When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Big Bar
Why Big Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Big Bar is a distinctive neighborhood bar known for its welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere, making it an excellent spot to meet up with friends. Located in a bustling area where crowded bars are common, Big Bar offers a rare sense of space and calm, inviting patrons to relax and enjoy a mellow musical backdrop. The venue maintains a cash-only policy, so guests are advised to come prepared. Its interior features well-worn, cozy booths that encourage intimate conversations and people-watching, contributing to its charm despite the humble beginnings. The cocktail menu specializes in thoughtfully crafted drinks that avoid mediocrity, catering to customers who appreciate quality beverages. Bartenders are not only skilled but also engaging, often providing witty and intelligent conversation, which enhances the social experience. While the bar has a limited draft beer selection, focusing mainly on bottled beers and cocktails, it compensates with a diverse and eclectic mix of music genres that appeal throughout the day and night. This combination of reasonable pricing, friendly staff, and an atmosphere that feels more authentic than polished makes Big Bar a go-to local hangout for both casual outings and deeper social mingling.
Here's what people think of Big Bar
As of recent, Big Bar holds a 4.4-star rating based on 209 reviews.
Reviews of Big Bar highlight a generally positive reception from patrons, with an overall rating of 4.4 based on over 200 reviews. Users commonly praise the bar for its unique vibe that balances a relaxed environment with engaging social interaction. Positive comments focus on the approachable staff and bartenders who serve well-made, imaginative cocktails and foster a welcoming atmosphere. Many appreciate the variety in music, describing it as eclectic and fitting for a bartender-centric, neighborhood bar setting. The affordability of drinks and the opportunity to mingle without the typical overcrowded bar hassle are frequently mentioned as perks. On the other hand, criticisms mainly address the physical state of the venue. Some reviews refer to cramped, kid-sized booths and furnishings that have passed their prime, with the bathroom facilities sometimes described as less than desirable. The cash-only policy can also be inconvenient for some visitors. Despite these drawbacks, most reviewers conclude that Big Bar’s charm lies in its authentic, unpretentious character and hospitable service, which outweighs the shortcomings in decor or amenities. In summary, the bar enjoys a strong reputation among locals and visitors seeking a casual, friendly place to enjoy excellent drinks and interesting company.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rovik Robert
It’s ironically called big bar even though spaces are very limited in here - it’s definitely a vibe though with its cash only and overall divey atmosphere. Lots of disclaimers all around but if you know what you want and can be expedient about it, you’ll be well served here.
Alter Cohen
Excellent exceptional bar tender helper helped me find my car . When I couldn't remember where I parked it. She helped me find it from a few small details. I can't recall her name.
Johannes Scharlau
Big Bar is the place I miss the most about NYC. We had the absolute privilege to live a few houses up from Big Bar for 4 years. The bar is cool, funky, the drinks are great, Stefan is awesome and the music is the shit. I loved everything about, and everybody in this place. It really made me feel like I belong. Next time I'm in NY, you are my first stop.
Spencer Coplan
Great local dive! Cash only, red neon lights and good tunes. Can’t ask for anything better in a busy city like NYC.
Delphine Kak
Looks like some bartenders take tips for granted, expecting tips while being so rude to customers with the excuse of “being busy”. Wow, what a good reason for being disrespectful of customers. Reminder of the principle of a tip (which unfortunately has been forgotten): tips are here to reward good services for bartenders who deserve them, they should not be taken for granted. So just one thing busy bartender: if you want some tips, just do your job properly by being just slightly nicer, and not just demand “give me tips “. For your pride at least!
How to reach Big Bar
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Website: None
Why Big Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big Bar with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family at Big Bar offers more than just a place to socialize—it creates an experience that blends engaging atmosphere, excellent service, and diverse entertainment options in one vibrant venue. With a solid rating of 4.4 from over 200 reviews, Big Bar has earned a reputation as a favored spot to host meetups due to its welcoming vibe and great staff, who ensure everyone is taken care of. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, having a casual get-together, or just looking for a lively spot to unwind, Big Bar’s location in the heart of the city provides easy accessibility. The bar boasts a spacious and stylish setting that comfortably accommodates groups of all sizes, making it ideal for lively conversations and memorable moments. Additionally, the menu is impressive, featuring delicious and freshly prepared food alongside a wide selection of beverages, including top-shelf drinks and creative cocktails, catering to varied tastes. Altogether, the combination of ambiance, top-notch service, and quality food and drink make Big Bar a compelling choice to rally with your friends and enjoy a night out together.
What activities are available at Big Bar for group meetups?
Big Bar is more than a typical bar; it’s a hub of entertainment where groups can engage in a variety of activities suited to different preferences. For sports enthusiasts, the venue is outfitted with numerous televisions broadcasting major sporting events, making it a fantastic spot to catch a game with friends while enjoying great company and food. The energetic vibe, mixed with a cosmopolitan crowd, encourages interaction and fun, ideal for group celebrations or casual meetups. Big Bar also sometimes features live music and DJs, which infuses the environment with energetic tunes and encourages guests to dance or simply enjoy the sounds while socializing. For food lovers, the menu includes hearty options such as a highly recommended steak sandwich with horseradish and other popular bar foods that are fresh and hot, satisfying hungry groups after a long day. The bar’s extensive drink menu offers everything from classic cocktails to beer towers, accommodating various drink preferences and sharing options for groups looking to toast together in style.
Why is Big Bar perfect for group meetups?
Big Bar’s design and service philosophy center on creating a friendly and inclusive atmosphere where groups can feel comfortable and connected. Its spacious interior allows groups to sit together without feeling cramped, and the layout encourages mingling. The bartenders are known for their friendly demeanor and skill, often crafting excellent nightcaps and cocktails tailored to customer tastes, which enhances the overall group experience. Moreover, the venue’s stellar reputation for food quality and freshness means groups won’t have to compromise on dining while enjoying their drinks. Open late on weekends and located conveniently downtown, Big Bar fits well into any evening plans, from casual hangouts to entire nights out with your closest friends. The combination of its location, welcoming staff, diverse entertainment, and high-quality food and drink selections culminate in a place where hosting a group meetup feels effortless and enjoyable.
What is the atmosphere like at Big Bar?
The atmosphere at Big Bar is an appealing blend of lively and relaxing, designed to cater to different moods during a night out. The interior decor reflects a modern yet comfortable style, enhanced by a view of the cityscape that adds to the overall charm and sophistication. The presence of multiple TVs showing current sports keeps the energy up, while the friendly and attentive staff maintain an environment where guests feel valued and looked after. Patrons describe the vibe as cosmopolitan and fun-loving, attracting a diverse crowd that contributes to its welcoming and dynamic spirit. While some note that the music and multiple screens create a sensory-rich environment, many enjoy this as part of the entertainment experience. Whether you want to chat quietly with friends or immerse yourself in the buzz of a bustling bar, Big Bar balances these elements well, making it appealing for groups with varied preferences.
How does Big Bar accommodate different tastes and preferences?
Big Bar prides itself on catering to a wide range of tastes when it comes to both food and drinks. The bar menu features an impressive selection of cocktails, including top-shelf spirits and innovative drinks, alongside classic beer options served in towers for sharing. This variety ensures that no matter your group’s preferences—whether someone prefers a sophisticated cocktail or a casual brew—Big Bar has a fitting option. On the food side, the offerings are fresh, hot, and prepared to satisfy, with standout dishes like the steak sandwich that receive strong recommendations from regular customers. The venue also offers breakfast service, which is rare in downtown Chicago spots, making it versatile for groups looking for early meetups or brunch gatherings. Such variety extends to accommodating dietary preferences and ensuring that every group member has something delicious to enjoy throughout their visit, reinforcing Big Bar’s appeal as a gathering place.
What makes the service at Big Bar stand out for group experiences?
Service at Big Bar is consistently highlighted by patrons as a key strength, especially important when hosting groups. Bartenders and waitstaff are known for their friendly, attentive approach, taking care to ensure everyone’s needs are met promptly despite busy periods. The staff’s welcoming attitude helps foster a relaxed environment where guests feel comfortable and appreciated. Even during peak times, bartenders craft excellent drinks and do their best to manage slower moments with professionalism and good humor, which enhances the group experience. For those planning bigger gatherings or parties, the bar’s accommodating nature and team spirit make coordinating events easier and more enjoyable. Working teams appreciate the lively, friendly environment, which translates into better service for guest groups and a more engaging overall atmosphere.
How convenient is the location and accessibility of Big Bar for meetups?
Big Bar’s location in downtown Chicago makes it a highly accessible and convenient venue for group meetups. Situated within a hotel lobby, it offers ample parking options and easy transit connections, simplifying arrival logistics for guests coming from different parts of the city or suburbs. Being close to other notable landmarks and entertainment spots adds to the convenience, allowing groups to plan a full night out—starting with dinner or drinks at Big Bar and moving on to nearby venues if desired. Its extended operating hours, especially on weekends, accommodate late-night gatherings without the stress of an early closing time. This central, vibrant location ensures that friends and family can find Big Bar with ease, maximizing the fun and minimizing any hassle associated with organizing group outings.
What do loyal customers and repeat visitors say about Big Bar?
Loyal patrons of Big Bar often praise it as their go-to spot for both daily meetups and special occasions. Some have reported frequenting the bar for decades, celebrating New Year’s Eve parties there as well as casual breakfasts during hotel stays. This long-standing affinity reflects the consistent quality and atmosphere Big Bar offers, creating a dependable venue that guests trust to meet their social needs. Repeat visitors highlight the excellent food, reliable service, and fun environment, which keep them coming back to reconnect with friends and families. The bar’s ability to cater to both casual drinkers and food lovers alike contributes to its widespread appeal among a diverse clientele. This steady customer loyalty affirms Big Bar’s status as a trusted hub for socializing, marking it as an excellent venue to host your next group gathering.
What special events or occasions can Big Bar host?
Big Bar is well-suited to hosting a variety of events, from casual group meetups to larger celebrations such as birthday parties, work-related gatherings, and holiday festivities. Its spacious interior and adaptable layout make accommodating different group sizes feasible, while the staff’s experience in managing events ensures smooth, enjoyable occasions. For those interested in a lively night, Big Bar’s periodic live music and DJ events add an extra layer of excitement and entertainment. The bar’s reputation as a prime New Year’s Eve venue, for example, demonstrates its capacity to handle full-scale parties that require excellent service and a festive atmosphere. Whether you want a quiet corner for intimate celebrations or a lively space for a night of dancing and drinks, Big Bar can tailor the environment to suit your event’s tone and purpose.
How does Big Bar compare to other bars in the city for group gatherings?
Compared to other establishments downtown, Big Bar stands out for its combination of ambiance, quality service, and varied entertainment options geared specifically toward groups. While some bars may focus solely on drinks or casual vibes, Big Bar integrates great food, a diverse drink list, and multiple forms of entertainment, creating a fuller experience. This all-around appeal places it ahead of bars that may offer one or two features but lack versatility. Additionally, the friendly and experienced staff, coupled with the spacious and stylish setting, help ensure that groups can gather comfortably without feeling crowded or overlooked. Though some patrons note that drinks can be on the pricier side, many perceive the value as justified by the quality and environment. Overall, Big Bar’s reputation for being a lively, accommodating spot makes it highly competitive and often preferred for group meetups in Chicago.
What makes Big Bar an enduring favorite for friends and family gatherings?
The key to Big Bar’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to consistently meet the diverse needs of group gatherings while creating a memorable and enjoyable experience. Its welcoming atmosphere invites guests to relax and engage, backed by reliable service that makes everyone feel attended to. The combination of good food, extensive drink options, entertainment variety, and accessible location rounds out the offering so groups can tailor their visit to their preferences. Whether it’s a daytime brunch, an after-work wind-down, or a late-night party, Big Bar adapts seamlessly, making it a dependable choice for events and everyday socializing alike. This consistent delivery of quality and experience cements Big Bar’s status as a top destination for friends and family who want to rally together and share great times in a vibrant yet comfortable setting.