"When you’re looking to drink in Gowanus, Lavender Lake is our favorite outdoor option for a big group. But if you want something a little less crowded in the neighborhood, try Givers and Takers anytime from Thursday to Sunday after 4pm. It’s just a long, plain-looking space with a bar and some small tables, and there’s a little porch in back with three big round tables. It’s like the tiny backyard that you don’t have, and it’s perfect for when you want to drink a glass of wine and talk about the weather, what you’ve been reading, or just birds in general." - hannah albertine