"I visited Liz’s Book Bar in Carroll Gardens, a cozy, author-run spot named for the owner’s grandmother that pairs a large L-shaped bar and window seating with a curated selection of contemporary literary fiction. The space combines a cafe and bar — during the day I saw people sipping Black Acres Roastery cold brew and iced teas alongside pastries from Bien Cuit (sandwiches from Bee’s Knees were slated to arrive soon) while a kids’ corner kept little ones occupied; come 5 p.m. laptops close and the menu shifts to beers from Harlem Brewing and Threes plus organic wines from Italy and France. The emphasis on lingering and community felt intentional: people can disappear into a book unbothered or strike up conversation, which the first-time owner says has helped her connect with neighbors." - Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner