About Brooklyn Bazaar
Brooklyn Bazaar was a unique multi-level music and event venue in Brooklyn, New York. Housed in the historic Polonaise Terrace (an old Polish banquet hall at 150 Greenpoint Avenue), it mixed art-deco and retro design with modern lighting and a giant disco ball. The interior featured marble walls, mirrored ceilings, vintage chandeliers and bold red accents, giving it a wild, “American Horror Story” vibe. The space was spread over three floors and ~7,600 sq ft, and could hold a few hundred guests (semi-standing). It was known for its open-layout dancehall and eclectic decor that felt like an adults’ amusement park. Founded by Belvy Klein and Aaron Broudo (who previously ran Brooklyn Night Bazaar), Brooklyn Bazaar reopened at Polonaise Terrace in fall 2016. It quickly became notable for its combination of live shows, dining, gaming (mini-golf, ping pong, arcade), vendor stalls, and bars under one roof. Though it closed to the public at the end of November 2019 after a short lease dispute, Brooklyn Bazaar left a lasting mark on the local scene as a weird, wonderful venue that embraced NYC’s punky, artsy character.
Events and Programming
Brooklyn Bazaar hosted a mix of shows and happenings. On weekends the main hall turned into a live music club or dance party space, featuring indie rock, punk, pop, hip-hop, electronic and world music acts. Past performers included beloved indie and hardcore bands like Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Pissed Jeans, I Am The Avalanche, Ted Leo, Penguin Prison, The Thermals, French Horn Rebellion, Laura Stevenson and many more. Lineups often came through partnerships with local curators (e.g. AdHoc, The Fader, Time Out NY) and showcased both established touring acts and underground local favorites. It also hosted themed DJ parties, comedy nights, wrestling shows, trivia, and occasional film screenings (in collaboration with Nitehawk Cinema, for example). During the day on weekends it sometimes operated like a market/flea (with local craft vendors, art shows and food booths). Many performances were free-admission with a bar and arcade open, while bigger concerts had modest ticket prices (often $10–$25, depending on the act). Special events included holiday parties, record release shows, and oddball one-offs – anything from a holiday sweater party to a wrestling night – reflecting the founders’ mission to celebrate Brooklyn’s creative, offbeat spirit.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for concerts and events at Brooklyn Bazaar were generally available through the venue’s official channels (website or box office). In practice, local indie newsletters, event calendars, or the venue’s own social media would announce show dates and put tickets on sale weeks in advance. For popular shows, tickets tended to sell out or be waitlisted quickly, so fans were advised to buy early. Walk-up tickets at the door were sometimes sold if a show didn’t sell out. Door prices for regular shows averaged around $10–$20; headliner or weekend events were higher ($20–$30). There wasn’t a 24/7 box office, so patrons often bought print-at-home tickets or show ID upon entry. VIP or early-entry options were occasionally offered for certain bands. In general, planning ahead and checking the venue’s event listings was key. Note: Brooklyn Bazaar closed in late 2019, so always verify current status – the owners have since focused on other projects in the area.
Seating and Layout
Brooklyn Bazaar’s interior was largely general-admission standing room, spread over several unique sections. There was no fixed seating for concerts – people typically stood on the dancefloor or near the stage. Throughout the space, a few raised booths and banquettes (original Polonaise fixtures) allowed small groups to sit or perch. Key areas included:
Ground Floor (Main Hall): The largest open space with a stage up front. Friends often gathered near the stage for close views; the floor was flat, so people further back could watch from elevated areas or lean on booths along the walls. The polished marble and mirrors gave a big-room feel. Acoustically, the thick walls and high ceilings provided a loud, resonant sound – great for energetic shows but occasionally echoey if the room was only half-full.Upstairs Lounge/Gallery Levels: A mezzanine or upper balcony ran along the sides and back of the main hall. This offered good sightlines for those who wanted a view of the whole crowd or a break from the crush. The upstairs lounge also housed arcade games and video screens. It had a more comfortable vibe with sofas and low tables, making it a popular spot for conversation or taking a breather between sets.Karaoke/Ping-Pong Rooms: On another level there were smaller side rooms with karaoke setups and ping-pong tables. These served as both games zones and an alternative hangout during shows in the main hall. They had bar stools and small tables, so people could eat or drink while play or chat.Restaurant and Bar Areas: The bottom floor had an open kitchen and dining area (Brooklyn Star restaurant) plus a full bar. Long communal tables and booths provided seating for meals. These spots had a more seated, casual feel and were slightly removed from the loudest action upstairs (though the entire vibe remained lively).
Best Viewing Spots: For concerts, standing near the stage anywhere was ideal for sound. Many fans loved the fringe booths along the walls of the main hall (they offer slight elevation). The upper balcony gave a panoramic view at a distance, handy if you want to enjoy visuals (disco ball above the dancefloor) or just step away. The upstairs lounge also had TV screens angled at the stage, plus tables. Some shows encouraged hanging out near the back or side walls to socialize, since the middle often got packed.
Acoustics & Good/Bad Areas: Sound was generally strong thanks to a robust PA and the room’s hard surfaces. The front floor and lower back heard music loudest, while some areas under the balcony could be muffled at high volume. Corners far from the stage sometimes had less bass thump. If you prefer clarity, staying on the main floor in the center or slightly elevated at the mezzanine was best. Avoid absolutely standing right under the balcony’s edge, as it could be slightly quieter or have blocked sightlines.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Brooklyn Bazaar was located at 150 Greenpoint Avenue, at the corner with Manhattan Avenue, in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn. This is a few blocks south of McCarren Park and near the McCarren Park Pool. The area is mixed residential and industrial, known for its nightlife scene.
Subway and Transit: The nearest subway station is Greenpoint Avenue on the G line (Brooklyn-Queens Crosstown). It’s about a 2–3 minute walk from the station exit at Greenpoint & Manhattan Avenues. Other nearby stations include Nassau Avenue (G line) about a half-mile west, and Lorimer Street/Metropolitan (L line) about three-quarters of a mile south (which connects you to Brooklyn/Manhattan via Williamsburg). Several city buses run through Greenpoint: the B43 (southbound Manhattan Ave/Williamsburg Bridge, northbound McGuinness Blvd/Greenpoint Ave), and the B32 (Greenpoint/Manhattan Ave). A short walk away is the India Street ferry landing (NY Waterway to Wall Street), which has late hours on weekends. For visitors from Manhattan, taking the L to Bedford then walking over the Greenpoint Avenue Bridge is also common.
Driving and Parking: Greenpoint has limited street parking. Metered parking and resident permit zones run all around, so if driving be prepared to pay for parking or hunt carefully for an open meter (two-hour meter parking is common in the area). Late-night street parking is easier and often free after 11pm or on Sundays. There is no dedicated lot for the venue. Nearby private lots/garages do exist (for example, at 218 India Street or small businesses), but rates vary. Ridesharing drop-offs typically happened on Manhattan Avenue in front of the venue (where a police barricade might be placed for large events). If you drive, plan extra time to find street parking, and consider parking a few blocks away to avoid limited spots. Alternatively, take the subway or bus for stress-free access.
Inside the Venue
Entry and Security: On event nights there was one main entrance at street level. Upon entry, staff and bouncers checked IDs and tickets. Age verification (government photo ID) was required – most shows were 21+ due to liquor licensing after dark (some special events starting earlier were 18+). Bag checks or metal detectors were used for larger shows, so large backpacks or bulky items might not be allowed. Once inside, there was a coat/stamp/coat check desk by the entrance for a small fee (useful on cool nights). Security teams were on hand during events to handle capacity and any disturbances. Re-entry after leaving might be limited (it varied by event), so plan accordingly.
Atmosphere: Expect a high-energy yet quirky atmosphere. The decor (red walls, gold trim, disco ball, vintage chandeliers) made a dramatic backdrop. Lights often pulsed in patterns with the music, and fog machines could be used on the dancefloor. The multi-floored layout made the space feel spacious but connected; you could hear a DJ in the lounge from the main floor and vice versa. The vibe was generally friendly and eclectic – you might see punks mingling with tech workers, couples on dates, and art students all dancing together. Dress was casual or edgy (think band tees, leather jackets, sneakers) – no strict dress code, but avoid very bulky coat or large props since space was tight at shows.
Beverage and Food: The venue had multiple full bars (craft beers, wine, cocktails) on each level. Drink prices were typical for Brooklyn bars (about $7–$12 for mixed drinks; beer and wine a bit less). Although you could bring food up, most people ate at the on-site restaurant, Brooklyn Star, which offered filled chicken cones, burgers, fries, salads and more. For shows, they often set up a food truck window or bar snacks. In between bands or games, people would grab lunch or dinner upstairs at Brooklyn Star to keep the party going. Outside drinks or alcohol from other vendors was not permitted.
Games and Activities: Unique to Brooklyn Bazaar were the built-in amusements. On the main floor you could play a mini golf course right next to the dance area (putt a ball beside the bar!). On other levels, there were ping-pong tables, skee ball, and arcade machines with tokens (provided at the front desk). Karaoke rooms were open some nights. All these were free to use during events, and they stayed lit as long as shows were happening. Watching a band between holes of mini golf was a popular photo-op. These features made Brooklyn Bazaar feel like a playground for adults.
Restrooms and Utilities: Restrooms (all-gender) were located on each floor (ground, intermediate, upper). They were the old Polonaise-style bathrooms with marble walls and decorative tile, now updated with modern fixtures. Lines formed during big shows, so plan bathroom breaks between sets. The venue did not offer public Wi-Fi (reception was spotty inner city 4G most of the time). There was an ATM near the bar on the main floor. Free water was typically available at the bar, but guests could also get some packaged snacks or light foods at the food service counter.
Nearby Amenities
Dining Options: Greenpoint and neighboring Williamsburg have many bars and eateries. For pre- or post-show meals, some favorites include Paulie Gee’s (famous Detroit-style pizza, up from Greenpoint Ave), Oxomoco (Mexican wood-fired cuisine, a few blocks away), and Karczma (pierogis and Polish food, one avenue over). Closer to the venue are casual spots like Felix Roasting Co. (coffee and sandwiches), Karoline’s Kitchen (diner classics), and The Diamond (craft beer pub). Greenpoint Avenue itself has a selection of cheap eats – Chinese takeout, delis, bagel shops and late-night pizzerias – perfect for grabbing a quick bite before a show.
Bars and Nightlife: As Brooklyn Bazaar was in a nightlife district, several bars are within walking distance. Catskills (Whiskey bar) and Glasserie are just a few blocks northward, and further west along Manhattan Avenue are popular spots like Mrs. Green’s and Greenpoint Bar & Grill for casual beers. In Williamsburg (10–15 min east), there are countless bars and rooftop lounges (Westlight, The Roof, Hotel Delmano) that stay open later. If a venue is closing, these spots fill up quickly. Taxis and rideshares service the area well into the night, but walking home depends on where you’re headed. Across the East River to Manhattan, the East or Lower East Side neighborhoods offer even more 24-hour dining and bars.
Hotels: There are no large hotels immediately in Greenpoint itself, but a few boutique inns and Airbnb options exist. The nearest full-service hotels are in Williamsburg (the Wythe Hotel, The William Vale, The Box House), or in Long Island City, Queens (Paper Factory Hotel, Z NYC). For travelers coming from out of town, staying at a Manhattan hotel (e.g. Lower East Side) or near a major train like Bedford Ave is also common, given the easy subway and ferry connections.
When to Arrive: It was recommended to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early for popular shows, especially on weekends, to beat lines and get in before doors filled. The surrounding streets can congest as showtime nears. If going out for dinner or drinks first, Beware that closing time at nightclubs is typically 2am–4am in Brooklyn; plan rideshares or subways accordingly, noting the G train slows late nights. Late-night diners and 24-hour bodegas (nearby McCarren Pool) provide after-party snack options.
What Makes This Venue Special
Brooklyn Bazaar stood out for its mash-up of experiences. It was part flea market, part arcade, part concert hall and part sticky-floored dance club – all under one glittering roof. The venue salvaged and celebrated the vintage Polonaise Terrace decor (ballrooms, oculus windows, stained glass, even the original dance floor) and infused it with pop culture flair. It embraced Brooklyn’s DIY artistry by hosting tattoo conventions, gospel karaoke and genre-blending music nights side by side. Because of the eclectic programming, the crowd was always a cross-section – artists, techies, students, hipsters and old-school punkers all packed the same space. Many visitors remember the surprise of playing ping-pong in a disco-lit club or ordering fried chicken in the middle of an indie rock concert.
On a community level, Brooklyn Bazaar helped cement Greenpoint’s identity as an arts-and-music hub. It provided performance space to dozens of local bands and visual artists who might not fit in more conventional clubs. Culturally, it was beloved for “keeping it weird” – by marrying a punk ethos with a kitschy, glamorous setting and keeping prices fair. Its owners also extended the Bazaar brand to other projects (like the seasonal Rockaway Beach Bazaar), making it a mini-empire of creativity in the borough. Famous local lore includes Brooklyn artists and bands having their breakouts on that stage, and the site’s role in preserving a little piece of post-war Polish-American heritage by actually using the old hall rather than tearing it down. Even after closing, Brooklyn Bazaar is often cited as a golden-age venue for the 2010s Brooklyn scene – a place where anything from a metal concert to a drag show could share the spotlight.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The historic building did not have a full elevator to every level, so not all floors were easily wheelchair-accessible. The ground floor (dining/restaurant and main hall entrance) was step-free. Guests needing assistance were encouraged to email or call ahead; staff could sometimes help with portable ramps or reserved viewing areas. Restrooms on each floor included at least one accessible stall. For hearing-impaired attendees, the large open room meant sound carrying well but no special devices were provided. If mobility is limited, stick to the ground level for shows and events.
What to Bring: Carry a government ID (driver’s license or passport). Write your phone number on the paper wristband when given, in case you lose it. Bring a coat/bag you can comfortably carry – large backpacks or outside food/drinks are typically not allowed. Earplugs can help if you’re sensitive to loud music. Wear comfortable shoes (the floor could be sticky or crowded). Cash is good for games and tips; bars accepted cards. A portable phone charger might be useful too (graduated events often mean running your battery down).
Rules and Etiquette: Smoking is banned indoors (and subject to heavy fines), so go outside to the sidewalk or designated area if needed. Keep aisles clear (no blocking doorways, no sitting on floors). Photography with phones was usually fine, but professional cameras (DSLRs) or tripods often required permission. Be respectful in the games areas (share equipment) and polite in line for restrooms or at the bar. Tipping bartenders is a common NYC practice. After the show ends, the bar may close 15–30 minutes before to allow people to finish – plan final drinks accordingly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t underestimate walking distances – Greenpoint is hilly in spots. Don’t plan to park on Greenpoint Avenue without paying or checking meters. Don’t miss the first band because you were in another bar – at smaller shows, openers can be part of the fun. Don’t expect luxury – this is a gritty, old-space venue with charm but also quirks (it can get warm inside, the bathrooms are vintage, etc.). Finally, if you see an event listed after 2019, double-check that it’s not a misnamed festival or different location (“Brooklyn Bazaar” was officially closed after 2019).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of Brooklyn Bazaar and how do I get there?
Brooklyn Bazaar was located at 150 Greenpoint Avenue (corner of Manhattan Ave) in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The closest subway is the G train at Greenpoint Avenue station, a 3-minute walk away. You can also reach it by MTA buses (the B43 runs along Manhattan Ave, B32 along Greenpoint Ave) or the East River ferry to India Street (~10 min walk). For drivers, street parking is limited in Greenpoint, so public transit or rideshare are recommended.
Is Brooklyn Bazaar currently open or hosting events?
Brooklyn Bazaar officially closed its Greenpoint location at the end of November 2019. As of 2025, the Polonaise Terrace space is no longer operating as a music venue. The original founders have focused on other projects (beach events on Rockaway, restaurants in McCarren Park, etc.). If you’re looking for a visit, note that the old building may be undergoing redevelopment. Always check for any announcements of a re-opening or new incarnation under a different name, but currently Brooklyn Bazaar itself is not open to the public.
How were tickets handled at Brooklyn Bazaar?
When it operated, Brooklyn Bazaar used presale tickets or door sales for most concerts. Tickets were typically bought online in advance or at the door if available. Popular shows often sold out early, so buying tickets digitally (via the venue’s website or other official ticketing site) was recommended. For smaller events or vendor markets, admission could be free and entry was first-come, first-served. Without a 24/7 box office, patrons usually printed tickets at home or showed the PDF on their phone. Since the venue is currently closed, no new tickets are on sale.
What was the capacity of Brooklyn Bazaar, and was seating reserved?
The Brooklyn Bazaar venue held a few hundred people (roughly 600–800, depending on configuration). It was mostly a general admission standing-room setup. There were no fixed seats for shows – patrons stood on the floor or at the edges. A few social seating areas (booths and lounge seating around the bar sections) were available for dinner or relaxed viewing, but concert spots were open. Some VIP or early-entry pass holders might have had dedicated lounge tables, but essentially everyone shared the floor with proximity to the stage. For the best view, getting there early to stake out a spot near the front or on the balconies was advised.
Does Brooklyn Bazaar have parking, and are there public transit options?
Brooklyn Bazaar had no dedicated parking lot. Street parking in Greenpoint is available but limited and mostly metered (often two hours max). After 11pm parking is generally free on the street. Nearby paid parking garages exist, though they can be pricey. Public transit is the easiest option: the Greenpoint Ave G-train station is walkable, and city buses (B43, B32) stop close by. Rideshare drop-offs usually took place on Manhattan Avenue in front of the venue. Taxis and ride-hail drivers are familiar with the address (150 Greenpoint Ave).
What should I expect inside Brooklyn Bazaar? (Food, drinks, games)
Inside Brooklyn Bazaar visitors would find multiple bars serving beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as an on-site restaurant (Brooklyn Star) with fried chicken, burgers, and casual fare. A signature feature was the indoor mini golf course and ping-pong/arcade game rooms available all night. There were lounges and vendor stalls selling art or merch around the edges. Restrooms were on each level (all-gender with at least one accessible stall), but no large coatroom beyond a small check. Overall, it felt like a combination of a nightclub, restaurant, games arcade and pop-up market.
Is there an age restriction at Brooklyn Bazaar?
Most events at Brooklyn Bazaar were 21+ since the venue served a full bar after dark. Guests needed governmental ID to get in. Some afternoon or early evening events (like family markets or special events) could be all-ages if stated in the lineup, but these were exceptions. It was best to check the specific event listing. In practice, if you arrived without an ID of someone 21 or older, you might not be admitted to a typical concert night.
Are outside food and drinks allowed inside Brooklyn Bazaar?
No. Brooklyn Bazaar did not allow outside alcohol or food. Guests were encouraged to eat and drink inside at the venue’s own bars and kitchen. You could bring a personal refillable water bottle, but larger coolers, kegs, or outside catered food were prohibited. This policy is common at music venues to ensure safety and to support on-site vendors. Inside the venue, water could be purchased from the bar and food was always available via Brooklyn Star or occasional food stalls.
Does Brooklyn Bazaar have a coat check and how much is it?
Yes, Brooklyn Bazaar offered a coat check service near the entrance on event nights. The fee was typically a few dollars per coat or bag (often around $3–$5, varying by event). You’d receive a ticket to reclaim your items. This helped with limited storage space in the venue. Many guests used coat check on colder nights. Otherwise, small personal bags could be carried in, but large backpacks were discouraged. Check with door staff on arrival for coat check details.
Is Brooklyn Bazaar wheelchair accessible?
Only partially. Because the building was an old banquet hall without full upgrades, not all spaces were easily wheelchair-friendly. The ground floor entrance and main hall (Stage level) were at street level with no steps, so those areas were accessible. However, there was no elevator to the upper floors, so the ping-pong rooms and upstairs karaoke/game areas were inaccessible. Restrooms on the main level included at least one accessible stall. Patrons needing assistance could sometimes be accommodated on the main floor; it was best to call ahead so staff could help plan a suitable spot.
Was photography allowed inside Brooklyn Bazaar?
Casual photography with phones was generally fine and common during shows or tours of the space. However, professional cameras (DSLRs) or video equipment were typically not permitted without prior arrangement. Guests were free to shoot video clips or selfies in the venue, but disabling flash and avoiding obstructing others was expected. If you needed press or pro photos, you had to get permission, usually through the performer’s or venue’s press contact. Always check event-specific rules (some bands have “no photo” policies during sets).
What is the dress code at Brooklyn Bazaar?
There was no strict dress code – Brooklyn Bazaar was known for an eclectic, casual crowd. Attendees typically dressed in trendy or alternative attire: graphic tees, flannels, leather jackets, jeans, boots or sneakers. Comfort was key (lots of standing/dancing), though themed nights (like costume parties or 90s nights) occasionally encouraged specific outfits. The only real rule was no excessively revealing or offensive apparel; keep it respectful. Since the floors could be sticky, a quick lint brush or nothing too fancy might be wise. In winter, expect to carry a coat (using coat check if needed).
Are there ATMs inside Brooklyn Bazaar?
Yes. There was typically an ATM located inside or just outside the main dance floor area. This was useful since some side vendors or arcade machines also took cash only. That said, the venue’s bars accepted credit/debit cards as well. Still, it was smart to have a few bills on hand in case the ATM had a line or momentarily ran out of cash. For large shows, lines for the ATM did form, so many guests pulled cash earlier in the night.
Can I buy tickets at the door for an event?
It depended on the event. For many local shows, Brooklyn Bazaar allowed door ticket sales if the event wasn’t sold out. Arriving early on show night increased your chance. However, big-name concerts or weekend headliners often sold out and did not have tickets available at the door. Box office lines opened about an hour before doors. It was safest to buy online in advance, but spontaneous visits worked for smaller acts or weeknight events.
Is Brooklyn Bazaar an indoor or outdoor venue?
Brooklyn Bazaar was entirely indoors. It occupied the interior of the historic Polonaise Terrace building. All concerts, games, and dining took place under the roof in a climate-controlled space. There were no outdoor stages or patios as part of the venue. (However, on nice days people sometimes spilled out onto the sidewalk in front or around the block to chat.) Regardless of weather, events were sheltered from rain or cold.
What safety measures (like bag checks) were in place?
For larger shows, the venue occasionally did bag or security checks. This usually just involved quickly searching bags for prohibited items (weapons, illegal substances, outside alcohol). On eventful nights they employed metal detectors at the entrance. Bringing clear or minimal bags made entry faster. Standard NYC club rules applied: no glass bottles, no hard cases, etc. In practice, security was friendly but firm, aiming to ensure everyone’s safety. If you had any medical devices or needed an exception, it helped to tell the staff at the door.
Can I reserve a private event or wedding at Brooklyn Bazaar?
While primarily known as a nightlife venue, the space could be rented for special events like weddings, corporate parties or photo shoots. Its multiple rooms (dining area, ballroom, lounge) made it flexible. Interested parties would usually contact the owners or their event manager to discuss dates and pricing. Since the building had landmark status and a unique look, it saw interest from filmmakers and photographers as well. However, these private bookings were by appointment only and handled through the venue’s management team when Brooklyn Bazaar was active.
What happened to the Polonaise Terrace building after Brooklyn Bazaar closed?
After Brooklyn Bazaar closed in late 2019, the Polonaise Terrace building was reported to be in line for redevelopment. Local news (Brooklyn Paper, Brownstoner) noted proposals to convert the old landmarked space into retail or office use. The historic interior was slated to be repurposed under new plans. If you visit the area today (2025), you might see construction activity inside. As of now, the iconic ballroom lives on in photos and memories, but the space no longer operates as an entertainment venue.
Is there an official website or social media for Brooklyn Bazaar?
When Brooklyn Bazaar was active, information was primarily posted on its own website and social accounts. However, since the venue’s closure it does not have a maintained event schedule. For historical events, fans referred to archived social media pages or press releases. The owners are active on Instagram for their other projects (like @waitherebazaar). For any news about possible reopenings or related events, following those channels or local blogs (Bedford + Bowery, BrooklynVegan) would have been the way. Always be cautious: some pages may still return, but no new Brooklyn Bazaar shows have been confirmed after 2019.
