Commonwealth

A cleverly scribbled-on placard greets you when you visit this local favorite, part of the soon-to-be-gentrified "South Slope." The jukebox is unbeatable, albeit scribbled and chaotic as the track listings are (thanks, Ray), and just the right beers are on tap, from the emerging local champions Yuengling and Brooklyn Lager to a few less dependable, pricier beers (as well as your $5 Pork Slaps). The crowd that patronizes Commonwealth couldn't be more congenial and less combative if the bar was in Kansas instead of Brooklyn, and it could very well have to do with the patio out back, with is strewn with park benches and tables, letting patrons drink and smoke at the same time when the weather permits.