Though the Sazerac, absinthe, and Old World mixology are most commonly associated with New Orleans, one New York City bar hinges its identity on “America’s first cocktail,” the often misunderstood spirit, and the revival of long-forgotten liqueurs, botanicals, and bitters.
Stepping off Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and into Maison Premiere, guests will feel as though they have been transported to New Orleans’ French Quarter. Since 2011, this acclaimed establishment has stood as a beacon of old-world elegance and craftsmanship.
The bar’s ambiance, inspired by the grand hotel lobbies and restaurants of New York, as well as the rich traditions of oyster bars and absinthe cafés around Paris and New Orleans, is the perfect backdrop for enjoying exceptional drinks. With an intimate and ambient imbibing space (undecipherable between café or bar); a meticulously crafted replica of the absinthe fountain from the Old Absinthe House at its center; and a verdant secret patio, Maison Premiere is a destination with an aura all its own.
The cocktail menu is an homage to classic and innovative mixology. Most come to sample the Old King Cole Martini, a drink that has earned a reputation as one of the – if not THE – best martinis in New York City.
As with the drinks, ingredients for tableside stirring arrive on an antique silver platter. The potentate begins with orange bitters – pleasantly unusual, as they have largely fallen out of favor – and Bordiga Extra Dry Vermouth. Old Raj is the gin of choice: distilled in Scotland, it boasts a yellowy haze due to saffron infusions and is over-proofed to 55%.
“So, you get a nice stiff drink…over-proofed gin makes the best martinis,” says Maison Premiere’s Service Director, Ben Crispin.
Classic Southern flavors are reimagined with a twist within the Maison Julep section. The Barber of Seville, a blend of manzanilla, rye whiskey, Cappelletti aperitivo, lemon, and orgeat offers a delightful complexity, while the Louisville Jockey Club combines Four Roses Bourbon, spiced banana, and lemon for a smooth and warming finish.
Absinthe, the infamous spirit with a storied past, is perhaps more celebrated at Maison Premiere than anywhere else in New York. With over 20 varieties, guests can sip absinthe like a pro, thanks to the traditional “drip” service, where chilled water is used to dissolve a sugar cube placed on an antique silver slotted spoon into a glass of “the Green Fairy.”
Or, explore absinthe-focused offerings like the Fleurdelisier – a floral and citrusy mix of La Clandestine, Parfait Amour, orange, and Quina – and the Maison Absinthe Colada, a tropical blend of Lucid, Rhum JM, Crème de menthe, pineapple, and coconut that’s perfect for summer evenings.
While most come for the reasonably-priced East and West Coast oysters on the half shell, the rest of the food menu is worthy of attention. The Fluke Crudo sourced from Rhode Island and served with yuzu, shiso, and mustard is a fresh and zesty starter while the Oysters Rockefeller is a nod to its New Orleans origins at Antoine’s in 1889, with watercress, absinthe, and spinach.
One can never go wrong with the seafood tower, piled high with the freshest fish and shellfish available, or the decadent Lobster Roll drizzled with brown butter, set atop fluffy brioche, and served with potato chips.
Whether a cocktail connoisseur, a lover of refined dining and imbibing, or just seeking a deviation from the usual neighborhood bar, Maison Premiere promises an unforgettable experience for all.
Top Takeaways
Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Address: 298 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Cuisine: Seafood & cocktail bar
Price Point: $$
Takes Reservations: Yes–Resy
The vibe: Stepping into Maison Premiere feels like entering a locals-favorite spot in the heart of New Orleans; guests enjoy absinthe-centric cocktails, martinis, and an abundance of seafood from vintage glassware and china.
Our favorite thing on the menu: Those in the mood for just a little something should opt for one of the many varietals of oysters on the half-shell and Maison Caviar Service. Order Fluke Crudo, Oysters Rockefeller, or the often-overlooked Gem & Chicories Salad. As for drinks, do not miss the Old King Cole Martini, which is stirred tableside.
The attire: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Lunch: Monday to Friday, 12 PM to 5 PM, Saturday & Sunday from 3 PM – 5 PM; Dinner: Daily, 5 PM – 10:30 PM; Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 11 AM to 3 PM; The bar is open daily until 1 AM.
