Floyd Bar

Named after a beloved bar in the owner’s wife’s home state of Iowa, this neighborhood spot is modest Middle America meets cool Brooklyn Heights. Turn-of-the-last-century portraits and worn upholstery trim the libraryesque front corner, and the jukebox is equal parts honky-tonk and indie rock. A menu features housemade beer cheese, but you’re also allowed to BYO food, so you won’t catch flack if you come bearing cupcakes. It’s an easy place to entertain—reservations for larger parties are accepted, an indoor boccie court serves as your token birthday “novelty recreation option,” and multiple subway lines nearby.