Seemor
Finback BrooklynB+Worth Trying
545 President St, Brooklyn, NY 11215
· Brewery
· 4.8/5 Google (290 reviews)
Large, lively brewery taproom with standout hazy IPAs, a real cocktail program, and better-than-expected bar bites; loud at peak times with occasional service hiccups.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Finback Brooklyn delivers solid neighborhood appeal through above-average food quality with elevated bar bites and a strong beer program, supported by knowledgeable bartenders. However, occasional consistency gaps and space comfort issues prevent a higher grade, while peak-time noise and service speed challenges limit its standing as a destination venue. It excels as a casual, lively taproom for groups and beer enthusiasts, but falls short of the polish expected at grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
A big, airy taproom that buzzes when the weekend hits, Finback Brooklyn feels like a neighborhood living room scaled up for parties. Guests call out the lively vibe, chatty bartenders, and a beer list that rewards hopheads. One visitor summed it up: "We came for the IPA and stayed for the wings." Expect a warehouse aesthetic with plenty of seating and, at peak times, serious volume. The cooking leans upgraded bar fare with Asian-leaning bites like dumplings, crab rangoon, and spicy cucumbers to backstop a strong lineup of hazy IPAs, sours, and a real cocktail program tied to their spirits. The culinary approach reads elevated taproom: fun twists and shareable plates rather than culinary theatrics. Families show up often, and it works for them: wings, fries, and simple dumplings give kids approachable options, though there is no explicit kids menu mentioned. When it is packed, the room gets loud, so earlier visits may be better for family time and conversation.
At a Glance
- Standout hazy IPAs and diverse beer list
- Elevated bar bites (dumplings, wings) with generous portions
- Huge space that handles groups and events well
- Loud acoustics at peak times; conversation can be tough
- Bar lines slow when cocktails are popular or staffing is lean
What Sets It Apart
- brewery_cocktail_program
- large_event_mezzanine
- asian_leaning_bar_bites
What People Love
- Emotion of a bustling, social taproom
- Reliable hazy IPAs and rotating styles
- Wings and dumplings that exceed brewery-food expectations
- Friendly bartenders who guide choices
- Roomy layout that fits big groups
Points of Concern
- Noise spikes due to hard surfaces; expect loud peak periods
- Occasional inattentive greeting or slow lines when cocktails dominate
- Limited small-pour options at times; flights not always obvious to guests
- Bar seating stability and tight bathrooms noted by a few
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$32-48 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Based on reviews, order wings and dumplings to share, pair with a flagship hazy IPA, and consider a gin-based cocktail for non-beer drinkers.
Perfect For
- Casual group hangs and brewery crawls
- Hosting celebrations in a flexible taproom
- Hop-forward beer lovers who also want cocktails
- Families seeking a roomy, casual weekend spot
Location Insights
Area: Creative, post-industrial Gowanus corridor with breweries, studios, and residential influx; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; industrial blocks can feel sparse late night but active on weekends.
Nearby: Near other breweries, casual eateries, and event spaces; convenient for group meetups and brewery crawls.
GowanusGowanus is an evolving neighborhood with a strong industrial past, now known for its trendy dining spots, art galleries, and a growing number of renovated lofts and condos. The dining scene is eclectic, featuring innovative restaurants, casual eateries, and craft breweries, attracting a mix of locals and visitors seeking a hip yet authentic Brooklyn experience.
Gowanus Canal DistrictCentered around the Gowanus Canal, this micro-neighborhood is characterized by its industrial aesthetic combined with modern redevelopment. It hosts a variety of unique dining venues and cultural spaces, appealing to those interested in a blend of gritty history and contemporary urban lifestyle.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday14:00–22:00
Tuesday14:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–20:00
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