Bed-Vyne Brew shuts down after 12 years - a neighborhood fixture ends amid controversy
The popular bar was raided by police on its final night, following complaints about large crowds and excessive noise.
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A staple of Bed-Stuy’s nightlife is closing its doors for good. While some locals welcome the change, others say Bed-Vyne Brew will be sorely missed.
The popular bar was raided by police on its final night, following complaints about large crowds and excessive noise.
Despite the issues, residents packed the space to bid farewell to what many considered the unofficial heart of the neighborhood.
"It was like Cheers, everyone here is family, all of Bed-Stuy is family," said Dushan Pierce, a longtime customer.
Owners Michael Brooks and Rotimi Akinouye say the bar’s appeal became its biggest headache with thousands flocking to its outdoor areas, especially during the area's open streets events held every Sunday.
"We became a victim of our success," Akinouye explained. "Thousands of people wanted to come here, and it was difficult to contain them."
Brooks tells News 12 that the decision to change open streets to every other Sunday could help manage the large-scale block parties.
"It was the after parties and they would flock to us and other businesses and we feel we are bearing the brunt of that," Brooks said, adding that in the 12 years of being open, no violent incidents had been reported at the bar.
Brod, the owner of Wadali Jerk, a restaurant that connects to the bar, tells News 12 he will miss sharing the space with the bar's owners and the customers.
"It was a beautiful mix of the community here. A vibrant area, so it's sad to see them go,” said Brod. “It's like seeing your daughter’s graduation, you are proud of what they have done.”
But not everyone is sad to see Bed-Vyne Brew go.
"Me and a lot of other people are happy they’re closing. They have been a problem," said neighbor Ronny Johnson, who said he did not appreciate the loud noise of the outdoor area that went long into the night.
Still, the space meant something to many residents.
"I hope the community keeps that energy with new spaces coming in," shared customer Gabriella Louis. "I’m going to miss it, Brew forever."
Bed-Vyne Brew will close permanently this weekend on May 31. But the owners say fans of their bars won't have to wait too long to see them again at a new location.
"We have it in the works, but we will make it public to have the community that loves and supports us,” Brooks said.
