Where do I start? 🤔 I’ve been going to Friends and Lovers for about eight years, and honestly, it’s my go-to spot whenever I want a night out. The vibe is always drama-free. In all these years, I’ve never once seen a fight. I always feel comfortable here, and not once have I ever felt harassed or unsafe.
The security team deserves credit for that. There’s a tall bouncer who towers over everyone and is always on alert, making sure people are having fun and staying safe. Even small things, like spills on the floor, are taken care of right away.
I usually go for their Latin nights, which I think happen about once a month, but I also love their Afrobeat and Afro house nights with DJ Uproot Andy. he always packs the place and creates such an incredible energy. If you’re particular about music, definitely check their Instagram beforehand because they host different genres on different nights.
The venue itself is awesome: two bathrooms, a spacious bar, and a great layout that makes it easy to dance or just hang out. It’s the perfect place to unwind and let loose.
One thing that stands out for me personally is how safe and welcoming it feels. I’ve never gone to a lounge alone before, but one night I just needed to get out and none of my friends were free. I felt completely comfortable going solo here, which says a lot.
On top of all that, Friends and Lovers is women-owned and proudly queer-friendly, which only adds to the inclusive, positive vibe of the space.
Overall, Friends and Lovers is just a gem fun, safe, and full of good energy. I can’t recommend it enough!
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Varghese Chacko
Friends and Lovers is an amazing space for parties, shows, and community events. Go check them out.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
J. de Sousa
I've been going to this bar for at least 7 years, I used to consider numerous employees there if not friends then lovely acquaintances who I would always go and say hi to before anything else. Usually, I endeavour to bring friends with me who have never been so that F&L gets more patrons. I never use a disrespectful tone or language, and whenever I exit the smoking area at the back I try to bring in empty glasses/cans/bottles to help a bit with the clean up. I will not name any names because even if I am not viewed as worthy of any basic decency and respect, I refuse to reproduce any of that energy.
I have three questions regarding the last time I went in,.
Why was it that the bouncer was commenting negatively about me as if I wasn't there to my male friend when we were entering? Didn't think that was his business at all. When I tried to check him he said something rude and then went on talking to my friend about me as if I wasn't standing right there using very sexist language. I did not know this bouncer.
Why was it that immediately after giving me my order one bartender who's been there for years thought it was alright to go and talk about me to another bartender when I was standing right there waiting to pay?
And why is it that I have seen men openly stalk women around a room, the women look afraid and uncomfortable and there will be a manager close by but those men are never thrown out? There was a skinny little brown man who stayed within 5 feet of a woman while she was dancing towards the end one night at all times even though the floor was mostly empty and he didn't know any of her friends or her. She kept moving around the room because she was afraid and he kept following her. Hopefully he didn't keep up the behaviour when she left, because no one cared about her safety.
Last time I went in, my face got grabbed by some random huge white man very roughly when I was walking by. I pulled away in shock and he grabbed my face again and tilted it upwards. I pulled away and went and stood by the front bar, terrified and triggered.
My last question, this one to you, would it have made sense to bring this up with the bouncer who saw me as less than human because of my gender? Would the bartenders - who had something to say about me when all I was doing was ordering a drink using the same courtesy and cheerfulness as always - have done anything ?
The last time I was present when someone else got aggressive at a bartender, I checked in with the person who got yelled at and the others on shift to make sure they were ok and offer support if possible. I have always seen them as not just human but wonderful humans and try to make sure they feel that way especially on Friday and Saturday nights. I used to be so happy to see some people who worked there.
don't know what changed and why, but this is not a save space for women or queers. There are a lot of other spots in that area and other parts of Brooklyn that aren't so sexist/racist/toxic/physically and emotionally harmful. Stay away!
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
B Alfonso
Cool chill bar space in BK, it has a dance floor, a smoke friendly backyard & hard hitting drinks. It’s been a community staple for a couple years now. I’d say it’s a very interesting & diverse space w/ super friendly staff & bartenders. I can’t complain but sometimes I wished they did serve food 🥲. I’ve been going there for some years now and I can say the experience every-time is different or random which I enjoy. Be sure to check the Instagram page to be sure it’s your type of party. I recall comedy nights, open mics, live performances and Carribean type nights where you’d hear soca, dancehall, etc. That’s it for my hefty ass review, bye. See you soon FNL.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Shannon Spaulding
Came out with a few friends on a Saturday night. The bouncer needs therapy, a hug or perhaps a raise to combat his internal turmoil that he takes out on potential consumers. Turned multiple woman away from the line for minor grievances.
Vasjfj Aispxo
Friends & Lovers is an absolute favorite bar in Brooklyn. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere hits just right—cozy, stylish, and full of good vibes. Their cocktail menu is inventive and perfectly balanced, and the bartenders mix each drink with finesse and personality. Staff are welcoming and attentive, creating a relaxed, fun experience. Whether you're grabbing drinks with friends or enjoying a date night, Friends & Lovers is a spot worth returning to.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Katherine Okerlund
Staff let's patrons leave dogs leashed unattended outside. Dog's owner is drinking inside while the dog is panting in 90+ degree weather on a short leash. Not a place to come back to
Atmosphere: 1
Brown
This spot was actually super disappointing for me. The bar area is incredibly tiny. Unfortunately the bartenders was on some sort of substance and seemed very confused or out of it. My friend was disappointed in her drink and it was also expensive. They had a show in the back, but there was a cover. I wouldn’t return.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Emily Majors
great spot to dance! attracts a friendly and socialable crowd.
Pretty good music, $10 cover
Where do I start? 🤔 I’ve been going to Friends and Lovers for about eight years, and honestly, it’s my go-to spot whenever I want a night out. The vibe is always drama-free. In all these years, I’ve never once seen a fight. I always feel comfortable here, and not once have I ever felt harassed or unsafe.
The security team deserves credit for that. There’s a tall bouncer who towers over everyone and is always on alert, making sure people are having fun and staying safe. Even small things, like spills on the floor, are taken care of right away.
I usually go for their Latin nights, which I think happen about once a month, but I also love their Afrobeat and Afro house nights with DJ Uproot Andy. he always packs the place and creates such an incredible energy. If you’re particular about music, definitely check their Instagram beforehand because they host different genres on different nights.
The venue itself is awesome: two bathrooms, a spacious bar, and a great layout that makes it easy to dance or just hang out. It’s the perfect place to unwind and let loose.
One thing that stands out for me personally is how safe and welcoming it feels. I’ve never gone to a lounge alone before, but one night I just needed to get out and none of my friends were free. I felt completely comfortable going solo here, which says a lot.
On top of all that, Friends and Lovers is women-owned and proudly queer-friendly, which only adds to the inclusive, positive vibe of the space.
Overall, Friends and Lovers is just a gem fun, safe, and full of good energy. I can’t recommend it enough!
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Friends and Lovers is an amazing space for parties, shows, and community events. Go check them out.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
I've been going to this bar for at least 7 years, I used to consider numerous employees there if not friends then lovely acquaintances who I would always go and say hi to before anything else. Usually, I endeavour to bring friends with me who have never been so that F&L gets more patrons. I never use a disrespectful tone or language, and whenever I exit the smoking area at the back I try to bring in empty glasses/cans/bottles to help a bit with the clean up. I will not name any names because even if I am not viewed as worthy of any basic decency and respect, I refuse to reproduce any of that energy.
I have three questions regarding the last time I went in,.
Why was it that the bouncer was commenting negatively about me as if I wasn't there to my male friend when we were entering? Didn't think that was his business at all. When I tried to check him he said something rude and then went on talking to my friend about me as if I wasn't standing right there using very sexist language. I did not know this bouncer.
Why was it that immediately after giving me my order one bartender who's been there for years thought it was alright to go and talk about me to another bartender when I was standing right there waiting to pay?
And why is it that I have seen men openly stalk women around a room, the women look afraid and uncomfortable and there will be a manager close by but those men are never thrown out? There was a skinny little brown man who stayed within 5 feet of a woman while she was dancing towards the end one night at all times even though the floor was mostly empty and he didn't know any of her friends or her. She kept moving around the room because she was afraid and he kept following her. Hopefully he didn't keep up the behaviour when she left, because no one cared about her safety.
Last time I went in, my face got grabbed by some random huge white man very roughly when I was walking by. I pulled away in shock and he grabbed my face again and tilted it upwards. I pulled away and went and stood by the front bar, terrified and triggered.
My last question, this one to you, would it have made sense to bring this up with the bouncer who saw me as less than human because of my gender? Would the bartenders - who had something to say about me when all I was doing was ordering a drink using the same courtesy and cheerfulness as always - have done anything ?
The last time I was present when someone else got aggressive at a bartender, I checked in with the person who got yelled at and the others on shift to make sure they were ok and offer support if possible. I have always seen them as not just human but wonderful humans and try to make sure they feel that way especially on Friday and Saturday nights. I used to be so happy to see some people who worked there.
don't know what changed and why, but this is not a save space for women or queers. There are a lot of other spots in that area and other parts of Brooklyn that aren't so sexist/racist/toxic/physically and emotionally harmful. Stay away!
Atmosphere: 1
Service: 1
Cool chill bar space in BK, it has a dance floor, a smoke friendly backyard & hard hitting drinks. It’s been a community staple for a couple years now. I’d say it’s a very interesting & diverse space w/ super friendly staff & bartenders. I can’t complain but sometimes I wished they did serve food 🥲. I’ve been going there for some years now and I can say the experience every-time is different or random which I enjoy. Be sure to check the Instagram page to be sure it’s your type of party. I recall comedy nights, open mics, live performances and Carribean type nights where you’d hear soca, dancehall, etc. That’s it for my hefty ass review, bye. See you soon FNL.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Came out with a few friends on a Saturday night. The bouncer needs therapy, a hug or perhaps a raise to combat his internal turmoil that he takes out on potential consumers. Turned multiple woman away from the line for minor grievances.
Friends & Lovers is an absolute favorite bar in Brooklyn. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere hits just right—cozy, stylish, and full of good vibes. Their cocktail menu is inventive and perfectly balanced, and the bartenders mix each drink with finesse and personality. Staff are welcoming and attentive, creating a relaxed, fun experience. Whether you're grabbing drinks with friends or enjoying a date night, Friends & Lovers is a spot worth returning to.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Staff let's patrons leave dogs leashed unattended outside. Dog's owner is drinking inside while the dog is panting in 90+ degree weather on a short leash. Not a place to come back to
Atmosphere: 1
This spot was actually super disappointing for me. The bar area is incredibly tiny. Unfortunately the bartenders was on some sort of substance and seemed very confused or out of it. My friend was disappointed in her drink and it was also expensive. They had a show in the back, but there was a cover. I wouldn’t return.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
great spot to dance! attracts a friendly and socialable crowd.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
$20 cover charge, you'll wait for your drink with an attitude. The locals add to the chemistry on The Dance Floor
Atmosphere: 3
Service: 1
Place where new and old friends and lovers can meet and have a great time.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
It's the best place ever.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great spot
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great time! Great people! Great music! Would highly recommend for a welcoming atmosphere
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Von Trapp
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