When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Milk & Hops
Why Milk & Hops is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Milk & Hops in Chelsea, New York City, is a vibrant and welcoming craft beer bar and ramen eatery perfect for meeting up with friends. Known for its casual atmosphere and extensive selection of over 300 craft beers with 10 rotating taps, it caters to beer enthusiasts looking to explore unique and local brews. Beyond its beer offerings, Milk & Hops features a delightful menu including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and specialty items such as charcuterie boards, making it a comfortable place for casual dining or a relaxed night out. The location boasts a mix of a friendly neighborhood vibe paired with attentive service, providing a cozy environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you want to grab a craft beer to-go from the significant bottle and can collection or enjoy a freshly prepared ramen or sandwich alongside your drink, Milk & Hops offers a versatile experience. Its convenient Chelsea location is near parks, piers, and local attractions, making it an ideal spot to unwind before or after exploring the area. The bar also doubles as a specialty market with curated groceries including cheeses and other fine foods, enhancing the social and culinary experience for visitors.
Here's what people think of Milk & Hops
As of recent, Milk & Hops holds a 4.7-star rating based on 728 reviews.
Customer reviews highly praise Milk & Hops for its exceptional craft beer variety, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and cozy relaxed vibe perfect for spending quality time with friends. Many positive reviews highlight the impressive assortment of local and regional beers, with helpful staff who assist with recommendations, and mention the weekend brunch as a particular favorite. The food, especially the charcuterie boards and sandwiches, received compliments for quality and pairing well with drinks. However, some negative feedback points to occasional limitations such as space constraints making it a bit cozy during peak hours and moments when the food menu could be more extensive. A few reviewers wished for longer or more consistent hours, especially on weekdays. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores Milk & Hops as a beloved neighborhood spot that successfully combines a top-tier craft beer experience with great food and a friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent place to relax and socialize in Chelsea, NYC.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lauren Cho
Such an amazing atmosphere and if you love trying new artisanal lagers or beers, this is the place to go. They also offer non/alcoholic beer, which opens options for customers. I highly recommend the highway 89 cocktail from their sister bar called Twist Bar right next door for people who enjoy a nice balanced refreshing cocktail.
Nurcan OZSOY
This Place offers a fantastic experience, and the Milk & Hope IPA is a standout. It’s packed with vibrant citrus flavors and has a wonderfully balanced profile that makes it easy to enjoy. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, and the place itself is clean and well-maintained. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a great spot to unwind, Milk Hops delivers on all fronts. Highly recommend giving it a try!
inaijah conyers
The staff and the atmosphere were super cool! As someone with social anxiety, there’s an option to buy things to go and even enjoy outdoor seating. I came on a random night with my boyfriend and the staff was super friendly and attentive, shoutout to Jackie (which is rare in NYC) . I would recommend for a night out, the music was great, or even for a quick beer and some bites. Definitely coming back.
KJ Pecho
Cool little place with the best hidden gem beer selection from around the world! Not only were the beers fires the guys who run the place and the bartenders made all the difference. One of the best times ive had with complete strangers who have become friends!
Nancy Quach
A hidden gem for anyone who loves craft beer, delicious bites, and a welcoming atmosphere. The beer selection is always rotating with some truly unique finds—whether you're into IPAs, sours, or stouts, there’s something for everyone. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable; they’re happy to make recommendations if you're not sure what to try. Highly recommend this spot if you're in the area and looking for great drinks, good food, and even better people. Can’t wait to go back!
How to reach Milk & Hops
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Website: None
Why Milk & Hops may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Milk & Hops with your friends? Milk & Hops offers an ideal setting for a memorable meetup, combining a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere with superb craft beer selections and satisfying gourmet bites. This spot in Chelsea is more than just a bar; it’s a place where you can unwind and share quality time over thoughtfully curated drinks and food. Whether you’re passionate about craft beers or just looking for a comfortable spot to catch up, Milk & Hops presents a welcoming vibe with friendly staff and plenty of seating options, including outdoor chairs that make sunny days even more enjoyable. Its reputation, supported by a strong rating of 4.7 from more than 700 reviews, reflects consistent customer satisfaction and a loyal following. The combination of good music, approachable bartenders, and a diverse beer collection means you can experience local and international brews that spark conversation and discovery. Rallying your group here means stepping into a casual yet stylish environment where every visit feels like a shared adventure in taste and camaraderie, perfect for bonding whether with longtime friends or family.
What types of activities can you enjoy at Milk & Hops during a group meetup? Milk & Hops centers its experience around savoring high-quality craft beers and delicious gourmet sandwiches, providing a unique blend of culinary and beverage enjoyment. You and your friends can sample from around ten taps of beer on draft, alongside a wide range of specialty canned brews sourced locally and from farther afield. The staff is known for their expertise and friendliness, making it easy to ask for recommendations or discover something new together. Part of the charm is sharing their signature grilled cheese sandwiches or meat and cheese plates, which are designed to complement the beer selection and enhance the tasting experience. Whether you prefer a casual stand-up drink or settling in at one of the cozy tables along the wall, Milk & Hops encourages relaxed socializing with a touch of foodie flair. The setting also includes an outdoor seating area for fresh air and al fresco conversations, making it versatile for various group sizes and occasions. It’s a destination where the main activity is simply delighting in good company, great drinks, and exceptional food without the noise and rush of a typical bar scene.
Why is Milk & Hops perfect for hosting a group meetup? One of the strongest appeals of Milk & Hops is its intimate yet spacious layout that caters well to groups without feeling crowded or noisy. The blend of indoor bar seating and outdoor chairs gives groups flexible options to gather comfortably, whether you want a more lively bar experience or a laid-back space to chat. The friendly, knowledgeable staff enhance the experience by being approachable and attentive, which means groups can feel well taken care of and free to focus on their social time. The impressive beer variety appeals to all palates—from beer novices to aficionadas—offering an exploratory journey that fuels conversation and connection. Additionally, the gourmet menu, featuring inventive sandwiches and curated small plates, provides satisfying food options that are perfect for sharing or individual enjoyment. The overall vibe is casual sophistication, without the hassle of reservations or the pretentiousness some craft beer bars might have. For groups wanting a reliable and welcoming environment where everyone can feel at home while enjoying something special, Milk & Hops hits all the right notes.
What is the quality of the food and drink selection at Milk & Hops? Milk & Hops earns accolades for its commendable selection of craft beers, including around ten taps and a well-stocked fridge of cold bottles and cans that highlight rare and local brews. While some prefer lager or IPA styles, the diversity allows your group to try a variety of tastes, from light and crisp to bold and hoppy. This beer variety is paired thoughtfully with their food offerings, which include standout sandwiches like their BLT with smoked salmon and avocado—often praised as one of the best sandwiches in Chelsea—as well as Italian sausage and a variety of gourmet grilled cheese options. The menu emphasizes quality ingredients and flavor combinations that elevate simple sandwiches into memorable meals. The pairing of fresh, artisanal food with a curated beer list encourages tasting and sharing, adding an enjoyable dimension to socializing. Although the prices are in line with New York City’s gourmet sandwich scene and some might find craft beer cost a bit steep, the overall quality and atmosphere justify the investment, making each gathering feel special.
How accessible and welcoming is Milk & Hops for all types of groups? The casual and approachable nature of Milk & Hops is a major draw for any group looking for a fun and unpretentious environment. The space is easy to find in Chelsea, well-known for its eclectic and cultural vibe, making it accessible for locals and visitors alike. The staff’s friendly demeanor ensures that newcomers feel comfortable asking questions or receiving beer pairing advice, which helps create a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. The mix of seating arrangements caters well to different group sizes—whether you’re planning a small reunion or a larger get-together—without the pressure of formal dining. Its location near the Meatpacking District adds to its appeal, helping groups combine their visit with other activities or after-work plans. The presence of outdoor seating and air-conditioned indoor space provides options for comfort regardless of weather. Overall, Milk & Hops feels like a welcoming community hub where everyone, from beer enthusiasts to casual drinkers, can have a great time together.
What makes the ambiance at Milk & Hops conducive to group enjoyment? The ambiance at Milk & Hops strikes a perfect balance between lively and laid-back, creating a warm environment for socializing. Unlike noisy bars that make conversation difficult, this spot maintains enough background buzz to feel active yet remains comfortable for catching up and storytelling with friends or family. The interior’s design resembles a charming upscale grocery store, lending an inviting and somewhat unique vibe that sparks curiosity and conversation. The presence of a knowledgeable bartender named Rick, often mentioned for his welcoming nature, adds a friendly local touch to the experience. Seating options along the wall and outdoor areas also mean you can select the environment that best suits your group mood. This combination of design, service, and space cultivates an atmosphere where groups feel cozy but energized, fostering connections over shared discoveries of new beers and delicious food.
What are some additional benefits of choosing Milk & Hops for your next meetup? Beyond the excellent beer and food, Milk & Hops offers a stress-free experience where you don’t need reservations or formal plans to enjoy a quality social outing. This convenience means you can spontaneously decide to gather without worrying about long waits or dress codes. The spot’s strong rating of 4.7 with 728 reviews evidences broad community endorsement and reliability for a good time. Plus, being located in Chelsea positions it near many other neighborhood attractions, so it can easily fit into a day or evening out itinerary. The bar also regularly features rotating craft beers, which keeps the experience fresh for regular visitors looking to try something new with their friends. Friendly service, a well-curated menu, and a cozy yet lively space make Milk & Hops a consistently satisfying choice to host celebrations, casual get-togethers, or even small parties. Hosting your next reunion here guarantees an atmosphere where everyone leaves happy and ready to plan the next visit.