When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Poco NYC
Why Poco NYC is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Poco NYC stands out as a lively and popular destination in New York City's East Village, especially celebrated for its boozy brunch and vibrant atmosphere. This establishment offers a unique blend of delicious seasonal dishes and a wide selection of drinks that keep guests coming back. The space is perfect for groups of friends wanting to spend hours enjoying flavorful food and bottomless cocktails in a relaxed yet spirited setting. Highlights include signature dishes like the truffle mushroom and spinach mac and cheese, lobster mac & cheese, French toast, and various tasty small plates such as burger sliders and zucchini fries. Poco's ambiance combines the energy of a fun NYC hotspot with a friendly and attentive staff that enhances the social experience. They also host special events like Thirsty Thursdays with $2 tacos, $7 margaritas, DJs, and trivia nights, as well as private parties for groups ranging from 25 to 80 people, making it an ideal meetup spot for both casual and celebratory occasions. Its flexible hours with brunch on weekends and happy hour midweek add to its appeal as a go-to place for both day and evening socializing.
Here's what people think of Poco NYC
As of recent, Poco NYC holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1429 reviews.
Reviews of Poco NYC reflect an overall positive reception with a 4.3 rating from over 1,400 reviewers, highlighting its popularity and quality. Positive feedback often emphasizes the vibrant and fun atmosphere, the attentive and friendly staff, and standout dishes such as the truffle mushroom and spinach mac and cheese, lobster mac & cheese, and creative cocktails. Guests appreciate the bottomless brunch option, which allows for extended social gatherings without feeling rushed, as well as the venue's energetic vibe supported by DJs and themed nights. The friendly service and tasty drinks, including strong cocktails and engaging extras like passing out citrusy shots during brunch, enhance the experience for many visitors. On the other hand, negative comments frequently mention some inconsistencies, such as some patrons finding the bottomless mimosas watered down or the gluten-free options disappointing and limited, with some dishes not aligning perfectly with dietary needs. Additionally, a few reviewers noted the venue's heating could be insufficient on cold days and that the crowd skews younger, which might not suit everyone’s preferences. Despite these critiques, most conclude that Poco is a great place for a lively, enjoyable brunch or evening out, especially for groups and celebrations, making it a compelling choice in the East Village dining scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Solomon Camacho
First of all Tess has been on top of the service since I walked in. The French Toast is a MUST!!!! The unlimited is worth it because this place isn’t delaying refilling the drinks. Tess has been attentive and so helpful the entire time I’ve been here. Highly recommend this spot as I stumbled upon it due to a wait time of almost 2 hours from another brunch spot nearby. If you want a quality brunch and great drinks, this is the place. They have so many options so you’re not restricted to only mimosas. 10/10
Indira Sondhi
Extended happy hour from 5-9 on Thursdays, $2 tacos, $5 fries, and $8 sliders! Good margaritas, love coming here for happy hour with friends. They also play fun music and have a DJ
Eric Human
Got it — here’s the revised review without mentioning a DJ: ⸻ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hands down the best bottomless brunch in NYC! 🍳🥂 From the moment we walked in, the energy was incredible — fun, lively, and perfect for a weekend vibe. The staff is super friendly and attentive, and they never let your glass go empty. Highly recommend booking in advance because this spot is always popping!
Jacob Saunders
We booked a birthday party with the event manager Sara, only to show up and find that the staff had no idea anything was scheduled. The event, which was planned weeks in advance, was somehow not communicated to the staff. The bar was packed, nothing was prepared, and the event started almost an hour late because of the chaos. To top it off, Sara was dismissive and actually told us we could leave if we wanted to. She did not take responsibility. The only person who helped at all was Joe — he did his best under the circumstances, but the overall experience was a mess. We regret having the party here. It was embarrassing to walk into what we thought was a birthday party, only to see a completely packed bar with people we did not know. And we had to ask 4 different people multiple times to finally get what we paid for. We had the party here after a friend had hers here a few years ago. Our experience was completely different. So so so frustrating and disappointing. I will say the drinks were good. The attached video shows the top floor after our birthday party was supposed to have started. The event manager told us there may be a few people at the booths wrapping up dinner. The entire place was full and we only know about 7 people in this video. Wish I could write a better review but this was ridiculous.
May P
Took my daughter here for a birthday brunch! They offer bottomless options! The food was good 😊!
How to reach Poco NYC
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Why Poco NYC may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Poco NYC with your friends? Poco NYC stands out as an outstanding venue to gather your friends for a memorable outing because it combines a lively atmosphere with exceptional food and drink offerings that cater perfectly to groups. Located in East Village, this neighborhood favorite effortlessly creates a “home away from home” vibe where guests can relax and enjoy each other’s company in a buzzing, authentic setting. Whether you are planning a casual brunch, a lively dinner, or a festive party, Poco NYC’s exciting menu—including legendary dishes such as Lobster Mac n Cheese and award-winning vegan truffle mac—coupled with bottomless mimosas and specialty cocktails, establishes it as a go-to spot for socializing. Add to this a crowd-pleasing happy hour, live DJs, trivia nights, and private event options for groups of up to 80 people, and you have an ideal place to celebrate any occasion from birthdays to reunions with friends or family. The attentive, friendly staff and dynamic vibe complete the experience, making Poco NYC a perfect rallying point for friends to create joyful, lasting memories in New York City.
What activities make Poco NYC ideal for a group meetup? Poco NYC offers a variety of activities tailored to enhance group outings and foster an engaging social atmosphere. During brunch hours (Friday through Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm), guests can enjoy boozy brunch specials with unlimited mimosas, Bloody Marys, and sangria for a set price, encouraging a festive mood right from the start. The menu features crowd-pleasing dishes like Lobster Mac n Cheese and Guacamole Benedict, ensuring there are delicious options for diverse palates. Happy hour, held Wednesday through Saturday from 5 pm to 7 pm, features $2 tacos and $7 margaritas alongside live DJ sessions, setting a lively tone that’s perfect for groups eager to unwind and socialize. On Thursdays, "Thirsty Thursdays" extend happy hour until 9 pm with deals on drinks and tacos paired with music, ideal for longer, high-spirited gatherings. Additionally, weekly trivia nights and cellar-hosted comedy shows offer interactive entertainment that groups can participate in, enhancing the sense of community and shared fun. This wide array of social and culinary activities makes Poco NYC a dynamic destination that transforms any group meetup into a vibrant experience.
Why is Poco NYC a perfect place for private parties and special occasions? Poco NYC truly excels as a venue for private parties and special events because of its flexible space and tailored service aimed at groups of various sizes. Their private and semi-private dining spaces can comfortably accommodate anywhere from 25 up to 80 guests, making it suitable for intimate celebrations as well as larger group gatherings. Party packages at Poco include customizable food and drink selections—ranging from mid-shelf to premium bars and a variety of passed tapas like Churrasco steak, Poco sliders, and stuffed piquillos—that serve approximately 20 guests per tray, ensuring everyone in the group stays well-fed and satisfied. The staff works closely with hosts to create personalized menus and signature cocktails to perfectly match the occasion and tastes of the guests. Moreover, the lively yet intimate ambiance of both the main floor and the downstairs cellar bar provides versatile settings, whether you want a vibrant party atmosphere or a cozy gathering spot. This combination of excellent food, drink, service, and atmosphere makes Poco NYC a beloved choice for birthdays, corporate events, reunions, or any special event where friends and family want to come together and celebrate.
What should you expect from the dining experience at Poco NYC? Dining at Poco NYC is characterized by flavorful, seasonal dishes served in a vibrant and spirited atmosphere that welcomes everyone. The menu revolves around tapas-style options and brunch classics with a twist, offering signature dishes like the highly praised Lobster Mac n Cheese and a vegan Smoked Truffle Mac n Cheese that highlight the kitchen’s commitment to quality and creativity. Guests appreciate the generous portion sizes and the variety of meat and vegetarian-friendly offerings, from crispy calamari with habanero aioli to bacon-wrapped dates with blue cheese, making it easy to share plates and enjoy a communal meal with friends. The restaurant’s boozy brunch packages add an extra layer of fun, featuring unlimited mimosas, Bloody Marys, and sangria alongside crave-worthy brunch dishes. Notably, Poco NYC is a cash-only venue, so guests should plan accordingly when visiting. Overall, the combination of a thoughtfully curated menu, inclusive dining experience, and upbeat environment makes dining at Poco NYC an event in itself, ideal for groups looking to bond over great food and drinks.
How does Poco NYC foster a lively and welcoming atmosphere? Poco NYC’s charm lies as much in its inviting atmosphere as in its menu and drink specials. The environment is intentionally designed to be loud, buzzing, and full of energy, reflecting the spirit of the East Village neighborhood it calls home. Friendly staff contribute greatly to the warm ambiance, often going the extra mile to ensure guests feel welcomed and taken care of, including generous refills during brunch and accommodating personalized requests. The use of music, from daytime DJs during happy hours to comedy nights in the cellar, injects a continuous flow of entertainment that keeps the energy high and encourages mingling. Regular events like trivia nights stimulate interaction and create fun shared experiences within groups. Additionally, the mix of regular locals and visitors from across NYC neighborhoods adds to the communal vibe that makes guests feel part of something special. This balance of lively noise, engaging entertainment, and approachable service fosters a comfortable yet exciting place where groups can truly enjoy each other's company without pretension.
What makes Poco NYC stand out among other brunch and event venues in NYC? Poco NYC distinguishes itself by expertly blending high-quality food, affordable drink specials, and customizable spaces with a vibrant local culture that resonates with both neighborhood residents and visitors alike. Unlike many venues that focus exclusively on one aspect, Poco integrates a famous boozy brunch experience with an extensive tapas-style dinner menu, providing options that appeal across different times of day and guest preferences. With $30 to $32 bottomless brunch deals that include unlimited mimosas, Bloody Marys, and sangria paired with acclaimed dishes, Poco offers great value for groups seeking both quality and fun. Its unique East Village location and "local favorite" reputation attract crowds from diverse NYC areas, making it a melting pot of energy and community spirit. The option to book private or semi-private event spaces tailored with personalized cocktails and menus enhances its appeal for celebrations. Combined with its engaging events program—ranging from DJs and trivia to free comedy shows—Poco NYC delivers an all-in-one social hub that’s hard to beat in a city famed for its culinary and nightlife scenes.
What logistical details should groups know when planning a visit to Poco NYC? Planning a visit to Poco NYC requires a few practical considerations to ensure the best experience for your group. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and popular brunch sessions, as the venue can get quite crowded given its popularity and compact bar area. Bookings can be made conveniently through Resy, with options to email or call to modify existing reservations. Poco NYC is located at 33 Avenue B at 3rd Street in East Village, with operating hours running Wednesday to Thursday from 5 pm to midnight, Friday to Saturday from 11 am to 2 am, and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm; Mondays and Tuesdays are closed. The venue is cash-only, so guests should prepare accordingly. For groups looking to host events or special parties, advance contact is advised to discuss customized packages and space availability. Additionally, Poco’s happy hours, bottomless dinner deals from Wednesday to Saturday, and themed nights offer great timing opportunities to enhance your outing while staying within budget.
How do Poco NYC’s unique offerings enhance group celebrations? Poco NYC elevates group celebrations by combining a tailored culinary experience with an engaging social environment designed for communal enjoyment. Its tapas-style dining encourages sharing and interaction, which naturally fosters conversation and connection among friends and family. The availability of both mid-shelf and premium bar options in private party packages allows guests to customize the level of indulgence and cocktail sophistication, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Featured menu items like Poco sliders, al pastor wings, and lobster guacamole not only delight the palate but also create shared tastes that enhance bonding. The setting—whether in the lively main room or the secluded cellar bar—caters to varied moods, from energetic dancing to relaxed mingling. Live entertainment, including DJs and comedy nights, adds memorable experiences beyond dining and drinking. This combination transforms ordinary meals into festive occasions where groups can celebrate milestones, birthdays, or simply enjoy quality time together in a uniquely vibrant NYC venue.
What feedback do customers consistently give about Poco NYC? Customers consistently praise Poco NYC for its dynamic atmosphere, exceptional brunch, and accommodating service. Reviews commonly describe the venue as lively, crowded, and fun, highlighting the energy that’s ideal for social gatherings. Many guests appreciate the value of the bottomless brunch deal, mentioning the generous portions and the quality of signature dishes like the lobster mac and the vegan mac n cheese. The friendly staff and generous refills during brunch add to a positive experience. Visitors note that the music and vibe contribute to an all-day party feel, making it perfect for groups seeking an upbeat setting. However, some mention that the pour in the mimosas is lighter compared to other places, but the overall experience and value make it worthwhile. Additionally, the popularity means it can get noisy and packed, which appeals to some but may not suit those seeking quiet. The cash-only policy is also an important note for planning. Overall, the feedback reflects a strong reputation as a trusted spot for both casual and special group outings.
Why should Poco NYC be your first choice for a meet-up in New York City? Choosing Poco NYC for your next meetup means opting for a venue that seamlessly balances great food, excellent drinks, and a vibrant, welcoming environment designed to elevate social experiences. Its convenient East Village location situates you in one of NYC’s most eclectic neighborhoods, surrounded by energy and culture. Perfect for groups who want to enjoy an interactive, festive atmosphere, Poco boasts a diverse menu that satisfies many tastes, from classic comfort food to innovative vegetarian options. The range of activities—from bottomless brunches and happy hours with DJs to trivia and comedy nights—guarantees entertainment beyond a typical dining out experience. The flexibility of their private spaces and customizable party packages also ensures your special occasion will be handled with care and creativity. All these factors make Poco NYC a smart, fun, and memorable choice for friends or family looking to convene, celebrate, or simply enjoy a fantastic New York City outing together.