Breva in Brighton Beach Elevates Vodka to the Star of the Glass

Source: Breva

Reported By: Matthew Kennedy

In a city where cocktail programs often relegate vodka to the role of neutral mixer, Breva in Brighton Beach is rewriting the script. Here, vodka takes center stage—supported by a curated selection of more than 80 bottles, a dedicated Book of Vodka, and a menu of inventive cocktails that prove the spirit’s versatility runs far deeper than most expect.

The bar’s impressive vodka collection draws direct inspiration from its neighborhood. Brighton Beach is home to the largest concentration of Russian speakers in the United States, and Breva’s program celebrates that cultural connection with both depth and detail. The Book of Vodka—a multi-page, bound guide—invites guests to explore the spirit’s rich history before diving into its expansive offerings.

This year, Breva introduced eight premium bottle selections priced under $100, a move designed to make exceptional vodka more accessible without sacrificing quality. Each bottle is served with house-made fruit compote and seltzer, an elegant nod to the convivial drinking traditions that define the community. Among the featured labels are Stolichnaya, Van Gogh Espresso, Russian Standard, Green Mark, Khortytsa De Luxe, Ravo, Wodka, and Wheatly.

One of Breva’s most distinctive draws is its Martini My Way program, a fully interactive cocktail experience that hands creative control to the guest. Patrons choose the base spirit, preparation, garnish, and mixer—transforming the martini from a classic template into a bespoke creation. It’s a format that encourages both experimentation and personal expression, all within the refined framework of a craft cocktail bar.

Breva’s bar team leans into vodka’s chameleon-like qualities, crafting drinks that balance elegance with innovation. The Seaside Vesper pairs vodka with a garnish of toasted nori, lending a subtle briny edge to the coastal-inspired classic. The Flame of Love Martini combines vodka with nutty Oloroso Sherry, finished with a flamed orange peel for aromatic complexity. Each pour challenges preconceptions, proving vodka can be as nuanced and expressive as any aged spirit.

By spotlighting vodka in such a thoughtful, immersive way, Breva has created more than just a spirits program—it has established a cultural and culinary statement. Here, vodka is not an afterthought; it’s a conversation starter, a storytelling vehicle, and a bridge between Brighton Beach’s heritage and Brooklyn’s evolving cocktail culture. For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, it’s a destination where every sip offers both discovery and delight.