Top: The Bar @ Billet & Bellows
Middle: Metal work and Sculpture by Kristina Kozak and Drinks @ Billet & Bellows
Bottom: Detail of Kozak’s blacksmithed fence on the corner of Bedford and North 4th Street
Photography by Billet & Bellows
"I wanted to create a unique space- one that is hand-crafted and hand-built. I'm a true Williamsburg artist, and Billet & Bellows is another way for people to experience my metalwork and maintain a presence in the neighborhood," says Kozak.
An artist and welder who has already made a mark in the neighborhood through her numerous innovative and beautiful metalwork pieces, Kozak has owned the Billet & Bellows building for 17 years and has used her artistry to create a drinking destination that reflects the authentic, arty vibe that Williamsburg is known for.
Kozak’s blacksmithed fence on the corner of Bedford and North 4th Street is perhaps the most well known example of her welding artistry in the community. Blending her beautiful sense of form with function, Billet & Bellows is adorned with her own artistic and functional ironwork set with classic wood furnishings and antiques. Other stunning details include a soft green glowing onyx bar, herringbone hardwood floors, cozy fireplace complete with antique rocking chairs, and specialty craft cocktails.
Recently, building on the success of the Billet & Bellows cocktail program, owner Kristina Kozak has introduced a delicious food menu with small plates and savory bites to share. Patrons can now compliment the flavors of their beverages with items like the Ploughman’s Plate with Cured Meats, Cheese, Cornichons, Radish and Bread; Deviled Eggs Benedict with Ham and English Muffin Crumbs; Baby Bliss Potato Skins with Dublin Cheddar, Pork Cracklins, Cream and Scallions; and Skillet Mac and Cheese with Cheddar, Gruyere and a Parmesan Garlic Crumb Topping. Additional menu items include Marinated Olives, a Jumbo Soft Hot Pretzel with Whiskey Mustard Dripping Sauce, and Chicken Liver Toast with Chutney and Cornichons.
The cocktail menu offers a blend of high-end ingredients with fresh juices and infusions. It includes both premium classics drinks with a twist and signature house creations with a metalwork theme. Think along the lines of the Journeyman Black Walnut Manhattan with brandied cherries, the Tongue and Groove featuring organic lemon vodka and lavender petals, and The Crucible, perfect for spring with Bombay Sapphire gin, raspberry puree, lemon and egg white. Seasonal specialty drinks are available and change often.
Happy hour is 4pm to 8 pm every weekday, offering $5 house red and white wine, and well drinks.
Billet & Bellows
177 Grand Street
Brooklyn, NY 11211