When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Society Billiards + Bar
Why Society Billiards + Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Society Billiards + Bar offers a vibrant and inviting experience that makes it a great place to meet up with friends in New York City. Open seven days a week with late hours, it caters to both casual gatherings and larger groups seeking lively entertainment. The atmosphere is a unique blend of underground billiards hall energy with a comfortable social bar vibe, featuring dim lighting and plenty of seating options. Highlights include numerous pool tables, dart boards, and a full bar serving a wide selection of drinks, including draft beers, wines, and specialty cocktails. The venue also offers outdoor seating and free Wi-Fi, making it perfect for extended hangouts. Whether you're sharpening your pool skills or enjoying drinks with friends, Society Billiards + Bar stands out as a cool, laid-back spot where guests can relax and have fun. Its friendly staff and the option to reserve tables help ensure a smooth, enjoyable visit.
Here's what people think of Society Billiards + Bar
As of recent, Society Billiards + Bar holds a 4.3-star rating based on 899 reviews.
Reviews from customers and employees alike reveal a mixed but overall positive perception of Society Billiards + Bar. Many visitors praise the lively atmosphere and the great variety of activities like billiards and darts. Positive reviews frequently highlight the friendly and personable staff, the fast service, and the affordable prices, which enhance the social experience. The venue's vibe is often described as fun and chill, perfect for groups or casual outings. However, some negative feedback points to occasional issues such as overcrowding, long wait times, and dealing with intoxicated patrons, which can impact the overall comfort. Employee reviews mention a friendly work environment and valuable learning experiences but also raise concerns about long hours, excessive workload, and some workplace challenges like air conditioning problems during summer. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus is that Society Billiards + Bar is a popular and well-regarded nightlife destination where guests can enjoy billiards and drinks in a sociable setting. The positive aspects generally outweigh the negatives, making it a recommended spot for a fun night out.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jon Castillo
Very chill spot, sometimes quiet sometimes live with many people. Great spot for after work unwinding. Prices are fair and the staff is wonderful.
Michèle Saint Michel
A family-friendly billiards hall where the tables are dressed in pristine felt, inviting the smooth roll of every shot. The staff welcomes you like an old friend, making it the perfect place to sink into a game, line up the perfect break, and let the evening roll into the corner pocket.
Victor Kao
Rude, racially discriminatory, horrible customer service, made derogatory and racial remarks at me for no reason. I minded my own business and kept to myself the whole time and since the moment I entered they targeted me. Do not come here, it’s a disgrace that these kind of places still exist.
908 Mountain Biking
Great tables and great house cues, rhino Brand. 16 per hour per person, drinks 10 or more NYC pricing. Great atmosphere, transparent pricing will be back
JiShun Zhou
Great atmosphere. Plenty pool tables. Open till very late. The food is great and cocktails were amazing. At least my Moscow Mule was. Service is good. A little expensive, but definitely good to go with a group of friends. The music is great!
How to reach Society Billiards + Bar
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Website: None
Why Society Billiards + Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Society Billiards + Bar with your friends? The answer lies in its unique combination of a lively yet classy atmosphere, excellent amenities, and its reputation as one of Manhattan's top pool halls. If you’re looking for a spot where you can relax, have fun, and engage in friendly competition, this is the perfect destination. It’s not just about playing pool; it’s about the whole experience—good music, delicious food, and drinks, attentive service, and a welcoming vibe that invites groups to hang out comfortably. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, meeting after work, or planning a weekend outing, Society Billiards + Bar provides an inviting environment that keeps everyone entertained and connected. The location itself is easy to get to, nestled in the heart of New York City, with outdoor seating options that welcome you on pleasant days, making it a versatile choice for any group. These elements combine to make Society Billiards + Bar a natural rallying point for friends looking to enjoy a night out together without the hassle or overwhelming noise of a typical bar scene.
What activities can you enjoy at Society Billiards + Bar?
At its core, Society Billiards + Bar is a premier destination for billiards enthusiasts, boasting well-maintained pool tables and top-quality equipment. The bar features multiple Diamond Smart Tables with Simonis Cloth and Super Aramith Pro Balls, ensuring the playing experience is smooth and professional-grade. This makes it ideal whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual participant looking to try your hand at the game. Beyond pool, the bar hosts television screens to catch major sports events, adding to the entertainment options for groups. Those not playing can enjoy watching the game, socializing, or simply relaxing with a drink in hand. There is also covered outdoor seating available, which is perfect for groups who want a quieter or airier space to chat without losing the vibrant energy of the bar.
Why is Society Billiards + Bar perfect for a group meetup?
Groups of friends or families will find Society Billiards + Bar to be especially accommodating. The venue is designed to cater to groups with options like reservations and a Priority Waitlist to reduce wait times, ideal for those who want to plan ahead. The Cork Room, a private party space, is perfect for larger gatherings or special events and is equipped with three professional tables and ample bar seating, which ensures everyone can participate or relax nearby. The staff’s attentiveness is often praised in reviews, with bartenders and waitstaff efficiently managing drink orders and hospitality, so groups can focus on having fun without interruptions. The bar’s diverse menu and extensive drink selection cater to a wide range of tastes for everyone in the group, ensuring no one feels left out. Furthermore, the environment is described as classy yet laid-back, striking a perfect balance that is neither overly noisy nor dull, making conversation and interaction easy.
How does the food and drink selection enhance the social experience?
Society Billiards + Bar offers a comprehensive selection of beverages including over two dozen beers and an impressive variety of cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders. This rich assortment means your group can enjoy anything from classic cocktails to unique house specials. On the food front, the menu features crowd-pleasers like house-made guacamole and Mini Cheese Pizza Bagels, which serve as excellent shareable options for gatherings. The freshness and quality of the food contribute significantly to the overall experience, offering sustenance to keep energy levels up no matter how long your meetup lasts. Whether it’s casual snacking between games or a full meal with drinks, the food complements the social atmosphere perfectly. Pairing good food and drink with friendly competition amplifies the enjoyment and creates memorable moments for everyone involved.
What makes the venue environment and amenities stand out in New York City?
Among the competitive nightlife and entertainment options in NYC, Society Billiards + Bar distinguishes itself by combining style, comfort, and accessibility. It is located at 10 East 21st Street, a prime spot that’s easy to find via public transit or car, with amenities such as street parking and bike racks making arrivals stress-free. The ambiance is described as underground and relaxed, appealing to those who want a fun night out without the chaos of a high-volume club or bar. The venue maintains clean facilities, including well-kept bathrooms and overall immaculate upkeep of the pool tables and interiors, which contributes to a premium feel. Free Wi-Fi adds practical value for guests who want to share their experience live or coordinate plans digitally without hassle. The combination of some outdoor seating space and a full bar inside offers flexibility for year-round enjoyment, regardless of weather or mood.
How does the customer service improve your visit to Society Billiards + Bar?
One of the recurring themes in customer reviews is the exceptional service provided at Society Billiards + Bar. From the moment you arrive, the staff is attentive without being intrusive. Wait times for tables are generally communicated clearly, and guests are encouraged to enjoy drinks while waiting, which eases any delay. Waitstaff are frequently highlighted for their friendliness and efficiency, ensuring orders are timely and that guests have everything they need to enjoy their visit fully. Personalized service, such as having a dedicated waitress for drink orders while gaming, enhances the experience, creating a sense of being well cared for in a busy urban environment. The ability to take reservations and coordinate events helps relieve stress for group organizers, allowing for smooth, enjoyable meetups. This focus on customer experience sets Society Billiards + Bar apart as a reliable and welcoming location for social gatherings.
Is Society Billiards + Bar suitable for special events and private parties?
Absolutely. The Cork Room at Society Billiards + Bar is specifically designed for private events, making it ideal for birthdays, corporate outings, or league play. This room includes three Smart Tables surrounded by abundant bar seating, creating an intimate yet lively setting where guests can enjoy exclusive access to billiards without sharing tables with the general public. The private space allows groups to focus on their event, accompanied by customized food and drink service to match the celebration's tone. For groups larger than eight guests, the bar’s events department can assist in planning and reservations, ensuring a personalized experience. Hosting your gathering here means having professional-grade amenities combined with the trusted hospitality Society is known for, guaranteeing an event that is both fun and smoothly run.
Can beginners and casual players enjoy Society Billiards + Bar?
Yes, Society Billiards + Bar is welcoming to players of all skill levels. The staff is knowledgeable and can assist newcomers in getting started, from explaining rules to helping with cue selection and table etiquette. The quality of the pool tables and equipment is high, so beginners experience professional conditions that aid in developing skills or just having fun. Casual players can relax and enjoy rounds of pool without pressure, while more competitive groups will appreciate the same meticulous attention to the playing environment. The social layout encourages interaction, where even those not playing can immerse themselves in the atmosphere, making it fun and inclusive for everyone involved.
What do customers say about their experiences at Society Billiards + Bar?
Reviews consistently highlight the friendly atmosphere, good music, and attentive service as key factors contributing to a positive visit. Patrons appreciate the fair pricing in a city where many pool halls can be expensive or exclusive, making Society a more accessible option for regular outings. The space is rated highly for being clean and well-maintained, important details that show the owners’ commitment to quality. Several mentions of the bar as a great place to "bring the guys" or "let the girls drink" reflect its welcoming and versatile nature as a social hub. Overall, it is praised as a spot not just for the game itself, but as an all-around fun, relaxed venue that fosters camaraderie and good times for groups of friends or family.
Society Billiards + Bar, with a solid 4.3-star rating from close to 900 reviews, clearly stands out as a premier place in Manhattan to host your next friendly meetup, combining excellent billiards, tasty food, great drinks, and an inviting ambiance.