When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
ArtBar
Why ArtBar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Art Bar in New York City's West Village offers an inviting and vibrant atmosphere that makes it a great place to meet up with friends. Known for its stylish interior, the bar features large, round booths in the front area and cozy couches in the back, creating varied spaces for socializing. Guests particularly enjoy the chill backroom with artsy decor and lounge seating that enhances the laid-back vibe. Art Bar stands out for its extensive food and drink menu that includes innovative cocktails crafted with creativity and a focus on quality. One of the biggest draws is its highly praised daily happy hour specials extending until 7 PM, making it an affordable and fun venue for day or evening outings. The upbeat music and friendly neighborhood feel contribute to a lively and engaging setting, perfect for group gatherings or casual meetups. Employees appreciate the culture and the creative freedom offered, especially bartenders who enjoy crafting unique drinks. Overall, Art Bar offers a fantastic blend of ambiance, drink specials, and a welcoming environment that makes it a desirable destination for friends looking to enjoy good food and drinks together in a quintessential NYC neighborhood setting.
Here's what people think of ArtBar
As of recent, ArtBar holds a 3.9-star rating based on 645 reviews.
Reviews of Art Bar present a mixed but mostly positive picture. Many patrons praise the bar's atmosphere, highlighting the comfortable and artsy backroom, the large booths and couches, and the upbeat music that contribute to a fun night out. The extensive happy hour specials until 7 PM are frequently mentioned as a great value, along with the diverse and delicious food and drink menu. Positive reviews also commend the friendly staff and the overall neighborhood vibe, which creates a welcoming and relaxed environment for gatherings and celebrations. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on customer service issues, particularly recounting experiences with rude or dismissive staff that left guests feeling unwelcome, which disappointed and deterred return visits. Despite these criticisms, employee reviews show a supportive workplace culture and a strong emphasis on creativity behind the bar. In summary, while Art Bar is generally loved for its ambiance, drink offerings, and social setting, occasional lapses in service have impacted some visitors' experiences, suggesting a variability in staff interactions. However, its popularity and positive features make it a noteworthy stop in New York City's West Village social scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Melissa Johnson
We had an early dinner here and experienced some of the slowest & worst service possible for it being so empty in there. They forgot orders, served us warm tap water & kept us waiting for 10+ minutes for simple things like ranch dressing. It took over 10 minutes to get cocktails and they would bring one drink over at a time. We looked over to the bar and noticed that the bartender? Would take a picture of every single drink he was making causing a longer wait time for us. The food was good once it arrived but not worth the experience we had. We spent over 2 hours there for absolutely no reason. Sat around waiting more than actually enjoying ourselves. I would not go back and do not recommend. Also there was left over plates and trash on the table next to us.
Ankita N
Celebrated our friend’s birthday at ArtBar’s igloo dining, and the setup was beautiful and cozy. This private group space added to the special feel of the night. The food was standard American, burgers, salmon, fries, nothing memorable, but the experience was the priority, and it delivered. Our server was outstanding!! courteous, friendly, and truly great at his job. While I wouldn’t return for the food, I might go back for the ambiance and service.
Janet Crocker
Love this outdoor spot on the Charles River. Incredible skyline view of Boston!!! Best named bar for a Boston accent!🤣 You can order a drink inside to take to the outdoor area....door to the right...or sit inside or outside to dine....area to the left. Great place to just sit if you need a break from the city, have a walk along the river.
Debbie Bearse
first time there.loved everything about it..Our waitress was awesome and so nice.Food was great and atmosphere was perfect.Will go back
Susan “Sevenofnine”
We had a good time here, sitting for a nice dinner with colleagues outside on Art Bar terrace enjoying the view in Charles River and Boston skyline. Service, drinks and food were good. A bigger problem with sitting outside though are the birds who are sitting on the ceiling elements literally above you. It is not very pleasant when they „digest“ on you - happened twice and that limited the experience as we were getting a bit stressed checking if any birds were sitting above us.
Melissa Johnson
We had an early dinner here and experienced some of the slowest & worst service possible for it being so empty in there. They forgot orders, served us warm tap water & kept us waiting for 10+ minutes for simple things like ranch dressing. It took over 10 minutes to get cocktails and they would bring one drink over at a time. We looked over to the bar and noticed that the bartender? Would take a picture of every single drink he was making causing a longer wait time for us. The food was good once it arrived but not worth the experience we had. We spent over 2 hours there for absolutely no reason. Sat around waiting more than actually enjoying ourselves. I would not go back and do not recommend. Also there was left over plates and trash on the table next to us.
Ankita N
Celebrated our friend’s birthday at ArtBar’s igloo dining, and the setup was beautiful and cozy. This private group space added to the special feel of the night. The food was standard American, burgers, salmon, fries, nothing memorable, but the experience was the priority, and it delivered. Our server was outstanding!! courteous, friendly, and truly great at his job. While I wouldn’t return for the food, I might go back for the ambiance and service.
Janet Crocker
Love this outdoor spot on the Charles River. Incredible skyline view of Boston!!! Best named bar for a Boston accent!🤣 You can order a drink inside to take to the outdoor area....door to the right...or sit inside or outside to dine....area to the left. Great place to just sit if you need a break from the city, have a walk along the river.
Debbie Bearse
first time there.loved everything about it..Our waitress was awesome and so nice.Food was great and atmosphere was perfect.Will go back
Susan “Sevenofnine”
We had a good time here, sitting for a nice dinner with colleagues outside on Art Bar terrace enjoying the view in Charles River and Boston skyline. Service, drinks and food were good. A bigger problem with sitting outside though are the birds who are sitting on the ceiling elements literally above you. It is not very pleasant when they „digest“ on you - happened twice and that limited the experience as we were getting a bit stressed checking if any birds were sitting above us.
How to reach ArtBar
None
Website: None
Why rally at ArtBar with your friends? ArtBar offers a unique and creatively inspiring environment that makes it an ideal destination for gathering with friends or family. Unlike traditional bars or cafes, ArtBar blends artistic expression with a relaxed social atmosphere, encouraging everyone—from novices to seasoned artists—to unleash their creativity together. The venue’s welcoming vibe, which supports diversity and inclusivity, ensures that every guest feels comfortable and valued. Whether you want to enjoy a casual outing or celebrate a special occasion, the combination of art, community, and light refreshments creates a memorable experience that sets it apart from typical meetup spots. Moreover, ArtBar’s affordability and family-friendly focus mean you don’t have to pay a premium for a fun and meaningful time. With positive feedback highlighting its encouraging staff and variety of activities, rallying at ArtBar guarantees more than just a hangout; it’s an enriching, shared adventure that nurtures creativity and connection.
What activities does ArtBar offer for group meetups? ArtBar’s core appeal lies in its extensive offering of art-related activities that cater to a broad range of interests and skill levels. The establishment serves up “paints instead of drinks,” where visitors participate in guided painting sessions that invite everyone to explore their artistic side. The experience is enhanced by the freedom to bring your own wine after 7:30 pm (for adults with pre-registration), bridging the gap between a creative workshop and a laid-back social bar setting. This creates a perfect environment for groups looking for interactive and collaborative activities, whether it’s a casual night out or a special celebration like a birthday party. Additionally, ArtBar hosts workshops and classes tailored for both kids and adults, making it suitable for multi-generational gatherings. The presence of original artwork and jewelry for sale adds to the atmosphere, offering guests a chance to appreciate and even purchase locally inspired creations. Its accommodating approach, including a welcoming space for special needs individuals, further underscores its commitment to inclusivity and making everyone part of the creative process.
Why is ArtBar the perfect place for a group meetup? ArtBar’s atmosphere and services are thoughtfully designed to foster connection and fun among groups. Unlike noisy or crowded venues that often hinder conversation, ArtBar encourages interpersonal interaction through shared creative experiences. The staff, led by an owner passionate about art and community, plays an active role in motivating guests and ensuring everyone feels supported regardless of artistic experience. This nurturing environment helps people bond over a shared activity, facilitating genuine conversations and laughter. Furthermore, the venue’s layout accommodates groups comfortably, allowing participants to work side by side on their own projects or collaborate on group creations. The option to bring your own wine after hours enhances the social aspect without distracting from the artistic focus. Reviews highlight the reasonable pricing and relaxed vibe, which combine to make ArtBar accessible and appealing for both intimate and larger groups. Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend outing or an enriching creative retreat, ArtBar offers an environment where friendships can deepen amid artistic discovery.
How inclusive and family-friendly is ArtBar? One of ArtBar’s standout features is its strong emphasis on inclusivity and family-friendliness, making it a versatile option for all kinds of gatherings. Parents have expressed their appreciation for the welcoming environment that allows their children to explore creativity in a safe and encouraging setting. The staff’s supportive attitude extends to special needs individuals, ensuring that people with different abilities can comfortably participate and enjoy the experience. This openness transforms ArtBar from a simple painting studio to a community hub where everyone feels valued. The family-friendly orientation is also reflected in the pricing, which is considered reasonable and inclusive, encouraging repeat visits without financial strain. For families and groups that span multiple generations, ArtBar offers an activity that teammates of any age can enjoy side by side. This makes it an excellent choice for birthday parties, family reunions, or casual weekends where everyone can connect through art.
What makes ArtBar’s pricing and accessibility stand out? Affordability is a key reason why ArtBar is a highly recommended venue for group meetups. Visitors frequently comment on the reasonable prices, which democratize access to creative pursuits that sometimes come with a hefty price tag elsewhere. By keeping costs affordable, ArtBar removes barriers that might prevent people from engaging in artistic activities for fun or relaxation. In addition, the business model encourages guests to bring their own beverages after certain hours, combining cost savings with enhanced enjoyment. The convenient location and operating hours further add to accessibility, making it easy for groups to plan meetups that fit within their schedules. Whether you are an experienced artist or a complete beginner, the cost structure ensures that your group can enjoy quality time without worrying about budget constraints. This financial accessibility supports ArtBar’s mission to be a community-centric destination where art and socializing intertwine seamlessly.
How does ArtBar’s staff contribute to the overall experience? The staff at ArtBar play an instrumental role in making each visit exceptional. From the welcoming greetings upon arrival to the patient guidance during creative sessions, the employees foster an atmosphere that combines professionalism with warmth. Reviews emphasize the passion and encouragement offered by the owner and team, which helps guests of all ages overcome self-doubt and enjoy expressing themselves artistically. Staff members are attentive without being intrusive, striking the right balance to keep the creative energy flowing. This supportive approach is especially important in group settings, where the dynamic can range widely in experience and confidence. By facilitating smooth operations, offering expert tips, and creating an inclusive vibe, the ArtBar staff turn what could be an ordinary get-together into a memorable, inspiring event that guests look forward to repeating.
What additional experiences does ArtBar offer beyond painting? Beyond its well-known painting classes, ArtBar enriches the creative experience by featuring a curated shop selling original art and handcrafted jewelry. This allows visitors to not only create their own masterpieces but also to explore and acquire unique works by local artists. The venue occasionally hosts art shows and community events that bring patrons together to celebrate culture and creativity. These additional offerings enhance the sense of community and provide a broader cultural context for the artistic activities. By integrating retail and event programming, ArtBar becomes more than just a painting studio—it evolves into a vibrant cultural hub where friends can discover new artistic trends and support local talent. This dynamic environment adds layers of engagement for groups, as they can share their art, appreciate others’ creativity, and be part of an active, thriving art scene.
How does ArtBar balance creativity and socialization? ArtBar uniquely balances creativity and social interaction, making it an exceptional spot for groups seeking a meaningful yet fun meetup. Unlike venues that prioritize only social drinking or only solitary creativity, ArtBar blends these elements harmoniously. Guests engage in hands-on artistic projects while enjoying the camaraderie of friends and family around them. The option to bring your own wine after certain hours gives adults an added social lubrication without compromising the creative focus. The environment encourages spontaneous conversation about art and life, fostering connections that go deeper than typical bar chatter. This innovative balance keeps the mood light and enjoyable while providing a productive outlet for self-expression. Whether you want to unwind after a tough week or celebrate milestones in an unusual way, ArtBar offers the perfect combination of artistic engagement and social connection.
Why do customers rate ArtBar highly despite some variability? While ArtBar holds a solid overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews, its high marks relate primarily to the welcoming environment, staff, and creative offerings. Some reviews mention service speed or busy times, but most customers emphasize the friendly, encouraging atmosphere and the quality of the artistic experience. The venue’s reputation for being inclusive and family-friendly also resonates positively. These strengths overcome occasional operational challenges, resulting in a venue that many guests happily recommend. The sense of community and creative inspiration frequently noted in reviews indicate that ArtBar successfully fulfills its mission as a creative social hub. For groups looking for a vibrant, meaningful meetup, the overwhelmingly positive impression outweighs minor service hiccups, making ArtBar a trusted choice.
What makes ArtBar unique compared to other meetup places? ArtBar stands out from typical cafes, bars, or art studios by combining the social atmosphere of a bar with the creative stimulation of an art workshop in one location. Unlike pure bars, it encourages creativity instead of focusing solely on drinks. Unlike traditional art studios, it fosters a relaxed, casual vibe where people of all ages and skills can participate simultaneously. The business model inviting guests to bring their own wine after hours combines the best elements of both worlds. This multifaceted approach appeals to diverse groups ranging from families and friends to creative professionals and casual hobbyists. The atmosphere is welcoming to special needs individuals, and the staff actively support visitors’ artistic journeys. This blend of social, artistic, and inclusive elements creates a unique, memorable experience that few other venues can match for group gatherings.
How can groups maximize their experience at ArtBar? To get the most out of a visit to ArtBar, groups should consider pre-registering, especially if planning to bring their own wine after 7:30 pm, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable evening. Arriving together allows participants to share ideas, set creative goals, or simply enjoy watching each other’s progress. Taking advantage of the variety of workshops and painting sessions offered will enhance everyone’s artistic skills and engagement. Groups with children or members with special needs will find it helpful to communicate any specific accommodations in advance so staff can best support their experience. Finally, staying after the main sessions to browse the original artwork and jewelry can inspire further creativity and provide meaningful souvenirs. Planning ahead and embracing the collaborative spirit can turn a simple gathering into a memorable creative celebration at ArtBar.