1. A Brooklyn birthday venue with eclectic sounds: Eavesdrop
Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Listening bars may be a relatively new trend in the city, but we have a feeling they’re gonna stick around for a while. Inspired by 1950s Tokyo listening bars, Eavesdrop in Greenpoint has a Japandi-style interior that’s designed for sound. Velvet booths and wooden high-top tables are in the Listening Room, and more seats are available at the bar. There are DJ sets on the weekends, and on weekdays they pay special attention to local labels, artists, and record stores. It’s pretty lowkey, and is more for listening than dancing, but is great if you want more of a chill, conversational celebration with friends. Private events can hold up to 36 guests.
Small plates and craft cocktails are inspired by Japanese cuisine, and local craft beers and natural wines are also available. They have two different kinds of cake, too (yuzu ricotta and chocolate olive oil) so you can still have a little something special. And of course, like all cool Brooklyn venues with interesting fonts, they sell merch.