TAB: $$ (Cash Only)
HOURS: Mon-Fri (6pm-4am) / Sat-Sun (2pm-4am)
CROWD: Gay & Lesbian, Singles
DIRECTIONS: F,M,R to 9th Street [HopStop]
HITS: Draft Beers - Happy Hour - Jukebox - Music – Outdoor Space - Sports Bar

WORDS ON THE WEB:

Citysearch says, "Excelsior's crimson walls reflect cheer onto clients' rosy complexions, creating a warm, welcoming vibe. The stylish decor falls somewhere between art deco and pure '70s, with yellow gumdrop lights overhanging a wide mahogany bar. Brooklyn still doesn't move as fast as Manhattan, so this scene isn't quite as cruisy. In fact, Excelsior feels in many ways like a casual dating service for outerborough gay men. Mixed gay and lesbian cocktail bar with a porch and outdoor garden. Fiercely eclectic jukebox. Excelsior is a friendly place to down a martini. Enjoy the bartenders' drink-making expertise in the spacious backyard, or settle in by the jukebox for a night of music and fun."

New York Magazine says, "On a street that's starting to feel more and more like the main drag in a college town, this grown-up gay (and very straight-friendly) bar stands out precisely because it's so ordinary. It's a bar that feels like a bar, not like yet another soulless lounge. Which is not to say that the Excelsior, despite its lofty name, is stiff. It just means that you can get a proper Wild Turkey Manhattan here and not feel like a tosser. And the kick-ass jukebox is a great excuse for lingering long into the night."

Shecky's says, "Where’s Brooklyn’s gay scene? In Manhattan. But when the borough’s gays and lesbians don’t feel like bridge-and-tunneling it into the city, many of them come to this lively bar. Even some Manhattanites have been known to hop on the train and “F” their butts down to Excelsior. Though a somewhat relaxed atmosphere prevails here, don’t be fooled. Brooklyn’s queers are just as cruisey as those anywhere else, and the bar’s myriad mirrors make it even easier to scope out someone who’s easy. Or you can head to the porch and outdoor garden. Because you’re in Brooklyn, you’ll feel wonderful not having to inhale Manhattan street smog, instead breathing in good old cigarette smoke. Regardless, the smoke and mirrors here will always make for a good time."

Yelp reviews