When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Craft+Carry Upper West Side
Why Craft+Carry Upper West Side is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Craft+Carry Upper West Side is a popular craft beer shop and taproom located at 466 Amsterdam Avenue in New York City. With an impressive rating of 4.7 from over 150 reviews, it stands out as a vibrant spot for beer lovers and friends looking to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. The establishment offers a unique combination of a tap room experience and bottle shop convenience, featuring over 16 rotating draft beers on tap and more than 400 different craft beers in cans and bottles. This extensive selection includes a wide variety of craft beers, ciders, and hard seltzers that cater to both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Beyond just beer, guests can also enjoy growlers and crowlers, perfect for taking their favorite brews to-go or sharing at home. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, many of whom pursue Cicerone certification, help patrons discover new favorites and navigate the expansive beer offerings. Open late seven days a week, Craft+Carry Upper West Side provides ample opportunities for casual meetups, whether for a midday visit or late evening gathering. The combination of quality craft beers, welcoming environment, and expert guidance makes it an excellent destination for friends to connect and explore the world of craft brewing together.
Here's what people think of Craft+Carry Upper West Side
As of recent, Craft+Carry Upper West Side holds a 4.7-star rating based on 154 reviews.
Users consistently praise Craft+Carry Upper West Side for its vast and ever-changing selection of craft beers. Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff who are eager to share their expertise and help customers find beers suited to their tastes. Many appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, where both craft beer novices and aficionados feel comfortable. The availability of many local and independent brews, along with the option to enjoy drinks on-site or take them home in growlers and crowlers, is frequently mentioned as a major plus. Customers also enjoy the late opening hours, which provide flexibility for gatherings at almost any time of day. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out that the space can feel a bit cramped during busy times, making it less ideal for larger groups. A few mention that the prices can be on the higher side compared to other beer shops. Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of patrons find the overall experience worthwhile due to the quality and variety of offerings. In conclusion, Craft+Carry Upper West Side is celebrated for its excellent craft beer curation and customer service, making it a favored meetup spot despite occasional space limitations or premium pricing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David Diaz
After a long walk on the Upper West Side, I came across this spot. It was very nice, with a great selection of beers to help beat the heat. I really enjoyed it and will be coming back to get one of those big cans to go. The bartender was very knowledgeable and friendly. The arcade machine was a total plus. I love those things. And the art in the bathroom was also very interesting.
Chuy
I recently visited Craft + Carry on the Upper West Side in New York City with my wife. It was a lovely Tuesday early evening. I am in a mechanical wheelchair & it was accessible. We would prefer the outside but no seats available. There was room in the bar. I stay in my chair, my wife on a stool. The staff was very helpful & accommodating. They made sure that we had enough space to move around in my wheelchair & that we could easily access the bar. The staff was helpful & friendly, & they made sure that we were comfortable. We had a great time enjoying the craft beers & the atmosphere. The atmosphere was relaxed. It was a great place to relax and enjoy a few beers. * The beer selection was excellent. We tried a few different beers and they were all delicious. Overall, I had a positive experience at Craft + Carry. I would definitely recommend it to others, especially those who are looking for a wheelchair-accessible craft beer bar with friendly and helpful staff. Now, I am pretty sure later in the evening and in weekends it gets crowded. In that case, it will be difficult to move around.
Krammer Avillan
This is now the second location I visit with craft+carry. Located on the upper west side means up pay the price but when your into craft beer you should expect that. They have a GREAT selection of beers as well as ciders and even a draft section that I didn’t get to snap a photo of but did get the menu of drafts. I will definitely be coming back to this location!
Edward Izzo
14 oz cheater pints aside, this is generally a clean and well-run beer bar. Always interesting options on tap (and in the fridge). Never too loud. Solid place to start an evening.
Michael Bruce
Craft+Carry is a cool craft beer bar located throughout the City. However, the one I went to is on the Upper West Side, which has knowledgeable, kind, and thoughtful bartenders. Craft+Carry’s UWS tap selection is also decent. They have a good variety of different styles of beers. The venue’s ambiance is better than average for a craft beer bar. The only complaint I have is, each beer can they sell in their bottle shop to go, costs as much as each tap beer you buy while sitting in the joint. My advice is, don’t waste your money buying beer cans to go. The prices are exorbitant!! Do yourself a favor and go to Broadway Dive (Broadway and 101 St). They have an awesome selection and the beers to go are priced much more reasonable. Further, find yourself a good grocery store that sells high end craft beer and go there. You’ll save yourself a TON of money!!
How to reach Craft+Carry Upper West Side
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Why Craft+Carry Upper West Side may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Craft+Carry Upper West Side with your friends?
Craft+Carry Upper West Side is an ideal spot to gather with friends for an unforgettable social experience centered around craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere. This establishment stands out for its handpicked selection of local, hyperlocal, and independent craft beers, offering both novices and seasoned enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy a diverse beer menu. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a casual meet-up, or simply looking for a relaxed place to unwind together, Craft+Carry delivers a warm, inviting vibe that encourages camaraderie and shared discovery. Its knowledgeable and friendly staff are passionate about beer and eager to help you find new favorite brews, making it a great venue for those who appreciate quality and variety in their drinks. Additionally, the location boasts a dog-friendly policy and a neighborhood gem status, contributing to a laid-back yet lively space perfect for groups. The combination of great beer, helpful service, and a cozy ambiance makes Craft+Carry Upper West Side a top choice for rallying friends and family alike.
What activities can you enjoy at Craft+Carry Upper West Side?
Craft+Carry Upper West Side offers a variety of activities centered around craft beer tasting and social engagement that make it a compelling destination for group gatherings. The core attraction is their impressive rotating selection of over 300 beers from local, independent breweries, featuring a wide array of styles and flavors to explore. This constantly updated inventory ensures that returning groups will always find something new to try, fueling lively discussions and taste comparisons. Guests can enjoy beers on-site at the taproom or purchase to-go, making it flexible for different meetup styles—from casual standing tastings to extended seated hangouts.
Beyond just beer tasting, the location hosts a relaxed neighborhood vibe where guests can play free Skee-ball, adding an element of friendly competition and interactive fun to your visit. This blend of entertainment and artisanal drinks creates a social experience that encourages bonding through shared activity and discovery. The knowledgeable staff, often working towards Cicerone certification, enhance the visit by guiding guests in beer selection, answering questions, and facilitating deeper appreciation, which is perfect for groups wanting to learn more or find something tailored to their tastes. Overall, Craft+Carry balances excellent craft beverages with engaging activities and a spirited ambiance perfect for group enjoyment.
Why is Craft+Carry Upper West Side perfect for group meetups?
Craft+Carry Upper West Side’s qualities align exceptionally well with the needs of group meetups, providing both convenience and a dynamic environment conducive to socializing. Its location in the Upper West Side is accessible, making it an easy destination for friends and family within Manhattan and beyond. The venue’s layout and relaxed atmosphere accommodate groups comfortably, allowing people to mingle and move around while enjoying their drinks.
A standout feature for groups is the versatility in beer offerings—whether you want to sample new microbrews on tap or pick up bottles and crowlers to share. This flexibility supports different meetup formats, from small intimate groups savoring nuanced flavors to larger parties celebrating with a broader selection. The presence of games like Skee-ball injects energy and light-hearted fun, encouraging interaction beyond just conversation and creating memories connected to the place.
Moreover, the staff’s enthusiasm and expertise create an inclusive environment where every guest feels welcome, generating a positive group dynamic. The ability to bring dogs along further broadens its appeal for pet-loving groups, making it feel more like a communal hub than just a bar. In summary, Craft+Carry Upper West Side delivers the ideal blend of accessibility, diverse entertainment, thoughtful service, and customizable craft beer experiences that make it a perfect meetup venue.
How does Craft+Carry cater to craft beer enthusiasts and beginners alike?
Craft+Carry has positioned itself as a haven for both seasoned craft beer lovers and those new to the scene. Their extensive selection of local and independent beers reflects a strong commitment to quality and diversity that appeals to enthusiasts eager to explore the latest trends in brewing. With new breweries emerging daily, Craft+Carry acts as a curator, ensuring customers always have access to innovative and delicious craft beers that might otherwise be hard to find. This dedication satisfies more knowledgeable drinkers who appreciate discovering limited releases and rare styles.
At the same time, the venue fosters an inviting atmosphere for beginners by employing staff who are not only friendly but also educated and passionate about beer. Many are working towards formal certifications in beer knowledge, which means they can offer tailored recommendations, explain flavor profiles, and introduce newcomers to craft beer in an accessible, non-intimidating manner. This approach removes barriers for those unfamiliar with complex beer styles and encourages a wide range of guests to participate in the craft beer culture.
By blending expert guidance with an inclusive attitude, Craft+Carry ensures everyone feels at ease exploring and enjoying craft beers. This mix promotes social learning and shared experiences among diverse groups, making it a great place for varying levels of beer expertise to come together and appreciate the beverage.
What makes the atmosphere at Craft+Carry Upper West Side unique?
The atmosphere at Craft+Carry Upper West Side is distinctively warm, welcoming, and community-oriented, setting it apart from more commercial or impersonal beer establishments. Its reputation as a neighborhood gem speaks to the cozy and friendly vibe that permeates the space, encouraging guests to linger, chat, and connect over craft beers. The staff’s genuine enthusiasm for what they do results in attentive service that feels personal and informed rather than transactional.
The taproom’s design and layout promote a relaxed social setting, where groups can comfortably interact without feeling crowded. Additionally, the dog-friendly policy adds a layer of informality and inclusiveness, making patrons feel like they are in a friendly local hub rather than just somewhere to get drinks. Elements such as the available free Skee-ball game further enhance this approachable feel by encouraging playful, communal activities alongside drinking.
All these factors combine to create an environment that is both lively and laid-back, perfectly suited for enjoying craft beer with friends and family. The atmosphere invites repeated visits and seasonal celebrations, making it more than just a bar but a destination where memories are formed and friendships are deepened.
How does Craft+Carry support local and independent breweries?
Craft+Carry Upper West Side plays an active role in promoting the local and independent brewing community by partnering directly with dozens of small distributors and independent breweries. Their careful curation emphasizes hyperlocal and independent craft beers, reflecting a commitment to supporting artisanal producers rather than mass-market brands. This not only helps smaller breweries gain exposure but also enriches the customer experience by offering a unique beer selection not found in typical stores or bars.
By regularly updating their inventory with new and innovative brews, Craft+Carry helps introduce consumers to up-and-coming breweries and experimental styles, supporting the growth and diversity of the craft beer industry. This dedication aligns with their mission of being more than a bottle shop—they act as a bridge connecting customers with the evolving craft beer landscape.
Moreover, they invest in staff education, sponsoring their team to pursue Cicerone certification, which increases knowledge about beer production, styles, and quality. This expertise enables Craft+Carry to effectively represent the stories and craftsmanship behind each beer, thereby amplifying the value of smaller breweries.
Overall, Craft+Carry functions as a meaningful advocate for local and independent beer makers while providing their customers with curated, high-quality options that celebrate the best of contemporary craft brewing.
What should groups expect in terms of service and staff expertise?
Groups visiting Craft+Carry Upper West Side can expect highly knowledgeable and passionate service from a staff dedicated to enhancing every guest’s beer experience. The team includes “Beertenders” actively pursuing Cicerone certification, a professional credential demonstrating advanced understanding of beer styles, brewing processes, and proper tasting techniques. This expertise means staff can confidently recommend beers tailored to individual or group preferences, guide tastings, and answer detailed questions.
The friendly, welcoming demeanor of the staff complements their skill, assuring guests feel comfortable regardless of their familiarity with craft beer. This balance of professionalism and approachability is ideal for groups that may include a mix of craft beer enthusiasts and newcomers. Staff attentiveness also extends to managing group needs, helping find seating arrangements or facilitating purchases for to-go orders and crowlers.
By fostering this knowledgeable yet personable environment, Craft+Carry enhances social interactions, making group visits both educational and enjoyable. The quality of service thus stands as a core reason why the venue is favored for meetups centered around craft beer.
What amenities and conveniences does Craft+Carry Upper West Side offer for groups?
Craft+Carry Upper West Side provides several amenities and conveniences that enhance the experience for groups looking to host meetups. The establishment offers a substantial inventory of over 300 craft beers, ciders, and hard seltzers, available both for consumption on-site and to-go, giving groups flexibility in how they enjoy their drinks. Options include crowlers and growlers from the taps, supporting shareable servings ideal for groups.
The venue’s operating hours, typically from midday to midnight, allow for a wide range of meetup times, from daytime casual gatherings to evening celebrations. The dog-friendly policy further extends the welcoming environment, appealing to groups who want to include their pets in the outing.
Entertainment options like free Skee-ball add an interactive element that can break the ice and energize group dynamics. The approachable atmosphere combined with these conveniences makes Craft+Carry not just a beer shop or taproom, but a practical and enjoyable space well-suited for various social occasions.
Additionally, the knowledge and passion of the staff ensure that service matches the diverse needs of groups, whether they’re seeking recommendations, assistance with selections, or advice on pairing beers with food.
How does Craft+Carry Upper West Side compare to other craft beer venues?
Craft+Carry Upper West Side differentiates itself from other craft beer venues through its comprehensive approach that combines an extensive, curated beer selection with a genuine commitment to education, community, and customer experience. Unlike places that may focus solely on serving beer, Craft+Carry acts as a curated boutique and taproom hybrid, offering hundreds of rotating options from local and independent breweries.
Its emphasis on staff expertise, including support for employees pursuing Cicerone certification, raises the standard of service and knowledge beyond typical beer bars. This focus ensures patrons receive informed guidance, enhancing appreciation and enjoyment for all levels of beer drinkers.
Furthermore, the inclusion of games like Skee-ball and a dog-friendly policy lends a unique social dimension often missing in more formal or crowded craft beer bars. The neighborhood-oriented, inviting atmosphere positions it as a community hub, making it particularly attractive for groups and frequent visitors.
Overall, Craft+Carry Upper West Side stands out by offering a balanced and thoughtfully crafted environment that caters to both education and entertainment, setting a high bar for craft beer venues.
Why is Craft+Carry a must-visit for beer lovers in Manhattan?
For beer lovers in Manhattan, Craft+Carry Upper West Side is a must-visit destination due to its unparalleled access to a vast and varied selection of craft beers from local and independent breweries. With over 300 beers available and a constantly rotating tap lineup, it provides an ever-evolving exploration opportunity for enthusiasts who want to stay on top of the latest trends and rare offerings in the craft beer world.
Its role as a knowledgeable curator means customers spend less time searching and more time enjoying quality beers, backed by staff who truly understand the product. The approachable atmosphere invites regular visits, whether for casual drinking or educational tastings. Additionally, the location’s convenient Upper West Side setting makes it accessible for Manhattan residents and visitors looking for a neighborhood-focused craft beer experience.
The combination of quality, variety, expert service, and community engagement solidifies Craft+Carry as an essential stop for anyone serious about craft beer in New York City.
How can groups make the most out of their visit to Craft+Carry Upper West Side?
To maximize their experience at Craft+Carry Upper West Side, groups should arrive with an adventurous spirit and openness to explore the wide range of craft beers available. Engaging with the knowledgeable Beertenders is strongly recommended, as their expertise can help identify beers that suit diverse palates and introduce newcomers to exciting new styles. Sampling a variety of beers via flights or smaller pours can facilitate lively group discussions and enable everyone to discover favorites.
Taking advantage of the free Skee-ball game adds an entertaining social activity that complements beer tasting and helps break the ice for groups who may not know each other well. Considering the option to take beers to-go also allows groups to extend their celebration elsewhere if desired.
Groups planning visits should consider timing their meetup during Craft+Carry’s extended hours to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and avoid rush times. Bringing along dogs, if applicable, can enhance the fun and inclusiveness of the gathering.
By combining good communication, active participation in tastings and games, and leveraging staff recommendations, groups can create memorable and enjoyable moments at Craft+Carry Upper West Side.
What future opportunities does Craft+Carry offer to deepen beer appreciation?
Craft+Carry Upper West Side is actively invested in deepening customers’ appreciation of craft beer through ongoing educational opportunities and community-building efforts. As the staff pursue Cicerone certifications, their growing expertise translates directly into enriched guest experiences, including more informed recommendations and the potential for guided tastings or events.
The venue regularly updates its beer selection with innovative brews, inviting customers to stay engaged with emerging trends in the craft beer industry. This dynamic environment encourages repeated visits and continual learning. Additionally, Craft+Carry’s connection to local independent breweries presents opportunities for special collaboration events, brewery meet-and-greets, or exclusive releases that deepen the connection between consumers and producers.
For groups eager to expand their knowledge, participating in tasting sessions or special events—when available—can transform casual visits into immersive educational experiences. Craft+Carry thus positions itself not only as a place to enjoy beer but as a center for craft beer culture and community education.