Broadway Stages takes pride in supporting the vibrant communities that host our productions. Our Filming Location Spotlight series highlights these local shops, restaurants, landmarks, and venues where productions that call Broadway Stages home have filmed “on location.”  We encourage our readers to explore and support these unique spots and join the film and television industry in helping sustain our neighborhoods' economies and culture! In this edition, we take you to The Drift, Brooklyn's cozy hub for creative vibes.

In the heart of Brooklyn's Williamsburg neighborhood lies The Drift, a bar that effortlessly blends cozy charm with a lively atmosphere. In 2024, it welcomed the fan-favorite series "Law and Order: Organized Crime," with the season finale that marked the 13th episode of season 4 titled Stabler’s Lament. The Drift's visually compelling mix of vintage charm and modern energy makes it a perfect place to portray an authentic Brooklyn vibe in a cozy yet dynamic atmosphere. But its thoughtfully curated menu, inviting setting, and community vibe make it a local favorite for seasoned Brooklynites, first-time visitors, and film crews!

An Atmosphere That Feels Like Home

Stepping into The Drift is like entering a world where time slows down. The space is adorned with warm lighting, vintage accents, and walls showcasing artwork from local creatives. The bar's centerpiece is its rustic wooden counter, which invites patrons to pull up a stool and stay a while.

The seating area is a mix of comfy booths and intimate tables, making it an ideal spot for a casual date night or catching up with friends. A curated playlist of indie hits and timeless classics hums in the background, adding to the relaxed vibe. As one Google reviewer puts it, "The Drift feels like the living room of your coolest friend. It's so welcoming and chill but still has this buzz of energy."

The outdoor patio offers an additional charm, especially during warmer months. Twinkling string lights and greenery create a magical ambiance, making it a favorite for those who prefer to sip their cocktails under the stars.

A Menu That Hits All the Right Notes

The Drift's cocktail menu is a celebration of bold flavors and creative flair. At the heart of their offerings is a lineup of signature cocktails that draws inspiration from classic recipes while adding unique twists. A standout is the “Golden Hour,” a refreshing mix of mezcal, passion fruit, and lime that captures the essence of a breezy summer evening. For those with a sweet tooth, the “Driftwood Delight” is a must-try, combining bourbon, maple syrup, and smoked orange for a drink that feels like a warm embrace on a cold night. Beer lovers won't be disappointed either. The Drift features a rotating selection of craft beers, ranging from crisp IPAs to rich stouts.

From JJ's food menu, you can pair your drink with one of their small bites, like the truffle popcorn or crispy chickpeas, both of which are perfect for sharing. "The menu is small but mighty," one Yelp reviewer raves. "Everything tastes fresh, and the cocktails are next-level good."

When to Drift In

The Drift is open seven days a week, ensuring there's always time to enjoy its offerings. The bar operates from 4 p.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday, while weekend hours extend until 2 a.m. Sunday hours start earlier, with doors opening at 2 p.m. Whether you're looking for an after-work drink or a late-night hangout, The Drift's flexible schedule has you covered.

Discover More on Social Media

The Drift's Instagram and Facebook pages are brimming with updates, from new menu additions to upcoming events. These platforms also showcase vibrant photos of their drinks and dishes, giving you a sneak peek of what to expect. Be sure to follow @thedriftbrooklyn on Instagram and Facebook to stay in the loop and get inspired for your next visit.

Why Locals Love The Drift

What sets The Drift apart is its ability to make everyone feel welcome. Whether you're a solo visitor or part of a larger group, the staff's friendly demeanor and attention to detail ensure a memorable experience. As one loyal customer shares, "The Drift has a way of making you feel like you belong. The staff is amazing, the drinks are incredible, and the vibe is unbeatable."

The Drift in Williamsburg is more than just a bar; it's a place to connect, unwind, and savor the best of Brooklyn's hospitality. With its enticing menu, warm setting, and vibrant community, The Drift captures the heart and soul of this iconic borough. At Broadway Stages, we're proud to support local gems like The Drift, fostering strong relationships with businesses that help bring our projects to life. By collaborating with places like The Drift, we can create a positive ripple effect, ensuring that we all thrive together as part of Brooklyn's dynamic community. Next time you're in the neighborhood, stop by The Drift and experience it for yourself! And when you do, tell them Broadway Stages sent you!

One of New York’s largest and most trusted full-service studio production companies, offering comprehensive services for film, television, live streaming, commercials, live performances, music videos, and more. With over 40 years of experience, we’ve become a cornerstone of New York’s thriving creative industry.

With more than 60 soundstages spanning across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, Broadway Stages offers over 4 million square feet of state-of-the-art production space, including soundstages, support space, distinctive filming locations, parking, and in-house services for lighting, power, and grip rentals. We provide tailored solutions for productions of all sizes, delivering the resources and expertise needed to meet your creative and technical needs.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information and links to put you in touch with industry-focused job posting sites; general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.