Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
About
Canal Bar
Welcome to Canal Bar, a quirky gem nestled in the heart of Gowanus, Brooklyn. Located at 270 3rd Ave, this Chicago-themed dive bar has become a local favorite thanks to its vibrant atmosphere and friendly clientele. With its long bar and cozy tables towards the back, Canal Bar offers an inviting environment whether you're popping in for a quick drink or settling in for the long haul to watch your favorite sports team.
The selection of beers is impressive, as highlighted by one enthusiastic customer who stumbled upon this delightful spot. The beer menu—tucked away on the wall—is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered, featuring everything from classic lagers to unique craft brews. The energetic vibe, peppered with sports on TV, quirky decorations (keep an eye out for the shark!), and friendly conversations amongst patrons create a welcoming feel that makes everyone feel at home.
What sets Canal Bar apart is more than just its drinks. Customers rave about the communal spirit of the place, where you're likely to make fast friends whether you're a die-hard Bears fan lamenting over your team’s latest game or simply seeking a casual conversation over drinks. Dive bars often hold a special charm, and Canal Bar is no exception. As one reviewer aptly put it, "It’s one of the best dive bars in the neighborhood and probably in Brooklyn."
Notes of nostalgia and camaraderie echo through Canal Bar, heightened by unique offerings such as complimentary hot dogs during game time—a delightful touch that speaks volumes about the bar’s character. And don’t worry if you’re not a beer aficionado; this bar accommodates all drink preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Even patrons with lighter drink choices don't feel out of place here.
For those who appreciate a dog-friendly environment, and good Bloody Marys, Canal Bar takes the cake. The blend of an energetic atmosphere, delicious drinks at affordable prices, and a hint of humorous quirkiness makes it a must-visit destination. If you're in the area, make sure to swing by Canal Bar; you might just find your new favorite watering hole.
Book a table
Make A Reservation
“ Popped in as the bus we had been waiting for hadn't turned up, and it started raining, so thought why not get a drink. Small little place with long bar and a couple of tables towards the back. Fairly busy at the bar, so we opted to sit up the back. The server obviously realised we had no idea what we wanted and pointed out the beer menu on the wall behind us, which we had totally missed. Nice selection of beers. Sport on the TV, server, and clientele chatting, which made for a good atmosphere. Two restrooms also located at the back. Some quirky decorations, too, look out for the shark ”
“ why is this place so great it has no right to be chicago themed bar in gowanus that I'm so glad I stumbled into. the bartender was wonderful, the clientele was friendly and eccentric, they had a 9 Modelo shot combo, really just a perfect bar. will be returning! ”
“ One of the best dive bars in the neighborhood, honestly probably in Brooklyn. Drinks are cheap, the space is great, they have all the major sports games on, a nice backyard area, and a great place to watch Bears games and be miserable (if that’s your thing) ”
“ The best bar in Brooklyn for your weekly trauma therapy centered around the Chicago Bears Fandom. You will def make a friend and what bar will gives you complimentary hotdogs at halftime??? Just don't ask for ketchup for your hotdogs as that's for kids, and not a Chicago thing ok - grow up lol anyways they put up with my not so drinking habits of ordering hard ciders and lightweight drinks so they get a great rating for a local dive bar for games and crying into your beer ”
“ 5 stars for any place that is Dog friendly and makes good bloody Mary’s ”
“ I'm here often when the Bears or the Cubs are playing. I'm neither a Bears nor a Cubs fan, and yet I find the experience rewarding. I think that on game days there's hot dogs (included with your purchase of alcohol ? ?) ”
“ Great dive bar! Friendly staff and patrons! Definitely a fun vibe! ”
“ Just absolutely my new favorite bar it has everything you could ask for comfy small feeling popcorn and great assortment of beer. The bartenders where great attentive and very open to chatting and keeping everything upbeat. I have been looking for a bar like this to replace my old favorite bar which closed. In closing the prices where good not pricey at all and just overall just a great bar and my new home ”