Young Ethel's: No Happy Hour, but Free Shows Every Day
Young Ethel’s doesn’t publish a happy hour. The bar at 506 5th Ave in South Slope posts no drink prices and no discounted window, and sells itself on something else: a stage with a free show every day.
The verdict: go for the room, not a deal. The bar describes itself as a woman-owned neighborhood bar with “cocktails that are priced like it’s still 2012,” which is a claim, not a menu, since no prices are posted. What you can count on is the calendar. Comedy, improv, open mics, music and variety fill the stage most nights, and the bar says the shows are free. The catch is that without posted prices there is no way to compare it with the happy hours nearby.
What to Expect
- Shows: the bar lists comedy, live music, improv, open mics, variety, film screenings and play readings. It says it has “something going on every day.”
- Beer: a few local craft taps, with KCBC’s Superhero Sidekicks IPA and Other Half’s Snap Pilsner as examples.
- Cocktails: the bar recommends the Lavender Honey Paloma.
- Food: Kings Kolaches in Spinach and Artichoke or Sausage Cheddar Jalapeño, and a taco truck out front serving Chicken Tinga.
- Hours: Monday to Thursday 4pm–1am, Friday 4pm–2am, Saturday 2pm–2am, Sunday 2pm–1am.
The Room
Young Ethel’s calls itself a “South Brooklyn Bar & Stage” and says the crowd is local artists, local drinkers and people who like pinball. The back room is open for parties, and the bar advises booking two months ahead. The house rules: pay with cash if you can, don’t hit on women, tip your bartender. The nearest trains are 4 Av-9 St (F/G/R) and Prospect Av (R). See the full South Slope happy hour guide. For more rooms with a stage, try our best comedy clubs in NYC and live music bars in NYC.
Who Young Ethel’s Is For
| Occasion | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| A free night of comedy | Shows on the calendar every day |
| Trying an open mic | Open mics are on the stage schedule |
| A party in the back room | Available to book, two months ahead recommended |