Bar of the Week: Gutter

In theory, Gutter has a lot going for it. Just a several-minute walk from both the Bedford L stop and the Nassau G stop, the bar’s got faux-Tiffany lamps and wood paneling, a spunky pedigree (the owners also dreamed up Barcade) and eight vintage bowling lanes furnished with clanky chrome parts imported from an old bowling alley in the Midwest. The former factory’s oddly spacious open area and high ceilings complete Gutter’s rec-room feel, and the large window between the alley and the bar let spectators look on with envy while bowlers self-consciously have fun. At $7 per person per game, with $4 rental shoes, the rates are reasonable enough to consider blowing extra cash on one of the retro bowling bags for sale. But with several-hour waits that evoke delayed flights and reunion concerts, those who want to bowl will find themselves squeezed around tables, while those who want to squeeze around tables will find themselves standing. Fortunately, all that downtime is somewhat alleviated by draft beers (from Southampton I.P.A. to Victory Prima Pils) that are as equally well-selected as the albums of up-and-coming bands playing over the din. Still, if bowling is your main objective, your best bet is to show up right before happy hour -- or to go somewhere that actually accepts reservations. 200 N. 14th St., Brooklyn, (718) 387-3585.

Photo from Eater.com