Passing The Bar: Fulton Grand
In just over a month, Fulton Grand has eased into its namesake corner so smoothly that it feels as if the bar has always been there. Situated in a former plumbing supply shop, the bar brings a bit of boozy comfort to this parched area of Clinton Hillespecially for those of us who like to partake in daytime drinking. Like its siblings, Fourth Avenue Pub and Washington Commons, the newest family member offers an awesome $2 off happy hour between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., which includes all 12 of its rotating tap beers, bottles, mixed drinks and wine. Not that the bar proved expensive anyway: the drafts range from $5 to $8 and include gems like the grassy and hops-filled St. Feuillien Green Flash Biere De LAmitie ($8) and the refreshing Laguintas Lucky 13 ($6).
On my first visit to this dark, refurbished-wood-lined bar, I curled up on the L-shaped bench by the window with a book and a pint of the Cigar City Jai-Alai IPA ($6), a smooth, mildly smoky beer with tinge of citrus. As the light faded through the slatted wood blinds, I sampled a woodsy Smuttynose Robust Porter ($6), and then moved on to a sweet and malty Fullers London Pride ($6). Three pints in and my stomach grumbled for solids. Since the bar doesnt serve food yet (a cheese platter is in the works) and doesnt mind if you bring in your own, I grabbed some southern food from the restaurant across the street and stuffed my beersaturated belly.
After numerous visits since Fulton Grands August opening, I have witnessed similar adventures as the joint has quickly become a neighborhood staple. On any given night, the 70-seat place attracts all sorts of types, from the obnoxious Pratt students trying to gain Brooklyn cred to neighborhood lifers and families with small children (though only witnessed early, thankfully). The no-nonsense and knowledgeable bartenders usually will tell you in detail what they offer and even give a sample of any brews. With this good service, a relaxed vibe, an exciting beer list and a line of scrumptious bourbons, its easy to pull up a bar stool and blend right in. The bar has also applied for an outdoor permit, which, if and when it is awarded, would make this the only place nearby to take your drink outside in the cool, early fall air. And that certainly sounds grand.
-- Fulton Grand 441 Grand Ave. (at Fulton St.) Brooklyn, no phone