The Emerson: Clinton Hill’s Transcendental Lounge
Billed as Clinton Hill’s “transcendental lounge,” The Emerson is an arty, easygoing bar on Myrtle Avenue near the Bed-Stuy line. Inside you’ll find graffiti-style street art, a striking red-lit mirror and casual, picnic-style seating that nudges strangers into conversation — the walls double as a rotating local art gallery.
The real prize is out back: a sizable backyard patio that comes alive in warm weather. Add a pool table regulars rate among Brooklyn’s best, ping-pong, live music on Thursdays and a solid craft-beer list, and you’ve got a neighborhood hangout worth the trip. Just remember it’s cash-only.
The Happy Hour
The Emerson pours happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 7 PM, knocking $2 off drafts and setting well drinks at $7. Since the bar is cash-only with an on-site ATM, bring bills. There’s no kitchen, so the move is to grab your drinks, claim a spot in the backyard or at the pool table, and order in food if you’re hungry.
The Room
An eclectic, low-key lounge that doubles as an informal art gallery: bold street-art murals, an eye-catching red-light mirror, and casual chairs and picnic-style seating that encourage mingling over formal tables. The centerpiece is the large backyard patio, plus a well-loved pool table and ping-pong. Drinks run to local craft beer and house cocktails, including the namesake Emerson — gin, fresh mint, ginger and Prosecco.
Who The Emerson Is For
| Occasion | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Backyard hangs | The sizable garden patio is the whole point once the weather warms up. |
| Game night | A top-rated pool table and ping-pong make it a natural for a competitive evening. |
| Low-key group drinks | Casual, mingle-friendly seating and craft beer suit a relaxed crowd. |
| Thursday live music | Local acts take the room around 9 PM to cap the week. |
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The Emerson FAQ
Do they take cards?
No — The Emerson is cash-only, but there’s an ATM on-site if you need it.
Do they serve food?
There’s no kitchen. You’re welcome to bring your own food or order delivery to the bar.
Is there outdoor seating?
Yes — a large backyard patio is the venue’s signature feature and fills up in warm weather.
Which neighborhood is it in?
Clinton Hill, on Myrtle Avenue near the Bedford-Stuyvesant border in Brooklyn.
Happy hour times and deals last verified June 2026. Details can change — confirm with The Emerson before visiting for a specific deal.