BYOB’n in Brooklyn: Palmyra Restaurant

BYOB is a broke-ass’s best friend. It seemed like you could find a BYOB place anywhere in the city, especially with new restaurants waiting to get their liquor license, and luring in new clientele with the promise of unlimited booze. But the city has recently cracked down, and now new restaurants are forced to wait months and months at a time with no BYOB options. But there are those few gems that have always been BYOB and offer cheap and delicious food to boot, a hard combination to come by. Palmyra in Carroll Gardens is one of those rarities.

Formally called Olive Vine Cafe, they’ve quickly becoming a favorite in the neighborhood. They serve fresh, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare, both in large filling quantities, and have tons of options for vegetarians. And the best part is, there’s no corking fee, so when you roll up with enough wine to start your own cellar, they don’t even bat an eye. They just bring you all the wine glasses you’ll need to accommodate your boozy party.

The menu has slightly changed since the new ownership, but they’ve kept the same laid back vibe complete with mosaic tiled tables, stucco walls and a spacious backyard. And since their portions are so hearty, it’s great for sharing.  I recommend any of the platters that come with freshly baked pita, hummus, salad, rice and of course, babaganouj. They also serve their own unique take on traditional pizza. Using unconventional toppings like ground lamb and pomegranate molasses, it’s certainly a fresh alternative to those reheated slices we all settle for. Despite it’s unassuming storefront, Palmyra is a welcome oasis for those of us who are short on cash but still want to enjoy food that actually tastes good. It’s a great place for groups and especially cheap during lunch hour for their half-off specials. As you can see from the picture I took above, your nights there have great potential.

Palmyra Restaurant
316 Court St
Between Degraw & Sackett St [Carroll Gardens]