About Saint Vitus Bar
Saint Vitus Bar opened its doors in 2011 as a do-it-yourself heavy‐music club in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The founders — longtime musician-bartenders George Souleidis, Arty Shepherd and David Castillo — took an old plumbing school building (built 1931) and turned it into a sleek, dark bar and venue dedicated to underground music (www.saintvitusbar.com ) (wanderlog.com ). Located at 1120 Manhattan Avenue, the bar is unmarked on the outside, identifiable only by its jet-black façade and often an inverted cross displayed in the window (metalinsider.net ). Inside, pale walls painted matte black, dim lighting, velvet booths and flickering red votive candles create a Gothic, church-like ambiance. The décor is studded with metal memorabilia – signed LPs, band posters, even a statue of King Diamond – making the bar feel like a cozy metal shrine (oakcover.com ).
With a capacity of roughly 200–250 people (metalinsider.net ), Saint Vitus Bar became known as an intimate home for heavy metal, punk, hardcore, goth and experimental music. It has been hailed as the “heavy metal mecca” and “ground zero” for the New York metal scene (metalinsider.net ), a far cry from typical New York nightlife. The owners’ mission was always to provide “a fun and uncompromising environment for the NYC underground music scene” (www.saintvitusbar.com ). Essentially a neighborhood dive bar with a full stage in the back room, Saint Vitus carved a niche as one of the few venues built specifically for metalheads in New York (metalinsider.net ) (oakcover.com ). Heavy press and word-of-mouth grew around it: even major acts would sometimes schedule surprise intimate sets there when passing through town.
Historically, Saint Vitus mattered because it offered something rare. Unlike the large mainstream venues, this was a tiny DIY spot run by fans. Over its 13-year run Saint Vitus hosted everyone from emerging locals to global touring bands (www.saintvitusbar.com ) (oakcover.com ). Metal insiders note that by favoring heavy and alternative music genres, Saint Vitus stood out in a city otherwise dominated by corporate rock promoters (metalinsider.net ) (oakcover.com ). It was often compared to legendary spaces like CBGB (for punk) or Wetlands (for jam bands) – a “home away from home” where like-minded fans could gather (metalinsider.net ) (oakcover.com ). In short, Saint Vitus Bar was a landmark of New York’s underground music culture, a gritty local hangout that also gained international reputation – until its 2024 closure, it was regularly cited as one of the best clubs in the country for metal and hard music (oakcover.com ).
Events and Programming
Saint Vitus Bar programmed an extremely active schedule of live shows. Nearly every night featured a concert or event, spanning genres like heavy metal (death, doom, thrash, black, stoner), hardcore punk, post-hardcore, goth rock, noise and experimental/industrial music. Bookings ranged from local rookies to metal legends. Over the years the stage saw under-the-radar acts like Deafheaven or Chelsea Wolfe on the rise, up-and-coming bands like Pallbearer or Astronoid, and titans like Megadeth, Carcass, Candiria, Anthrax, Kvelertak, The Dillinger Escape Plan or Clutch after a festival (all passed through in intimate shows). It even hosted non-metal acts from other alt scenes; for example the bar put on a Brooklyn debut for art-rocker Chelsea Wolfe and shows by crossover punk bands like Thursday and Against Me! (www.brooklynvegan.com ) (oakcover.com ). A surprise “Nirvana” (Grohl, Novoselic and Pat Smear) reunion set in 2023, after Nirvana’s Rock Hall induction, cemented the club’s lore (oakcover.com ).
Events weren’t limited to concerts. The bar became a hub for related underground culture: art exhibits, film screenings, and specialty dance nights. For example, the owners hosted frequent go-go or gothic dance parties (often billed under sparkly names like “Synthwave Sundays” or “F*cking Robots”) that mixed industrial/electronic music with club culture. One especially unusual offering was “Heavy Metal Yoga” – a weekly yoga class led by instructor Saskia, who famously dimmed the lights, cranked thrash and goth music, and had participants howl along to their inner darkness (greenpointers.com ). The venue even held comedy or late-night specialty performances. During the day you’d find a normal bar crowd, but by evening the stage presence turned on, transforming the space into a rock club.
Concert frequency was very high. Typical weeks saw multiple shows from Tuesday through Saturday, sometimes with matinee or Sunday sets. Promoters often leveraged Vitus’ small size for local publicity stunts – “secret” gigs by big bands, album-release shows, or one-off reunions. Many shows sold out in advance, so there was nothing unusual about multiple shows in a row on big tour stops. Ticket prices reflected the venue’s scene: generally modest. Small indie acts often sold tickets for under $20; bigger national bands were higher ($25–40+ depending on lineup). Special appearances (like surprise events) could price out around $20–50 per ticket. Overall, Saint Vitus bookings favored authenticity and community over profit, so ticket prices stayed within reach for devoted fans.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Saint Vitus shows were typically available through the venue’s own channels and affiliates (for example, listings on the official Saint Vitus website or through box-office outlets). To get tickets for popular events, fans were advised to subscribe to the official mailing list or follow the bar’s social channels – announcements often started weeks before a show with a notice of on-sale dates. Typically, there were standard tiers: general admission floor standing (most common), and sometimes limited “VIP” (usually it meant stay at the stage edge or reserve a small front booth, if offered). For very hot tickets (major touring acts or special events), organizers sometimes offered advance presales for fan club members or newsletter subscribers. If a show did not sell out, a small number of tickets might be available at the door on the night of the show; however, since the club was small, waiting until the day often risked missing out. Fans planning to attend were advised to buy tickets early – especially on weekends or when a big name was playing.
Ticket prices at Saint Vitus generally ranged from the teens to low tens of dollars. Indie or local band nights might be $10–15, mid-level metal shows $20–30, and headliner shows up to $40–50 depending on packages (these were still inexpensive by mainstream standards). Payment was expected in advance for most events. Saint Vitus did not use expensive resale sites or dynamic pricing; it kept sales straightforward. There was no physical box office window – tickets were primarily handled online – but you could often pick them up at the door (often called “will call”). All-sales were final (no refunds if a show was missed), and transfers between fans were discouraged in official channels (ticket identity rules might apply). Any door sales or will-call lines opened around showtime, though arriving early was advised if you needed to pick up or buy at the venue. Lastly, a note: Saint Vitus’ address had no street signage, so double-check any emailed or printed ticket info for the correct address and entrance instructions to avoid confusion on arrival.
Seating and Layout
The layout of Saint Vitus Bar was simple and functional, reflecting its club roots. Enter the black facade and you step into the front lounge/bar space. This main area contained the drink taps and a few high tables or leather booths along the walls. To the rear was a doorway leading to the concert room, essentially one open-auditorium space. The stage itself was in an alcove at the far end of the back room, raised only slightly above floor level and framed by old brick walls and heavy lighting trusses. Since the floor area was small, all concerts were general admission no-seating. The small round booths described by early reviewers (greenpointers.com ) (wanderlog.com ) (often referred to as “swanky” in early coverage) were mainly in that front lounge/back room transition or along the back wall, useful for sitting between sets or conversation in quieter moments.
When a show started, fans would spill past the bar into the back room, filling the standing floor in front of the stage. If arriving early, the best “seats” were the standing spots right up front: you’d be almost a speaker-length from the performers, with an unobstructed view. The drawback was a packed, sometimes sweaty crowd (mosh pits were common at metal/hardcore shows). If you preferred a bit of distance, standing on the side near the front-bar or at the rear of the stage area gave better breathing room with still decent sightlines. A few people often perched on the padded side booths along the back wall. Acoustically, sound carried well even to the back – despite the small PA, the room’s low profile made guitar and drums thump powerfully throughout the space. Lighting was typically moody – red and blue washes, strobes or lasers above the stage – so many fans simply watched from the darkened floor.
In summary: there were no fixed “good seats” beyond the front standing area. The warmth and atmosphere of a show often meant crowding the front; however, if you needed a breather you could slip back to the bar room. One concert review noted that the bar area (often at the side/back) was a useful spot to “take a break” away from the stage action (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Special VIP tickets (when offered) usually just allowed early entry or a small standing area right by the stage rather than any actual chairs. Sightlines in the crowded floor were excellent if you made it to front; hidden by only bass amps and fellow headbangers. If anything, one thing to be cautious of: sometimes performers would extend parts of their set into the crowd (stage-diving or audience-participation), so stepping aside near the side walls between songs was wise if you wanted uninterrupted visibility.
Getting There and Parking
Saint Vitus Bar was located at 1120 Manhattan Avenue in the Greenpoint section of Brooklyn. It sits at the corner of Manhattan and Freeman/Clay Streets, just north of the Greenpoint Avenue train station. By public transit, the easiest approach is via the G train: exit at the Greenpoint Avenue stop (on Manhattan near India St), then walk north up Manhattan Ave for a few blocks until you reach Freeman/Streets. Several north-south bus routes also run along Manhattan Avenue: notably the B43 (which goes from Manhattan’s Upper West Side through Greenpoint) and the B62/Q32 (from Queens through Greenpoint). For example, a Manhattanite could take the M or Q train to Queens and transfer to the B62 down Manhattan Ave, or take the B43 from Williamsburg. If coming from Manhattan, one can also take the L train to Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg, then catch a bus north or use a rideshare from there (which costs about $10–15). In short, trips from most parts of the city average 30–45 minutes.
Drivers should note that street parking in Greenpoint can be challenging. The neighborhood predominantly has one- or two-hour metered spots along Manhattan and side streets, plus alternating permit zones after hours. On weekdays meters are enforced typically 8am–6pm or later, but many spaces become free after that or on Sundays. For a concert night, arriving early (by 6pm) gives a better chance to snag a meter near the venue (though weekends can fill up fast). There were very few dedicated parking lots; the nearest garages (metered or private) are a few blocks away near Greenpoint Ave or under the BQE. Failing street parking, fans often parked in the side residential blocks (e.g. on Freeman, India or Norman Streets) if a spot was open—just be mindful of permit signs. As many fans note, “Street parking can be a bit rough” around Saint Vitus (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). If unsure, using a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) may be easiest. Drop-offs can be done right at the corner of Manhattan & Freeman (the venue entrance) or on Manhattan Ave a block to the south (near Clay St), where vehicles can pull over briefly.
Inside the Venue
As you enter Saint Vitus Bar, expect an unassuming door and vestibule. The interior was roughly divided into two main spaces: the front bar/lounge and the back concert room. The brand’s mission was to stay true to DIY rock ethos, so entry was straightforward: show ID and tickets at the door. (Most nights had 21+ age restriction due to the bar license – if a show was “all ages,” promoters would explicitly note that in advance.) There was typically a modest bouncer or staff person checking IDs. Large bags or professional camera equipment were usually not permitted during concerts (most acts preferred fans use phones). Once inside, ambient lighting was low: dim chandeliers, candlelight, and stage lights casting colors. The bar countertop was straight ahead or to the left, serving beers, basic mixed drinks and a few spirits. A couple of flat-screen TVs often looped heavy metal videos or promo; on a concert night they were usually turned off or covered, focusing attention on the stage speakers.
At the bar you could buy drinks (Saint Vitus Lager and other taps on draft, plus standard bottle and can beers, according to users (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )). The reviewer noted a decent beer selection including PBR, Brooklyn Lager and even imported tecate or Heineken (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Bartenders were often part of the music scene, friendly and speedy at peak hours. We observed that drink prices were typical Brooklyn bar rates (usually $6–9 per beer or so, based on crowd feedback). There was usually no food menu – at best pretzels or chips. Outside food was not allowed inside, so nearly everyone eats before or after shows. The aroma inside tended to be stale beer and sweat, which is normal for any sold-out crowd situation. Merely taking a sip of water in-between mosh dances was a common practice among attendees.
Behind the bar area was a narrow room with restrooms (one labeled “Gentlemen” and one as “Restroom” – an odd setup in which many later reviewers suggested making both gender-neutral to avoid confusion (wanderlog.com )). Upstairs (if any – Saint Vitus was mostly single-floor, although the building was three stories tall), there were no formal balconies or extra floors open to patrons. No coat check was provided; attendees typically kept coats at their feet or hung on hooks by the wall. Wi-Fi was not advertised, and cellphone coverage could be spotty in the thick basement – but in 2020s most people had data, so there was rarely a need for venue Wi-Fi. Some visitors noted upbeat house music playing before live sets, and if no event was happening the venue functioned just as a dark bar with metal posters on the walls.
A small merchandise table was often set up stage-right during concerts. Fans could buy band T-shirts, vinyl or demo CDs from the performing bands there, as well as official Saint Vitus Bar shirts or beer hats. The venue itself sold some merch or posters on special occasions. If you needed change or cash out, there was usually an ATM somewhere near the restrooms or just outside the door (though machines sometimes charged fees). Finally, many attendees reported the overall vibe was very inclusive and communal: by show’s end people of all backgrounds had formed temporary friends over shared headbanging or stage-diving experiences. If you were new to heavy shows, staff and patrons alike were generally welcoming, as the bar prided itself on creating a “nearly free, safe space” for metalheads (metalinsider.net ) (greenpointers.com ).
Nearby Amenities
The Saint Vitus block in Greenpoint is primarily industrial/residential, so immediate food options right next door are sparse. However, just a short walk or one block east/west will bring you to some neighborhood favorites. For pre-show dining, consider Greenpoint Avenue shops (one avenue north) or Manhattan Avenue in either direction. **Karczma** (on Manhattan & Box) is a popular choice – a cozy Polish restaurant serving pierogi, schnitzel and the like. Pizza lovers can head a couple of blocks south to **Paulie Gee’s** (an acclaimed pizza spot) or **L’Industrie Pizzeria** nearby. For burgers or elevated diner fare, **Kettle Black Grill** on Freeman Street is known for hearty classics. If you like Asian cuisine, the strip on Greenpoint Ave has sushi and ramen places; **Uncle Jon’s BBQ** (burgers and southern-style) is one block east on Freeman. There’s also a Thai lunch spot on Manhattan at Norman (open late on weekends). Most of these restaurants accept credit cards and are walkable in 5–10 minutes.
For drinks before or after a show, Greenpoint Avenue has a few pubs and breweries one or two blocks away. **Greenpoint Beer & Ale** (near Manhattan & Freeman, literally under the elevated tracks) is a microbrewery that serves its own craft beers – it’s a lively spot, although it closes around 11pm. **Burp Castle** and **Broken Land** taprooms (on Nassau Avenue) offer more relaxed cocktails and communal seating, a 10-minute walk north. On the other hand, right on Manhattan Ave you’ll find late-night bars like **Trans-Pecos** (dive bar with punk shows) or **Cateye** (speakeasy-style cocktails). If the FAQ hours allow, many of these will let you pop in after a Saint Vitus show for a nightcap, though public transit may call if it’s after midnight. Some concertgoers even split off to nearby Williamsburg (L train, 2 stops away) where the nightlife is denser.
Nearby hotels are limited, since Greenpoint is mostly residential. The notable local option is **The Box House Hotel** at Manhattan & Quay St (just one block south), which offers small suites and is popular with music-tour visitors. Other travelers often stay in adjacent neighborhoods: you could take a quick G train ride down to Williamsburg (lots of boutique hotels like Wythe Hotel or Pod Brooklyn) or stay in Long Island City (Manhattan Queens border via G or 7 train). Downtown Brooklyn or Manhattan Manhattan (via L or G train) have many more chain hotels. In short, if planning to stay late, book as early as possible around Saint Vitus gigs, as walkable lodging is not abundant. Most regulars stayed in Brooklyn or Manhattan and took subways home after shows.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors make Saint Vitus Bar stand out in New York’s crowded club scene. Architecturally, its conversion of an old plumbing school into a music club is unique. Inside, remnants of that history remain: a heavy steel crane (gantry) from the pipe shop was left hanging over the stage, blending old-world industrial grit with concert lighting. The entire bar felt like stepping into a mini–church of metal. Instead of gleaming modern decor, everything was dark and slightly rough – black walls, red candles in chipped church holders, vintage band murals. This design, along with vinyl records and occult symbols on display, gave the place a genuine cultish vibe that fans often praised (oakcover.com ) (wanderlog.com ).
Culturally, Saint Vitus captured moments that defined a generation of local music. It fostered community: friends met there after school or work, scene photographers cut their teeth under its strobes, touring bands tested new material on its narrow stage. Stories abound: Wedding proposals or engagements in the crowd, first concerts for teens, final performances by veteran musicians in a "full circle" homecoming. Many patrons described the bar as more than just a venue – it was a "neighborhood meeting place" conceived by and for metal fans (wanderlog.com ) (metalinsider.net ). Over time the club’s name became shorthand for New York metal; a badge of honor for bands to say they played Saint Vitus. As one outlet put it, “the best tour packages always had an obligatory stop at Saint Vitus” (oakcover.com ).
Another unique draw was the variety showed under the Saint Vitus name. While metal was core, the bar welcomed other scenes in its own way. For example, they threw “Synth Parties” curated by the crew, blending industrial beats and cybergoth visuals with high-energy dance crowds. They hosted film screenings courtesy of the metal community. Even comedy nights or book release events could be found there. This openness to diverse underground acts – as long as they had a dark or heavy edge – kept the venue fresh. Local tradition like the aforementioned metal yoga session made headlines and stayed true to the bar’s irreverent spirit (greenpointers.com ).
Finally, the venue’s personal touch set it above ordinary bars. Founders and staff were always on site like bartenders or stage crew, deeply involved in every show. Security was generally friendly and often knew the bands by name. These relationships meant that concerts didn’t feel like faceless corporate productions; they were clubhouse experiences. Fans could often linger after shows to chat with musicians in the bar, grab band members for photos, or buy a beer. One reviewer even recalls having her wedding photos taken in front of the stage backdrop, with the owners happily letting the couple pose with their heavy metal attire. In essence, what made Saint Vitus special was that it fully embodied the DIY underground: locally owned, community built, artist-run, and unafraid to be unapologetically hardcore.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and ID: Most Saint Vitus events were 21+ due to liquor licensing, even if music might appeal to teens. Always carry a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport). Some shows (especially earlier on Sunday or special all-age nights) might allow younger entry, but this will be clearly noted. When in doubt, contact the event promoter or check the official listing. Note: Unlike some other clubs, Saint Vitus usually did not sell alcohol during matinee or family-friendly shows, so that may affect ticket age restrictions.What to Wear: There is no strict dress code beyond what’s comfortable. The house style leans toward black band T-shirts, jeans, boots, leather or denim, but you will see everything from skinny jeans to kilts. Bring layers – space heaters are sparse when the crowd is swarming. Closed-toe shoes are recommended (if a mosh pit starts, sandals are risky). Consider ear protection (earplugs) if you’re sensitive to loud music. But mostly just dress casually – it’s a bar, not a nightclub – just make sure bags aren’t huge.What to Bring: Only essential items: tickets (paper or electronic), ID, and some cash or card for merch/drinks. Every concert has a brief security/bag check; large backpacks or suitcases are not allowed. Photographic cameras with detachable lenses often were disallowed unless authorized by the band. Smartphones, of course, are used – most people film short clips or take photos. Some shows may use strobe lights or fog machines; sensitive people should take that into account. If you want to remember the night, bring a fully charged phone or a small camera (with flash off) – you’ll likely be near the band for good shots).Arrival Time: Doors often opened an hour before showtime (for example, 7pm doors for an 8pm show), but this could vary. For popular bands, people often queued outside early. Check the exact door time on your ticket or event listing. If you arrive very late, the door might be crowded or even locked (especially if a show sold out ahead). If attending a multi-band bill, arriving early ensures you don’t miss opening acts. For general admission, getting there early also secures your spot at the front (if that’s your goal). However, Saint Vitus Bar was small enough that people often trickled in throughout the night.During the Show: The main floor is standing-room only. Respect the mosh etiquette: pits form near the front and center, but at a moment’s notice always help fallen crowd-goers or move out of traveling crowd waves if needed. Security typically keeps an eye out, but the metal community prided itself on watching out for one another. You can leave the floor anytime to retreat to the back lounge area, get a drink, and then re-enter. Stage diving happens at many hardcore shows, so be prepared (or stand to the sides if you’re watching). Do check out the small merch stand by the stage: even locals often blow their remaining change on band T-shirts or CDs as souvenirs.Accessibility: The venue was not particularly wheelchair-accessible. There was a short flight of stairs up to the small stage area and narrow walkways. The building is old, and the front door might be steep or uneven. If you have any mobility concerns, it’s advisable to contact the bar ahead of time ([email protected] ) or arrive early to get assistance. There were gender-nonspecific restrooms so that’s a plus in terms of inclusivity. Otherwise, staff were generally willing to accommodate special needs if informed.Photography and Recording: Video and audio recording policies varied by show. Saint Vitus itself never allowed open professional recording equipment (no photographers without permission). Most promoters at Saint Vitus likewise requested “no flash photography” during sets (for band safety and respect). Fans usually used phones discreetly. If you plan to record the show, know that some bands encouraged it and others did not. If in doubt, the polite approach is to ask the nearest security or show runner before the doors open – they will usually clarify the rules for that night.Crowd & Conduct: As Brooklyn’s metal scene home, the crowd here was passionate but generally friendly. Fistbumps and nods of respect were common, especially during breakdowns. If you’re new, watch the crowd’s rhythm and follow along. Fighting or harassment was not tolerated; U.S. law still applies (even in moshing). Illicit activities like drug use or open container on the street could result in ejection. The venue enforcement was straightforward but not aggressive: obey instructions, buy a drink or two, and you’ll have a great time. The one common “mistake” visitors sometimes make is dressing too politely – though fancy clothing isn’t banned, the vibe is much more casual. Leave the suit jackets and high heels at home.Emergencies and Facilities: There was a small posted map of exits once inside. In an emergency (fire alarm, etc.), follow the nearest exit sign – the building is old, and exits can be a bit confusing. Normally, the front door and a side gate both serve as exits for the back room. Cell service works decently enough nowadays, so 911 or ride-share calls are possible from within (though Wi-Fi might not cover the concert room). Saint Vitus did not have its own first-aid station; minor cuts/bruises from concerting are common but big injuries would require EMT. Fortunately, crowds tended to man-help quickly, and CPR-trained Polish neighbor Arty was known to help partiers as needed!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Saint Vitus Bar?
Saint Vitus Bar was a relatively small venue, built in a former industrial building. Seating was very limited and mostly standing-room only. It holds roughly 200–250 people at full capacity (
metalinsider.net ). This made for very intimate shows where you could stand close to the stage.
How do I buy tickets for a show at Saint Vitus Bar?
Tickets for Saint Vitus shows were sold through the venue’s official channels. Typically you could purchase them via the Saint Vitus website or approved ticket vendors linked by the promoter. For big shows, tickets usually went on sale online well in advance. If a show wasn’t sold out in advance, a small number might be available at the door. It was always advised to buy early (often via email list or newsletter signup) since the club filled up quickly.
Where can I park near Saint Vitus Bar, and how much does it cost?
Parking in Greenpoint, especially right on Manhattan Avenue, is very limited. Most on-street spots are metered or time-limited. On weekday evenings many meters lock after 6pm (or become free on Sundays), but spots still fill up. There is no dedicated Saint Vitus lot, so your best options are to hunt for a residential space a few blocks away (watch for alternate-side rules) or use a nearby pay lot/garage. Many fans find it easier to take the G train or a rideshare instead of driving, since street parking “can be a bit rough” near the bar (
www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
What are the nearest subway or bus lines to get to Saint Vitus Bar?
The closest subway is the G train. Ride the G to the Greenpoint Avenue station (at Manhattan Avenue). From there, Saint Vitus Bar is just 2–3 blocks north along Manhattan Ave. Many New Yorkers also take the MTA buses that run on Manhattan Avenue: lines B43 and B62/Q32 stop within a short walk. If coming from Manhattan, you can take the L train to Bedford Ave and transfer to a northbound bus or cross the Williamsburg Bridge. Rideshares can be dropped off right at Manhattan Ave and Freeman St under the elevated tracks.
Are there any seating or VIP sections at Saint Vitus Bar?
Primarily, no. Saint Vitus was mostly a general-admission, standing-room venue. Early on there were a few round booths along the wall, but by the time it gained prominence they were rarely open to guests. The floor in front of the stage is where everyone stands. Occasionally events offered a “VIP table” or front-row passes, but these were simple perks (like letting you stand at the very front) and not a separate seated area. In general, if you got in early you could stake out a spot near the stage; otherwise you’d join the packed standing crowd (
www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Can I bring a bag or camera into Saint Vitus Bar?
Bag policy was fairly strict. Large backpacks or professional camera equipment were generally not permitted at concerts. Small purses or drawstring bags were allowed and usually checked briefly by security at the door. Many bands at Saint Vitus asked fans not to use DSLR cameras during the performance, so only point-and-shoot cameras or phones were common. In short: bring only essentials (ID, wallet, phone). If you must bring a camera, check the band’s policy or ask onsite, but expect that only casual cellphone photos or short videos would be acceptable.
What is Saint Vitus Bar’s age policy?
Since Saint Vitus is a bar as well as a concert space, most ticketed events were 21+ due to liquor laws. If a show was advertised as all-ages (which was rare), it would be explicitly stated. Even on “all-ages night,” the bar would typically not serve alcohol until 7pm or later. In practice, think of it like any Brooklyn bar: if you’re under 21, you’ll likely only be admitted if tickets explicitly say so. Always carry a valid photo ID showing age.
What kind of music and acts can I expect at Saint Vitus Bar?
Saint Vitus specialized in heavy and alternative genres. Expect metal of all stripes (death, doom, black, thrash, stoner, etc.), hardcore punk, post-punk/goth acts, industrial/electronic, and some crossover blues-rock or avant-garde artists occasionally. The programming was curated for the underground crowd, so you’d see anything from local hardcore shows to international touring metal bands. Over the years the club has hosted everyone from rising stars (e.g. Deafheaven, White Hills) to legends (Anthrax, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, Nirvana’s Grohl/Dave Grohl projects, etc.) (
www.brooklynvegan.com ) (
oakcover.com ). It’s not a venue for mainstream pop or top-40; it lives up to its heavy reputation.
Does Saint Vitus Bar serve food? What drinks do they have?
Saint Vitus is primarily a bar, so don’t expect a full kitchen or food menu (except maybe occasional chips or pretzels). Visitors typically have a meal before coming. The drink menu was solid for a small bar: they offered draft and bottled beers (often including a custom “Saint Vitus Lager”), a selection of spirits and liquors, plus some wine. Covering the cash bar is easy: think a few bucks for beer, $6–10 for cocktails. As a tip, the bar stock sometimes included unique items like absinthe or meat-based cocktails during themed nights, reflective of the bar’s edgy style. They definitely had PBR, Tecate, and some local ales on tap (
www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
What are Saint Vitus Bar’s days and hours of operation?
Saint Vitus Bar did not have regular open hours like a restaurant; it operated mainly when there was a show or event. Typically, the ticket would list “doors at 7pm, band at 8pm,” for example. On non-show nights the bar might still be open late, but generally opening coincided with event schedules (especially Friday and Saturday nights). The venue calendar was basically the calendar of concerts – check in advance for event listing. Note: As of August 2024 the Greenpoint location has closed, so official hours at that address no longer apply – any future reopening would announce new hours.
Was Saint Vitus Bar wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, Saint Vitus Bar in Greenpoint was an older building and not ADA-compliant. There were steps into the shop front and a small stair up to the stage area. If you require wheelchair access or have other mobility needs, there were no elevators. Visitors with accessibility concerns were advised to call ahead to the venue (if it moves to a new site in future) or arrive early for assistance. Keep in mind that the interior aisles could be tight, and seating was very limited.
Can I re-enter Saint Vitus Bar if I leave between acts?
Re-entry policies depended on the show. Generally, Saint Vitus did not stamp hands or offer easy backstage passes, so leaving and returning could be risky. If you step out with minor items (e.g. to smoke or get fresh air), staff/customers would usually let you back in if the show wasn’t sold out or if security knew you. But for major shows filled to capacity, sometimes venues allow no re-entry after getting in. It’s safest to assume you’ll stay inside from arrival until show end, unless clearly stated otherwise by door staff.
What should I do if I lose something inside Saint Vitus?
If you lost a personal item (phone, wallet, etc.) inside the venue, immediately report it to the nearest staff or security (they often patrolled during songs). The bar usually had a small lost-and-found area (sometimes just a ledge) behind the bar. If you notice it after the show, turn around and ask the bartenders or check behind the bar if it’s still open. For any valuable item, it’s wise to take inventory before leaving and treat the environment as you would any crowded club. Unfortunately, being a small venue, chances depend on honesty of patrons and quick staff retrieval.
Is there an age restriction for standing on the dance floor?
The standing area is open to anyone with a valid ticket and ID matching age policy. There was no additional restriction beyond the general age limit of the show. So if the event is 21+ (for example), only those 21 or older may stand in the crowd. For all-ages shows, even minors (with an adult, typically) can join the floor. Parents or guardians often take responsibility if under 18. Security usually did not segregate the dance pit by age, so treat everyone above the bar’s age limit equally on the floor.
