesthetic, and the restaurant’s focus on clean, elegant, and age-worthy wines sets it apart from the current trend of funky natural wines. With 50 seats inside and an additional 24 outside, LaLou is perfect for small groups and often attracts locals and members of the wine industry. The menu offers dishes made with minimal ingredients to bring out the natural flavors, creating a harmony between the food and the wines served. Don’t miss the oyster happy hour or the striped bass with asparagus. If you’re unable to dine at LaLou, Oxalis is an excellent New American restaurant located near the Brooklyn Botanical Garden.
Greenpoint: Nura
Located at 46 Norman Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Good for: Impressing out-of-towners
Not so good for: Extended evenings due to back-to-back bookings
FYI: Outdoor seating is now available (although booking is for indoors only)
Wines: Range from $65 to $165
Website; Directions
Nura is a hidden gem in Greenpoint and has become my go-to spot for any occasion. The former auto-body shop’s unassuming exterior contrasts with the stunning interior, which offers various ambiences to suit different preferences. The bar provides an opportunity to interact with servers, while the open kitchen allows you to observe Chef Jackie Carnesi’s culinary creations. There are cozy booths for intimate conversations and a vibrant lounge area with Indian patterns. Even the restrooms are beautifully designed, contributing to the overall immersive experience. The menu at Nura reflects co-owner Michelle Lobo-Hawley’s Indian heritage, offering a diverse range of flavors. The bread basket with three dips is a standout dish, especially the tandoor-baked bread. While Nura’s wine list intentionally features a smaller selection of around 20 bottles, it showcases winemakers from unconventional regions.
Though back-to-back bookings limit extended evenings at Nura, it remains the perfect place to impress out-of-towners. If you’re unable to secure a reservation, Oxalis is another great option, located next to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden.
These three neighborhoods in Brooklyn offer a plethora of excellent natural wine bars and restaurants that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking the next rising star in winemaking or prefer clean and elegant wines, these establishments have something for everyone. Explore Brooklyn’s natural wine scene and indulge in unique flavors and experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
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