Orion Bar Builds a Bushwick Night Around Soju

Orion Bar, located at 157 Suydam Street in Bushwick, offers a Korean and American bar experience that centers soju, somaek, and substantial snacks without reducing Korean drinking traditions to a gimmick. Founded by chef and author Irene Yoo, the bar draws on Korean American influences to create a space where classic spirits, cocktails, and food come together for a night out that can be as lively or as relaxed as you want.

The bar’s official site, orion-bar.com, lists hours from Tuesday through Sunday, with the kitchen closing at 11 p.m. and the bar open until midnight or later depending on the night. While menus and prices can change, Orion Bar’s approach is to make soju and Korean bar food accessible to both newcomers and those familiar with the traditions, offering options for groups, solo visitors, and anyone interested in exploring Korean American flavors.

What Is Soju and Somaek?

Soju is a clear, distilled spirit that is a staple of Korean drinking culture. Typically lower in alcohol than vodka, soju is often enjoyed straight, poured into small glasses and shared among friends. Somaek is a popular combination of soju and beer ("maekju" in Korean), usually mixed at the table. This blend is a common sight at Korean gatherings, where the ritual of mixing and sharing drinks is as important as the beverages themselves.

At Orion Bar, soju is a central focus, with options to enjoy it neat, in cocktails, or as somaek. The bar’s approach, as reported by Eater, is to treat these drinks as integral to the experience, not as novelties. This means you can expect thoughtful presentations and a range of choices, whether you’re a soju enthusiast or trying it for the first time.

How Groups Might Order

Orion Bar is designed to accommodate groups as well as solo visitors. For those coming with friends, sharing is encouraged—soju is traditionally poured for others at the table, and somaek can be mixed together for everyone to enjoy. The bar’s menu, according to its official site, includes substantial snacks that pair well with drinks, making it easy to order a spread for the table.

If you’re with a group, you might start with a bottle of soju to share, order a round of somaek, or try a selection of cocktails that feature Korean flavors. Non-drinkers are also welcome; the bar’s food menu and atmosphere are designed to be inclusive, and alcohol is always optional.

Food and Drink Without Gimmicks

Chef Irene Yoo’s vision, as described by Eater, is to serve Korean bar food and drinks without turning them into a theme or novelty. The menu draws on Korean American influences, offering dishes that are substantial enough for a meal but also suited to sharing over drinks. While specific dishes can change, the focus is on flavors and formats that complement soju and beer, creating a cohesive experience.

The bar’s drinks list highlights soju and somaek, but also includes cocktails and other options. This allows visitors to explore Korean drinking traditions at their own pace, whether that means trying something new or sticking with familiar favorites.

Practical Details: Hours, Location, and Accessibility

Orion Bar is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to midnight, Friday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from 2 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday from 2 p.m. to midnight. The kitchen closes at 11 p.m. each night, so those interested in food should plan accordingly. The bar is closed on Mondays.

The address is 157 Suydam Street, and the phone number is 201-822-5659. As with many Brooklyn venues, menus, hours, and prices can change, so checking orion-bar.com before visiting is recommended. Accessibility details are not specified on the official site, so visitors with specific needs may wish to call ahead.

Who Orion Bar Suits

Orion Bar’s blend of Korean and American influences makes it a fit for a range of visitors. Groups looking for a place to share drinks and snacks, solo diners interested in Korean flavors, and anyone curious about soju or somaek will find something to enjoy. The bar’s approach is inclusive, with options for non-drinkers and a focus on substantial food as well as drinks.

The Bushwick location is accessible by subway and bus, though visitors should check transit schedules for late-night returns. The atmosphere is designed to be welcoming, whether you’re stopping in for a quick drink or settling in for a longer evening.

Before you go

Orion Bar offers a Korean and American bar experience centered on soju, somaek, and substantial snacks, without treating tradition as a gimmick. Hours, menus, and prices can change, so check orion-bar.com or call 201-822-5659 before visiting. The kitchen closes at 11 p.m., and the bar is closed Mondays. Accessibility details are not specified online.