Brooklyn, the ever-evolving borough that pulsates with creativity, is now home to a vibrant addition that promises an unrivaled blend of music, cocktails, and community—Mr. Melo. As a Brooklynite with an unwavering curiosity for exciting new spots in my neighborhood, the thrill of discovering this gem is unparalleled. While my firsthand experience is planned for the end of this month, the anticipation alone hints at an immersive encounter with Mr. Melo Bar, an analog dance bar that has quickly become a standout destination in Williamsburg.
Opened on December 15th, this analog dance bar is the brainchild of co-owners and Brooklyn residents Nikolas Vagenas and Nate Ulsh. I had the opportunity to catch up with them and get a glimpse into what makes Mr. Melo Bar a unique and captivating space.
Mr. Melo sets itself apart as an approachable and vibey listening bar, seamlessly blending the classic elevated format with universal accessibility. The meticulously designed space caters not only to fervent music lovers but also to those seeking an inviting, social atmosphere.
The Sonic Symphony of Mr. Melo’s Unique Design
Mr. Melo is not just a bar. It is a meticulously crafted auditory haven that welcomes patrons to indulge their ears in the embrace of dead-stock vintage Klipsch speakers. These sonic gems, sleek as they are soulful, date back to 1979 and have found a home in a space designed to let their sounds dance freely. Embrace the optimal listening location in the bar by picturing yourself in the ‘sweet spot.’ Making that spot your haven for the night is strongly recommended to fully immerse yourself in the unparalleled music experience.
The front bar, endearingly known as “The Dive,” invites visitors to share intimate conversations over natural wine. While the main room stands as the beating heart of Melo, where music, dance, and everything in between find their rhythm.
With 1880 square feet and a capacity for 120 people, Mr. Melo was born from the commitment to craft the perfect auditory experience, with priority given to acoustic sound treatment and strategic speaker placement. Klipsch speakers borrowed from Nate’s living room, combined with Kenneth Nix’s expertise from Nix Design, weave seamless elegance into a soundscape that refuses to compromise. Custom milled Ash trim wood-lined walls, low banquettes, and those iconic 1979 Klipsch La Scala Speakers from Nate’s collection converge to create an atmosphere that feels less like a cocktail bar and more like a warm space—a second home for Brooklyn locals.
Mr. Melo Cocktails and Culinary Delights
Drawing on the extensive expertise of Nikolas Vagenas and Nate Ulsh, explore the captivating landscape of Mr. Melo’s cocktail creations and music curation. With a collective industry tenure spanning two decades, the duo brings unparalleled understanding to the nuances of the New York City hospitality scene. Having navigated the intricacies of what works and what does not, Mr. Melo’s cocktail menu reflects a commitment to excellence.
Mr. Melo’s culinary innovation and sustainability efforts take center stage. Inspired by Nik’s Greek heritage, the food program at Mr. Melo features a thoughtfully crafted menu that aligns with the values of the environmentally conscious Brooklyn community. The Greek-inspired dishes, including an indulgent Eggplant Sando, complement the cocktails seamlessly, providing patrons with a delightful culinary experience.
Notably, the innovative Compost cocktails, such as the Baba Rita and Feta Brine Martini, stand as a testament to the dedication to sustainability. Utilizing remnants from menu staples like feta brine, eggplant skins, and more, potential waste is transformed into delightful concoctions. The daring Feta Brine Martini, Imperfect Manhattan, and Baba Rita exemplify the inventive approach to mixology that defines Mr. Melo.
The bar’s dedication to sustainability goes beyond the traditional. It offers a delicious and environmentally conscious experience for patrons. With a focus on reducing waste while delivering a delightful culinary journey, Mr. Melo emerges not just as a listening bar but as a beacon of sustainable gastronomy in the heart of Brooklyn.
Mr. Melo Bar is Connecting Us Through Music, Community and Sustainability
Beyond being a bar, Mr. Melo aims to be a neighborhood fixture, offering industry-friendly hours and monthly neighborhood nights with discounts for local residents. The compost cocktail program aligns with the values of the Brooklyn community, addressing the challenge of waste in the service industry while delivering delicious concoctions.
Mr. Melo’s music selection is a reflection of the diverse tastes of Brooklyn’s music community. Vinyl DJs spin an eclectic mix spanning funk, soul, deep groove, jazz, hip hop, boogie, disco, cumbia, and more. The absence of a cover fee and the integration of the DJ booth into the space foster interaction between patrons and DJs, creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
Mr. Melo Bar Record Store Takeover
Elevating beyond the ordinary, Mr. Melo is not just a bar. It is a dynamic hub designed to be the heartbeat of Brooklyn’s music community. More than a space to gather, sip, and unwind, it is the pioneering of a movement. A community nexus for music aficionados, especially those enchanted by the allure of vinyl. Mr. Melo’s monthly record store takeover events underscore its commitment to being a community hub for music and arts enthusiasts. The collaborative celebration is a platform where they can join forces with local record stores to champion their businesses.
Join Mr. Melo as they redefine the essence of a listening bar, one vibrant event at a time.
Looking Ahead
Looking forward, Mr. Melo envisions a dynamic future marked by enhancements to elevate the overall experience. Aspirations include improving the sound system for an unparalleled auditory journey and diversifying the DJ program to introduce a wider spectrum of musical genres for the diverse tastes of Brooklyn’s vibrant community. Beyond being a local listening bar, Mr. Melo aims to solidify its position as a cultural hub within Brooklyn and across New York City.
The goal is to establish itself as a go-to destination for vinyl enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the borough and beyond. As Mr. Melo continues to evolve, it seeks to foster an environment where music, mixology, and community seamlessly converge, creating a lasting imprint on the cultural scene of New York.
Mr. Melo Bar Wrap Up
Whether you are drawn by the beats, enticed by mixology, or simply seeking a welcoming space to unwind, Mr. Melo invites you to discover the perfect harmony of sound and community. In a city that never sleeps, this listening bar emerges as a beacon of creativity, sound, and community in the heart of Williamsburg. With its inviting ambiance, sustainable practices, and commitment to diverse music experiences, Mr. Melo is poised to become a beloved fixture within Brooklyn’s ever-evolving cultural landscape.
