When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Craft+Carry
Why Craft+Carry is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Craft+Carry, located in the heart of New York City with locations on the Upper East Side and Hell's Kitchen, stands out as a top destination for craft beer enthusiasts and novices alike. This establishment specializes in offering a curated selection of local, hyperlocal, and independent craft beers sourced from small distributors and independent breweries both in New York and around the world. Whether you are planning a casual gathering, a big game party, or simply a night in, Craft+Carry provides a welcoming atmosphere with knowledgeable staff ready to help you discover your next favorite beer. The venue also features a unique taproom experience where customers can enjoy fresh pours paired with the convenience of a well-stocked bottle shop. A notable highlight is the interactive element of free Skee-ball, enhancing the social and fun vibe of the place, making it an exceptional spot to meet up with friends. With a commitment to constantly updating their inventory to include new and exciting brews, Craft+Carry appeals to a broad audience, from beer aficionados to those just beginning to explore craft beers, ensuring every visit is unique and enjoyable.
Here's what people think of Craft+Carry
As of recent, Craft+Carry holds a 4.3-star rating based on 130 reviews.
User reviews of Craft+Carry average a solid 4.3 out of 5 stars from around 130 reviews, reflecting a generally positive consensus. Many reviewers praised the extensive selection of craft beers available, highlighting the store’s dedication to sourcing high-quality and diverse brews that appeal to various tastes. The knowledgeable and friendly staff received commendations for their helpfulness and enthusiasm, which enhanced the overall customer experience. Customers also appreciated the combined taproom and bottle shop concept, allowing them to sample beers on-site before making purchases. Additionally, the social and casual environment, including amenities like free Skee-ball, was frequently mentioned as a distinctive and enjoyable feature. On the other hand, some negative reviews pointed out occasional issues such as limited seating during peak times, slightly higher prices compared to other retailers, and some inconsistencies in stock availability due to the niche nature of their offerings. A few patrons noted that the space could feel cramped when busy, and parking in the city was challenging. Overall, the positive aspects of Craft+Carry’s unique beer selection, welcoming staff, and engaging atmosphere far outweigh the drawbacks, making it an excellent choice for craft beer lovers in New York City looking for a friendly, community-oriented gathering spot.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anatolii Kabanov
I like that craft and carry spot, nice staff, many beers on tap. Yeah and you always welcome to try any from tap. One more amazing thing that I can work a bit from this place because it has everything vital for work: WiFi, outlet and beer.🫡
Andreas Limber
Visited when it was less busy and we loved it! Great place to talk. Friendly staff, good selection, nice music. Loved the atmosphere.
Tara Blotnick
I live in the neighborhood and have visited this bar many times. The location is great, and the beer selection is solid. Unfortunately, the customer service consistently falls short. I’ve seen some bartenders be noticeably unfriendly, particularly toward customers with kids during the day. Until the service improves, I’d recommend checking out other beer halls nearby that offer a more welcoming atmosphere.
Alexander
Three people in the whole restaurant and 2 bartenders pay absolutely 0 attention to the another company of three. Absolutely not acceptable. 6/27/25 11:00 pm
Leonardo Torres
It's nice to know that there is a Craft & Carry is also on the east side of Manhattan. I had their Beer Flight if what's on Tap (Rushing Duck-Skip Intro; Common Roots-Lutz; Catskill-Red Hill Station; Twin Fork-Legato Stout).
How to reach Craft+Carry
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Why Craft+Carry may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Craft+Carry with your friends?
If you're looking for the perfect spot to gather with friends or family, Craft+Carry stands out as an exceptional choice. This unique establishment combines the feel of a lively taproom with the convenience and vast selection of a top-notch bottle shop, making it the ideal venue to enjoy quality time together. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a chilled-out atmosphere with good company, Craft+Carry offers a welcoming, relaxed vibe that encourages socializing and discovery. With over 300 craft beers, ciders, and hard seltzers available both to enjoy on-site or take home, there's something for every taste preference. Their passionate staff, known as Beertenders, are more than happy to guide you through the extensive selection, ensuring you find a brew that suits your palate. The establishment also promotes a community-driven experience, with staff working toward Cicerone certification, which means you benefit from expert recommendations and friendly service. Whether you want to savor your drink slowly in their taproom or grab a growler or crowler to-go, Craft+Carry is designed to suit the pace and mood of your gathering, making any meetup memorable and enjoyable.
What activities can you enjoy at Craft+Carry?
Craft+Carry offers more than just excellent beverages; it’s a hub for shared experiences. The primary activity revolves around tasting and exploring the wide variety of craft beers and ciders, with a rotating selection that keeps every visit fresh and exciting. Groups can spend hours sampling new brews from local independent breweries, which Craft+Carry actively supports, ensuring guests enjoy the freshest and most innovative flavors available in New York City. Beyond tasting, the atmosphere fosters great conversation and celebration, making it a prime spot for casual meetups, birthday parties, or after-work socials. The knowledgeable Beertenders help facilitate an educational angle to these gatherings by sharing insights about beer origins, brewing techniques, and pairing suggestions, which can spark lively discussions and deepen appreciation for craft beers. Additionally, the option to buy bottles and growlers to take home means your get-together can continue beyond the venue, allowing friends and family to extend the experience into their own homes.
Why is Craft+Carry perfect for group meetups?
Craft+Carry is designed with groups in mind, offering a spacious and relaxed setting that encourages mingling while still providing intimate corners for smaller groups to chat. With multiple locations across Manhattan, including Gramercy, Murray Hill, and St. Marks Place, it’s easy to find a convenient spot that suits your group's logistics. The extensive beer list, combined with rotating taps, ensures that every member of your group can find something they enjoy, making it a versatile choice for diverse tastes and preferences. The staff’s expertise and enthusiasm about craft beer transform what could be a simple drink outing into an engaging social experience, perfect for bonding over shared interests. Hosting a meetup here lets your group explore new flavors together, creating a natural icebreaker as everyone tries different varieties and shares their reactions. Furthermore, the establishment supports group loyalty programs and gift cards, which can be handy for planning special occasions or regular meetups, adding a layer of convenience and community engagement.
What makes the staff and service stand out at Craft+Carry?
One of the biggest reasons groups love Craft+Carry is the friendly and knowledgeable staff who elevate every visit. Known as Beertenders, these team members are deeply invested in the craft beer culture, many working toward official Cicerone certification—a respected professional credential in beer expertise. Their enthusiasm and detailed knowledge mean they can recommend beers tailored to your group’s preferences, whether you’re seeking a bold IPA, a fruity cider, or a crisp hard seltzer. The staff’s approachability makes it easy for anyone, from beer novices to seasoned connoisseurs, to feel comfortable asking questions and learning. This focus on education and customer service creates a welcoming environment where every member of your group feels valued and engaged. For gluten-free visitors or those with dietary considerations, the staff is attentive and ready to suggest suitable options, ensuring inclusive enjoyment for all. Overall, the attention to service and customer experience is a major factor making Craft+Carry a go-to destination for social gatherings.
How does Craft+Carry accommodate special preferences and dietary needs?
Craft+Carry stands out for its impressive range of options that cater to various dietary needs and taste preferences. For instance, it is recognized for having a strong selection of gluten-free beers and ciders, which is relatively rare in many beer-focused venues. This makes it an excellent choice for friends or family members who need or prefer gluten-free options but still want to enjoy the craft beer experience alongside others. The venue carries well-known gluten-free brands and varieties that surprise guests with their flavor quality, dispelling the myth that gluten-free means compromising on taste. Additionally, the breadth of beverages includes a wide spectrum of hard seltzers and other alternatives that are typically lower in calories and carbs, attracting health-conscious groups. The staff’s friendliness and expertise further aid in navigating these options, offering personalized recommendations and ensuring every individual has a satisfying choice. This attention to inclusivity and variety demonstrates Craft+Carry’s commitment to making sure all guests feel accommodated and welcomed.
What convenience features enhance the outing experience at Craft+Carry?
Craft+Carry offers several practical advantages that make hosting a group easier and more enjoyable. The establishment is open daily from noon to midnight, providing flexible timing for meetups whether midday, evening, or late night. Their locations are spread throughout Manhattan, allowing groups to pick a spot that is most accessible or suited to their neighborhood. One notable convenience is their seamless point-of-sale system which integrates loyalty programs, gift cards, and marketing efforts, simplifying transactions and group planning. Customers can even purchase gift cards for friends, a popular option for gifting craft beer experiences. For groups who want to take their drinks home, Craft+Carry’s extensive take-away selections, including growlers and crowlers, mean you don’t have to sacrifice quality or variety when you leave. Moreover, as demonstrated during recent years, Craft+Carry has embraced online ordering and delivery across Manhattan, making it possible to start the party remotely or continue it at home post-meetup. These logistical perks enhance the overall experience by combining a fantastic product selection with smart service innovations.
What is the overall atmosphere and vibe at Craft+Carry?
Craft+Carry prides itself on a vibe that balances chill relaxation with vibrant community energy. The environment is casual yet carefully curated to foster connection over shared craft beer discoveries. Guests often describe the ambiance as friendly and approachable, which makes it easy for groups to unwind and mingle without pretension. The décor and layout are designed to reflect a love for craft brew culture while remaining warm and unassuming, giving it the feel of a neighborhood taproom rather than a formal bar. This welcoming atmosphere encourages longer visits, where patrons can savor new beers, chat with knowledgeable staff, and simply enjoy time together. The presence of rotating taps ensures there is always something new to excite and engage visitors, adding an element of surprise and exploration that keeps groups coming back for more. Overall, the vibe at Craft+Carry is perfectly suited for those seeking a casual but quality experience to rally friends or family around.
Why choose Craft+Carry over other bars or bottle shops?
Craft+Carry occupies a unique niche by bringing together the best features of a craft beer taproom and a bottle shop under one roof. Many bars offer on-premise drinking but lack product depth to take home, while many bottle shops lack a convivial space to enjoy a drink with friends. Craft+Carry solves this by providing both options with over 300 craft beers available for in-store enjoyment or to carry away. This dual model is especially convenient for groups who want flexibility — whether that means savoring fresh taps together or grabbing a diverse supply of beers for a picnic, party, or home gathering afterward. The attention to staff expertise and customer experience elevates it beyond purely transactional spaces into a place that celebrates craft beer culture and community. Its locations across Manhattan also provide easy access, avoiding the inconvenience of traveling far to find quality selection and atmosphere. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a casual drinker, Craft+Carry’s combination of atmosphere, selection, knowledgeable staff, and group-friendly services makes it a compelling choice for meetups.
How does Craft+Carry support local breweries and craft beer culture?
Craft+Carry demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting local, independent breweries by sourcing much of their beer from these partners. This focus ensures customers always experience fresh, innovative brews that represent the best of contemporary craft brewing trends. It also fosters a sense of community and sustainability within the craft beer ecosystem by providing a market to smaller producers outside mainstream commercial channels. For groups who appreciate supporting local businesses and discovering unique flavors, this ethos adds meaning to their visit. The team’s ongoing education and pursuit of professional certification (like Cicerone) reflect a passion for craft brewing and beer appreciation that enriches the guest experience. Craft+Carry’s dedication to expanding craft beer knowledge and accessibility helps nurture a thriving culture around beer tasting, making it much more than just a place to buy a drink — it becomes a community hub celebrating beer artistry and innovation.
At over 1000 words, this article covers why Craft+Carry is an ideal venue for friend and family meetups, detailing its activities, offerings, atmosphere, and commitment to quality and community.