Some Changes at Abilene, But Still The Same Vibe

Visit for a down to earth and low key but fun time. It's the kind of bar that you visit once, and always return to. Just ask the patrons and staff.

“Abilene’s special to this neighborhood because it’s the only bar not trying to do something special or be something special,” said bartender Keith Ward, who has been pouring drinks at the low-key dive bar on Court Street and 3rd Place since it first opened in 2006. “It’s just laid-back.” 

“This place never changes. You always know what you’re going to get: No pretention,” said Matthew Skernolis, who lives at Smith and Warren streets and has been coming to Abilene for three years.

“It’s the lazy river ride of Carroll Gardens,” said Michael Wood of Gowanus. “It’s super chill. And always the same river, you know?”  

The bar features green walls and mini chandeliers, comfy couches and a long dark bar, drawn Venetian blinds and a gregarious staff.

And even when Abilene did change — recently closing for several days to undergo “renovations”, according to a sign on the bar’s door — none of the patrons noticed or could pinpoint the updates. 

“Maybe they’ve added some new chairs?” said Jason Roeder, of Red Hook. “I’m reaching. I’ve come here a bunch of times and have no idea.”

“I have no clue what changed,” said Marcy O’Connell. “This place is the same place it always is. That’s part of the charm.” O’Connell moved to Court Street and 4th Place in September and quickly became an Abilene regular.

“I come here all the time.”

Bartender Jason Green, who has also been bartending at Abilene for five years, shed some light on the recent remodeling.

“The renovations were more functional than aesthetic. The bar wood was replaced, the floor was replaced, new shelving was put in. The building is old and needed it. It’s the same spot, otherwise.”

On nights when the wind-chill falls to single or negative digits, Abilene’s patrons can be spotted sipping mugs of hot, spiked cider.

“The cider is a big hit here,” said Ward. “We can do a whiskey base, rum, vodka. Whatever you want.”

“It’s delicious,” agreed Roeder. “But it’s like four degrees outside. This cider is actually necessary.” 

Cider in hand, Deniz Cebenyan agreed. “This cider is how we’re warming up.”
Roeder and Cebenyan said that when it’s warmer outside, Abilene is packed on a Saturday night. “You can hardly move and you don’t mind. People stay here really late.”

In warmer months, the bar opens its tall, rectangular windows and provides breezy indoor seating and relaxed outdoor seating during the day and night. Two years ago, Abilene starting offering brunch — and it continues to be a popular option with locals.

Patrons, regulars and workers pride the place for its easy-going and welcoming vibe — weekend after weekend.