"In Bushwick, 53 AD is a cocktail bar and tasting room from the people behind Empirical Spirits, a distillery whose offerings include perfume-like spirits with names like “The Plum, I Suppose” and “Symphony 6.” For you Roman Empire enthusiasts, 53 AD was the year that Emperor Claudius adopted Nero—considered by historians to be a benchmark first step towards the downfall of Rome.
" - will hartman
My husband and I came here for one of their events. The event program was very informative, complete with tastes of their spirits. After the program, we had some cocktails at the bar. Our bartender was friendly and thoughtful. We had the: Oaxacan freehand; cilantro mango margarita; a dark and stormy with Smith and Cross; the Jimmy Vespah and the Charlene McGee+Vermouth. The drinks were great and really highlighted their spirits.
Jack McCambridge
Google
Finally found a place for truly interesting and innovative cocktails in Bushwick. Nice to not have to go to Manhattan for it. Unique in the area. Bartenders are savants. Music’s good too. Had a great DJ last Thursday.
Karsten Kollmeier
Google
Nice new bar with a unique cocktail selection, tastings of Empirical distillery products (I love their new Cilantro spirit!), but also beer or wine, if your prefer. Friendly staff, fancy atmosphere, with live DJs on weekends. Ideal for enjoying a couple of drinks before going clubbing in the neighborhood, for a nightcap afterwards, or just spending a relaxed evening here with friends.
Scott Denman
Google
Came for some cocktails, was not disappointed. Very knowledgeable staff, and the best place to get a taste of Empirical spirits. They have DJs on weekends too!
Claire Moyle
Google
The team is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate and took their time to carefully walk me through each spirit and cocktail. The vibe is inclusive, chill and fun. A great place whether you are an industry expert or just want a fantastic evening out. I recommend the Always Daring. It's refreshing, complex and perfectly balanced bonus it comes with a chocolate covered black olive garnish. I will definitely be coming back with friends.
Annelie Roding
Google
Truly LOVED the atmosphere, the drinks and the artwork. If you are looking for an interesting place to show off to your friends that feels undiscovered, this is the spot. You can thank me later.
Douglas Baldasare
Google
Best cocktail experience in years. The flavor combinations surprised and delighted beyond. Felt like the kind of place that would be the cocktail welcome bar at Noma itself. The team and atmosphere were elevated and inspiring.
"53AD enlivened my libido and quenched my spirit." - Anon
Catriona Duncan
Google
Incredible and innovative cocktails! The flavor combinations are creative, eye-opening and delicious. The bartender encouraged me to try the cocktail with a chocolate olive (the Always Daring) and it was insanely good.
Juan M.
Yelp
When here for an event as they let us sample their limited produced varietal. The presenter was very knowledgeable and I walked away with a better understanding and appreciation for the spirit. Their bar is in their tasting room with a bar.
After the presentation we made it to the bar and the bartender was very helpful offering twisted of known classics as well as making us try new combinations. No food as there is no working kitchen. My favorite drink was the Cilantro Mango Margarita, I keep thinking back to it.