By: Rob Otto

A new nightclub planned for Greenpoint, Brooklyn, has sparked significant opposition from local officials and residents. Tao Hospitality Group, known for its high-profile venues like Marquee in Chelsea, is considering a site at 25 Franklin St. for a new entertainment concept that would accommodate up to 1,000 patrons and stay open until 4 a.m.

This location, which previously housed Arts District Brooklyn and House of Vans, overlooks the East River and offers a prime spot for nightlife

The NY Post reported on this issue extensively and this report is based on NY Post’s excellent work.

Assembly member Emily Gallagher, Senator Kristen Gonzalez, and City Council Member Lincoln Restler have voiced their opposition, citing concerns about the impact on the neighborhood. “This proposal has united our neighborhood in strong opposition,” the officials wrote in a letter dated July 12 to Tao Hospitality Group. They urged the company to seek an alternative location for the nightclub, noting that no constituents had expressed support for the project.

Tao Hospitality Group responded by describing the planned venue as a “new entertainment concept” that would reflect the vibrant music scene and culture of North Brooklyn, rather than being Tao-branded. The company expressed surprise at the backlash, pointing out that the location previously hosted venues with a 4 a.m. liquor license. However, they acknowledged the community’s concerns and stated they were listening to feedback.

Residents’ primary concerns include noise, traffic, crime, and the potential impact on wildlife near the Bushwick Inlet Waterway, as recorded in Brooklyn Community Board 1’s May meeting minutes. The opening of another 300-person nightclub, Deuces, across the street at 1 Meserole Ave., adds to the neighborhood’s apprehension. Deuces will serve as a community center during the day.

Locals have voiced strong opposition, fearing the disturbance a large nightclub would bring to their residential area. “Franklin Street is already struggling with traffic,” one resident said, expressing concern over the potential influx of taxis and rideshares. Another resident noted, “Allowing the Tao Group a 1,000-person nightclub open until 4 a.m. would not allow local residents the peace and safety they long for.”

Community leaders, including Gallagher, Gonzalez, and Restler, have called on the New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) to deny the nightclub’s liquor license application. While Tao has yet to formally apply, the SLA has received numerous letters of opposition and stated that all applications opposed by community boards or elected officials would be given a public hearing.

Tao Hospitality Group has been in the spotlight before. The company faced criticism last month after a former hostess caused damage to one of its venues, citing issues with alleged misconduct by promoters.

The property at 25 Franklin St. remains owned by the same company that held it during the House of Vans and ArtsDistrict Brooklyn eras. These previous ventures faced their own challenges, with ArtsDistrict Brooklyn dealing with claims of unpaid debts, which the venue later denied.

In the surrounding Bushwick Inlet Park, residents have mixed feelings about the new nightclub. Some acknowledge the area’s evolving character, noting the increase in luxury developments and nightlife activity. “This entire neighborhood is new — there’s an Hermes here,” said Ari B., 27. However, others, like Ryan O’Callahan, 26, expressed concerns about noise levels, preferring that nightclubs look elsewhere.

As the debate continues, the future of the proposed Greenpoint nightclub remains uncertain, highlighting the tension between development and community preservation in New York City neighborhoods.