When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
e's BAR
Why e's BAR is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
e's BAR is a beloved neighborhood spot located at 511 Amsterdam Avenue between 84th and 85th streets on the Upper West Side of New York City. With a welcoming dive-bar vibe tailored for grown-ups, it blends casual comfort with an upscale touch, making it an ideal place for friends to meet, relax, and have fun. The bar offers a well-rounded experience with good food, a full liquor license, and a wide range of drinks. Notably, e's BAR features a full kitchen known for its mouthwatering burgers made with grassfed beef, shishito peppers, green beans, and other tasty bar snacks that include gluten-free and vegetarian options. The bar is especially known for its $5 happy hour burger deal on weekdays, attracting locals looking for good value and great taste.
Beyond the food and drinks, e's BAR stands out for its lively atmosphere enhanced by a curated music selection that pays homage to iconic New York City rock bars from the 1960s through the 1990s. Patrons enjoy a nostalgic rock soundtrack while engaging in board games available for free play, adding an interactive social element that fosters community and fun. The bar hosts a friendly and attentive team that actively maintains the game collection and assists guests, creating a comfortable environment where visitors can unwind. Whether stopping by for an early drink, a late night hangout until 2 AM on weekends, or enjoying a casual meet-up after work, e's BAR is well-loved for its ambiance, hospitality, and thoughtful touches that make it a standout Upper West Side destination.
Here's what people think of e's BAR
As of recent, e's BAR holds a 4.4-star rating based on 948 reviews.
Reviews from patrons consistently highlight e's BAR as a friendly and vibrant neighborhood establishment with a strong community feel. Guests appreciate the inviting atmosphere that strikes a balance between casual and upscale, making it suitable for both regular hangouts and special occasions. Many reviewers praise the quality and variety of food, particularly the grassfed burgers and the creative bar snacks, which complement the drink selection perfectly. The presence of engaging board games is often mentioned as a unique and enjoyable feature that contributes to the bar’s welcoming vibe.
Positive reviews focus on several key aspects: attentive and personable staff, a well-curated selection of rock music that keeps the atmosphere lively and nostalgic, and the excellent happy hour deals that offer great value. The kitchen’s ability to cater to diverse dietary preferences with gluten-free and vegetarian options is also appreciated. Customers often note that the bar feels like a true neighborhood joint where people come not just for drinks but for a full social experience.
On the downside, some guests have mentioned that the bar can get crowded during peak times, which occasionally affects seating availability and noise levels. A few reviews note that lost or missing board game pieces can sometimes disrupt game play, but the staff’s efforts to maintain the games are acknowledged positively. Some patrons mention that the later hours on weekends can make the space lively but potentially less intimate.
Overall, reviews reflect a highly positive consensus about e's BAR. It successfully blends great food, drinks, and entertainment with a friendly neighborhood ambiance, making it a popular and dependable choice for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed evening or lively night out on the Upper West Side.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tarah Blasi Watson
We LOVE e’s Bar! The drinks are delicious with a ton of varieties, the food is delicious (especially the sliders and French fries!) and the space itself feels like that neighborhood bar you want to be a local in. I celebrated my 40th here and the owner, Erin, helped make it so special! Definitely recommend this place!
Alyssa D. (aly del vee)
A very sad birthday experience :( A warning to those who make birthday plans here-- I am very disappointed by my experience, which is so sad to say because I don't usually judge harshly in my reviews. But being that this was my birthday, and was lied at to my face, it was kind of a bummer. So...What Happened? I chose the upper west side to have my party so my friends wouldn't have to be hit with congestion pricing. E's made it easy online to book a space in their bar, so I reserved for 20 people. I guess that was too easy. When I got there, we were seated at a table in the front of the bar with only 10 seats. When I went up to the person that sat us down, I asked where our other table was because we had a reservation for 20. The response was, "oh people usually just stand around the table if it's more than 10 people". Bro...what?? No where online did it say that. It was my birthday, and I was embarrassed and disappointed. Eventually the folks sitting behind my table moved and my group took over that space but that wasn't until 45 minutes later. We then had a server for my table who promised us a round of shots for the group. I asked 30 minutes later about the shots and he told me no. So not only did we get screwed over by the seating, but the empty promises made it worse. So..Anything Good to Say? The aesthetic is cool. I liked the jukebox they had in the front half. Food was decent too, I have to give it that. If I was introduced to this place with a small group, I would've had a fantastic time. But with a group bigger than 10, and shoving us all in the walkway comes off as stingy business practice. Overall My friends made my birthday special, but I had a hard time fully enjoying myself feeling so embarrassed by inviting all these people and them having to be crowded on standing while they eat. I feel betrayed by this place low key. I don't cause scenes and didn't the other day but the empty promises, and me having to face my friends like this was an awful feeling for me. I’m not trying to be a jerk about it, nor fussy. I love to celebrate businesses and that shows in my many other reviews. I’m way bummed by this experience.
Palesa Molapo
AJ & Franklin are the best!!! This is my new neighborhood bar, and they make it feel like home. If your in the upper west, you're guaranteed to have a great time.
Lorenzo
A great neighborhood bar on the UWS! The vibe at this bar is unbeatable, a perfect blend of chill and lively. The drinks are top-notch, the food is some of the best bar food in NYC, and the team here is simply fantastic - they make you feel right at home. Bonus points for the awesome selection of free board games, adding an extra layer of fun to the experience. Highly recommend for a fun night out!
Luis A
Had a blast here over the weekend celebrating Halloween! This place had great atmosphere super dope vibes! The food and drinks were amazing. The wings and French Fries were so delicious! 10/10 recommended. Our waiter Coby took great care of us the whole time…he was amazing. He deserves a raise! Cheers!
How to reach e's BAR
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Why e's BAR may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When deciding where to gather with friends or family for a memorable night out, e's BAR on the Upper West Side of New York City stands out as a top contender. This neighborhood bar strikes the perfect balance between lively energy and comfortable, welcoming vibes, making it easy for groups to relax and enjoy themselves without feeling overwhelmed. The atmosphere here is inviting and unpretentious, a place where everyone—from longtime locals to first-time visitors—can feel at ease. Beyond just drinks and food, e's BAR offers a unique combination of entertainment options that encourage socializing and genuine connection, such as a wide variety of board games and darts, which make it more than just a typical bar experience. With a strong 4.4-star rating from nearly a thousand reviews, it’s clear this spot consistently delivers great service, delicious bites, and a good time. Whether you want to catch up over craft beers, challenge your friends to a game, or simply enjoy the well-curated rock ’n roll ambiance with portraits of music legends, e's BAR is a place that naturally fosters camaraderie and fun for groups seeking a casual yet vibrant setting.
What activities are available at e's BAR for group meetups?
One of the most compelling reasons to choose e's BAR for a group outing is its extensive offering of activities designed to keep everyone entertained. First and foremost, the bar boasts over one hundred board games, making it a paradise for game enthusiasts and casual players alike. This broad selection allows groups to switch games as the night progresses, deepening engagement and encouraging playful competition. Whether you want to test your strategy skills or enjoy lighthearted fun that breaks the ice, the game collection ensures nobody feels left out. In addition to board games, e's BAR features darts, a popular bar classic that adds an interactive, competitive dimension to any gathering. The space is carefully laid out with cozy booths, nooks, and seating areas, allowing smaller groups to have intimate conversations while still being part of the overall lively vibe. The bar’s friendly staff are attentive and have been praised for creating a welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience for group meetups. These activities combined make it a dynamic and versatile spot where groups can enjoy more than just drinks—they can turn their meetup into an event filled with laughs, challenges, and shared memories.
Why is e's BAR the perfect place to host a group with great food and drinks?
A key appeal of e's BAR lies in its quality food and drink selection, which caters superbly to groups looking to share a meal or toast to an occasion. The menu offers a variety of bar bites and hearty dishes, including standout options such as delicious burgers, house-made pizzas, spicy fries, and quesadillas, all praised for their flavor and consistency. This diversity in the menu ensures that everyone’s tastes can be accommodated, from casual snackers to those who want something more substantial. The drinks menu complements the food perfectly, featuring craft beers on tap, rotating drink specials, and well-crafted cocktails. Many reviewers have noted the drink prices as reasonable, especially during happy hour, making it an accessible choice for larger groups who want to keep the night affordable while still enjoying quality beverages. The combination of great food and well-curated drink options means your group can linger comfortably, sharing bites and drinks, which naturally encourages conversation and bonding. The bar’s distinctive rock ’n roll décor and vibrant atmosphere add an extra layer of character, making dining and drinking here a more immersive and enjoyable social experience.
How does the atmosphere at e's BAR enhance group meetups?
The atmosphere at e's BAR is one of its greatest strengths, fostering a relaxed but lively environment that complements any group gathering. Unlike many neighborhood bars that may feel too crowded or overly "fratty," e's BAR offers a balanced vibe that is both energetic and approachable. The space resembles a clubhouse, with colorful decor featuring portraits of music legends such as Debbie Harry and Cyndi Lauper, contributing to a nostalgic yet fresh ambiance that can spark conversations among guests. The layout—with plenty of seating options including booths and private nooks—allows groups to find their own comfortable space while remaining part of the collective energy. Particularly during the warmer months, the bar opens up its doors to let in fresh air, enhancing the sense of conviviality and openness. Reviews also emphasize the staff's friendliness and attentiveness, which contributes greatly to the warm feeling that groups and families appreciate when spending hours together. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, the charm and comfort of e's BAR’s atmosphere elevate the meetup experience beyond ordinary.
What makes e's BAR a reliable spot for regular group gatherings?
For those seeking a go-to bar for regular meetups with friends or family, e's BAR has earned a loyal local following and reputation for consistent quality. One reason for this repeat appeal is the bar’s dependable offerings: from well-prepared food and tasty drinks to a welcoming, friendly staff that helps groups feel at home. The bar manages to avoid becoming too overcrowded, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more manageable and relaxed environment. Its location on Amsterdam Avenue in the Upper West Side makes it easily accessible, often close to public transit and neighborhood attractions, which helps groups coordinate their outings with ease. Additionally, its innovative use of outdoor dining spaces, including heated tents during colder months, ensures that meetups can continue comfortably year-round—a key consideration for New York City’s variable weather. Regulars note that they often come to know the bartenders by name, suggesting a personable, familiar atmosphere that strengthens social bonds. This combination of consistency, accessibility, and personable service makes e’s BAR a dependable and beloved venue for any group looking for a reliable place to gather frequently.
What should groups expect in terms of value and service at e's BAR?
Groups visiting e's BAR will appreciate the excellent value offered in terms of both pricing and service quality. The drinks, including craft beers and cocktails, are considered reasonably priced, especially during happy hour specials that encourage longer stays without stretching the budget. The food menu complements this well, with portions and flavors that satisfy and impress without being overly expensive compared to other Upper West Side options. Multiple reviews highlight the attentive and friendly staff who go out of their way to accommodate guests’ needs, further enhancing the experience. Even in situations where there might be operational hiccups—such as temporary kitchen issues—staff members have been known to offer complimentary drinks or other gestures to maintain customer satisfaction. This willingness to prioritize guest experience sets e’s BAR apart as a customer-focused establishment. Groups can therefore expect dependable, thoughtful service combined with quality offerings, resulting in a highly rewarding night out.
How does e's BAR accommodate different group sizes and types of meetups?
E's BAR is notably versatile in accommodating a range of group sizes and meetups, from intimate gatherings of a few friends to larger parties celebrating special occasions. The bar's layout, which includes multiple seating arrangements such as cozy booths, bar seating, and quiet corners, allows groups to choose spaces that best fit their needs—whether that means a lively area for animated conversation or a more secluded corner for private discussion. Its collection of board games and darts provides natural icebreakers and entertainment that can adapt regardless of group size, making interaction smooth and inclusive. The bar's manageable noise level and relaxed vibe also support mixed group types like family outings, casual friend reunions, or even informal work meetups. Furthermore, the layout and staff’s accommodating nature make it easier to organize for birthdays or themed game nights, giving groups flexibility in how they host their events. This adaptability ensures that e’s BAR remains an attractive venue for diverse social gatherings, fostering connection and fun for any kind of meetup.
Why is e’s BAR a standout among Upper West Side bars?
Among the multitude of bars in New York’s Upper West Side, e’s BAR stands out because it combines the best attributes many seek but seldom find all in one place. Its carefully curated balance of lively yet approachable atmosphere, diverse entertainment options, solid food and drink offerings, and genuine hospitality creates a uniquely enjoyable experience. Unlike more specialized or niche spots that might focus solely on sports, craft cocktails, or music, e's BAR’s mix of board games, classic bar activities, and rock ’n roll flair appeals broadly to different tastes and moods. Frequent patrons emphasize how it’s a place they return to regularly, partly because it avoids the pitfalls of being too noisy or too quiet, too crowded or too empty. This consistency, combined with the attentive staff and welcoming space, allows e’s BAR to carve a special niche on the Upper West Side, earning its reputation as the neighborhood’s “go-to” bar for groups wanting a fulfilling social night out. The bar’s blend of tradition, fun, and innovation genuinely makes it a standout venue for anyone looking to rally with friends and family.
With its appealing mix of engaging activities, delicious food and drinks, and a warm, accommodating atmosphere, e’s BAR is a prime choice for hosting your next event or casual get-together. Whether you want to compete over board games, enjoy hearty bar bites, or simply catch up in a space that feels like a vibrant clubhouse, this Upper West Side gem promises a rewarding experience for any group seeking fun, connection, and great times together.