Union Pool

Despite the ‘60s feel of this former pool-supply store and its location under the BQE, the cocktail list of this Williamsburg social hub thankfully goes beyond scotch and soda. Weekends get crowded in a thirsty kind of way, and weeknights feature the best soundtrack selections, courtesy of a strong lineup of guitar-loving guys who’ve made nice with the turntable. A back room with a stage hosts live music — which in the past has included bands like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs — and in warmer months the scene moves to the free outdoor Summer Thunder series, with late-night eats from El Diablo Taco Truck.