When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Chez Messy
Why Chez Messy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Chez Messy stands out as an exceptional destination for friends seeking an engaging and stylish place to meet in the heart of Washington Heights, Manhattan. This tapas restaurant and bar excels at combining a lively atmosphere with culinary creativity, featuring a unique fusion of Latin and French-inspired small plates. The dimly lit, sultry 1200-square-foot space offers an intimate dining experience with its eclectic décor — from hand-painted vibrant murals and playful neon lights to antique mirrors, hardwood floors, and plush seating. Guests can enjoy both the cozy main dining floor and a charming balcony lounge, with the added option of seasonal outdoor dining that accommodates groups up to 16. Highlights include a thoughtfully curated wine list and innovative craft cocktails, which perfectly complement the menu's diverse flavors. Regular events add to its dynamic vibe: customers can participate in the popular Bottomless Margarita Brunch every weekend or experience free live Flamenco shows every Wednesday night, featuring authentic dancers, vocalists, and Spanish guitar. Open mainly from Wednesday through Sunday with flexible dining hours and accommodating walk-ins or reservations, Chez Messy invites visitors to savor a spirited hospitality experience that balances quality food, drinks, music, and art, making every visit memorable.
Here's what people think of Chez Messy
As of recent, Chez Messy holds a 4.7-star rating based on 213 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Chez Messy for its vibrant and inviting ambiance, often highlighting the restaurant's eclectic and artistic interior design that creates a memorable dining backdrop. Many reviewers appreciate the quality and creativity of the tapas, noting the successful blend of Latin and French flavors that offers a distinctive culinary experience. Positive feedback frequently mentions the attentive and friendly service, alongside the impressive selection of craft cocktails and curated wines that elevate the meal. The weekend Bottomless Margarita Brunch and Wednesday night live Flamenco performances receive particular acclaim, described as unique and enjoyable events that enhance the overall appeal. Conversely, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as limited seating capacity making reservations essential during busy times, and a few customers mention variability in wait times or service speed. A minor subset expressed that certain menu items might be pricier compared to other casual eateries, but generally feel the quality justifies the expense. In summary, the majority of reviews portray Chez Messy as a top-rated spot for both casual and special gatherings, with the engaging atmosphere, excellent drinks, flavorful food, and unique entertainment contributing to its 4.7-star rating from over 200 reviewers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Onidis Dominguez
Can’t wait to go back! This little place is a hidden gem. Antonio and his staff paid attention to details and made our night stand out. We arrived on a Wednesday during happy hour. All of the tapas plates and desserts were delicious. Their cocktails were well crafted. The atmosphere was lively and fun. This particular evening, they had a great salsa band perform. Everything was so enjoyable. We had a great time. Would definitely recommend.
ray fandi
Absolutely 5 stars! 🌟 From the moment we walked into Chez Messy, we were welcomed with open arms by the incredibly warm and friendly staff— Ray, Antonio, and Joshua made sure we felt like family the entire time. Their hospitality is next level; they were attentive without being overbearing and took the time to recommend the best dishes and cocktails to suit our tastes. The tapas here are a dream, and the location is perfect for a relaxed evening out or a special celebration. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and just bursting with authentic taste. If you’re a fan of grilled meat, the churrasco is hands down the best I’ve had in Washington Heights—tender, juicy, and seasoned to perfection. It’s worth coming just for that! Let’s talk cocktails— wow. These aren’t your typical drinks. Each one is beautifully crafted, perfectly balanced, and creative in a way that makes each sip an experience. From the first to the last, they kept surprising us with unique flavors and combinations that hit all the right notes. You *have to try them! All in all, Chez Messy has definitely earned a loyal customer in me. The food, the drinks, and the service were top-notch. Highly recommend this gem in Washington Heights—you won’t be disappointed! 🙌🏼
Ashley Palumbo-Adames
I came to Chez Messy for the first time last week to celebrate my best friends 40th birthday and wow! What a time we had. Every single tapas we ordered was delicious. The cocktails were fresh. The ambiance and service was above and beyond. All of the staff made sure my best friend had a beautiful experience celebrating!!! We will definitely be back soon.
Nick DeStefano
What a gem we stumbled into on a Saturday afternoon. Open view to the kitchen where the chef was pumping out amazing tapas. Cocktails were memorable and exciting. Ownership treated us like regulars. Could not ask for more!
Alisha Carrillo
Everything was phenomenal. From the minute we sat down, they were attentive and sold us on the mofongitos and the shredded beef empanadas. They were so good, but my favorite was the mofongitos, the sweet plantains with everything on it was amazing. My girls and I ordered mojitos and margaritas for drinks and it was so nice and refreshing. I ordered my mojito with no simple sugar and it was still well-balanced and easy to drink.
How to reach Chez Messy
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Why Chez Messy may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chez Messy with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Chez Messy offers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy a vibrant atmosphere combined with flavorful cuisine and lively drinks. This hotspot, proudly boasting a 4.7 rating from over 200 reviews, is renowned for its inviting environment where fun and connection flourish effortlessly. The space itself exudes a blend of casual elegance and spirited energy, making it ideal for a night out or a weekend brunch. Friends can savor exquisitely crafted tapas inspired by French and Spanish flavors, sharing plates that encourage conversation and communal enjoyment. The extensive, curated wine list and creative craft cocktails provide a perfect accompaniment to the meal, elevating the overall sensory experience. What sets Chez Messy apart is not just the quality of food and drink but the ambiance and service that ensure every group feels welcomed and entertained. Whether it's a birthday celebration, a casual meetup, or an after-work unwind session, Chez Messy fosters that special atmosphere that turns any gathering into a memorable occasion. The lively music, attentive staff, and thoughtfully designed space make it a place where friendships are celebrated and new memories are created.
What activities make Chez Messy ideal for group meetups?
Chez Messy offers a variety of activities centered around social dining and engagement perfect for groups. The hallmark activity is sharing their diverse selection of tapas, which encourages ordering multiple small dishes to sample and share. This style of dining promotes interaction and conversation as everyone tries different flavors and dishes together. The restaurant also features a popular bottomless brunch option, where groups can enjoy a two-course meal paired with unlimited margaritas for a set time — an excellent way to start a day with friends in a festive mood. Beyond food, the curated cocktail menu and extensive wine list invite guests to explore tastes and mixology together, often sparking lively discussions or even friendly debates about favorite drinks. The ambient music is carefully chosen to maintain a lively but relaxed vibe that energizes conversations and dancing for those who want to move to the rhythm. Additionally, the restaurant’s welcoming layout and warm, stylish decor create spaces for both intimate chats and larger group celebrations, making it versatile for various meetups. These combined elements create a fun, relaxed, and interactive environment that is perfectly suited for any group looking for a memorable dining and social experience.
How does the food at Chez Messy cater to groups?
Chez Messy specializes in French and Spanish-inspired tapas, which are small, shareable dishes ideal for group dining. This menu design inherently encourages sharing, making every meal a communal experience where friends try a wide variety of flavors. From savory bites with rich textures to light and fresh options, the tapas menu is thoughtfully curated to offer something for every palate, accommodating different tastes within a group. This variety ensures that everyone can find something they love while encouraging adventurous diners to try new dishes without committing to a large portion. The high quality and freshness of ingredients make each dish stand out, from robustly flavored meats and cheeses to vibrant vegetables and expertly crafted sauces. This culinary approach not only enhances the social aspect of dining but also allows for an interactive, dynamic meal that can extend over hours, perfect for catching up with friends or celebrating special occasions. Customers report that the freshness, presentation, and creativity of the food elevate the entire experience, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary shared journey of flavors.
What kind of drinks and beverages can groups enjoy together?
At Chez Messy, the drink selection is crafted with as much care as the food, offering a range of wines, craft cocktails, and specialty beverages tailored to complement the tapas experience. The curated wine list features both French and Spanish wines, providing guests with options that pair beautifully with the menu’s culinary influences. For those seeking something more spirited, the craft cocktails are thoughtfully mixed to feature unique flavors, fresh ingredients, and artful presentation, including standout options like margaritas that are popular during their bottomless brunch. This selection enables groups to sample and toast together, making it easy to find drinks that suit different preferences, from crisp whites and bold reds to creative mixed drinks. The bottomless brunch with included margaritas is particularly noteworthy for groups wanting to indulge and celebrate while enjoying quality food and drink without worrying about the bill. The lively cocktail culture combined with knowledgeable servers who can recommend pairings enhances the overall group experience, turning each visit into a tasting adventure and social delight.
Why is the ambiance and service at Chez Messy perfect for meetups?
Chez Messy’s lively and stylish setting plays a crucial role in making group meetups special. The ambiance strikes a balance between intimate and vibrant, with music that energizes but does not overpower conversation. The interior design features warm colors and elegant touches that create a welcoming yet trendy hideaway feel, ideal for socializing across varied group sizes. Guests often highlight that the music selection perfectly complements the mood—engaging enough to keep the energy high but subtle enough to allow relaxed discussions. Exceptional service further enhances this atmosphere; the staff are often praised for their friendliness, attentiveness, and ability to make everyone feel valued, which is essential in managing larger parties and special occasions. Their willingness to accommodate group needs, facilitate food and drink combinations, and maintain a smooth, enjoyable dining flow helps ensure every gathering is comfortable and memorable. This combination of vibrant ambiance and attentive service means Chez Messy provides an environment where groups can fully relax, engage, and celebrate together.
What practical features support hosting group events at Chez Messy?
Chez Messy is well-equipped to host groups with practical features that facilitate smooth social gatherings. Reservations are recommended and can be made easily through various platforms, ensuring that groups can secure a preferred time and space without hassle. The restaurant offers flexible seating arrangements, allowing both small friend circles and larger parties to be comfortably accommodated. For special occasions, the venue’s private or semi-private areas provide a degree of exclusivity that adds to the celebratory feel. The team is experienced in handling larger groups, offering options like combined vouchers and set menus that simplify ordering for parties, reducing wait times and making budgeting convenient. The bottomless brunch promotion is especially lucrative for groups, providing a festive, cost-effective way to enjoy a meal and drinks together. Accessibility is also a plus, given Chez Messy’s location in New York City’s vibrant neighborhood, making it easy for everyone to gather without long commutes. Together, these features demonstrate that Chez Messy prioritizes group comfort, convenience, and enjoyment.
How does Chez Messy compare to other venues for social gatherings?
Compared to many venues, Chez Messy stands out through its combination of high-quality cuisine, expertly crafted drinks, and a distinctive ambiance that feels both intimate and lively. Unlike generic event spaces or traditional restaurants, Chez Messy’s tapas-style dining naturally fosters sharing and interaction, which can deepen connections among friends and family. Its curated wine and cocktail selection elevate the experience above standard dining, turning meals into mini tasting events. The blend of Spanish and French influences offers a unique cultural twist that many other local spots might lack. Additionally, Chez Messy’s commitment to excellent service and atmosphere ensures guests feel cared for and energized throughout their visit. This makes it a more dynamic choice compared to typical bars or casual eateries, which may not provide the same level of culinary and social engagement. The positive and consistent high ratings, alongside glowing customer feedback, confirm that Chez Messy excels as a destination where social gatherings are both enjoyable and memorable.
What special occasions and group events can Chez Messy accommodate?
Chez Messy is ideal for a wide range of special occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, and casual weekend gatherings. The restaurant’s vibrant yet cozy atmosphere lends itself well to both lively celebrations and low-key get-togethers, making it versatile for different group moods. Special promotions like bottomless brunches provide a festive setting perfect for daytime celebrations that want an added spark of fun. The team’s attention to accommodating group preferences, dietary needs, and timing means events can be personalized and relaxed. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous meetup or a meticulously curated event, Chez Messy’s combination of space, food, drinks, and service makes it well-suited to hosting memorable, stress-free social occasions that guests will remember fondly.
Why is Chez Messy a great choice for food lovers and socializers alike?
Chez Messy successfully balances the art of fine dining with a playful, social environment, making it an excellent choice for food lovers who enjoy sharing meals as well as socializers seeking a lively, welcoming space. Food enthusiasts appreciate the creative tapas crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients, showcasing a fusion of French and Spanish culinary traditions. At the same time, those drawn to energetic social scenes find value in the vibrant atmosphere, music, and drink selections crafted to enhance conviviality. This dual appeal ensures that everyone in the group, whether focused on taste, ambiance, or company, leaves satisfied. The staff’s expertise in pairing wines and cocktails with dishes also benefits those keen to deepen their culinary experience. Ultimately, Chez Messy offers an inclusive and dynamic environment where good food and great company come together seamlessly.