GoT HBO? Brooklyn Bars Where You Can Still Watch Game of Thrones
There is something special about heading to a bar to grab a themed drink and watch TV with strangers. Viewing parties are an essential part of the American fabric. They put the “free” in freedom. But now, in a move we all take very personally, HBO is trying to ban bars from showing Game of Thrones. On April 19th, Videology Bar and Cinema announced on Twitter that due to a cease and desist letter they received from HBO, there would be no more GoT viewings. Ever. HBO’s stance is that they are a premium channel not meant to be broadcasted in public establishments. If HBO doesn’t like viewing parties, then they are really going to be upset when they find out that there are 15 people using one HBOGO login.
Our heart goes out to Videology. In the meantime, we have scoured the bar scene and have confirmed that there are at least eight bars where you can still enjoy Daenerys and her dragons. Lesson to be learned: call ahead first, as you never know whom HBO will send a cease and desist letter to next.
Kinjo; 1 Greene Ave, Fort Greene
What goes better with GoT than Asian Fusion? Kinjo is hands down one of the best spots in Fort Greene, offering a Sunday special of Chirashi and happy hour prices all night when you check-in on Foursquare. Be warned, the kimichee fried rice is deliciously spicy.
Haylards; 406 3rd Avenue, Gowanus
Test your knowledge at Haylard’s GoT trivia starting at 8pm followed by a screening of the latest episode. GoT-themed cocktails such as Lady Arya (gin, lemonade, cucumber, cayenne pepper) and White Walker (vodka, Cointreau, lemon juice, simple syrup) are just $8. Be sure to study up, rumor has it the trivia is not for the faint of heart.
Reclamation Bar; 817 Metropolitan Avenue, Williamsburg
Delivering a rustic vibe and a delicious fig & bacon panini, Reclamation Bar is the perfect place to camp out at watch GoT with some of the friendliest people in East Williamsburg. Get there early and enjoy their $5 happy hour mason jar cocktails. As the folks at Reclamation say, don’t miss your chance to RECLAIM THE THRONE.
Soda Bar; 629 Vanderbilt Avenue, Prospect Heights
A staple of Prospect Heights, Soda Bar, offers great food, board games and diehard GoT fans and the big couches make Soda Bar great for groups. Come in an snuggle up!
Professor Thom’s ; 219 2nd Avenue, East Village
If you find yourself unable to get back to Brooklyn in time for the latest episode, fear not, Professor Thom’s will take care of you. To get you prepped for GoT, Professor Thom’s offers a reverse happy hour. From 8pm to close draft beer is $3 and $4, and all wine and well drinks are $4. One might call those prices Medieval!
Rosamunde Sausage Grill; 285 Bedford Ave, Williamsburg
Clearly any place that boasts itself as a sausage grill is worthy of our approval. Pregame with team trivia from 7 to 9 p.m. and a huge Bloody Mary bar with 15-plus mixers and 36-plus hot sauces.
The Graham; 151 Meserole St, Williamsburg
The Graham is one of those great bars that understands happy hours should last till 8 p.m. every day. With 30-plus alternating craft beers that $2 off will come handy. Be sure to try the Brooklyn Brine Damn Spicy pickle back shots for $1 or the beer and shot deals for $6.
Lola BKLYN; 387 Myrtle Ave, Clinton Hill
If you are feeling fancy but living affordably, Lola is the place for you. Treat yourself to corn chowder, half lobster, fries, and 1 glass of wine for just $35. Note: Lola is a place for die-hard fans. During GoT screenings there is a strict no-talking policy.