About sovereign smokehouse
Sovereign Smokehouse is a hybrid live-music venue and barbecue restaurant tucked into a repurposed warehouse in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The address (173 Morgan Ave) and setting date back to a 1920s industrial building (streeteasy.com ). It originally opened in 2014 as **Arrogant Swine**, a Carolina-style whole-hog BBQ joint. From the start it paired Southern barbecue dining with live entertainment (its grand opening even featured burlesque and jazz performances (www.ediblebrooklyn.com )). Over time the space evolved into “Sovereign,” then rebranded as Sovereign Smokehouse, emphasizing both smoked-barbecue cooking and club-style nightlife. Today it is known for a *lively atmosphere* and eclectic mix of music – described in venue listings as “a vibrant nightclub… with an eclectic music selection” alongside smoked ribs and cocktails (www.mapquest.com ). Signature features include an industrial-chic interior with a partial glass roof: “a see-through ceiling, letting visitors bask in the harshest of weathers while enjoying their meal against great music” (www.ticketfairy.com ). This gives the venue an open-air concert feel even indoors. The Smokehouse quickly became a local hot spot in Brooklyn’s music scene, blending dining and dancing in one spot and drawing crowds from the surrounding Bushwick/East Williamsburg creative communities.
Events and Programming
Sovereign Smokehouse hosts a wide variety of events. Many nights feature live concerts or DJ dance parties, ranging from punk/metal shows to electronic dance music. Heavy underground bands and rock acts regularly play here – for example, October 2022 saw a triple-bill of hardcore/metal acts like Ringworm, Eyehategod and Torturous Inception (www.setlist.fm ). At the same time, promoters hold club-oriented events: drum-&-bass nights (Driven AM’s anniversary parties, featuring DJs like Dieselboy, Calyx & TeeBee, DB and others) and EDM shows are common (ra.co ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue even branches into novelty shows; past posters include stand-up comedy nights, wrestling-themed gigs (“Wrestling Night”), go-go dancer shows and parties infused with live music (www.ticketfairy.com ). Regular series can recur (for instance, the NYC drum-&-bass series “Driven AM” marks milestones here with big lineups (www.ticketfairy.com )). In any given month you might find a punk rock show one night, an all-ages indie band bill another, and an electronic DJ set on a third – plus occasional sports-watching, karaoke or themed evenings. Ticket prices vary by event, but many shows are affordable (for example, a 2021 drum’n’bass club night was $15 advance, $20 at the door (ra.co )). Overall, Sovereign Smokehouse has carved out a niche for eclectic, underground-friendly programming that caters to music fans, barbecue lovers and party crowds alike.
Tickets and Booking
Most events at Sovereign Smokehouse use advance ticketing. Tickets typically go on sale when the event is announced and must be bought through the promoter or venue’s booking channel. You will usually see tickets available online (though specific ticketing websites or box offices aren’t listed publicly). If an event doesn’t sell out, you can often purchase at the door. Keep an eye on social media or event listings for the exact on-sale date. Pricing is modest: smaller local bands might have $10–$20 tickets, while larger acts or club events can run $20–$30. (As noted above, an example drum-&-bass show charged $15 in advance and $20 at the venue (ra.co ).) There are sometimes discount or presale codes offered to mailing-list subscribers or fan clubs, but the safest strategy for popular shows is to buy early. Sovereign Smokehouse does not operate a traditional walk-up box office in the daytime; if you want tickets in person, your best bet is to arrive well before showtime and ask at the door. For general admission events, tickets are usually limited to capacity, so sold-out shows may have no further sale. The venue is 21+ for most events (see below).
Seating and Layout
The venue is essentially an open-floor concert club. There are no fixed seats for shows – standing room is the norm. You’ll find a raised stage at one end and an open dance/floor area in front. One standout design feature is the high, partly transparent ceiling (often described as a glass or see-through roof (www.ticketfairy.com )), which lets in sky views and creates an “outdoor concert” vibe. Sound and sightlines are generally good throughout the standing area, since the space is fairly compact. The best spots depend on your preference: right up front at the stage gives the closest view (though it may be crowded on big nights), while the middle of the floor can offer a balance of sound and personal space. The venue’s curated sound system delivers consistent audio even off to the sides (sesh.sx ). There are limited elevated or booth areas; however, the building also includes a separate outdoor patio space (often used during warmer weather). This patio has lounge seating and is partially covered – it even features couches and fire pits for a relaxed vibe (sovereignentertainmentbar.com ). For non-concert hours the patio and indoor spaces may be used as a bar/lounge or private event area, but during shows it usually stays open for overflow socializing. In short, expect general admission standing room only (with the option of grabbing couch seating on the adjacent patio if you need a break from crowds). The walls and high ceiling mean acoustics can be lively; as one source puts it, the venue’s spacious dance floor and curated PA make for an immersive audio experience (sesh.sx ).
Getting There and Parking
Location: The venue is at 173 Morgan Avenue in East Williamsburg (Brooklyn). Multiple sources give the same address (with zip codes ranging from 11206 to 11237) (ra.co ) (streeteasy.com ). This puts it in the industrial-turned-creative stretch of East Williamsburg near Bushwick. If you map it, you’ll see it’s just east of the intersection with Driggs Avenue, roughly a half-mile north of Broadway.
Subway: Sovereign Smokehouse is well served by the L train. The Morgan Avenue station (L) is about 0.3 miles northwest (streeteasy.com ) – a 5–6 minute walk – and Montrose Avenue station (L) is about 0.36 miles to the north (streeteasy.com ). The Grand Street station (also L) is 0.38 miles west (streeteasy.com ). So any of those L stops will get you within a short walk. (There are also J/M/Z lines at Marcy Ave a bit further south, under the Williamsburg Bridge, but the L is closest.)
Bus and Bike: Local bus routes run a few blocks away on Broadway or Manhattan Ave. Brooklyn’s Citi Bike program has docks nearby (for example on Manhattan Ave and on Morgan Ave) for cycling access.
Driving and Parking: There is no official parking lot for Sovereign Smokehouse. On-street parking is extremely limited in this part of Brooklyn and subject to city parking regulations (alternate-side rules, meter hours, etc.). If you drive, expect to circle a few blocks or use paid parking garages a few streets over (for example on Manhattan Ave). For most shows, ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft) or public transit is the easiest option. Rideshare drop-offs can usually happen on Morgan Avenue right in front. On weekends the L train also runs late, which can be a safer choice than driving – just note that cars can get heavy around 4th Avenue Bridge traffic after shows.
Inside the Venue
Entry and Security: When you arrive at the door, there will usually be an ID check and ticket check. All events at Sovereign Smokehouse are typically 21+ only, so everyone must show valid ID (ra.co ). Expect a quick search of bags or pat-down for safety. (As with most NYC live music venues, no weapons or illegal items are allowed.) Large backpacks or ticket stubs may slow entry, so it’s best to bring minimal gear.
Atmosphere: Inside, Sovereign Smokehouse has a dark, industrial-club feel. Concrete floors, exposed brick or steel, and low lighting set a late-night mood. There is a main bar along one wall serving beer, liquor, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks (the ABQ Bar/lounge in the building is known for craft cocktails) (www.mapquest.com ). The bartenders will have standard drinks and often some CBS (cocktails with BBQ themes). Expect it to get hot and loud during packed shows. Dressing is generally casual; concertgoers often wear jeans, t-shirts or streetwear. There is no enforced dress code like you’d find at an upscale nightclub – you’re there to listen to music and eat barbecue.
Food and Drink: As the name suggests, barbecue is a big draw. Sovereign Smokehouse has a full kitchen (open until about midnight on show nights (www.ticketfairy.com )) that serves Southern-style BBQ items. Home-style foods like pulled pork sandwiches, brisket sandwiches, wings and macaroni-and-cheese are on the menu (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you go early or have a late dinner break, you can order these smoked meats and sides even during a concert (they’ll bring food to you at a table area or the bar). Besides barbecue, the ABQ Bar downstairs (same address) is popular for cocktails and small bites (www.mapquest.com ). If you’re not grabbing BBQ at the venue, there are a few casual eateries nearby (see “Nearby Amenities” below) where you can eat before or after.
Restrooms and Amenities: There are basic restrooms on site (likely near the bar/foyer). They’re not large, so lines can form during breaks. There does not appear to be a staffed coat check, so in colder months bring a light jacket or be prepared to hang it on your chair if possible. The building has a one-floor layout, so getting around is straightforward; wheelchair access may be possible via the ground floor, but double-check ahead if you need specific accommodations.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Like many live concerts, on-site Wi-Fi is typically not provided, and cell signal can be spotty inside when crowded. If you need internet for ride-hailing or e-tickets, it’s safest to handle that before the big crowd arrives.
Miscellaneous: The venue generally allows phone photography for personal memories, but professional cameras and recording gear are often restricted. Smoking inside is banned (NY law), and vaping would likewise be discouraged. Check the event page for any special notes (some DJs may disallow re-entry after leaving). Aside from concerts and club nights, Sovereign Smokehouse also hosts private rentals and corporate parties – at those times it might attract a different crowd, but basic rules (21+ ID, no outside food/drink) still apply.
Nearby Amenities
Pre-show Dining and Drinks: East Williamsburg has a growing, if spread-out, dining scene. Right around the corner on Morgan Avenue, you’ll find the ABQ Bar on-site, which serves cocktails and bar snacks (www.mapquest.com ) (a convenient pre-show option). If you want more food choices, a short walk brings you to busy corridors on Manhattan and Grand. For barbecue fans, **Dinosaur Bar-B-Que** (Manhattan Ave at Broadway) is a well-known casual spot about a 10-minute walk away. For pizza, the acclaimed **L’Industrie Pizzeria** (Grand St & Havemeyer) is roughly a 5–7 minute walk. Along Manhattan Ave and Bedford Ave (a few blocks off, reachable in 10–15 minutes), you’ll find plenty of pubs, coffee shops and cocktail lounges. Servers and bartenders in those places are used to concert traffic, and many patrons enjoy a pre-show meal or beer before heading to the Smokehouse.
Daytime Cafés and Shops: If you arrive early, there are a few neighborhood spots for coffee or quick bites. A corner coffee shop or deli might be on an adjacent block (Brooklyn evolves rapidly, so new cafes may pop up). Nearby businesses include the new eateries in the waterfront Vinegar Hill and Greenpoint areas just to the north. Remember this is still a mixed-residential/industrial zone – quick serve options (coffee, pastries) are handy for a snack or early brunch if there’s a matinee or early show.
Lodging: For out-of-town visitors, there are several hotels within 1–2 miles. The iconic **Wythe Hotel** (Williamsburg waterfront) is about 1 mile south, and newer boutique and chain hotels populate North Williamsburg and Greenpoint (such as Hotel Indigo or Hilton Garden Inn on Greenpoint Ave, ~1 mile away). These neighborhoods have more tourist infrastructure. If you prefer corporate chains, a Holiday Inn or other Big Rock Point hotels can be found near the Greenpoint waterfront (again about a mile). Late-night bars and restaurants around these hotel areas can be an easy post-concert stop.
Other Venues/Parking: You might run onto other nightlife spots in the area. The building itself houses ABQ Bar and formerly a Breaking Bad–themed bar, plus "Signal" lounge (all part of the same block) (www.mapquest.com ) (www.mapquest.com ). On Broadway to the west are bars/pubs like Radegast Hall (Polish beer hall) and Mood Ring (cocktail lounge). There is limited public parking in the industrial side streets, and if you’re driving away late you may see local drivers queuing on Morgan. But most visitors find it easiest to pre-book an Uber or car service after the show rather than hunting for free parking.
What Makes This Venue Special
Sovereign Smokehouse stands out by combining serious barbecue cuisine with an all-night live-music club experience. It’s not common to find a music venue with a full kitchen serving smoked meats, and this hybrid concept quickly defined its character. Architecturally, the partially glass roof and warehouse bones give the space a raw, outdoor-against-the-sky vibe that few other East Coast clubs have (www.ticketfairy.com ). Its history as NYC’s first Carolina-style whole-hog BBQ (Arrogant Swine) adds to the lore: it was known affectionately in the neighborhood for both its pork and its parties. Locals appreciate how it brings diverse crowds together – foodies and metalheads alike – and it has fostered a sense of community. Notable moments include big anniversaries (like a 50th-anniversary show for doom-metal pioneers Pentagram (www.ticketfairy.com )) and long-running events like the Driven AM drum-&-bass nights that began elsewhere but found a home here. The friendly staff and resident DJs (who promise “concerts, live events, private events, parties, brunch, good food, great music… always available to you” (www.ticketfairy.com )) have given the venue a welcoming, anything-is-possible vibe. In short, artists and audiences love Sovereign Smokehouse because it’s equal parts gritty club and neighborhood BBQ joint – a place you can eat, drink and dance all in one night.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age Restrictions: Almost all events are 21+ only. Always carry a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) – you will be carded before entry at the door. (If an event does admit minors, it will be advertised explicitly.)What to Bring: You’ll need your ticket (printed or on a phone) and ID. Since it’s standing room, consider ear protection if you’re sensitive to loud music. Wear comfortable shoes for standing and dancing. Dress casually but expect the club to be warm, so layered clothing can help. Leave large bags or valuables at home – personal items should be kept close. Small purses or phone wallets are fine; expect to have backpacks or big bags searched or refused.Arrival Time: Doors usually open about an hour before showtime. If you want a drink or food before it gets crowded, arrive at or before opening (around 7–8 PM for an 8–9 PM concert, or by 10 PM for a late-night DJ). Busiest nights are typically Fridays and Saturdays. If you have a ticket but arrive late, you can still enter (if the main ticket scan stays open). If in doubt, arrive early to avoid lines.Line Etiquette: The entry line forms on the street. Stay in line in a neat single file (the sidewalk isn’t very wide). Wait patiently – the staff often checks tickets meticulously. There’s usually no re-entry, so once you are in you typically cannot leave and re-enter under the same ticket.Inside Behavior: General concert etiquette applies. Be mindful of crowding – it may be easier to step to the side to let others move. The venue is relatively small, so keep your possessions close to you. Tipping bartenders is customary (20%+ on drinks). The BBQ staff will take food orders at tables or move through the crowd with trays – have cash or card ready. Feel free to chat with neighbors during downtimes; it’s a friendly local crowd.Prohibited Items: No outside food or drink is allowed. Glass bottles are usually not carried on the floor (they serve beer in cans or plastic). Smoking or vaping indoors is strictly forbidden. If you plan on filming or taking photos, do it politely – some artists may request no flash photography or video, so always respect any signs or staff instructions.Accessibility: The venue is on ground level (no stairs to the main floor), which generally makes it accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. The patio area is also ground-level. Accessible restrooms may be limited in an old building, so check if you need assistance. If you have specific needs (like wheelchair seating), consider calling the venue in advance to inquire.Restrooms and Breaks: The restrooms are unisex and basic. On busy show nights, there can be a wait. If it’s extremely crowded, wait for a break between bands or sets when movement is easier. Be patient and courteous – it’s a small venue. For fresh air or a quick walk, the adjacent patio is open to customers (weather permitting).Connectivity & Payment: Cash is king for tipping and small purchases, since signal can be weak. Most bars take cards, but having $20 on you is a good backup. If ATMs are needed, the nearest bank machines are a few blocks away on major avenues (e.g. a Chase or Bank of America on Broadway).After the Show: On weekends, the L train runs at night (every few minutes), so you can catch a train 24/7. Uber/Lyft pick up on Morgan Ave (watch for traffic). If heading to Manhattan, trains are more frequent than midnight buses; otherwise, Long Island-bound buses (like the B62 or QM15) run along Bushwick Ave or Broadway. Plan ahead: late-night NYC transit can have fewer options. Also note that leaving in a big group can cause a short bottleneck at the exit, so give yourself a few extra minutes to get into the street if the show ended at a peak hour.Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume you can park nearby – that’s a big hassle. Don’t forget your ID. Don’t expect the venue to have merchandise for every act – if it’s a concert you want a T-shirt for, check if the band sells it. And don’t be surprised if menu and drink prices are slightly higher than an average bar; quality smoked BBQ and a full cocktail setup come at a premium.Special Notes: The venue’s personality is somewhat irreverent and punk-friendly. People often chat up strangers or strike up mid-set dance circles. If you’re attending a metal or hardcore show, be aware there could be moshing – pace yourself or stand at the outer edges if that’s too rough. If it’s an EDM night, expect flashing lights. In general, respect the local vibe, tip generously, and you’ll have a much more fun experience.
What is the capacity of Sovereign Smokehouse?
Sovereign Smokehouse is on the smaller side for a Brooklyn concert hall. According to venue listings, its capacity is around 250 people (sesh.sx ). The single-floor layout and standing-room format make it an intimate space. This means shows can sell out quickly, so buying tickets early is recommended.
How can I buy tickets, and are there often door sales?
Tickets are usually sold online through the event’s promoter or ticket provider. The venue itself doesn’t have a walk-up box office during the day. For most shows, you should buy tickets in advance from the listing. If an event has not sold out, any remaining tickets can usually be purchased at the door before the show starts. Door ticket prices may be slightly higher than the advance price if the promoter allows door sales. Always check the event link for details and arrive early if you plan to buy at the door.
Are children or minors allowed at events?
Nearly all events at Sovereign Smokehouse are strictly 21-and-over. The venue’s listings (and ticket platforms) will note if any show is all-ages, but by default assume events are 21+. You will be required to show ID (age 21+) at the door for entry (ra.co ). There is no separate “under 18” area, so children or minors generally are not admitted unless it's a special exception announced in advance.
What are the transportation options and parking like?
The venue’s location has excellent subway access. The L train’s Morgan Avenue station (at Morgan Ave & Manhattan Ave) is only about a 5-minute walk away, and the Montrose Avenue L stop is also within a 7-minute walk (streeteasy.com ). There are a few bus lines on nearby streets, and Citi Bike docks aren’t far either. Driving is less convenient: street parking is very limited, and most nearby on-street parking has meters or time limits. If you do drive, be prepared to find parking a few blocks away or use a paid garage. Many visitors prefer to take a taxi, rideshare (drop-off is on Morgan Ave), or the subway to avoid parking hassles.
Are there seats, or is it standing-only?
Almost all events are general admission standing-room. There are no assigned seats for music shows – you’ll stand on the main floor in front of the stage. If you want a seat, your best bet is to arrive early and snag one of the limited benches or stools if available along the walls. Otherwise, plan to stand. Some concertgoers trade off with friends so they can sit against a wall during a set. The only dedicated seating area is an outdoor patio with lounge furniture (couches) (sovereignentertainmentbar.com ), which is separate from the main stage area.
What is the dress code at Sovereign Smokehouse?
Sovereign Smokehouse has a very casual vibe. There’s no formal dress code – most people dress in jeans, T-shirts, hoodies or casual club wear. Seattle streetwear or band T-shirts are common, depending on the show. Avoid expensive formal attire which doesn’t fit the laid-back setting. Closed-toe shoes are recommended (for comfort and safety, especially in crowded shows). If you’re coming from dinner, neat casual (like a polo or simple outfit) is fine – you’ll fit right in.
Does the venue allow photography or recording?
For personal use (phone photos/videos), it’s generally tolerated, but flash photography can be distracting to artists. Most concert and club performers request no video recording, and some may post signage prohibiting cameras. If in doubt, check with the staff or the performer. Professional cameras (DSLRs, large lenses) are usually not allowed without press credentials. Recording or streaming the show is discouraged. If you’re a photographer or videographer wanting to document an event, you should contact the venue or promoter ahead of time.
Is Sovereign Smokehouse wheelchair accessible?
The venue is on a single ground floor (no steps to the main floor) which suggests basic wheelchair accessibility. The entryway may have a small step or lip, but most wheelchair users report they can manage it or get assistance. The bathrooms, however, may be cramped. There’s no official accessibility information online, so if you need guaranteed accommodations (like a wheelchair-friendly restroom or seating), it’s best to call the venue in advance. In general, one can move around the floor in a chair, but keep in mind it can get crowded.
What is the seating layout and where are the best spots?
As noted, shows are standing room only. The stage is on one end of the rectangular room, and the bar runs along a side wall. The “best” spot depends on what you want: directly in front of the center of the stage will give you a head-on view of performers, while near the soundboard (usually at the back or side) can offer the best audio mix. Some prefer standing just off to the sides or near the back to have easier access to leave or to dance without bumping the crowd. Since it’s an intimate space, even a spot 10–15 feet from the stage still feels close. There is an upstairs patio, but that’s away from the stage; for a live show, the general floor is where you’ll spend most of your time.
Are outside food or drinks allowed inside?
No. Outside food and beverages are not permitted once you’re inside the venue. You are welcome to order food from the kitchen or drinks from the bar. If you bring a sealed bottle of water or a small snack, staff will likely ask you to dispose of it. For food, your best option is to eat at the restaurant’s kitchen (the BBQ menu) or ABQ Bar before the show or during intermissions. Customers often eat on the patio outside or at nearby restaurants prior to entering. But once the show is underway, no outside items should be brought in.
When should I arrive for a concert?
If you have standing-room tickets, arriving right at doors-open time is smart. Doors usually open about an hour before the advertised showtime (e.g. 8 pm for a 9 pm band). Getting there early lets you grab a drink, find a good spot on the floor, and avoid long entry lines. If you’re purchasing tickets at the door, arriving 30–60 minutes early may be necessary to secure one (especially on busy nights). For popular DJs, shows often start late (10 pm or later), so plan to arrive accordingly. In short: arrive at or shortly after the stated door time — not right at the start of the performance.
What are the typical hours for Sovereign Smokehouse?
Sovereign Smokehouse generally opens in the late afternoon and stays open late on weekends. In practice, expect doors to open around 4:00–5:00 PM on weekdays and Sundays (since the kitchen serves dinner), and often around 3:00–4:00 PM on Fridays/Saturdays. During concerts, closing time depends on the show (Friday/Saturday events can run until 4:00 AM as noted by ticket listings (www.ticketfairy.com )). In summary: plan for early-evening opening and extend plans into late night on weekends.
Does Sovereign Smokehouse have a coat check or lockers?
There is no formal coat check advertised. Patrons usually hang coats on the backs of chairs or keep them on if there’s no seating (just remember the crowds will be dancing around them!). If you’re concerned about wet coats in winter or large bags, it may be easiest to carry only essentials. Alternatively, you could use a nearby business’s facility while waiting for doors to open, but once inside, assume you are responsible for your belongings. In short: bring minimal items and be prepared to carry or hold them during the show.
Is there an age limit for entry?
Yes. Because Sovereign Smokehouse serves alcohol and many events are late-night club shows, the standard age limit is 18+ or 21+, depending on the event. In practice, nearly all music events there have been 21 and over (ra.co ). To avoid confusion, always check the event details or contact the box office if you plan to bring anyone under 21. If it’s not explicitly all-ages, plan for 21+ and have IDs ready for every attendee.
Can I bring pets?
No. Pets and animals are not permitted. Because Sovereign Smokehouse has live entertainment and serves food and alcohol, only service animals (and only those trained to assist a person with a disability) are allowed inside, according to NYC regulations. All other animals should stay at home or in care while you enjoy the show. If you have a service animal, it should be harnessed or leashed and well-trained to remain calm in a busy environment.
Are cameras allowed?
Personal smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras are generally fine for photos or videos. However, flash photography is discouraged during concerts (and may be disallowed by the artist on stage). Professional photography equipment (big DSLR cameras, tripods, audio recorders, etc.) is usually not allowed without prior permission. Don’t expect staged photography – if a performer or staff member objects, you’ll need to comply. Basically, snap casual photos for your own use, but do not record or live-stream performances.
Is outside food or drinks permitted?
No. Once inside Sovereign Smokehouse, outside food or beverages (alcoholic or otherwise) are not allowed. The kitchen and bar want you to purchase from them. You can enjoy the barbecue food and drinks onsite, but any sandwiches, snacks, or drinks brought from outside must remain outside or be discarded. This is standard for most music venues. Plan to eat and drink before or after if you have special dietary needs or bring cash to purchase items on site.
