Lavender Lake

This quaint 100-seat bar near the Gowanus Canal takes its name from a poetic moniker for the channel's murky waters. Find five rotating draft brews (like Lagunitas IPA and Reissdorf Kölsch) and a handful of cocktails, including the namesake tipple, which is made with lavender-infused vodka, iced tea and lemon. Sip your drink with small plates, like an heirloom-tomato salad and boquerón toast, or heartier dishes such as a burger or steak. The four co-owners boast design backgrounds: Look for their handcrafted furnishings in the converted horse-stable space, including the reclaimed-wood bar, silver-treated mirrors and outdoor patio.