BROOKLYN BARS: The Counting Room

Delicious Drinks and Design Go Underground

Something that still baffles me, as both a new resident and bar employee, is that just about every building in this part of Brooklyn has a basement. Some landlords convert them into living spaces while other versions exist as kitchens or as makeshift storage units. But on a rare occasion, these basements are turned into bars. Basements are nearly non-existent in California, so I was immediately amused when I found out that The Counting Room, located on the corner of N.11th & Berry, is a basement-based bar—and a very big bar at that!
Before you get to the cocktail bar you have to walk through the upstairs portion of The Counting Room. It’s a spacious spot with a handful of long wooden tables. The top level strictly adheres to those looking for wine (bottles, half glasses and glasses) and delicious small plates. Personally, I passed on the wine and moved straight downstairs to sample their specialty cocktails. It was Friday night the first time I went and things were just starting to pick up, so I pulled up a stool and began to inspect the space and menu. Adorned with vintage lights, modern leather benches and wooden tables lining the walls, the Counting Room feels properly designed, and never too stuffy or over-crowded.
First and foremost, I was very pleased to see that all their specialty drinks are $10, including ’the dealers choice’ for when you are feeling indecisive but know what type of drink you fancy or spirit you prefer. Of their thirteen cocktails I tried three, along with a classic. Being a bourbon boy, my taste buds were taken by the delicious Hollagolla, a must-try for those who fancy whiskey cocktails. Also, by happenstance, I had the privilege of being served by the creator of the cocktails Vincent Favela who, while busily crafting beautiful drink after beautiful drink, remained attentive, polite and knowledgeable, making for a lovely experience at the bar before I retreated to a table in the back with friends. The ambience of the establishment is a distinctly nice one, with the low lights and candles scattered about. The atmosphere was unfortunately disrupted by the DJ, stationed above an immaculate vintage piano, who was playing music a bit too loudly making conversation amongst a larger group of people slightly difficult.
All in all, I would recommend this spot for those who would like a cocktail and don’t want to spend the familiar $13-15. The Counting Room is ideal for those looking for a classy glass of wine and a light snack, ranging from deviled eggs to meat & cheese boards to hot sandwiches.

The Counting Room
44 Berry Street

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