Trust the Buffalo, Go to the Bell House

I end up writing about a bunch of events at the Bell House, because they always have great stuff like taxidermy contests and oil spill benefit concerts. But in all of these posts, I’ve failed to talk about how much ass The Bell House kicks. It’s tucked away in a weird industrial corner of Brooklyn, at the crossroads of yuppie, working class, Italian and hipster neighborhoods. Inside, it’s warm and cozy with giant arm chairs to curl up in while drinking beer.

The best part of the Bell House is its size, it’s big enough that you don’t feel claustrophobic when it’s busy, but it never feels deserted and depressing. Then there’s the event stage in the back room, which is one of the best laid out venues in the city. Instead of following the usual “We’re in NY, let’s make everything long and narrow,” the Bell House’s back room is horizontal and deep. No matter where you’re standing, you can see the entire stage. When bands are playing, even if you’re short, you’ll get a view of the entire band not just one of the guitarists. I saw a show there last night, and there were no assholes in the entire crowd. Both rooms are a bit rustic, but pretty, with exposed ceiling beams and giant gold chandeliers. And the giant bison portrait above the sign and the stage always make me smile.

photo from timeoutnewyork.com

The Bell House
149 7th Street, between Second and Third Avenues [Gowanus, Brooklyn]