About Our Wicked Lady
Our Wicked Lady (often called OWL) was a lively bar-and-music venue in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn, at 153 Morgan Ave (corner of Meserole Street) . Housed in a reclaimed 1910s warehouse, OWL opened in July 2015 and quickly became known as one of the best places in Brooklyn to catch a show . Partners Zach Glass and Keith Hamilton (former Brooklyn Bowl bartenders) led the transformation into a 210-person-capacity venue . The industrial-chic space combined a main bar room with an open ceiling and rustic brickwork, and – most notably – a large rooftop terrace (about 1,600 sq. ft.) above . This rooftop featured a vaulted clear roof and heaters so it could host events rain or shine . OWL also included artist rehearsal studios and workspace on-site, emphasizing its community-driven, creative vibe . It became a hub for local art and indie music in Brooklyn – in fact, Gothamist praised it as “one of the best places in Brooklyn to catch a show” . (After a decade of operation, Our Wicked Lady held its final shows and closed on July 21, 2025 , marking the end of an era in Bushwick’s nightlife.)
Events and Programming
OWL staged events almost nightly. Typical programming included live band concerts, DJ sets, and themed dance parties. Genres ranged from indie rock and punk to electronic and hip-hop, reflecting the venue’s reputation as a launchpad for emerging artists. Co-founder Zach Glass notes the venue’s focus on local indie talent, and indeed bands like Native Sun, Gustaf, and others often appeared on OWL’s stage . The bar also hosted regular “Night OWL Karaoke” nights and community events like markets. Specials sets by well-known acts occasionally drew crowds – for example, Bedford+Bowery reported that the summer rooftop series featured international DJs and live performers (from acid-jazz legends like Roy Ayers to dance acts like KiNK) alongside happy-hour movie screenings under the stars .
Rooftop Movies: In warmer months OWL ran a free “Movie Monday” series on the rooftop. Classic films (from *The Breakfast Club* to *Dirty Dancing*) played at sundown. These screenings were free to attend, with early-bird happy hour specials ($4 drafts, $5 wells, $7 glasses of wine) and pop-up food vendors (e.g. Strange Flavor) on the roof .Live Shows and DJs: Weekends often featured back-to-back live music or DJ events. OWL’s “Friday Night Live” and “Sundays on the Roof” series brought in touring electronic/house DJs (SIT, Move D, KiNK, etc.) as well as local DJ acts. On weekdays it was more common to see emerging bands and openers for Brooklyn audiences. Concerts were typically 21+ events, with shows inside or up on the terrace.Karaoke & Dance Parties: The venue’s karaoke nights and theme dance parties had a cult following. These fun events (often free or low-cover) gave patrons a chance to perform themselves. OWL became known as a friendly, all-inclusive space where local creatives could socialize and celebrate together.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets to Our Wicked Lady events were generally sold online and through the venue’s event calendar. OWL listed upcoming shows on its website (and partnerships like Dice.fm) rather than maintaining a public box office. For popular shows, tickets often went on sale weeks in advance – many events sold out quickly in the city’s hot live-music market. Cover charges varied by event: small local band shows might run \$5–\$10, mid-level touring acts \$15–\$20, and special events (large DJs, festivals) could be higher. Some rooftop movies and charity shows were free or donation-based. In all cases, it was safest to buy tickets right when they were announced.
If you wait until night of show, door tickets were sometimes available at the bar (especially for lower-profile events), but there was no guaranteed “will-call” box office; early arrival was best for popular nights. The venue’s reservation system (via OpenTable) primarily handled larger parties – in practice, most visitors simply bought general-admission tickets through the links provided. Prices for drinks and food are affordable: for example, signature cocktails ran around \$10–\$12 and simple bar snacks like fries or mozzarella sticks cost \$3–\$7 . Tip: check both the official OWL website and local event listings for ticket info, and be aware that big shows may require a card “hold” or small deposit for parties larger than six .
Seating and Layout
Our Wicked Lady was largely a general-admission venue. The main downstairs bar area is an open loft-like room with a stage at one end, exposed ceiling beams, string lights and a few high tables along the walls. Most people stand around the stage or hang near the U-shaped bar, but a handful of bar stools and small tables are available for seating. The sound quality is very good for the space (OWL installed a professional PA and monitors), so even in standing-room the music comes through clearly – one reviewer noted its “great sound” system during its debut . There was a small VIP table section near the rear but no reserved sectional seating.
The rooftop occupies the entire upper level. It’s mostly open-air (with transparent panels overhead in winter to keep out weather ). The roof has communal picnic tables and benches where diners can sit, and plenty of standing room around the built-in bar. During shows, many people gather at the roof’s edge or around the DJ setup. Best viewing spots depend on the vibe: the front of the stage/main floor is the noisiest and most energetic, while the back or roof often offers a more relaxed view of the performance (plus city skyline views). The venue floor plan is intimate – even full capacity (210) feels cozy. There were no obstructed-view seats to avoid, but note that on a crowded night it can be tight near the bar. During rain or winter months, shows moved indoors; the rooftop’s fixed canopy meant only the sides were open, and heaters kept it comfortable .
Getting There and Parking
Location: Our Wicked Lady sat at 153 Morgan Avenue in East Williamsburg (Brooklyn), essentially on the Bushwick/East Williamsburg boundary . Enter from Morgan Ave (the corner of Morgan & Meserole). It’s a few blocks north of the Jefferson/Flushing Ave corridor and just east of the North 16th Street area.
Subway: The L train is the closest subway. Take the L (Canarsie Line) to either the Morgan Ave station (walking about 5 minutes north along Morgan Ave) or the Montrose Ave station (about 8 minutes east). From either station, head northeast along Morgan Ave to reach the venue . (The G train also stops a bit farther west at Lorimer St, but the L is more direct.)Bus: The B54 bus runs north-south on Morgan Ave and passes very close by. You can take the B54 (Downtown Brooklyn–Ridgewood via Myrtle Ave) to Morgan Ave & Meserole. Other nearby buses include the B60 on Flushing Ave or routes on nearby Knickerbocker Ave to connect from other parts of Brooklyn.Driving & Parking: Street parking in East Williamsburg is limited. There were usually some free curbside spots on Morgan, Wilson, or nearby side streets, but be sure to check parking signs (alternate-side street cleaning rules apply). For guaranteed parking, several pay lots/garages are a short walk away in Williamsburg. For example, parking garages on Grand or Lorimer Street (about two blocks west) have competitive rates and are typically open late . (In 2023 prices, rates were around \$12–15 for a few hours; ParkWhiz lists a lot at 456 Grand St just 0.1 mi away .)Rideshare/Taxi: A convenient drop-off point is right out front on Morgan Ave. There’s usually space on the curb near the entrance. Early and late nights saw plenty of cabs and Ubers in the area; the main drag (Flushing Ave just south) is easy for drivers to navigate.Walking/Bicycles: The neighborhood is mostly flat and easy to navigate. Bike racks were available near the entrance. (The venue encouraged courtyard bike parking through the front gate.) Note that on concert nights nearby sidewalks get busy, so stay aware while walking.
Inside the Venue
Stepping inside OWL, expect a casual, artsy bar vibe. The decor mixed industrial elements (oskinned brick walls, Edison bulbs, graffiti art) with cozy touches like lounge chairs on the roof. Staff were known to be friendly and music-savvy. The atmosphere changes between daytime bar hours (laid-back local crowd) and peak showtime (packed and energetic). Security will check IDs for age-restricted events. Generally the dress code was very informal – festival chic or “hipster-cool” attire was common but not required.
Food & Drink: OWL had a full bar serving craft and classic cocktails, draft/local beers, wine and seltzers. The menu of bar snacks was small but satisfying. For instance, typical offerings included fries for around \$3 and mozzarella sticks for around \$7 . Signature cocktails (themed drinks like “The Blue One” or “The Red One”) ran about \$12 each . A few bottled spirits and mixers were available for parties. Alcohol was affordable, and happy-hour deals (especially on free-movie nights) made beer and well drinks just \$4–\$5 . OWL did not serve full lunches or dinners – if hungry, it was smart to grab a pre-show bite nearby or sample the food vendors when they appeared on the roof.
Special Features: The standout feature is the heated retractable rooftop with views of the Manhattan skyline (visible from the ridge). The roof had built-in infrared heaters and blankets so it stayed comfortable in winter. Patio heaters and ceiling fans kept it pleasant in any season . When open for events, speakers and stage lights were set up on the roof just like the main room, making it essentially a second concert area. Restrooms were located on the main floor (basic men’s and women’s rooms). There was no coat check – patrons usually left jackets on chairs or handled their own coats. Mobile phone service worked fine, but there was no public Wi-Fi (cell reception was reliable in the industrial building, despite thick walls). A small merch table often operated during shows, selling OWL-branded shirts, hats and posters (with many items selling out quickly online).
Overall, inside OWL felt both gritty and welcoming – a true Brooklyn indie hangout. Expect lots of DIY charm: neon signs, local art posters, and an upcycled-chic aesthetic. On a busy show night, grab a drink and stand near the center bar for a good mix of socializing and watching the performance. If you prefer a break from the crowd, the rooftop offered a slightly calmer atmosphere to chat, dance, or just enjoy the skyline breeze.
Nearby Amenities
Pre-show Dining and Drinks: The immediate area has a handful of popular restaurants and bars within walking distance. A block south on Morgan Ave you’ll find cozy spots like the space-themed cocktail bar Harriet’s Alter Ego , or the casual Latin/Mexican eatery Poke & Bao . A few minutes’ walk west towards Lorimer Street leads to a strip of bars and restaurants (e.g. Mark’s Pizza and Hurley’s , a dive bar), as well as the well-known Old Pal for cocktails. Smorgasburg (Brooklyn’s famed outdoor food market) runs Saturdays on nearby East River State Park (just 0.5 mile southwest) – great for sampling diverse foods before a show in summer. A late-night pizza slice or taco stand can often be found on Flushing Ave just south of the venue.
Hotels: If you’re staying overnight, the nearest hotels are about 1–2 miles away. The Box House Hotel in Bushwick is a hipboutique option (~1 mile north), and the Wythe or William Vale hotels in Williamsburg are reachable by a short cab ride. (Public transit also runs 24/7 in this area – the L train runs all night, so getting back to Manhattan or Queens is easy.) Taxis and rideshares are readily available for late shows. The neighborhood itself is quiet after-hours aside from the venue, so some guests prefer staying in Manhattan or closer to the tunnels to ensure a fast return trip.
When to Arrive: Doors for events typically opened 30–60 minutes before showtime. For an 8–9pm show, arriving by 7:30pm is wise to avoid lines. Weekend nights can have lines out front, so budget extra time if you need to wait – there’s often a security line. The bar itself opens earlier (around 5pm on most nights) if you want to kill time with a drink. After heavy rain in the afternoon, expect the roof to close off the sides, so show up early if you want a front-row rooftop seat!
What Makes This Venue Special
Our Wicked Lady earned a special place in Brooklyn’s scene for several reasons. First, its warehouse architecture gave it an authentic, “Brooklyn loft” vibe. The open ceilings and exposed brick felt raw and lived-in, unlike a polished club. But it also had modern comforts: a fully winterized rooftop and quality sound/lighting rigs that made bands shine. Second, OWL’s community-minded spirit set it apart. From the start, the founders emphasized supporting local artists. They rented space to musician studios, hosted free events, and even launched a Winter Band Competition to spotlight emerging bands. People often described the crowd as inclusive and fun-loving, drawn by bartender Keith Hamilton’s promise of a nightly “party where creatives could hang out” .
Another unique factor was OWL’s versatility . It could transform from a laid-back gay bar atmosphere to a full-blown punk rock pit to a sunny brunch cafe (they held occasional Sunday brunches). This flexibility kept the calendar fresh. Its scenic rooftop was also rare – few Brooklyn venues offer heated outdoor dancing with skyline views, making panoramas part of the experience. Part of the lore was even Mac DeMarco’s one-off hot-dog pop-up, hinting at OWL’s ties with Brooklyn music celebrities .
Over its ten years, OWL became woven into local tradition. Fans recall Thursday-night karaoke, DJ “dance-model” contests, and secret shows that turned up big names unexpectedly. The site was a stepping stone too – many indie bands passed through OWL’s stage on their way to bigger gigs. In fact, co-owner Zach Glass said it was “one of the great privileges” to run OWL and serve the community . Its lasting circles of friends and memories underscored why so many mourned its closing. Although now closed, Our Wicked Lady is remembered for its scrappy ingenuity and for bringing people together under the Brooklyn sky with music and merriment .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main floor is wheelchair-accessible (no steps at the entrance). However, the rooftop is reached by stairs only. If you need accommodations, call ahead – the staff can often rearrange seating or provide assistance on the ground level venue. What to Bring: Bring a valid photo ID – most evening events were 18+ or 21+ (check your ticket). On chilly nights, dress in layers: even with heaters, the rooftop can be cold when the doors are closed. Earplugs might be handy for loud shows. Small bags or purses are fine (there’s no coat check), but large backpacks may be discouraged for security. Some nights had water stations, but you might want to buy bottled water at the bar for convenience. Age and Dress Code: There was no formal dress requirement – casual attire is perfect. Many patrons wore T-shirts, jeans, sneakers, and fun lights or hats. Some theme nights (like punk shows) see folks dress up or paint faces, but it’s all for fun. Children under 18 were rarely present; most events were 18+ (especially on weekdays) and 21+ on weekends/or certain shows. Beer bracelets were checked, so even if the room looks family-friendly, be sure of the event’s age policy when buying tickets. Photography: Guests often took photos with phones, and OWL had a playful photo wall. Hardcore camera crews (flip-cams or DSLRs) were generally asked to share event rights. For safety, flash photography during live music might be restricted. If in doubt, just enjoy the show – cell pictures after are fine, though bright flashes were discouraged out of respect for performers. Arrival Time: Concerts usually started around 8–9pm. Music acts rarely finished before midnight due to nightlife culture. If you want to avoid lines, consider arriving 30–45 minutes before showtime. Getting there early also lets you pick a good spot and grab a drink before everyone else. Late arrivals often have to wait at the door until a suitable break between acts. Coat and Valuables: As mentioned, there was no coat check. During cold weather, thanks to OWL’s closure of the roof sides and heaters, people often left jackets on seats or by their tables without issue. Just be mindful of personal items on a crowded dance floor. Wallets and phones pockets are safe; pickpockets were not a known problem there. Payment Methods: OWL accepted credit/debit cards, so you didn’t need to bring a lot of cash besides tipping. Drinks and food runs put a tab on your card at the end. There was usually a bar tab minimum for card only if very early, but after shows began it was no problem. Lost and Found: In the rare event you left something behind (like a jacket or glasses), call the venue the next day. Staff often set aside lost items behind the bar. They were helpful about reuniting people with forgotten items.
FAQ
What kind of venue is Our Wicked Lady and what is its capacity?
Our Wicked Lady was a bar and live music venue (with an attached rooftop) in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It was housed in a renovated industrial warehouse and held about 210 people . The space was known for its open layout and rooftop terrace, making it unique among local clubs.
Where exactly is Our Wicked Lady (address and subway)?
Our Wicked Lady was located at 153 Morgan Avenue, Brooklyn 11237 (the corner of Morgan Ave and Meserole St) . The nearest subway is the L train: take it to Morgan Ave station (walk ~5 minutes) or Montrose Ave station (walk ~8 minutes) on Morgan Ave . Both stops put you a short walk from the venue. The G train at Lorimer St is a bit farther away (about a 10–12 minute walk).
What are the parking options near Our Wicked Lady?
Street parking in East Williamsburg is limited, but you can sometimes find spots on Morgan, Wilson, or Franklin Streets (watch for city parking rules). For guaranteed parking, nearby pay lots/garages are available – for example, a garage a few blocks west on Grand St offers hourly rates around \$10–\$15 . ParkWhiz lists several nearby lots (the closest being 456 Grand St, roughly a 2-minute walk, at \$12.99/hr) . Paid parking is recommended on busy nights.
What are the best seats or spots for viewing a show?
OWL was mostly general admission (standing-room) inside. By the stage on the main floor is the most energetic area and great for seeing bands up-close. Stalling near the bar in the middle gives good sound, while back tables or the rooftop benches give a more relaxed view. If you prefer a bird’s-eye view, the rooftop level has a clear sight over heads. In short: the “best seat” depends on your preference – up front for high energy, or on the roof/back for a broader perspective.
How do I get tickets and what do they usually cost?
Tickets were typically sold through OWL’s official channels (their website/events page) or via authorized promoters (no Ticketmaster gimmicks). Most shows ranged from about \$10 to \$20, though exact prices varied by act. Special DJ events or headliners could be \$25–30. Many weekly events had covers on the lower end, and some special nights (like the rooftop movie series) were free or “pay what you want.” Fans were advised to buy tickets early, as popular shows often sold out.
Are tickets available at the door or only in advance?
OWL did not have a traditional box office, so most tickets were sold in advance online. If a show wasn’t sold out, you could usually buy tickets at the door (cash or card) on the night of the event. However, for big shows it was risky – arriving early was recommended. Doors generally opened 30–60 minutes before showtime. Walk-in viewers often waited in line until it was their turn to buy.
Is there a coat check or lockers at the venue?
No – Our Wicked Lady did not have a coat check or lockers. Patrons kept their coats close (often draped over chairs) during shows. In cool weather, the indoor space was heated enough that guests usually just layered up and held onto any outerwear. Keep belongings with you in the crowd.
Are we allowed to bring outside food, cameras, or other items into the venue?
Outside food and drink were not allowed (NY law requires all alcohol from the bar). Cameras: basic phone photography was fine and common, but professional cameras or video equipment should be cleared with staff. There was no strict ban on photos, but flashes and big tripods were discouraged during shows. Apart from that, OWL was relatively low-security – small bags and strollers could enter without issue.
What are the age restrictions and dress code?
Almost all shows at OWL were 18+ or 21+ events (check your ticket). The on-site bar required ID for alcohol, so under-16s rarely attended. There was no formal dress code: casual and creative outfits were welcome. In practice, showgoers typically dressed hip and comfortable. If you see a special themed night (like punk or cosplay), you’re free to dress up, but plain casual clothes are always OK.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The ground floor of OWL was accessible (no steps at the main entrance), and the restrooms were on the flat level as well. However, the rooftop is only reached by a staircase, so that level was not wheelchair-friendly. Guests needing full accessibility could enjoy shows from the main floor. (If in doubt, you could call the venue in advance – staff generally accommodated patrons with limited mobility.)
Are credit cards and cell phones accepted/usable at Our Wicked Lady?
Yes, OWL took credit/debit cards for drinks and food, so carrying cash wasn’t strictly necessary (but it’s always handy for tipping). Phone signal inside was reliable on major carriers, so you could use apps and texts. No public Wi-Fi was provided, so any online ordering had to use cellular data. There was a small sign limiting Bluetooth photo printers – staff asked people to send prints via email or flash drives instead.
What are the restroom facilities like?
There were two restrooms (separate men’s and women’s) on the main floor, each with a single sink and stall or two. The facilities were clean and unfussy. Expect typical crowd lines during set breaks – plan accordingly. (Note: no restrooms were on the roof level, so use the main floor ones before heading upstairs.)
Where can I buy merchandise or souvenirs?
OWL sold T-shirts, hoodies and the like, often marketed via their website. A small merch table would appear during some shows, but stock was limited and items often sold out. (Some fans placed online orders in advance.) If you’re looking to pick something up, ask at the bar or check OWL’s official merch page early. They also sold branded stickers and posters at times.
Is Our Wicked Lady currently open for business?
No. In May 2025 the owners announced that rising costs forced them to close. The final night of operation was July 21, 2025 . Since then the venue has been permanently closed. (Visitors hoping to catch a show now should look to other local venues; OWL’s legacy lives on in Brooklyn’s music history.)
