Chauncey Street (J, Z)
Right between the eastern edges of Bed-Stuy and Bushwick, this stop’s got gems. If you want to experience the true, local bars in deep Brooklyn, this stop is for you.
In general: There’s a mix of hip/alternative folks who are out here for affordability and community, and native Black folk who are here because, well, this is where they’re from. Is it gentrification, or is it genuine cultural mixing?* Come out here and decide for yourself!
*If the gentrification versus cultural mixing theme interests you, check out Classon G, Bedford-Nostrand G, and Nostrand Avenue AC.
Right Outside The Station
I recommend visiting the Tiny Cupboard Comedy Club. It’s got a cute, cramped vibe, and sometimes it’s on the emptier side. But if you want a shot at catching someone before they’re famous, chances are you’ll catch them here. Grab a drink while you’re at it - after all, it’s a bar stop.
North into Bushwick
Stroll on Moffat St along the beautiful townhouses until you get to The Evergreen.
This is a bar that the people of Bushwick, no matter what their background, agree on as *the* bar, the local place to unwind, the third space, the community gathering point.
It’s homey, queer-friendly, and by-and-for the locals, yet somehow welcoming to anyone, no matter where they’re coming from.
Chances are high the owner Amanda will be behind the bar, ready to bring you into the fold once you step in. Stop on by! And as a bonus, it’s about as far away from the Wilson Ave L as it is from this stop.
South into Bed-Stuy
If you want something a little zestier and zingier than The Evergreen, I recommend All Night Skate (also known as Best Friends Bar).
No, there’s no actual skating rink. But what it lacks in derby, in makes up for in colorful enthusiasm.
Come here for a cute and fancy cocktail or a fun event!
As a bonus, All Night Skate partners with Mr. Taco, a small food joint next door.
There you have it! Now, don’t overdo it - after all, you’ll probably have to make it back to the station.
Local east Bushwick youth.
Right outside the station: The Tiny Cupboard looks closed, but it’s actually open. The entrance is that little pink box to the left.
Bed-Stuy Around The Station: Mr. Taco, nestled to the right of All Night Skate.
Bed-Stuy Around the Station: I spy All Night Skate. Referencing the photo above, can you find it?
Bed-Stuy Around the Station: More street vibes
Bushwick Around the Station: Summer sidewalk hangs
Bushwick Around the Station: Row houses
Bushwick Around the Station: Here’s Amanda, an owner of the Evergreen! The other owners are Jacob and Casey, and you can tell how much love the three of them put into the place.
Bushwick Around the Station: Sometimes the row houses are recessed, leaving a little front entrance for some blooms.
Bye for now, Chauncey St JZ
