When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar
Why Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar is an iconic New York City venue that artfully blends a rich cultural ambiance with sensational cuisine and engaging live entertainment, making it a fantastic spot for meeting up with friends. Founded in 1996 by the legendary songwriting duo Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, the Sugar Bar offers an intimate and elegant setting filled with unique African artifacts, reflecting the owners' personal art collections. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a hidden village on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu featuring favorites such as New Zealand Lamb Chops, Crispy Fried Chicken, and well-crafted signature cocktails like the "Street Corner" and the classic Sugartini. Beyond its culinary appeal, Sugar Bar is renowned for its weekly Thursday night Open Mic events, which have drawn notable artists including Stevie Wonder, Patti LaBelle, and Chaka Khan, alongside star-studded audiences including Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones. With spaces like the main dining room overlooking the stage and an intimate enclosed garden room featuring big screen access, patrons experience both comfort and entertainment in one venue. The addition of outdoor dining with a brunch menu allows friends to socialize in the pleasant summer breeze, enhancing its reputation as a versatile, vibrant meeting place for locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar
As of recent, Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar holds a 4.5-star rating based on 898 reviews.
Overall, Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar has received glowing reviews, reflected in its 4.5-star rating from nearly 900 reviewers, signaling consistent guest satisfaction. Visitors frequently praise the quality of the food, particularly highlighting dishes like grilled Red Snapper and fried chicken as delicious and carefully prepared, accommodating dietary considerations such as those for retirees. The lively atmosphere and unique cultural décor are also commonly noted, alongside the memorable live music experiences that elevate a night out. Positive reviews emphasize the intimate, elegant setting complemented by the bar’s vibrant entertainment scene, with many guests appreciating the friendly service and the blend of African art and music that transports diners to a different cultural experience. On the other hand, some critical feedback focuses on occasional issues such as reservation difficulties, variable sound levels during performances, or service inconsistencies during busy hours. However, these critiques are relatively few compared to the overall praise. The general consensus from reviews is that the Sugar Bar delivers a distinctive mix of culture, music, and excellent fare, making it a beloved destination for those seeking both intimate dining and dynamic entertainment in New York City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Timisha Dargan
This evening was amazing. My Mom took me here as a Belated Birthday dinner. There restaurant was extremely excellent and customer service was a plus.Inside was extremely clean and the bathroom was extremely clean and well light.The food was excellent and cooked to perfection 👌. The drinks were also on point. Everyone treated me and Mommy extremely professional and so nice.The waiter Demara the hostess were a gem 's💎 ✨️ Thank you for making my Birthday dinner so amazing. I will definitely be bringing my Husband back for dinner. Mommy wants to come for Brunch and I will definitely be making Resversation. Extremely happy customer Timisha and her Mom.
Maisha Dang
Never disappoints!!! GREAT food, drinks atmosphere and music. I love the Open Mic night (so many talented artists) and Sunday's Brunch. The manager Javier is A+ in my book. The bar and waitstaff is always friendly and timely.Truly feels like a family there. I was pleasantly surprised by the numerous vegetarian friendly options : Veggie Burgers, Tacos, Lentil Soup, Veggie Chilli. Support this Artist/ Black Owned business. Try the Seafood Salad and Street Corner Cocktail...don't forget the Mac and Cheese and Lamb Chops 😋
Jamilha
Razu was great, very friendly and had good service. I had the pork chop which was good the macaroni was good but needed a bit more seasoning. Overall my family and I had a good time!
SimplyyPeace
This spot is IT!! I think my boyfriend and I could have stayed there all night if we wanted with how homely this experience was. We were greeted by an amazing older woman who may have been the owner. The cool thing is, it’s truly a brownstone! The food was phenomenal and not over seasoned! 10/10 would recommend and go again!
naturalqueen76
Went here on a friday for dinner, and the drinks are expensive, but they have happy hour on select drinks from 3pm to 6pm. I ordered the catfish fillet with the mac & cheese and yams. The meal was good but the mac & cheese could have been better. Overall, I had a good experience at the Sugar Bar.
How to reach Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar
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Why Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar with your friends? This iconic venue offers an unparalleled blend of culture, ambiance, and entertainment that makes it the perfect gathering spot for groups. Founded by legendary songwriting duo Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson in 1996, Sugar Bar is steeped in musical history and artistry, providing an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere steeped in African art and soulful roots. The décor itself is a conversation starter, merging African artifacts with American pieces, creating a unique "east meets west" vibe that transports you right into a hidden village feel on Manhattan's Upper West Side. This combination of culture and elegance sets the stage for memorable nights with friends or family. Beyond aesthetics, Sugar Bar is a hotspot for live music, featuring genres from R&B and jazz to gospel and Caribbean rhythms, ensuring every night is packed with energy and soulful performances. The stage welcomes both legendary artists and emerging talents, making your meetup feel special and exclusive. Pair this with a wide selection of signature cocktails and a menu that ranges from crispy fried chicken to luxurious New Zealand lamb chops, and you have a venue that satisfies all senses, perfect for creating lasting memories with your group.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Sugar Bar that make it ideal for a group meetup? First and foremost, the live entertainment is a major draw. Every Thursday night, the famed Open Mic session ignites the room with an eclectic mix of global performers, drawing audiences who appreciate raw, authentic talent. This is not just a show but an interactive experience, where groups can enjoy discovering new artists or even participate themselves, fostering a fun and engaging atmosphere. On other nights, the venue hosts a diverse lineup of professional musicians playing blues, soul, jazz, and African rhythms, giving your group a spectrum of cultural experiences. The setting supports both lively socializing and intimate conversations; the main dining room offers an excellent view of the stage, while the secluded garden room offers a cozy nook with big screen access to the live shows. This flexibility means groups can choose their own vibe, whether they want to party or just chill. Additionally, with the recent addition of outdoor dining and a brunch menu in the summertime, Sugar Bar extends its hospitality beyond evening gatherings, adjusting perfectly to daytime meetups with a refreshing breeze and delicious fare.
Why is the ambiance at Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar so special? The atmosphere is a carefully curated experience inspired by the owners' personal passion for African art and culture. African artifacts like carved swords, statues, and intricate masks fill the space, mingling seamlessly with American memorabilia, such as panels from the historic S.S. Normandie ocean liner—a subtle nod to both heritage and history. This sophisticated yet warm décor crafts a setting that feels both exotic and familiar, inviting groups to relax in elegance while stimulating their senses. One of Sugar Bar's distinctive features is the Cat Lounge, a private room and spillover bar where a sprawling cat design dominates the ceiling, surrounded by representations of giraffes, elephants, bows, and arrows, creating a playful but intimate environment perfect for more private conversations or smaller group gatherings. The venue’s layout makes it easy to flow between spaces, allowing groups to tailor their experience. Whether engaging in animated conversations or losing themselves in the smooth sounds of the live band, Sugar Bar’s decor and lighting create an immersive backdrop that enhances every gathering.
What makes the cuisine and drinks menu at Sugar Bar perfect for group dining? The culinary offerings are as soulful as the music and just as memorable. The menu includes dishes that appeal to a wide variety of tastes, such as their standout New Zealand lamb chops with their tender and flavorful profile, and the ever-popular crispy fried chicken, which has garnered consistent praise from patrons. Seafood lovers can indulge in expertly grilled red snapper, a dish noted for its freshness and seasoning, satisfying even the most discerning palates. The menu balances indulgence with healthy options, making it accessible for groups with varied dietary preferences or restrictions—an essential feature when dining with friends or family. On the drinks side, signature cocktails like the “Street Corner,” named after one of the owners’ musical hits, and the classic Sugartini add an extra layer of fun and sophistication. These handcrafted drinks complement the food perfectly, amplifying the sensory experience. The attentive staff encourages sharing and tasting multiple dishes, ideal for group dining where exploration and conversation about flavors are key social components.
Why do celebrities and artists favor Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar for their social and professional gatherings? Since its inception, Sugar Bar has attracted a star-studded clientele, including legends such as Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Quincy Jones, and Whoopi Goldberg. This patronage testifies to its authenticity and excellence. The celebrity presence does not create an exclusive or intimidating atmosphere; rather, it lends an aura of prestige and excitement to any meetup, giving groups a chance to step into a venue known for its cultural importance. Some servers and staff members are also talented musicians, often participating in performances, which adds a layer of insider connection and warmth. The reputation of the Sugar Bar as a musical and cultural hub ensures not only top-notch entertainment but also a place where creativity thrives. This makes it ideal for groups looking to be inspired, celebrate special occasions, or simply enjoy a vibrant night out surrounded by great energy and soulful vibes.
How does the venue accommodate different group needs and social occasions? Sugar Bar is designed to be versatile for various group sizes and types of gatherings. The main dining room caters to larger groups who want to enjoy a full dining experience while watching the live performances. For more intimate or private occasions, the Cat Lounge offers a cozy and distinct space that can also function as an additional bar area. The enclosed garden room provides another secluded option with digital access to performances, ideal for groups who want a quieter, more conversation-friendly environment without missing the entertainment. With the newly available outdoor seating during warmer months, group meetups benefit from an open-air ambiance accompanied by a brunch menu for daytime events. This flexibility means the Sugar Bar is equipped to host everything from casual catch-ups to milestone celebrations, adapting its spaces and services seamlessly. The staff’s experience in handling groups ensures that everyone’s needs are met, from personalized service to managing audio-visual elements for special presentations or private events.
What can new visitors expect from the overall experience at Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar? From the moment guests arrive, they are invited into a space rich with history and artistry, immediately feeling a sense of warmth and welcome that makes it easy to relax and enjoy. The fusion of cultural elements in the décor and musical programming offers a unique experience distinctly different from the typical New York nightlife scene. Patrons often find themselves staying longer than intended, drawn in by the quality of the food, the emotional power of the live music, and the lively but comfortable social atmosphere. Whether you come as a group of long-time friends, a family looking for a robust dining outing, or a newly formed meetup group eager for entertainment, Sugar Bar's ambiance cultivates connection and celebration. It’s a place where stories are shared over cocktails, dances happen spontaneously, and music fosters a shared sense of joy and community. For anyone seeking a memorable, culturally rich, and lively venue for group experiences, Sugar Bar stands out as one of the premier destinations in New York City.