When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Faces & Names Bar and Lounge
Why Faces & Names Bar and Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Faces & Names Bar and Lounge, located in Midtown Manhattan, has been a beloved local hangout since 1997, offering a unique retro atmosphere combined with a quirky yet casual vibe. This snazzy bar and lounge provides a welcoming space perfect for meeting up with friends, whether for after-work drinks or a lively weekend night out. The large windows give scenic views of the city skyline while modern art and caricature paintings of celebrities adorn its walls, adding to its distinctive charm. The venue features both a front bar and a cozy back lounge area complete with comfortable booths and a fireplace, making it versatile for small groups or larger gatherings. The late-night kitchen stays open until 2 a.m., serving up eclectic New American fare including highly praised items like their chicken tacos. The bar offers a great selection of draft beers, classic cocktails, and unique holiday drinks like the Big Apple and Cranberry Mule. Friendly, attentive staff enhance the inviting atmosphere, which blends low-key neighborhood bar vibes with bursts of excitement during live DJ nights and weekly Tuesday trivia events. Faces & Names proves to be an ideal place to relax, connect, and enjoy some of Midtown’s best late-night food and drinks.
Here's what people think of Faces & Names Bar and Lounge
As of recent, Faces & Names Bar and Lounge holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1264 reviews.
Reviews for Faces & Names Bar and Lounge consistently highlight its warm and friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite local spot for casual drinks and socializing. Positive reviews often praise the attentive and friendly bartenders, efficient service, and delicious food offerings such as the chicken tacos and eclectic bar menu. Visitors appreciate the comfortable seating options, from bar stools to lounge chairs and booths, along with the pleasant ambiance that balances lively music with the ability to hold conversations. Many guests find the location convenient, tucked away from the hustle of Times Square yet accessible in Midtown. The bar’s late hours and varied drink selection also receive favorable mentions. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional crowding during peak times and variability in food quality and preparation speed. A few reviewers note that some nights are louder or more crowded than others, which may not be suitable for those seeking a quieter experience. However, these critiques do not overshadow the overall positive impression; many repeat visitors express their intention to return because of the consistent friendly service and inviting vibe. In conclusion, Faces & Names remains a standout option in Midtown for those seeking a comfortable, welcoming bar and lounge with good food, drinks, and a retro-chic environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Takara SL
This is definitely a bar and can get lively. The food was delicious and plentiful. It is in a great location. The servers were attentive without being intrusive. Love the happy hour deals.
JOELLYN PERALTA
My friend and I went to their happy hour and it was not a good time. The blonde lady who was serving us was rude. They never came to ask us if we needed anything yet checked up on various table around us. Overall very rude staff. I asked for clarification on their happy hour and she asked me if I knew what I was talking about… also the photo shows what they gave my friend when she asked for a Bellini… do you guys know what YOURE doing? There are better places in the area.
Tommy Hamilton
The food and drinks were excellent and the service at the bar was outstanding. Maritza and Angel are truly great bartenders. They are attentive, friendly, and make you feel welcome the moment you sit down. The cocktails were well balanced and the atmosphere was very enjoyable. This is definitely a spot worth returning to.
YLysergic
This place was recommended to me by a friend. The staff was super friendly and the drinks and food were delicious and reasonably priced!! Annette made the experience 10 times better! She ordered to send a post cars to the friend that recommend the place since they had their engagement party here 20+ years ago! Would come back every night!
Laura Marini
Could just be a function of age, bar was crowded but we got a spot in the back area. Service was quick. Food came fast. Burgers were ok, serviceable. Onion rings were quite good. Beer was good, a bit pricey but it's midtown. Waitresses were nice but sometimes hard to get their attention.
How to reach Faces & Names Bar and Lounge
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Why Faces & Names Bar and Lounge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Faces & Names Bar and Lounge with your friends? Because this Midtown New York City hotspot combines a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere with exceptional food, drinks, and ambiance that make it ideal for group gatherings. Whether you're looking to catch up over specialty cocktails or indulge in delectable small plates, Faces & Names offers a perfect setting that flows seamlessly from lively bar scenes to intimate lounge areas. Its caricatured celebrity artwork on the walls adds a unique visual charm and conversation starter, while the staff’s attentive and friendly service ensures every visit feels personalized. The fact that it’s located just a few blocks from Times Square also makes it extremely accessible for locals and visitors alike. Whether you want to start the evening with casual drinks, enjoy a lively night out, or end with a cozy lounge vibe by the fireplace, Faces & Names accommodates varying group moods and sizes effortlessly. This bar lounge balances an upscale neighborhood feel with unpretentious accessibility, making it a consistently favored destination for diverse friend groups who want an engaging, fun, and comfortable space to rally around.
What activities can you enjoy at Faces & Names Bar and Lounge for a group meetup? The lounge offers vibrant socializing opportunities centered around excellent food, diverse beverage options, and a welcoming layout. Guests can start by gathering around the square bar or one of the two-tops for craft cocktails, draft beers, or classic drinks. The late-night kitchen serves a variety of New American fare, with crowd favorites such as chicken tacos, pork buns, sliders, and buffalo chicken wraps, all served hot and packed with flavor — perfect for sharing with friends. Small plates like soft pretzels and shrimp tacos provide tasty bites for casual nibbling while catching up. The art-filled walls featuring caricatures of celebrities spark playful conversations and games, such as guessing the faces depicted, creating a fun interactive element that engages groups. Decompressing by the back-area lounge with comfy chairs and booths around a fireplace offers a cozy, intimate vibe to relax and continue conversations for hours. This flexible blend of dining, drinking, and lounging activities accommodates both lively and more laid-back group dynamics, making it ideal for any meetup intent.
Why is Faces & Names the perfect venue for a group meetup? Its spaciousness and layout ensure groups of varying sizes can find a comfortable spot that suits their vibe. The front area with the square bar and intimate tables doesn’t overwhelm smaller groups, providing a social yet relaxed drinking environment. In contrast, the back lounge offers cozy booths and lounge chairs around a fireplace — perfect for groups looking to settle in and enjoy longer conversations or a more intimate gathering. The presence of two bars ensures that drink service is efficient even during busy times, reducing wait times and keeping the energy alive. The staff’s remarkable ability to manage multiple tables with attentive service contributes to a welcoming experience ensuring everyone’s needs are met promptly. Additionally, Faces & Names stays open late, so the party can continue well into the night without the pressure of early closing times, making it a dependable spot for all-night meetups. Its location in Midtown New York City means easy access for guests coming from different parts of the city or visiting from out of town.
What makes the ambiance and décor at Faces & Names unique for group gatherings? The bar’s signature feature is its caricatured paintings of famous celebrities adorning the walls. This artistic detail creates a playful and visually stimulating environment far removed from typical bar décor. It not only adds personality but also helps break the ice among guests, especially those who enjoy guessing the portraits or discussing the artistic style. The mix of modern, cozy, and somewhat upscale lounge design elements allows Faces & Names to appeal to diverse crowds—from professionals unwinding after work to friends celebrating special occasions. The fireplace and lounge seating in the back add warmth and an inviting atmosphere that encourages lingering conversations and a sense of intimacy even in a public setting. The bar combines sophistication with comfort, providing an atmosphere that keeps groups feeling both exclusive and approachable. This balance is a big reason Faces & Names remains a popular choice for social meetups: it’s a bar and lounge that fits a variety of moods without trying too hard.
What kind of food and drink options enhance the group experience at Faces & Names? The menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to groups looking to share flavorful dishes that complement an extensive drink list. Its New American fare includes appetizers and small plates like chicken tacos, shrimp tacos, pork buns, sliders, and buffalo chicken wrap — all praised for their hot, fresh, and well-seasoned qualities. These dishes are ideal for groups who want to try multiple items without committing to large entrees, encouraging a communal dining experience. On the drink side, the bar offers craft and draft beers, classic cocktails, and inventive mixed drinks that cater to different tastes, helping to satisfy diverse palates within a group. This attention to quality and variety lifts the social experience, encouraging prolonged visits and making every round of drinks and plates something to look forward to. The late-night kitchen availability also means your gathering can transition smoothly from early evening bites to a late-night feast, accommodating different schedules within the group.
Why do customers praise the staff and service at Faces & Names for group events? Several reviews highlight the friendly, helpful, and efficient nature of the Faces & Names staff, noting that even with limited personnel, the attention to each table and individual guest is excellent. This attentive service is critical during group meetups where multiple orders and drink rounds need to be managed without delay. Guests feel welcomed and cared for, which enhances the overall outing experience and encourages repeat visits. Bartenders and servers are described as knowledgeable and accommodating, willing to make recommendations or adjust drinks and food to suit preferences. This high level of service adds a layer of comfort for groups who want an easy-going night without logistical hassles. Personalized attention supports the dynamic nature of social meetups, making it simple to focus on friends and conversation rather than on ordering or service concerns.
How does Faces & Names’ location contribute to its appeal for group meetups? Situated in Midtown Manhattan, just a few blocks away from Times Square, this lounge benefits from both centrality and accessibility. Its convenient location makes it an ideal meeting spot for friends coming from varied neighborhoods or visitors exploring Manhattan to convene in one familiar, easy-to-find place. Proximity to major subway lines and bus routes further simplifies logistics, reducing the usual challenges of group travel in a dense urban environment. The neighborhood vibe combines the energy of a bustling city area with the comfort of an upscale neighborhood bar, balancing excitement and approachability. The location’s walkability to theaters, restaurants, and nightlife spots means your gathering can seamlessly integrate with other plans, whether catching a show before or winding down after a night out in the city. This strategic position expands options for group activities before or after dining at Faces & Names.
What types of groups or occasions are ideal to host at Faces & Names? Its versatile atmosphere accommodates a range of social occasions from casual catch-ups among friends to small celebrations or even informal business meetups. The space works well for birthday parties, reunion dinners, after-work gatherings, or pre-show meetups given its proximity to entertainment hubs. The artisanal drink menu and shared plates encourage mingling and the relaxed vibe supports both boisterous and quiet conversations, adapting easily to your group's energy. The bar’s late hours mean you can start your party whenever convenient and keep the night going. Groups looking for a fun, stylish, yet unpretentious environment will find face & Names delivers on both comfort and coolness, creating memorable social experiences well-suited for reconnecting and celebrating with friends and family.
In summary, Faces & Names Bar and Lounge offers a compelling combination of great location, welcoming ambiance, excellent food and drink options, and attentive service, making it an exceptional choice to rally your friends or family for a social night out. Its artistic décor, cozy lounge setup, and central Midtown location provide a perfect backdrop for lively conversations and fun celebrations. Whether you want to enjoy late-night tapas, creative cocktails, or just a relaxing place to unwind in a friendly, neighborhood-style atmosphere, Faces & Names stands out as a top venue for group meetups in New York City.