When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Beer Authority
Why Beer Authority is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Beer Authority is a standout bar located in New York City's Garment District, known for its expansive three-floor layout including a lively rooftop. Despite its modest entrance, inside you'll find a spacious setting perfect for gatherings with friends, boasting over 100 beers on draft along with a full bar serving a variety of drinks. The atmosphere is energetic yet welcoming, making it an excellent spot for socializing. The menu features American-style fare with highlights like first-class ribs and a good selection of other food items that complement the extensive beer offerings. Staff are noted for being attentive and personable, contributing to a fun and engaging experience. Its proximity to the Port Authority and other city attractions makes it a convenient meeting place to enjoy a casual drink or meal with friends in a busy but relaxed environment. Whether you want to enjoy the rooftop views or a large variety of beer choices, Beer Authority offers a versatile venue for a memorable outing.
Here's what people think of Beer Authority
As of recent, Beer Authority holds a 4.3-star rating based on 4379 reviews.
User reviews of Beer Authority reflect a predominantly positive experience, especially praising its impressive beer selection and the quality of certain food items like the ribs. Many reviewers compliment the attentive and friendly staff, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and excellent service. The bar's multi-level layout, including a rooftop, is also praised for providing ample space to socialize. Positive reviews emphasize the good location near Port Authority, the lively ambiance, and the fun environment for groups or casual outings. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around food inconsistencies, such as poorly prepared pizza and issues with vegetarian orders, as well as occasional inattentive service during busy times. A few commenters felt the beer quality was not always consistent, with some describing it as overpriced or lacking in taste. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with many patrons returning or recommending the venue for its vibrant social setting and variety of drinks. In conclusion, Beer Authority is regarded as a great place for beer lovers and friends looking to enjoy New York's nightlife, with minor reservations mainly about food and occasional service lapses.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Maryna Stupak
Last night, my husband and I were looking for somewhere to go — nothing fancy, just a cozy spot to relax, talk, and enjoy good food. We ended up at Beer Authority, and honestly… it was exactly what we needed. 🎯 At first glance, it looks like your usual bar. But the moment you step inside, you can feel it — everything is thoughtful, warm, and just feels right. 💡 The atmosphere is exactly what you want for an evening out: soft lighting, cozy vibe, the hum of conversations around you — but nothing overwhelming. It’s modern, comfortable, and easy to settle into. We ordered wings and a couple of beers, and both were great. The wings came out hot, crispy, just the right amount of spice — perfect with a cold drink. And their beer selection? Huge. There’s truly something for everyone. 🍗🍺 What really stood out was the service — fast, friendly, and effortless. The staff was kind, helpful, and made us feel totally at ease, without ever being pushy. And now for the surprise detail that no one talks about — the bathrooms. Yes, the bathrooms! Super clean, and each stall has its own little sink and soap. It may seem small, but it says a lot about how much they care about your comfort. It made a real impression on us. 💬 We left full, happy, and thinking: “Should we make this our regular spot?” Because that’s exactly how you feel there — like you’ve found a place you’ll want to return to, again and again. ⸻ ✅ If you’re looking for a bar that’s: • tasty and filling • clean and cozy • fast, friendly, and just really nice to be in …then Beer Authority is your spot. We’ll definitely be back 💛 ⭐️ 5/5 — not just a bar, but a vibe. 👉 RECOMMEND 🌟 (Personally mine)
Carrie Luther
This was a fun place to stop for a beer, I had already had dinner or I would have definitely ordered. Everything coming out of kitchen looked good and they were still serving around 10pm on a Sunday. The downstairs was a cozy pub area, great place for a quaint meetup. The upstairs is spacious and definitely can accommodate larger parties. I had a Pilsner, efficient service upstairs and down. It looks like they have great Reuben, and Shepherds Pie, green beer was still available shortly after St Patrick’s Day.
Marcelo Silva
An amazing gem place in the heart of Manhattan. The food is amazing and the service is spotless. Stop going to expensive rooftops in New York. If you’re around Times Square pop in here for a good time ♥️
Pankaj Shah
Beer Authority is a great bar just off Times Square — perfect spot if you want to escape the tourist crush but still be close to the action. Huge selection of beers on tap and in bottles. Their BA IPA was just okay for me, but the other beers I tried were solid. Prices are what you’d expect for the area (around $9–$13 a pint), but still reasonable for Times Square. Shoutout to the bartenders — their recommendations were spot on!
Selva Dinesh Thangavel
The place and the vibe was amazing. Service was prompt and friendly. We just took a cosmo and mule. The cosmo was ok but the mule wasn’t good the mixing wasn’t. It tasted like just ginger beer and lot of lime. Ended up wasted. Communicated with the staff towards payment they did offer a shot on the house. We had to leave and did not take the offer. Wish they just sent over a nice drink.
How to reach Beer Authority
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Website: None
Why Beer Authority may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Beer Authority with your friends?
Beer Authority stands out as an exceptional venue to gather with friends and enjoy a memorable outing. With a solid rating of 4.3 based on over 4,300 reviews, it combines great ambiance with quality food and an extensive beer selection, making it a prime spot for socializing. Located conveniently across from Port Authority and near Times Square in New York City, its accessibility encourages groups to meet up effortlessly. The venue’s multi-level design—with a lively rooftop bar and spacious seating areas—offers a dynamic setting that suits both lively celebrations and casual get-togethers. Patrons praise the attentive and friendly staff, contributing to an inviting atmosphere where guests feel well-cared for, no matter how busy the place gets. Whether you’re craving a wide range of craft beers, hearty meals, or simply a festive environment where conversations flow freely, Beer Authority delivers. Its proximity to theater shows and iconic attractions also makes it a perfect pre- or post-event rendezvous spot to extend your night comfortably with good company and great refreshments.
What activities does Beer Authority offer that make it perfect for a group meetup?
Beer Authority caters brilliantly to group meetups by offering multiple engaging activities and an environment designed to encourage interaction. Central to the experience is the extensive beer selection boasting over 100 beers on draft alongside a comprehensive full bar, enabling everyone in your group to find their preferred drink, from craft brews to classic favorites. This variety ensures a personalized experience that sparks conversation and shared discovery among friends. Alongside the drinks, the bar serves food famously praised for its quality, including standout dishes like succulent ribs, which add a satisfying culinary dimension to your gathering. The venue’s three floors provide ample space and privacy for groups of varying sizes, including a large open area upstairs and a rooftop bar for scenic views and fresh air, making it ideal whether you want a cozy corner or a vibrant party space. For those who favor live atmospheres, Beer Authority’s generally buzzing but well-managed environment means there's always a lively buzz without losing comfort. The combination of great drinks, tasty food, and flexible seating areas creates a perfect backdrop for anything from birthday celebrations to casual hangouts or even informal business meetups.
How does Beer Authority’s atmosphere enhance group experiences?
The atmosphere at Beer Authority is tailored to amplify the enjoyment of groups gathering to socialize. Described by visitors as friendly and energetic, the vibe here is informal yet festive, striking a balance between a buzzing urban bar and a welcoming neighborhood joint. The attentive staff play a key role in enhancing the experience, often noted for their warm hospitality and personal engagement with guests, ensuring everyone in your party feels attended to. Its three-level layout allows different ambiances within the same location: the main floor offers easy access and a vibrant bar scene, the upper floor provides a spacious dining area ideal for conversation and camaraderie, and the rooftop introduces an airy, open-air atmosphere that is perfect for summer outings or evening drinks under the city lights. This variety allows groups to tailor their experience according to preference, creating memorable moments whether sharing laughs over a meal, engaging in deep conversation over drinks, or enjoying the cityscape. The location’s proximity to notable New York attractions also means it benefits from a lively cultural pulse that adds to the overall festive spirit.
What kind of food and drink options are available to accommodate diverse group tastes?
Beer Authority excels in offering diverse options that cater to a broad range of palates, ideal for groups with varied tastes and dietary needs. The bar’s extensive beer menu includes over 100 draft options, spanning local craft beers, international varieties, and classic staples. This variety allows each guest to explore new flavors or enjoy familiar favorites, which is always a great ingredient for group fun. Complementing the drink selection is a food menu praised for its quality and variety, particularly its ribs and other hearty offerings that provide satisfying meal options. While most guests enjoy the non-vegetarian fare, there are vegetarian choices available, although individual experiences have varied, so checking with staff for current vegetarian offerings is wise. The kitchen aims to serve meals that pair well with the beers, enhancing the overall dining and drinking experience. Moreover, the staff’s willingness to accommodate special requests when possible reinforces Beer Authority’s commitment to customer satisfaction, making it easier for groups with mixed preferences and dietary restrictions to dine together comfortably.
Why is Beer Authority a smart choice for groups looking for a spot near Times Square?
Beer Authority’s strategic location across from Port Authority and close to Times Square is a major advantage for group meetups in New York City. This central placement makes it extremely accessible for locals and tourists alike, especially groups coming from different parts of the city or after events like theater shows, concerts, or sports games nearby. Its proximity to iconic spots means it is easy to incorporate a visit to Beer Authority either as a starting point or a capstone to any itinerary centered around Midtown Manhattan. The surrounding area is bustling with energy and culture, yet Beer Authority offers a refuge within that hustle, providing a private and comfortable setting that feels distinct from the tourist crowds. This mix of convenience and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a favored destination for groups seeking a seamless and fun night out. Additionally, the multi-level space can handle larger parties, reducing the common challenge of finding suitable seating for groups near busy Midtown landmarks.
How do customer reviews reflect the group experience at Beer Authority?
Customer reviews paint a generally positive picture of Beer Authority as an excellent venue for group gatherings, emphasizing its lively atmosphere, exceptional beer variety, and quality food. Many reviewers highlight the attentive and personable staff as instrumental to making group visits enjoyable, noting how the team manages busy nights while still engaging personally with each table. The ample space across multiple floors, including a rooftop, is frequently mentioned as a key attraction for groups, allowing flexibility in how and where to gather. Some reviews point to the location as perfect for combining visits with other nightlife or entertainment plans in the city. While most feedback is commendatory, a few isolated critiques mention specific experiences such as food inconsistencies or service lapses, particularly during peak hours. However, these instances are outnumbered by comments expressing satisfaction and repeat visits, underlining Beer Authority’s strong reputation as a go-to spot for social occasions. The overall consensus underscores that it remains a top choice for those looking to rally friends or family for a fun, relaxed, and flavorful night out.
What makes the rooftop at Beer Authority special for group meetups?
The rooftop at Beer Authority adds a unique dimension to group meetups, offering an open-air setting with views that elevate the social experience beyond the ordinary. In a bustling city like New York, having an outdoor space to unwind amidst good company is a valuable asset. The rooftop allows groups to enjoy fresh air and city lights, creating a festive yet relaxed vibe perfect for celebrations, casual chats, or simply taking a break from the indoor bustle. It serves as a versatile event space where guests can enjoy their drinks in a setting that feels both private and connected with the vibrant cityscape. The outdoor environment encourages longer visits and informal mingling, making it ideal for groups that want to linger and savor their time together. Combined with the quality beverage options and attentive service found inside, the rooftop experience enriches Beer Authority’s appeal as a premier group meetup destination in Manhattan.
How does Beer Authority accommodate different group sizes and types of gatherings?
Beer Authority’s design and service model effectively support a wide range of group sizes and types of gatherings, from intimate dinners to larger celebrations and casual meetups. Its three-floor layout creates natural separation and flexibility in seating arrangements, allowing small friend groups to find cozy corners while larger parties can occupy spacious areas without feeling cramped. Booking options and attentive staff help ensure groups are comfortably accommodated and receive personalized service, which is crucial for events like birthday parties, office outings, or family reunions. The diverse menu and extensive drink selection mean hosts can satisfy a variety of tastes and preferences within their group, promoting an inclusive atmosphere. The combination of lively, casual ambiance balanced with efficient service makes Beer Authority suitable for both low-key socializing and energetic celebrations, reinforcing its reputation as a versatile venue for group entertainment in a central NYC location.