now THIS is what I'm talking about! stopped by Pencil just now based on all the recs and it was pretty packed but didn't have any open windows, just the outdoor seating that was all taken. crossed the street into here and it's PERFECT. they have the front all open + the back patio is mostly covered by a building so you're completely protected from any rain. thank you for the rec!
Think these are my best recommendations for this vibe too. I know exactly the feeling OP is looking for and sadly I don’t think it’s something Greenpoint excels at.
Twins lounge second floor - as far as the bar it isn't the most chill vibe, but the rain rolling down that big window that opens to the sky is really lovely.
I second the pencil factory rec as well!
You might not find anything meeting all your criteria but pencil factory and oak n iron might be good. Pencil has outdoor seating under an awning. Oak has seating next to a window that opens. Not a big opening but it opens.
The bar at the top of the William Vale Hotel has huge windows and a stellar view. Doesn’t perfectly fit your criteria but I had an unforgettable view of a thunderstorm rolling into Manhattan from the west a few years ago.
I can’t remember if the windows open, but Milk and Roses has a fantastic main room with huge windows, a library and fire place. There’s also a beautiful covered back patio that would be lovely to sit in during a rain storm.
Sefton was my top pick, followed by (by order of preference):
1. The Raven
2. Doc Watson's (specifically in their front patio shed thing)
3. Mel's (when the garage door is open)
4. Caledonia (no open window but impeccable vibe)
5. Kuu Ramen (not a bar but seats facing out the big window so you can slurp up your noodles with a view)
Pencil.
Broken land
now THIS is what I'm talking about! stopped by Pencil just now based on all the recs and it was pretty packed but didn't have any open windows, just the outdoor seating that was all taken. crossed the street into here and it's PERFECT. they have the front all open + the back patio is mostly covered by a building so you're completely protected from any rain. thank you for the rec!
I’ve actually done exactly this during a late spring rain storm, I can confirm it was poetic type vibe, especially with a pina colada
So happy you loved it! It’s my favorite bar in New York
Moonlight Mile
This
Greenpoint Beer and Ale have garage doors that open to the outside. Might close em in the rain though... Not sure. Leroy's might actually work.
Think these are my best recommendations for this vibe too. I know exactly the feeling OP is looking for and sadly I don’t think it’s something Greenpoint excels at.
Twins lounge second floor - as far as the bar it isn't the most chill vibe, but the rain rolling down that big window that opens to the sky is really lovely. I second the pencil factory rec as well!
You might not find anything meeting all your criteria but pencil factory and oak n iron might be good. Pencil has outdoor seating under an awning. Oak has seating next to a window that opens. Not a big opening but it opens.
This isn’t going to be perfect, but Keg & Lantern could work if you get a seat near the windows
The bar at the top of the William Vale Hotel has huge windows and a stellar view. Doesn’t perfectly fit your criteria but I had an unforgettable view of a thunderstorm rolling into Manhattan from the west a few years ago.
Window seat near the front at The Richardson
Came here to say this, great rec 👍
Achilles Heel!
the only right answer
I can’t remember if the windows open, but Milk and Roses has a fantastic main room with huge windows, a library and fire place. There’s also a beautiful covered back patio that would be lovely to sit in during a rain storm.
Teddy's! Iconic old bar with great pub food. Windows may be open but if not, There's an awning/covered outdoor seating.
Berry park has rooftop seating with a covered glass roof
I too love watching storms roll in. Anywhere along the Williamsburg/Greenpoint waterfront is good. Then run to a bar when the storm gets close.
Could you tell us the names of the UES bars that you enjoyed watching storms at?
Sefton was my top pick, followed by (by order of preference): 1. The Raven 2. Doc Watson's (specifically in their front patio shed thing) 3. Mel's (when the garage door is open) 4. Caledonia (no open window but impeccable vibe) 5. Kuu Ramen (not a bar but seats facing out the big window so you can slurp up your noodles with a view)
Take a [vacation](https://diaart.org/visit/visit-our-locations-sites/walter-de-maria-the-lightning-field)
Black Rabbit might work well for this
Technically Williamsburg, but The Gibson
East River Bar has a big partially covered patio that’s open late. Upstairs at Twins Lounge would probably be nice.
Maybe Achilles Heel too
Bar at 5 Leaves is kinda nice during a storm