About TBA
TBA is an intimate electronic music bar and event space hidden in a converted Williamsburg garage (www.tbabrooklyn.com). It features a 23-foot white oak bar under 16-foot ceilings, and is equipped with a high-end Void Acoustics sound system, custom lighting and video projection mapping for a state-of-the-art clubbing experience (www.tbabrooklyn.com). The venue holds roughly 150 guests, making it one of New York’s smallest dedicated dance music clubs (www.tbabrooklyn.com). Founded in 2013 by veteran NYC nightlife promoters, TBA quickly built a reputation as a “home” for Brooklyn’s underground dance community (mixmag.net). In fact, Mixmag noted that after opening in 2013, TBA “has been a home created by every person” who contributed to its essence – even hosting Mixmag Lab parties in the same building as the office (ra.co) (mixmag.net). This blend of gritty, historic charm and cutting-edge design – not to mention a strict zero-tolerance policy on harassment (www.tbabrooklyn.com) – makes TBA a notable fixture in the local music scene. (Queuing is old-new mix: Williamsburg is known for galleries and trendy eateries (www.tripadvisor.com), and TBA fits right in as a creative hub under the Brooklyn Bridge.)
Events and Programming
TBA’s calendar is packed with electronic music nights – mostly DJ-driven parties in house, techno, disco and experimental genres. It often hosts themed events or guest-promoted parties by local collectives (for example the crews behind “Rite of Wednesdays” or “Momentum”) as well as special label or takeover nights. Lineups mix Brooklyn talents and international DJs. Big-name house and techno artists have spun here: a 2016 Mixmag LAB party featured house legend Todd Terry (mixmag.net), and recent lineups have featured vocalists and producers like Lauren Flax and Felipe Gordon (ra.co). Regular nights are mainly on weekends, with a few midweek showcases. Since the club is small, events often sell out – check online listings early. Ticket prices are generally modest: many nights have a low cover or even “no cover” fee (ra.co). Coverage by local media highlights TBA’s community focus, and promoters sometimes run early presales or guest-lists via event sites; walk-up door sales (cash or card) are typically the default. In short, expect the mix of big-name beats and Brooklyn basement vibes that built TBA’s underground reputation over its 2010s run (mixmag.net) (ra.co).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for TBA shows are usually sold through online event pages (for example as listed on concert listings like RA or Songkick) and via the venue’s own social media announcements. There is no separate box office or venue ticketing website – most events rely on mail lists or third-party sites run by promoters. Door sales (cash or card) are common if a show isn’t sold out in advance. Because TBA’s cover charges are generally low, it’s often worth checking “no cover” or early-bird deals (ra.co). The venue itself does not impose complicated tiered pricing: typically you pay one flat admission, or nothing. For high-profile closing parties, event organizers may stream tickets through URBs, but most nights simply charge at the door. If you’re planning on a popular show, the best strategy is to follow TBA’s official channels (Instagram, newsletter) for pre-sale announcements and arrive early, since capacity is limited.
Seating and Layout
TBA is essentially one open room – there are no reserved seats or tiered balconies. The bar runs along the sidewall under the high ceiling (www.tbabrooklyn.com), and the rest of the floor is general admission standing space. Because it holds only about 150 people (www.tbabrooklyn.com), every spot has a good view of the DJ booth. Best positions depend on taste: being towards the middle or front puts you near the stage and speakers for full audio immersion, while the rear by the bar gives you some breathing room and quick access to drinks. Acoustically, the Void sound system is punchy throughout the room, so even the back row feels loud. There are a few stools by the bar wall, but no formal seating sections – it’s a dancing crowd environment. In short, any area of the club feels in on the action, so “front row” and “VIP” don’t really apply here.
Getting There and Parking
TBA’s address is 395 Wythe Avenue (Williamsburg, Brooklyn), at South 6th Street beneath the Williamsburg Bridge (www.tbabrooklyn.com). It’s just two blocks south of Domino Park and a short walk from the waterfront. The nearest subway is Marcy Avenue (J/M/Z lines), about a 10-minute walk southwest (www.tripadvisor.com); you can also take the L train to Bedford/Lorimer and walk east a few blocks. In NYC terms it’s about a 5-minute ride from Lower Manhattan by taxi or ride-share (the official site promises a “5-minute taxi ride from Manhattan” (www.tbabrooklyn.com)). Bus service is limited (the B62 stops a few blocks away), and the NYC Ferry’s East River line drops off at North Williamsburg (a 5-10 min walk north of TBA).
Street parking in Williamsburg is very tight. There are a few metered spots on side streets, but these go quickly on weekend nights. Paid garages and lots exist a bit farther out – for example, ParkWhiz lists an Icon Parking garage on Bridge Street (1.7 miles away) for about $38 per day (www.parkwhiz.com). Domino Park across the street also has a large paid lot (often ~$40 on busy nights). In practice, most visitors skip driving. If you do drive, arrive very early to snag a spot, or plan a taxi/Uber drop-off at the loading zone (N 6th St). The easiest way heaven-end is public transit: subways run 24/7 (the J/M/Z run overnight) and often beat any parking hassle.
Inside the Venue
When you enter TBA, expect the feel of a dark, energetic nightclub. ID checks are routine (see age policy below). There are security staff and usually bag checks or a metal detector. Once inside, the mood is pulsing with lights and bass. The bar occupies one side of the room (you’ll find about 4 rotating taps of craft beer plus bottles, along with a full cocktail menu and small-batch spirits (www.tbabrooklyn.com)). On the menu you’ll also find square “Table 87” pizza slices (a local Brooklyn pizzeria) – thin-crust New York–style, perfect for a post-dance snack (www.tbabrooklyn.com). Credit cards are generally accepted for drinks, though it’s wise to carry a little cash for cover. There is a restroom or two tucked toward the back; since the place is cozy, during a packed show lines can form in the lobby area. Between sets or at intermission, people often freshen up at the bar or crowd around the sound booth.
Coat check is usually rack-based (staff will hang up coats at no charge, but space is limited). There is no public Wi-Fi provided (it’s a packed concrete room, so cell service may also be spotty). Most people speak to each other and use their phones sparingly – it’s as much a dance floor as a hangout. Photographer gear is not permitted without prior approval from promoters, though casual phone photos are tolerated. TBA enforces a strict “safe space” policy: any racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, harassment or non-consensual behavior will not be tolerated (www.tbabrooklyn.com). Overall it’s a friendly, music-focused crowd – expect strangers dancing side by side, with a mix of New York professionals, artists and visitors who share a love for the music.
Nearby Amenities
The Brooklyn waterfront and Williamsburg neighborhood offer many options before or after a show. Right next to TBA is the Domino Park waterfront complex, which has a brewery taproom (Domino Park Beer Co) and seasonal food vendors in summer. Within a few blocks there are many restaurants: legendary Peter Luger Steak House is only 0.2 miles east (www.tripadvisor.com), as is the comfort-food spot Pies ’n’ Thighs (fried chicken) (www.tripadvisor.com). Trendy Detroit-style pizza at Lucky (*not mentioned on TripAdvisor list but nearby*) is also in the area. A few steps away you’ll find Maison Premiere (oysters and cocktails, 0.3 miles (www.tripadvisor.com)) and Recette (French-inspired, 0.5 miles). Many bars and cafes line nearby streets – for example the Wythe Ave corridor at North 6th has cafés, while Bedford Ave has speakeasy-style lounges.
For lodging, the local boutique is the Wythe Hotel at 80 Wythe Avenue (just 0.4 miles north) (www.wythehotel.com). It’s a historic-chic converted factory building popular with out-of-towners. Other hotel options are limited in Williamsburg itself, but Manhattan hotels are a short L-train or cab ride away (e.g. downtown or Lower East Side). If you have an extra hour, a walk across the Williamsburg Bridge is a scenic way to reach the Lower East Side from TBA after a show.
What Makes This Venue Special
What truly sets TBA apart is its combination of raw authenticity and modern club tech. The old auto-garage architecture gives it a gritty, open feel – you can still see exposed brick and high ceilings – while the sound and lighting rigs are as modern as any nightclub (www.tbabrooklyn.com). The venue was founded by veterans of New York’s bar and underground scene, and over 12 years it has hosted “countless underground parties” that cemented its place in the creative fabric of Brooklyn (ra.co) (mixmag.net). During its history, TBA shared its building with Mixmag’s New York office and threw Mixmag LAB takeover parties (legendary DJs like Todd Terry have played there) (mixmag.net) (ra.co). This industry pedigree and focus on music quality earned it a reputation as one of NYC’s most “intimate venues” (mixmag.net). That sense of family makes fans and artists both love it.
Another special aspect is community impact: in gentrifying Brooklyn, TBA became a rare true-blue club that still feels underground. It drew a diverse crowd – hipsters, professionals, international visitors – all united by music. The club’s “safe space” values also fostered inclusivity, so many concertgoers considered it a second home. Now that TBA is scheduled to close its doors in March 2025 after 12 years (ra.co), its legacy is only magnified. Many local residents and artists credit TBA with giving them a creative outlet and keeping New York’s dance culture vibrant. In short, TBA’s unique past (garage-to-nightclub story) and cultural significance make it much more than just “another bar” – it’s been a landmark for Brooklyn nightlife.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: As an older converted building, TBA may not be fully wheelchair-accessible. There are steps at the entrance and narrow spaces, so call ahead if you have special needs or check with the club managers. The venue has a small stairway and no elevator, so mobility-impaired visitors should plan accordingly (some customers with wheelchairs have been able to attend, but it’s not guaranteed). Arrival times: Doors often open around 9 or 10 PM and events run late (past 2 AM). Shows sometimes start late if earlier DJs run overtime, so arriving shortly after doors open is wise for big nights. Also, early arrival helps secure a spot and avoid long lines outside (especially on weekends). Dress code: The vibe is usually casual. Most people dress like New Yorkers on a night out – neat streetwear or club attire. There is generally no formal dress code, but no one appears in gym clothes or sports jerseys either. Comfortable shoes are a good idea if you plan to dance. ID/age: TBA is 21+ by default – you’ll need a valid ID (even 18+ events enforce ID checks).* Always bring ID. Bags & cameras: Bags may be checked at security, and TBA’s policy is a standard nightclub style check (large backpacks or cameras may be refused). Small purses or camera phones are okay. Professional photo/recording equipment is not allowed without prior permission from event promoters. Photography: Casual photos with phones are common, but be aware that the club’s focus is on being in the moment. Some nights (especially media-covered events) may post photographer shots online. Food & drink: Outside food or drinks are not permitted by NYC law (the club offers pizza and bar service). Bar prices are moderate for Manhattan; gratuities are appreciated but not mandatory. Crowd ettiqette: The club has a posted safe-space rule (www.tbabrooklyn.com) – no harassment of any kind. The culture is friendly, but staff will intervene if someone is disorderly or bothers others. Connectivity: Save your battery – cell signal can be weak inside. There’s no reliable Wi-Fi. It’s a good night to be social and dance rather than on your phone. Other tips: Check weather if you’ll walk or wait outside (the outdoor area is uncovered). Coat checks are usually free and cashiered off the main hangout, but space is tight – consider only bringing essentials. Finally, always look at TBA’s online social media before you go for any last-minute updates or changes to the schedule.