When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Blue Haven East
Why Blue Haven East is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Blue Haven East, located at 493 3rd Avenue in New York's Kips Bay neighborhood, offers a vibrant and inviting setting that expertly blends the feel of an upscale NYC sports bar with a craft beer pub atmosphere. Renowned for its modern gastropub fare, the menu features flavorful dishes such as wings, nachos, BBQ pulled-pork tacos, and bacon mac & cheese, satisfying a variety of tastes. This spacious and warmly decorated bar boasts 16 high-definition TVs, including a massive 7-foot screen, providing an immersive experience for sports fans who gather to watch their favorite teams. With a stellar selection of draught and bottled craft beers—ranging from 19 rotational beers on tap to about 30 craft bottles and cans—the drink options are both plentiful and carefully curated. Blue Haven East also welcomes guests for brunch with popular items like Stuffed French Toast, Eggs Benedict, and their famous Chicken & Biscuits. The venue features casual, trendy décor with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer street views, and it accommodates groups for private events in a semi-private room. From happy hour specials running daily until 7 PM to hosting launch parties and corporate gatherings, Blue Haven East is an excellent spot to meet up with friends for great food, drinks, and an engaging atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Blue Haven East
As of recent, Blue Haven East holds a 4.2-star rating based on 268 reviews.
User reviews of Blue Haven East reflect a generally positive experience that has secured the bar a solid 4.2 out of 5 rating based on 268 reviews. Many patrons praise the quality of the food and drinks, highlighting the creativity and flavor of the modern gastropub menu as a standout feature. Positive reviews commonly mention the lively and welcoming atmosphere, with guests appreciating the ample seating, large HDTVs for sports viewing, and the friendly, attentive bar staff, including individual shoutouts like that for staff member Abby, which add to the neighborhood vibe. The extensive beer selection and reasonable pricing also attract appreciative comments. On the less favorable side, some reviewers note occasional issues with management's responsiveness and staff conduct, which can detract from the overall experience. Despite these isolated concerns, the majority of feedback is enthusiastic about the bar's ambiance, service, and the quality of the food and drinks. In conclusion, Blue Haven East is viewed as a valuable addition to the Kips Bay area, offering a perfect blend of craft beer pub charm and upscale sports bar excitement that appeals to locals and visitors alike, making it an excellent destination for social gatherings and watching sports events.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Steven Moreta
I haven’t had the food so I can’t comment on that but the Bartender was attentive, quick, and cool. Great place to watch the Knicks games. The bathroom has hilarious scenes from The Office so bonus points for that
Jamie L
I've visited Blue Haven a few times, and it's a lively sports bar that's perfect for college football and NFL fans. The atmosphere is energetic, especially during game days when the place gets packed. It's an excellent spot to hang out with friends, and the service is consistently solid. The crowd is on the younger side. The food is great, and I highly recommend trying the buffalo chicken wrap paired with waffle fries - it's absolutely delicious! The prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the experience. I definitely plan on returning!
Queen L
The Bartender Takiyah is the best. Very sweet, easy to talk to and makes sure everyone is good with any and everything!! I appreciate that when I go out. Thank you so much for your Excellent service
Maddy A
Awesome food, friendly/attentive staff, and quick service. They have ample outdoor seating. It was easy to get a table for Sunday brunch even though they were crowded. The servers are friendly and were very attentive the whole time we were there. We enjoyed our meals. Will definitely be back!
Briana Fahey
It takes a special bar to make me overcome my deep hatred of The Office. Went here on a whim with some buddies and had a great time! Super friendly staff (who seem to know every food joint in the city—thanks for the recs!) and strong pours. Would recommend for a chill place to hangout or watch a game.
How to reach Blue Haven East
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Website: None
Why Blue Haven East may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Blue Haven East with your friends?
When looking for the perfect spot to gather with friends or family, Blue Haven East in Murray Hill, New York City, stands out as an ideal venue. Its inviting atmosphere makes it more than just a typical bar; it’s a vibrant social hub where conversation flows as easily as the drinks. Whether you want to unwind after a long day or celebrate a special occasion, Blue Haven East offers a welcoming environment that encourages connection. The combination of modern gastropub fare, a stellar selection of craft beers, and an energetic ambiance creates a space where everyone can feel at home. Its location in a lively neighborhood, close to iconic Midtown landmarks, makes it extremely convenient, yet it feels like a cozy retreat from the city's hustle. Also, the bar stays open until 4:00 AM, allowing your group plenty of time to relax and enjoy. With a solid rating of 4.2 from hundreds of reviews, Blue Haven East has proven its reputation as a top choice for both casual meetups and planned gatherings. This is a place where memories are made and good times thrive, making it a natural choice for your next social rally.
What activities can we enjoy at Blue Haven East?
Blue Haven East offers a range of activities and experiences that make it perfect for a group meetup. At its core, it balances the energy of an upscale NYC sports bar with the quality and sophistication of a gastropub. This means you can cheer on your favorite sports teams on large screens with your friends while indulging in gourmet takes on traditional bar food. The environment is lively without being overwhelming, which means groups can chat comfortably over hearty meals and creative cocktails. The bar’s extensive draft and bottled craft beer selection draws those who appreciate quality brews, offering plenty of options to suit varied tastes. For those who want to keep the energy high, there are often specials and happy hours lasting well into the evening, making drinks and food more affordable to enjoy. The spacious bar and semi-private event room also accommodate private parties such as birthdays or corporate gatherings, allowing groups to tailor their experience. Whether your group prefers watching a big game, enjoying a casual dinner, or celebrating an event, Blue Haven East provides the perfect setting and activities to match your mood.
How does the food and drink enhance the group experience?
The food and drink offerings at Blue Haven East significantly elevate the group meetup experience. Their menu features modern gastropub fare, which means familiar comfort foods are reinvented with a fresh twist, pleasing a wide range of palates. It’s the kind of cuisine that encourages sharing and trying different dishes within your group, bringing people closer together over shared plates. Beyond just taste, the presentation and quality make meals feel special and satisfying. Couple that with their “stellar selection” of craft beers, including several draught options, and the drinks become a conversation starter in themselves. Happy hour specials with discounts on beer, wine, seltzers, and cocktails make it easy to keep the drinks flowing without worry. For groups that enjoy a culinary challenge, Blue Haven East previously featured massive breakfast challenges—finish the huge plate quickly, and it’s yours free—adding a fun and competitive edge to dining. This kind of food and beverage variety caters to many tastes and makes a meetup feel like an event worth planning for.
Why is Blue Haven East’s atmosphere a draw for group meetups?
The atmosphere at Blue Haven East is a critical reason why it draws groups looking to spend quality time together. The bar’s design and vibe strike a balance between upbeat sports bar energy and warm, inviting gastropub comfort. This blend creates a space that feels lively yet intimate enough for meaningful conversations. The decor is notable for being unique and stylish, which often translates to positive guest impressions and photo-worthy moments with friends or family. The friendly and attentive service, often highlighted by patrons, ensures everyone in the group feels well taken care of, which can be a crucial factor in choosing where to host a gathering. Sports fans find it particularly appealing, with the bar frequently showcasing rugby, basketball, and other major games that add excitement to the visit. Moreover, the late-night hours let groups linger without being rushed, fostering that relaxed but fun vibe essential for memorable meetups. Altogether, the combination of ambiance, service, and entertainment value makes it a destination rather than just another bar.
What makes Blue Haven East suitable for private events or special occasions?
Blue Haven East is very well suited to hosting private events or special occasions, which makes it particularly appealing for groups wanting a controlled, private environment within a lively city setting. The bar offers a spacious main area as well as a semi-private event room, giving organizers flexibility depending on the size and nature of their gathering. Whether it’s a birthday party, corporate event, movie screening, or a casual launch party, Blue Haven East can accommodate various needs with tailored food and drink menus that maintain the bar’s high standards. The staff are experienced in managing groups, ensuring that parties run smoothly and that guests feel comfortable and engaged. The combination of modern amenities and a warm, inviting interior creates a unique setting that steps beyond the typical conference room or event hall. This means groups can celebrate in style without losing the casual, social feel that makes such events enjoyable. Overall, Blue Haven East’s ability to blend private, customizable service with its signature gastropub atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for any special group occasion.
How accessible and convenient is Blue Haven East for group meetups?
Accessibility and convenience are essential factors when selecting a meetup venue, and Blue Haven East scores highly on both counts. Situated in the Murray Hill neighborhood at 493 3rd Avenue, the bar is within walking distance of major NYC landmarks like the Empire State Building and Grand Central Terminal. This central location makes it easy for friends or family members coming from various parts of the city or beyond to convene without hassle. The bar’s hours extend into the early morning, closing at 4:00 AM, which is a significant advantage for groups that want to keep going after typical dinner or entertainment hours. Additionally, its placement on a bustling avenue ensures it is well-served by public transport, cabs, and rideshares, giving everyone options for easy arrival and departure. For those who enjoy spending full evenings out, the convenience combined with the versatility of food, drink, and entertainment means Blue Haven East can serve as the sole destination rather than needing to move elsewhere afterward. This kind of accessibility helps reduce stress in planning and encourages more frequent meetups.
What do reviewers say about the group experience at Blue Haven East?
Reviewers consistently praise Blue Haven East for its great atmosphere, friendly service, and quality food and drinks—all vital ingredients for a successful group meetup. Comments often highlight the bar’s balance between a sports bar vibe and gastropub sophistication, making it both fun and comfortable for groups with varying interests. Visitors appreciate the extensive beer selections and modern twists on traditional bar favorites, noting that the food is often above the usual pub standard. Many reviewers mention memorable experiences with friends, such as watching basketball games together or enjoying special menu items like the “Chicken and Biscuits.” The bar’s welcoming staff, particularly standout bartenders like Abby, also get frequent mentions, enhancing the social experience. The late-night hours and lively environment help groups feel at ease, encouraging long visits. Some reviews celebrate specific events like birthday parties or private gatherings, underscoring Blue Haven East’s suitability as a versatile venue. Overall, customer feedback supports the idea that Blue Haven East is a reliable, enjoyable choice for bringing friends and family together.
What makes Blue Haven East different from other sports bars or pubs in NYC?
Blue Haven East differentiates itself among NYC sports bars and pubs by combining the best of several worlds in one place. Unlike typical sports bars that focus mostly on drinks and TVs, Blue Haven East adds a gastropub dimension with modern, thoughtfully crafted fare elevating the dining experience. This makes it attractive to groups who value both quality food and an active social setting. The bar features a wide selection of craft beers, attracting beer aficionados, which is not always a given in sports-focused venues. Its location in Murray Hill, away from some of the busier nightlife hubs but still centrally accessible, offers a quieter, more neighborly environment that can appeal to locals and visitors alike. The establishment’s willingness to host private events with a customized approach also sets it apart, catering well to groups with specific plans. Furthermore, the emphasis on friendly, personalized service creates a welcoming atmosphere that differentiates Blue Haven East from some larger or more impersonal bars. These combined factors make Blue Haven East a standout choice for those wanting more than just a screen and a drink.
How can you make the most of your meetup experience at Blue Haven East?
To maximize your meetup experience at Blue Haven East, consider planning around some of its unique offerings and atmosphere. Arriving during the happy hour (10:30 AM to 7 PM) lets your group take advantage of discounts on beers, wines, seltzers, and well liquors, stretching your budget further. Sharing plates of their popular gastropub dishes encourages interaction and adds a communal feel to your gathering. Be sure to check if any games are on the large screens if your group enjoys sports — watching together creates a lively, engaging backdrop. Booking a semi-private or private event space is an excellent idea for larger parties or special celebrations, providing space for your group to truly make the place your own. Lastly, interacting with the bartenders and staff, who are known for their friendly and accommodating manner (especially the widely praised bartender Abby), can enhance your visit with personalized service or drink recommendations. By leveraging these facets, your time at Blue Haven East can become a memorable occasion beyond a typical night out.
In summary, Blue Haven East combines convenience, atmosphere, thoughtful cuisine, and excellent drink choices to create a perfect spot for friendly gatherings. Its versatile spaces and welcoming vibe make it an outstanding choice for groups seeking fun, comfort, and quality all under one roof.