Bar Velo Opens in Former Cafe Moto Space in South Williamsburg

After fourteen long years, Cafe Moto has been transformed into Bar Velo, a charming 1930s-era cycling-themed spot for light bites, libations and live acoustic tunes.

Owner and designer Johnny McCormick (St. Mazie) knows true romance at his newest South Williamsburg spot tucked under the J/M/Z tracks at the Hewes stop.

The triangular space – where Hewes meets Broadway – features McCormick’s personal collection of bike gear, jerseys and other bike fixtures from his days as a touring cyclist and bike messenger. Releasing romantic vibes, Velo lures in guests to hang out and converse with one another around its quaint circular tables and antique-looking cafe chairs built by McCormick.

While McCormick focuses on the aesthetic, wife Vannessa Shanks (Nobu) concentrates on the organic vegetarian fare served nightly with the help of Foragers Market. Lentil Walnut Pate and Grilled Tempeh Flatbread are two of many sharing plates. Larger dishes consist of Slow Roasted Tomato Fettuccini and a Black Bean Burger with slaw.

The couple have teamed up with Diageo World Class nominee, Simon Crompton to present five seasonal cocktails geared towards one’s mood and well-being. Herbs like sage and rosemary are muddled and burned with the select spirit to stimulate the brain (and other “feel-good” vibes).

5 Specialty Cocktails

No.1 – Gin, Sage, Ginger, Allspice & Angostura
No.2 – Scotch, Ginger, Lemon, Islay & Burned Rosemary
No.3 – Whiskey, Lemon, Roma Tomato & Fresh Basil
No.4 – Hot Whiskey, Honey, Lemon,Ginger, Cloves & Candied Clementine
No.5 – Mezcal, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino & Fresh Lime

Cocktail No.3: Ingredients – Whiskey, Lemon, Roma Tomato & Fresh Basil

Happy Hour daily from 5:30pm – 7:00pm, brunch will be hitting in the coming months and Velo-To-Go, opening next spring, will be serving coffee, juices, sandwiches and other light bites from the kitchen window that fronts onto Broadway near the entrance of the Hewes St. station.

Bar Velo details

718-599-6895
barvelobrooklyn.com

Connect Socially: @barvelobrooklyn