Cool Down: 11 in Brooklyn and Queens With Great Air Conditioning
We've beaten the worst of summer (hopefully), but just in case those days where all you want to do is lay in front of the fan are not completely over yet, we're here to help. Check out this list of 11 of the coldest and coolest bars in Brooklyn and Queens. Have another you think deserves a spot on this list? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.
Wreck Room: There's graffiti all over the walls, and the pool table looks like it has seen better days. But Wreck Room, and its brother Arancini Brothers (read: delicious balls of risotto lovingly deep fried are available) keep it chilly, too. All that dive bar goodness you love and then some (940 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, 718-418-6347).
The Abbey: One of the most low-key places off the Bedford L, this bar is sort of a dive... but isn't, is sort of a gay and lesbian bar... but isn't, and is sort of a hipster bar with its Buck Hunter... but really isn't. There is free popcorn though, and of course, AC (536 Driggs Ave., Brooklyn, 718-599-4400).
ReRun: Going to the movie theater on the hottest day of the year is a time-honored tradition, but ReRun and ReBar are some of the best places to do it. Popcorn covered in herb brown butter, bacon fat or duck fat? Plus, there's a full bar in the cinema room if you get thirsty during the show, and an exciting lineup from up-and-coming directors (147 Front St, Brooklyn, 718-766-9110).
Nitehawk: Or head to this Williamsburg standby, which doesn't even ask you to grab your drinks before the movie, they are served direct to your seat. Half the fun of seeing a movie here are the drink and food specials matched to a lineup of mainstream indie and occasional oldies-but-goodies (136 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, 718-384-3980).
Brooklyn Bowl: This is another Williamsburg standby that deserves honorable mention for cool points, without a doubt (61 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, 718-963-3369).
The Alibi: A dive you wouldn't think has AC - it doesn't have a phone number or website - but actually does (242 DeKalb Ave.).
Alchemy: One of the first gastropubs in Park Slope, this bustling-but-never-packed spot keeps it classy, simple and cool (56 5th Ave, 718-636-4385).
Paradise Alley: In an area of Flushing where it seems easier to get bai jiu (that deadly-powerful clear Chinese liquor) than a dark ale, you'll be happy to find Paradise (41-09 150th St. Flushing, Queens, 718-460-6941).
Flatbush Farm and Bar: Grab a seat at the bar and enjoy some solid mac 'n' cheese to go with cocktails like the Mo' Stormy, a refreshing take on the Dark and Stormy (76 St Marks Ave, 718-622-3276).
Barcade: Vintage video games and one of the best draft beer lineups in the city, plus air conditioning? Day drinking doesn't get more fun (388 Union Ave, 718-302-6464).
The Flat: From the folks behind Manhattan's Home Sweet Home comes this gem with pretty interiors, a lineup of pretty bands and pretty strong drinks to make it all look even better. While the dance parties still get sweaty, the AC definitely rumbles and roars (308 Hooper St.).
The Way Station: "So much air conditioning it's almost oppressive," the bartender here told us one evening. This steampunk bar and frequent meetup point for Buffy, Sherlock and Homestuck enthusiasts also hosts live music and plays films (683 Washington Ave, 347-627-4949).