Oulu
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Phone: (718) 233-1340
- Cross Street:
- Between Bedford Avenue and Driggs Avenue
- Directions:
- L at Bedford Ave
- Hours:
- Tue-Fri 5pm-4am, Sat 3pm-4am, Sun 3pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Oulu – by Kara Zuaro
In Short
Inside and out, this posh cocktail den (named for a city in Finland) is both stylish and sustainable. Approximately 35 panels of soil, each planted with green succulents, are screwed into the bar's facade, creating a vertical garden. Behind a glass garage door, the walls are swathed in curvaceous slats of warm-colored wood that was harvested from forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. At the bar, low-wattage bare bulbs hang overhead, and mixologists stir up such inventive cocktails as the Victorian--gin mixed with Earl Grey tea and apple juice.
Hits: Classy cocktails, friendly bartenders and gorgeous design make this a great date spot, while the roomy interior is also well-suited for a group gathering.
Misses: A truly eco-friendly bar wouldn't be quite so well-stocked, as importing booze increases its carbon footprint, but Oulu offers Hanger One and other call brands instead of relying on locally made beers, wine and liquor.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Fun FactJust 1.5 square meters of grass-like vegetation converts enough carbon dioxide into oxygen to supply a single person's yearly oxygen intake--making Oulu's green wall large enough to produce oxygen for 46 people each year.
Know Before You GoThe bar is big enough to accommodate a group, but if you want a separate space, call ahead to reserve the private room.
The ExtrasThe $9 Hot Pants--a mandarin vodka martini topped with prosecco--makes a superb after-dinner drink.
User Reviews for Oulu
04/11/2008 Posted by tjcappy69
I live the in the area and had heard a little bit about this place, but had not been (and really was not sure where it was.) Then after another drunken evening I had passed by it and realized it was right next to the San Loco (which I go to a lot!) So finally went in the other day and had a great time. Beautiful space and I did not have elbows in my side and beers spilled all over me. The bartender (i forget her name) is very cool and made me and my friend some good stiff drinks. We had a great night and i was definitely happy to actually be the first of my friends to discover something new in the neighborhood for a change. I will be back and would certainly recommend.
Pros: Beautiful inside, staff was cool, drinks
Cons: was hard to find, hidden block
01/05/2008 Posted by frednwilma
Beautiful decor, bartenders super nice and down to earth- not pretentious at all and make great drinks. Love the indie music.
Pros: great place to party and hang out
Cons: none
