Inside Philomena's, Williamsburg's Cozy-Cool New Cocktail Lounge Perfect For Date Night

Overwhelmed by all the date night options Williamsburg has to offer? Let us help narrow it down for you.

We're thinking someplace cozy enough to get comfortable in, but cool enough to impress. Strong cocktails are a given, of course, but the food offerings - should the first half of the date go well - need to be equally as satisfying. A buzzy new name certainly doesn't hurt, especially when the suggestion is met with an enthusiastic "I've been meaning to check that place out!"

All criteria considered, Philomena's is the perfect spot.

The stylish-but-relaxed cocktail lounge in East Williamsburg is guaranteed to be your new favorite go-to. Helmed by hospitality vet Kyle O’Brien, the co-founder of The Late Late, Hotel Chantelle and Den Hospitality, and his brother Sean O’brien of Den Hospitality, the recently opened watering hole serves up artisanal cocktails and elevated bites in a sophisticated space filled with plush booths, rich dark wood, vintage touches, and funky artwork (including an instantly recognizable Karl Lagerfeld portrait by fashion's favorite artist, Bradley Theodore).

Cocktail connoisseurs will delight in the innovative offerings (and fancy, infused ice cubes) crafted by Beverage Director Kyle Dailey, from the signature Philomena (Prosecco, watermelon rose ice cube) to the Willy’s 50/50, a libation that's sure to heat up your night with flaming vodka and citrus-infused Dolin blanc.

When it's time to pull out an excuse to keep the date going, order up some shareable bites prepared in partnership with Williamsburg eatery, Pomp & Circumstance, including tearable seeded semolina pita, duck liver mousse, hummus, and pickled crudité.

As it happens, Philomena's was named for the owners' Great Aunt Philomena, the life of the party who herself was named after the patron saint of youth. A fitting tribute indeed for the cultivation of young love (at every age!).

Philomena's, 790 Grand St, Brooklyn

[Photos by Kevin Lapsley]