DISH OF THE WEEK: #14 at BROOKLYN KURA

Every week, I document another dish that impressed and satiated me during my food adventures around New York City

I don’t think most people realize just how extensive the local drink world is out there in the five boroughs. The craft beer scene is well publicized at this point and most people are not surprised to hear that the city has over 30 breweries. But when you talk about other boozy drinks, they are more impressed.

Yes, there are a few distilleries making absinthe, another making a dangerously delicious Puerto Rican moonshine, there’s now a cidery like you’d find in the Basque country, and Brooklyn Kura finally opened its doors making saké as complex as anything you’d find in your Japanese wine store.

Brooklyn Kura is a part of the very cool community of Industry City where all sorts of manufacturers are creating exciting things for the local community. There’s food, drink, and other non-consumable products and I get to explore it more in depth when I lead the Made in NY tour we recently launched. And that’s how I discovered Brooklyn Kura.

I’ve tasted saké before in settings more serious than the neighborhood sushi bar. I’ve been blown away by the subtlety and complexity of this rice wine (although it’s technically a beer since it’s made from grain) and one day would love to dive deep into the world. Which is partly why I visited the Brooklyn Kura tap room on my day off.

Unfortunately, they don’t offer a flight but if you come with friends, you could all order a few glasses (or bottles) and share some of the five varieties they produce.

I started with the #14 which is called that because it was the 14th batch created by owners Brian and Brandon. It’s a junmai saké, which means it’s not mixed with any other spirit (unlike a honjozo), but is comprised just of rice, water, yeast, and koji.

I found it very delicate with floral notes and a very dry finish. It’s one you can drink fast or take your time with. And it’s a pretty nice introduction to the world of Brooklyn sakés. And that’s something I’m guessing most people would be surprised to hear. Price: $9/$22/$40