Proletariat

East Village, New York –

Ravi DeRossi, founder of über-popular “secret” cocktail lounge Death & Co., initially took a similar speakeasy approach with Proletariat when he opened this beer-centric joint in mid-2012, but sudsy success prompted him to expand just a few months later.

The original tiny back room reveals the need for growth: just a single space with ten parlor stools perched along the bar and a wall of photos featuring tattoo artists and their skin art.

A sign promising “Rare, new, and unusual beer” attracts everyone from plaid-clad regulars to NYU seniors blowing off exam steam, who show up for something they’ve likely never sipped before. That’s because most of the taps come from boutique brewers that only supply a barrel or two of their nectar, so once it’s tapped out, the staff selects new options to add to the list.

Such variety ensures both the cozy rear room and the larger communal tables up front constantly teem with life, and makes it a haven for both East Village locals and beer aficionados from far and wide.

There are a few cocktails on the taps as well, but of course they’re also made with beer, including a popular (and carbonated) combination of Olde English malt liquor, bitters, and lime syrup.

There’s no guarantee that people will love everything they try, but it’s not hard to promise that Proletariat is where even the commonest man can feel blissfully bourgeoisie as he sips his beer.