Three men behind some of the borough’s most successful spots teamed up to create Grand Army, an incredible oyster bar and cocktail lounge in Boerum Hill.

Noah Bernamoff of the ever-packed Mile End Delicatessen, Julian Brizzi who co-owns the tiny, but perfectly-formed nearby Italian Rucola, and Damon Boelte, who established the excellent bar program at Prime Meats in Carroll Gardens, came together to set up this bar, serving small briny oysters from the Northeast along with cocktails and craft beers. The menu comes from wd-50 and Alder vet Jon Bignelli offering a light, healthy alternative to the usual bar food of burgers and wings, as well as an insane brunch featuring lobster toast and a Bloody Mary platter. 

The threesome all live locally, in the pretty tree-lined vicinity, and were keen to establish a decent neighbourhood bar where they could hang out, as well as a business. The big windows and white walls keep it feeling bright and breezy, with a stunning 1930s bar set beneath a vintage cobalt blue mirror. The space sits 60, divided between the bar, as well as a custom-built oyster bar, and tables. By winter, the wood burning fireplace will come into its own.

Ideal For

A crowd-pleaser: good wine, good cocktails, good beer and good food.

Signature Dishes

The Grand Army Raw Platter; seared octopus with celeriac; boquerones; or a soft poached egg over clam broth and fava beans.

Signature Drinks

American Royal Zephyr: bonded bourbon, cocchi americano rosa, ango, orange and peychauds bitters, and sparkling water.