Brooklyn is getting another whiff of Cologne thanks to a massive new beer hall inspired by the German city.
A 200-seat pub opened for business on St. Marks Place near Fourth Avenue under the name Die Koelner Bierhalle — the borough’s second tribute to Germany’s fourth largest metropolis.
The new venue boasts 30 draft beers, 40 bottled beers, and a wine list in a converted Park Slope warehouse that’s roughly the size of a basketball court.
“[It] transports patrons to a traditional German bier halle without requiring a passport,” said manager Andre Jordan.
Like many German-influenced beer halls, Die Koelner Bierhalle boasts traditional German food and communal seating at long wooden tables.
But it’s not to be mistaken for Brooklyn’s other Cologne-inspired beer bar, Fort Greene’s Der Schwarze Kölner. Managers at both beer halls were quick to point out that the bars have no affiliation — despite reports erroneously linking the two because they’re names include the words “Kolner” and “Koelner,” which mean “Cologne” in German.
Despite concerns and complaints about other beer bars with outdoor seating nearby, some St. Marks Place residents say they’re excited about the new watering hole.
“We’re a little different from normal Park Slope people, we’ve been waiting for a while for the bar to open,” said bar neighbor Weina Dorsky. “I’m really excited. I like different choices of imported beer, and it’s close to home.”
Die Koelner Bierhalle [84 St. Marks Pl between Fourth and Fifth avenues in Park Slope, (347) 227–7238, thekbh.com].
— With Alfred Ng
Reach reporter Natalie O'Neill at noneill@cnglocal.com or by calling her at (718) 260-4505.
