Bar

Maison Premiere

Maison Premiere is a Belle Époque–inspired absinthe bar and oyster saloon located at 298 Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Since opening in 2011, it has earned acclaim for its immersive design, refined hospitality, and unwavering dedication to cocktail and raw-bar excellence. Guests enter through a discreet storefront into an evocative space anchored by a horseshoe-shaped green-marble bar, modeled after the absinthe fountain at New Orleans’ Olde Absinthe House. Ceiling fans turn slowly above cast-iron fixtures, gas lamps cast a warm glow, and staff in bow ties and waistcoats set the tone for a richly atmospheric experience that bridges old-world charm with modern grace. The bar features one of the most extensive absinthe programs in the United States, complete with ritual-style service and rare selections. Cocktails lean toward the classic and the absinthe-forward, including standout drinks like the Hurricane and the Old King Cole Martini, often served tableside with theatrical flair. The raw bar is central to the experience, offering over 30 oyster varieties from both coasts, accompanied by crudo, shrimp cocktail, lobster claws, and other seafood-focused small plates. Every element is carefully sourced and presented with elegance. Service is attentive and informed, with staff equally versed in oyster provenance and cocktail history. The ambiance is transportive yet approachable, ideal for solo visitors at the bar or couples enjoying the hidden garden patio during warmer months. Maison Premiere has garnered numerous accolades, including the 2016 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program and repeated inclusion on both the World’s 50 Best Bars and North America’s 50 Best Bars lists. It remains a destination for those seeking not only excellent drinks and seafood, but also a refined and sensory experience that channels the elegance of a bygone era.