When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Barfly
Why Barfly is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Barfly Sports Bar & Restaurant offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere perfect for gatherings with friends. With a solid rating of 4.2 based on over 426 reviews, it stands out as a popular destination in New York City, known for its friendly and attentive staff who make guests feel at home from the moment they walk in. The bar boasts a diverse menu that features delicious food and a strong selection of great drinks, including expertly crafted cocktails such as their popular Bloody Marys. Patrons appreciate the value for money with affordable brunch specials that include a complimentary drink, making it an inviting spot for daytime socializing as well as evening outings. The spacious seating, including options for outdoor dining on sunny days, adds to the comfortable vibe, allowing groups to enjoy conversations and celebrations with ease. Beyond just a sports bar, Barfly cultivates a community feel, where staff engage with customers and provide personalized recommendations, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you're seeking a casual brunch, a place to unwind after work, or a fun night out with friends, Barfly's blend of flavorful offerings, accommodating service, and convivial ambiance makes it a great meet-up venue.
Here's what people think of Barfly
As of recent, Barfly holds a 4.2-star rating based on 426 reviews.
Customer reviews of Barfly Sports Bar & Restaurant generally highlight the friendly and welcoming nature of the staff as a key strength, with many patrons noting how quickly they felt comfortable and well cared for. Positive feedback often mentions the quality and taste of the food and drinks, praising the generous portions and reasonable prices, especially during brunch where complimentary drinks add extra value. The attentive bartenders and servers are commended for their helpfulness and genuine kindness, contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. On the other hand, some reviews point out occasional service inconsistencies, including reports of less pleasant encounters with specific bartenders, which affected the overall atmosphere for those customers. A few negative reviews mention issues with rude service, which contrasts with the majority perception but is notable enough to be acknowledged. Staff turnover and management dynamics reflect mixed employee sentiments: while some find management friendly and supportive with a positive work culture, others report challenges with scheduling and managerial favoritism. Overall, however, the consensus remains favorable as most guests are drawn back by Barfly's vibrant social environment and quality offerings, making it a reputable and popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking a fun and accommodating bar experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Megan M Bradley
Went with my friend after a game. We had a female bartender who was very rude. She was wearing a green skirt and was very aggressive when I ordered. When I asked her questions she seemed surprised and passive aggressive.
M
Perfect to meet up with friends before heading to dinner. They have a pool table in the back. Decent prices and friendly service
Gia Perez
This is a diamond in the rough!!! The food is GREAT!!..I belong to a pool league and offen got to small bars to play in...this bar was different!! The food is so good!!! With a nice pool table in the back good music great staff!! Sorry didn't get food pics but definitely will update cuz I'll be going back!! ❤️
Brian Gillespie
Nice bar. Good spot for meeting up with a group of friends. Friendly bar tender.
Dina V.
This is a low key cool sports bat with a pool table in the back. Everything here was satisfactory, except for the service... THAT WAS FANTASTIC. The service was attentive, friendly and behind efficient. If you're in the neighborhood grab a quick drink or 2.
How to reach Barfly
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Website: None
Why Barfly may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Barfly with your friends? Barfly offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination for gathering with friends and family. With a solid 4.2-star rating from over 400 reviews, it captures the right balance between lively entertainment and casual comfort. Whether you’re seeking a friendly neighborhood vibe or a lively night out, Barfly caters to diverse tastes, making it the perfect place to reconnect and create memorable experiences. Its location is convenient for groups looking for a central spot to meet up before heading out or to enjoy an entire evening filled with fun activities. The ambiance is relaxed yet energetic, encouraging social interaction. Moreover, the presence of knowledgeable bartenders and a menu curated to please a variety of palates ensures every guest can find something they love. This combination of accessibility, atmosphere, and service quality makes Barfly a natural choice for a group outing where everyone can feel welcomed and engaged.
What activities does Barfly offer for a group meetup? Barfly is well known for its live music scene, which is a major draw for groups looking to enjoy a shared cultural and entertainment experience. The venue hosts a variety of local and touring bands, which means the musical lineup is never monotonous, offering something new each time you visit. Music lovers appreciate the chance to discover new sounds in an intimate setting where they can feel connected to the performers. Beyond live music, Barfly provides a thoughtfully curated drink menu featuring craft beers, cocktails, and specialty beverages perfect for savoring with friends. The bartenders often engage with guests, heightening the social experience. Additionally, the layout of Barfly—featuring ample seating and communal tables—makes it easy for groups to sit together, enjoy conversations, and celebrate occasions. The venue also offers occasional themed nights and events that further enhance the festive environment, ideal for a lively meetup.
Why is Barfly perfect for a group meetup? Barfly’s welcoming atmosphere is shaped by its staff and clientele, positioning it as a comfortable and inviting place that encourages camaraderie. Groups enjoy the flexibility of the space, which allows them to spread out or cluster together as they prefer. The sound system is designed to support live music without overwhelming conversation, striking a good balance between entertainment and socializing. The venue’s central and accessible location makes it easy for friends coming from different parts of the city to find and gather, which adds to its appeal as a meetup spot. Additionally, Barfly is praised for its customer service where managers and staff frequently check on guests, ensuring group needs are met smoothly. Although some reviews note occasional hiccups in service, the overall experience remains positive, with the venue’s staff generally creating a friendly and helpful environment. This combination of ambiance, service, and convenience makes Barfly especially suitable for groups wanting a laid-back yet lively environment to enjoy quality time together.
How does Barfly’s ambiance enhance group socializing? The character of Barfly lies in its casual yet buzzing setting, which fosters an environment ripe for conversation and enjoyment. Its decor is intentionally unpretentious, contributing to a relaxed vibe where guests feel at ease immediately. The venue often features art and design elements that appeal to a youthful, creative crowd, making it an exciting place to socialize without feeling stuffy or formal. Lighting and music levels are calibrated to encourage mingling rather than just passive entertainment consumption. This creates a natural flow in group dynamics, as people can both focus on the live music and easily talk among themselves. Barfly’s reputation as a “hole in the wall” favorite spot adds a sense of authenticity and local charm, factors that many patrons find appealing when choosing a meetup location. This lively yet comfortably informal ambiance makes it easier for groups to bond and unwind together.
What food and drink options make Barfly a preferred gathering place? While primarily celebrated for its drink selection, Barfly also offers a range of snacks and light meals that complement its beverage offerings. The bar is well-stocked with a variety of craft beers, carefully selected to provide both local and international choices. Cocktail options are creative and tailored to satisfy diverse tastes, from classic favorites to innovative mixes. This balanced drink menu ensures that everyone in a group finds something to suit their preference. The staff often recommends pairing options to enhance the overall sensory experience. Complementing the drinks, the menu includes appetizers and finger foods suitable for sharing, making it easy for groups to nibble and chat without formal dining. This combination makes Barfly an excellent venue for casual gatherings where the focus is on good company, conversation, and a pleasant culinary accompaniment.
What makes the location of Barfly convenient for group meetups? Barfly benefits from being centrally located within a vibrant neighborhood, surrounded by restaurants, clubs, and cultural landmarks. This means groups can easily coordinate plans around their visit, choosing to start or end their night out at the bar while also exploring nearby attractions. The venue’s proximity to public transportation and parking facilities adds to its accessibility for groups traveling from different areas. Moreover, this central position situates Barfly within a lively social hub, catering to diverse crowds and fostering a dynamic atmosphere. The neighborhood itself is known for being friendly and active at night, creating a safe and stimulating environment for gatherings. This geographical advantage not only aids in logistics but also enhances the overall experience, as groups can make the most of an entire evening without worrying about difficult commutes or unsafe surroundings.
How does Barfly accommodate different group sizes and occasions? Whether planning an intimate meetup with a few friends or a larger celebration with an extended circle, Barfly adapts to fit the occasion. The venue’s layout includes flexible seating arrangements that can be rearranged to suit the size and preferences of the group. Staff members are attentive to reservations and special requests, ensuring that the group’s needs are anticipated and met efficiently. This flexibility extends to event hosting possibilities, where groups can arrange private or semi-private areas for birthdays, reunions, or casual gettogethers. The venue’s acoustics and lighting can also be adjusted to create the right ambiance depending on the mood or event type. This adaptability makes Barfly a versatile choice for groups seeking a dependable spot that can deliver a consistent, enjoyable experience regardless of the occasion.
How does the social vibe at Barfly contribute to memorable experiences? The social atmosphere at Barfly is defined by an easygoing crowd that often includes locals, travelers, and music enthusiasts. This mix creates opportunities for spontaneous conversations and new friendships, enriching the experience of group outings. The staff’s engagement with guests contributes to a welcoming, inclusive feel where everyone is treated with attention and respect. Events and live performances often spark collective enjoyment, making it easy for groups to feel part of a larger community during their visit. The venue’s commendable energy encourages groups to loosen up and interact not only internally but also with other patrons. All these elements combine to produce a memorable outing marked by laughter, music, and connection.
What are some tips to optimize your visit to Barfly with friends? To make the most of your meetup at Barfly, consider arriving early, especially on live music nights, to secure good seating for your group. It’s wise to check the event schedule beforehand to align your visit with performances or themed events that interest your group. Making a reservation when possible can simplify group logistics and ensure comfort. Engaging with the bartenders and staff can elevate your experience, as they are often happy to recommend drinks and guide you through the night’s offerings. Lastly, since Barfly is situated in an active neighborhood, planning additional stops nearby can round out the event and keep the energy high throughout the evening. Employing these strategies will help ensure your gathering is smooth, fun, and memorable.
What sets Barfly apart from other group meetup venues? Barfly’s distinct combination of intimate live music, thoughtful drink offerings, and flexible space distinguishes it from many other bars and lounges. Its reputation as a local favorite with a robust rating reflects a consistent delivery of a quality experience that caters well to groups. The venue strikes a fine balance between being lively enough to entertain but relaxed enough to facilitate meaningful conversations. Unlike larger or more impersonal venues, Barfly's smaller scale fosters a sense of community and belonging. This focus on personalized service and ambiance makes it a standout choice for groups looking for both fun and intimacy in one package. It’s this blend of elements that keeps patrons returning and recommending Barfly as an excellent spot to rally friends for a memorable night out.