When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Carlow East
Why Carlow East is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Carlow East is a vibrant Irish bar located in New York City that has carved out a unique niche as the official Seattle Seahawks fan haven in the city. Known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, it provides an inviting space for friends and sports enthusiasts to gather and enjoy good company. The establishment features numerous screens to ensure patrons never miss a moment of the game, making it a prime spot for Seahawks fans to rally together. Beyond sports, Carlow East stands out for its dedication to community and charity work, creating a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie among its guests. The bartenders are celebrated for their friendliness and attentiveness, often praised for their ability to maintain great vibes and keep drinks flowing. While the bar's decor is described as modest, it is the warm, lively experience and genuine hospitality that truly define Carlow East. Open daily from morning until early hours, the venue offers accessibility including wheelchair-friendly facilities, enhancing its appeal as a comfortable local staple on the Upper East Side. For those looking to meet up with friends, cheer on the Seahawks, or simply enjoy a chill Irish bar atmosphere with excellent drinks and a strong community feel, Carlow East is an excellent destination.
Here's what people think of Carlow East
As of recent, Carlow East holds a 4.3-star rating based on 530 reviews.
Reviews of Carlow East consistently highlight the establishment's warm and friendly atmosphere as a major draw, with many patrons appreciating the welcoming staff and social vibe that encourages new friendships and memorable moments. Positive feedback often centers on the attentive bartenders who ensure drinks are served promptly and prices remain reasonable, alongside the abundance of screens which caters perfectly to sports fans wanting to follow Seattle Seahawks games. The bar's commitment to charity work and community involvement also resonates strongly with many visitors, enhancing the sense of a true neighborhood gathering spot. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention instances of poor service and rudeness from staff, which have detracted from the overall experience for a few guests. Despite this, the majority of reviews tend to reflect satisfaction with the venue as a whole, describing Carlow East as a reliable place for relaxed socializing and sporting events. In conclusion, while occasional service complaints exist, the positive aspects of friendly ambiance, excellent game-day coverage, and inclusive community spirit contribute to Carlow East's solid 4.3-star rating and popularity among locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Edward Nugent
Didn’t try the food, but their pint of Guinness is one of the best I’ve had in quite a while. Clean crisp pour; took their time drawing it. A pure taste that shows the place has good clean lines.
Geoffrey Hart
Came in to sit a while and enjoy a refreshment after walking all day. Found the most delightful pub that was being overseen by a charming and inviting bar keep. Perfect experience. If we are back on the East side... we'll be stopping for another round.
liam kilroy
Frank made our time at the Carlow amazing. He was fun with the guests and honestly took our 20 minute stop in and turned it into an hours long hang out. Even though it was our first time coming in to the Carlow he made us feel at home and like we have been there 1000 times before. We will be back for sure.
Dimitri Ivanoff
Perfect place to have a drink before diving into MET or just relax after visiting everything around 90th Street. Can't comment on food (didn't notice a kitchen) but drinks are perfect & won't break a bank, especially for rail cocktails. Under $10 per drink - really good for NYC. Recommend: gin-tonic & gin Rickey.
Brian Gillespie
One of my favorite Irish Bars in NYC. Great Guinness, wonderful bartender, and very friendly environment.
How to reach Carlow East
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Why Carlow East may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Carlow East with your friends?
Carlow East stands out as an ideal gathering spot for friends seeking a relaxed yet vibrant place to reconnect and create memories. Nestled in New York City’s Upper East Side, this pub combines the charm of a neighborhood staple with the energy of a welcoming social hub that embraces both casual visitors and loyal regulars. Its 4.3-star rating, based on over 500 reviews, signals consistent satisfaction among patrons who appreciate its friendly atmosphere and great service. The venue’s openness — from 10 AM to 4 AM daily — allows flexibility for meetups at nearly any hour, whether it’s an afternoon hangout or a late-night celebration. Importantly, Carlow East strikes a perfect balance between being lively enough for socializing and sufficiently laid-back to facilitate genuine catch-up sessions. The inviting vibe makes you feel at home yet part of a larger community, encouraging groups to linger, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company without pressure or fuss. For friends craving a straightforward, no-frills setting with good drinks, warm staff, and a welcoming crowd, rallying here is both a comfortable and memorable choice.
What activities can you enjoy at Carlow East?
At Carlow East, visitors are treated to more than just drinks; the venue offers a pleasant blend of activities that cater perfectly to groups. The bar features an extensive selection of beverages including beer, cocktails, spirits, and wine, ensuring everyone can find something tailored to their taste. For beer lovers, variety is key — from classic Irish brews to local favorites like Kona Golden Ale, which is well regarded by patrons. Beyond sipping quality drinks, guests can engage in bar games such as pool, which regularly becomes a focal point for friendly challenges among friends. This interactive element encourages camaraderie and adds an engaging dynamic to the evening, whether you’re a competitive player or just having fun. The casual, cozy setting is conducive to conversation and laughter, supported by attentive service that keeps the experience smooth and enjoyable. Additionally, the venue occasionally screens sports, making it an appealing choice for groups that want to combine watching a game with social interaction. Together, these activities create an atmosphere where groups can unwind, bond, and enjoy varied entertainment within one welcoming spot.
Why is Carlow East perfect for a group meetup?
Carlow East excels as a group meetup destination due to its thoughtful blend of atmosphere, amenities, and accessibility. Its layout accommodates both small and larger groups comfortably, providing enough seating and social space to gather without feeling cramped. The venue offers wheelchair accessibility, making it inclusive and convenient for everyone in a group. Parking options, while limited to paid street parking, are relatively straightforward given its Upper East Side location. Moreover, the bar’s long hours accommodate diverse schedules, from early meetups to late-night celebrations. The crowd generally consists of locals and tourists alike, fostering a lively yet friendly environment that eases socializing across different groups. Importantly, Carlow East’s staff is renowned for their welcoming attitude and fast, efficient service, reducing wait times and adding to the overall positive experience. Groups can also bring outside food, a rare convenience that allows for customizable gatherings depending on preferences and dietary needs. Whether planning a casual catch-up, a happy-hour retreat, or an after-hours party, Carlow East’s combination of practical features and warm vibe makes it a standout choice.
What kind of vibe and crowd can you expect at Carlow East?
Carlow East presents a cozy, casual ambiance that appeals to a diverse mix of patrons, making it an inviting place to unwind or energize a social outing. The vibe is relaxed yet lively, shaped by a neighborhood feel that invites familiarity while remaining vibrant enough to attract new visitors. The crowd generally includes groups of friends, locals enjoying their routine spots, and tourists seeking an authentic New York bar experience. This mix creates a welcoming melting pot where strangers can easily strike up conversations and regulars are made to feel at home. The aesthetic includes subtle Irish inspirations like hanging flags and neon beer signs, hinting at its pub roots without overwhelming the modern urban setting. Reviews highlight the venue’s cleanliness and the staff’s friendly demeanor, both of which contribute to the comfortable atmosphere. Whether it’s a casual weekday visit or a bustling weekend night, the bar’s mood encourages connection and enjoyment without pretense, making it ideal for social gatherings of various sorts.
How convenient is Carlow East for visitors?
Convenience is a strong attribute of Carlow East, enhancing its appeal as a meetup spot. Its central location at 1254 Lexington Avenue situates it well within the Upper East Side, an accessible and familiar neighborhood for many New Yorkers as well as visitors. Public transportation options nearby and the well-connected streets make arriving and departing straightforward. The venue offers multiple service options such as dine-in and takeaway, allowing flexibility whether groups want to sit and chat for hours or grab drinks on the go. Payment methods are diverse, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and hassle-free. Additionally, the presence of clean, well-maintained restroom facilities and a bar onsite contributes to overall comfort during visits. Since the venue opens early and closes only at 4 AM, it fits a variety of schedules — from early lunches to late-night wind-downs. These practical considerations, paired with the welcoming atmosphere, make Carlow East not only enjoyable but easy and stress-free as a social destination.
What food and drink options can groups enjoy together?
While primarily known as a bar, Carlow East offers a solid range of food and drink options that complement group gatherings. The menu includes happy-hour specials featuring drinks that help keep the mood festive without breaking the bank. Drink selections span beer, cocktails, wine, and spirits, ensuring that group members with varied tastes will find something satisfying. The presence of bar games like pool and the casual vibe encourages savoring drinks leisurely over long conversations and friendly competition. Although the venue allows outside food, providing an additional layer of customization for groups wanting to bring snacks or meals from nearby places, it also serves its own food options suitable for a bar environment. This flexibility is a valuable asset for groups with diverse dietary preferences or those who enjoy pairing their drinks with favorite treats. The combination of quality beverages, approachable food choices, and a relaxed setting makes Carlow East a smart choice for groups to enjoy both refreshment and recreation in one spot.
How does Carlow East accommodate different group needs and preferences?
Carlow East thoughtfully caters to various group needs with a variety of inclusive and practical features. The space is designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all guests can comfortably join gatherings without barriers. The casual nature of the bar allows for both quiet conversations and lively celebrations, meeting the expectations of different social moods within one visit. For groups who value convenience, the venue’s long opening hours offer the freedom to plan meetups at times that suit everyone, from early meet-and-greet coffees to late-night toast sessions. The friendly and attentive staff help tailor the experience, whether it’s recommending drinks or accommodating special requests that enhance group enjoyment. Additionally, the acceptance of outside food means groups with particular culinary preferences or dietary restrictions can still fully participate without compromise. This adaptability, combined with the welcoming vibe and central location, makes Carlow East a versatile venue that respects and embraces the distinct dynamics of each group that walks through its doors.