The Citiblog

Bar Madonna Brings its Italian Spirit to Williamsburg
April 4, 2024, 6:11.48 pm ET

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Bar Madonna, an Italian-American cocktail bar fusing art, fashion, and storytelling, opens in Williamsburg. The forces behind Bar Madonna are longtime collaborators and alums of some of NYC’s hottest Italian restaurants (Lupa, Babbo, Carbone, to name a few) Eric Madonna and Ray Rando.

Visitors should look for Italian-American staples including a clarified Bellini on tap, boozy Manhattan Specials, and elevated bar food from Executive Chef and Partner Rob Zwirz.

“The genesis of Bar Madonna is one of friendship, as the concept stemmed from a desire to create something exceptional - and fun - with Ray, whom I’ve worked with for many years,” said Eric Madonna, managing partner.


(Photos Left to Right) Eric Madonna and Ray Rando

The beverage menu infuses classic recipes with inventive riffs and modern techniques like the Madonna Bellini with peach, plum, gin, and prosecco; Brooklyn Special with coffee, Michter’s Bourbon & Rye, Fernet, cherry, and bubbles; The Bialetti with vodka, Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur, Oloroso Sherry, hazelnut, and coffee; and 68th and Harrow with citrus infused vodka, orange liqueur, cranberry, lime, and bubbles.

Bar Madonna is also reimaging classic Italian dishes with its Smashed Meatball Parm (aged beef, pistachio pesto sugo, provolone, parmigiano crisp, semolina bun); Calabrese Wings (Pickled Calabrian hot sauce, buttermilk vinaigrette); Oxtail Croquettes (blood orange marmellata, celery salsa verde); Prawns & Polenta (‘Nduja vinaigrette, braised greens); and Lamb Spiedino (charred ramps, mint pesto, horseradish, jus).


Photo: Catarina Guimarães

The design from Catarina Guimarães’ Studio Guia with an assist from Art Director KidSuper, results in a friendly and lively atmosphere. Artwork also plays a role at Bar Madonna including a larger-than-life paintings overlooking the bar. Guests will also notice illustrations of Madonna’s and Rando’s family photos dating back to the 1940s on each plate. The playful vibe is matched with a carefully selected, hip-hop and R&B-heavy playlist making Bar Madonna a neighborhood spot to watch!

Bar Madonna is located at 367 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn. Brunch, extended hours and outdoor seating to follow. For more information, visit barmadonna.com

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