When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Sour Mouse
Why Sour Mouse is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sour Mouse is a unique and vibrant bar and game hall located in the heart of Manhattan's Lower East Side, at 110 Delancey Street. Opened in October 2020 by lifelong pool enthusiast Aaron Ho, it has quickly become a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy a lively, community-focused atmosphere. Unlike a traditional pool hall, Sour Mouse combines social games such as pool, ping pong, and foosball with live music, stand-up comedy, and art, making it a versatile entertainment hub. The space features a stunning mural by local street artist Indie 184 and showcases rotating exhibits from contemporary artists, turning the 6,000-square-foot venue into a dynamic gallery as well. Sour Mouse prioritizes safety and has a Covid-safe environment with mask requirements, temperature checks, UV lights, spaced seating, and contactless ordering. Its welcoming, all-ages approach also makes it a safe and inclusive destination for families. The lounge vibe is enhanced by live music that creates an inviting ambience perfect for socializing. Its location just across from Essex Market in a bustling nightlife neighborhood adds to its appeal, offering something fresh and exciting beyond the usual night out venues.
Here's what people think of Sour Mouse
As of recent, Sour Mouse holds a 4.4-star rating based on 458 reviews.
Reviews of Sour Mouse highlight its appeal as a modern game hall that uniquely blends social games with culture and live entertainment. Positive reviews often praise the vibrant atmosphere created by the combination of live music, art displays, and the variety of games available beyond just pool. People appreciate the community-driven focus and the welcoming environment suitable for all ages, including families. The venue's art installations and curated events receive frequent commendations for enriching the experience and supporting local artists.
On the other hand, some negative reviews point out typical challenges of new venues such as occasional wait times, limited space during busy hours, or the learning curve on how the ordering system works. A few reviewers mention that while the ambiance is great, the noise level can sometimes make conversation difficult, which may not suit every visitor’s preference.
Overall, the reviews reflect a generally positive reception, emphasizing Sour Mouse's innovative approach to a game hall combined with cultural events, its safety measures, and community orientation. It is seen as a refreshing addition to NYC’s nightlife offering, successfully creating a space that invites connection and fun beyond traditional pool halls.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David Green
Back to NYC after her successful tour, my talented friends #Hannahrayteal and her great guitarist #SamPhelpsMusic have played two fantastic 3 set shows at the really cool club, Sour Mouse. (Please check Hannah and Sam on all music platforms) I found Sour Mouse Club, located in the Lower East Side of New York City, a vibrant and expansive social club designed to offer a unique alternative to traditional bars. Combining games, live music, art, and a social atmosphere to encourage genuine connection among its patrons, its a cool NYC kinda experience. After having the great blessing of enjoying the NYC live music scene, here's my impressions of what makes Sour Mouse Club stand out: The Atmosphere & Concept of this Club is obviously as a Social Hub. My visits showed that the core mission of Sour Mouse is to bring people together. It aims to bridge the gap of constant digital connection by providing a physical space for interaction and shared experiences. Game-Centric: It boasts a wide array of parlor games, including 8 regulation-sized pool tables, 2 ping pong tables, 2 foosball tables, board games, and giant Jenga and Connect 4; how cool. This makes it ideal for casual hangouts, date nights, or competitive fun. All while there is an entertaning band or DJ filling up the large venue with music. Art Gallery: Beyond the games, Sour Mouse also has an art gallery. The 5,000+ square-foot venue features curated local art, including a stunning mural by Indie 184, with pieces often available for purchase. Live Entertainment: There's a dedicated performance area where bands and DJs play nightly, offering a diverse range of music from jazz to blues to indie rock. They also host comedy nights, karaoke, dance parties, and other social gatherings like speed dating and book clubs. What a great concept! Spacious & Modern: The entrance to the Club is quite modest, so a highlight is the surprisingly large and sprawling space, which allows for comfortable spacing and a modern, chill vibe. Games: As mentioned, a huge variety of games are available. Tables are typically first-come, first-serve, with hourly rates ($25-$35/hour depending on the day/time). Drinks: They offer a solid drink program, including soju cocktails, curated beers, and hand-picked wines. Food: Coal oven pizzas are available for when hunger strikes. Events: Sour Mouse has a robust events calendar, featuring live music, DJ sets, jazz jams, blues bands, foosball socials, and more. They also host private events like birthday parties and corporate gatherings, with options to rent out specific areas or the entire venue. My preception of a "Target Audience": Social Seekers: People looking for an interactive and engaging night out beyond just drinking. Game Enthusiasts: Anyone who enjoys pool, ping pong, foosball, or board games. Music & Art Lovers: Those who appreciate live performances and local art in a relaxed setting. Groups: It's well-suited for groups of friends, colleagues, or even solo individuals looking to meet new people. My Overall Impression: My 2 visits to Sour Mouse Club were extremely positive, really appreciating this Club's unique concept, the variety of entertainment options, and the welcoming atmosphere. A fun, vibrant, and engaging spot to spend an evening, offering a refreshing departure from the typical bar scene. The emphasis on fostering genuine connections through games, music, and art seems to resonates well, go, have fun and a NYC kinda night!
Alex Glazino
I came to Sour Mouse with a group of friends for a fun night out, and it definitely delivered. The vibe here is lowkey but has a club-like energy—dim lights, music, and a social buzz that makes it easy to settle in and enjoy. They’ve got a great mix of games like 8-ball, ping pong, and a solid selection of board games, so there’s always something to do. What really stood out is how every night there’s something happening—whether it’s live music, themed events, or just a crowd that keeps the energy up. On weekends, the place comes alive with DJs and social events that make it feel like a mini party. It’s a perfect spot to hang out, play games, and meet people without the pressure of a typical club scene.
Andy Lee
Amazing bar with many choices of activities. Such as ping pong and pool or just sitting down for a drink. My buddy and I got lucky and they played live music! It was totally amazing but it got really packed. Not the establishments fault; just a warning lol. It can get packed for these events. But Sour Mouse is truly becoming a safe place for me to have a great time.
Simon Peel
It doesn't look much from the outside but trust me, it's worth heading downstairs. I walked into the Sour Mouse pool hall just as they were opening and was greeted with a friendly welcome right away. I was playing on a table within 5 minutes, which was impressive. As more people arrived, everyone was respectful of each other’s game, which made for a really pleasant atmosphere. The music was excellent and perfectly matched the vibe of the place. Sour Mouse hits the ideal balance between a classic pool hall and a welcoming bar — a great spot to relax & play.
Kiyon Cho
Such a fun place to go! Great for people looking for something fun to do in NYC that isn’t a typical bar or club — pool and ping pong are so much fun, and the DJs are usually fantastic. Been on a few themed nights, including a rap battle, and really enjoyed the live performances. Bar food was good, we ordered typical fried foods and they did not disappoint. Will keep coming back every time I’m in the area!
How to reach Sour Mouse
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Why Sour Mouse may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sour Mouse with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing deserves a venue that sparks connection, fun, and shared experiences—and Sour Mouse in New York City is precisely that place. Nestled in the vibrant Lower East Side, this expansive game hall and live music bar combines a lively atmosphere with a unique blend of activities that cater to all types of groups. When you rally at Sour Mouse, you’re stepping into a 6,000 square foot playground filled with regulation-sized pool tables, ping pong, foosball, and board games, all perfect for friendly competition and laughter. But it’s not just about the games; the venue’s dynamic lineup of live comedy, music, DJ sets, and art exhibitions creates an engaging ambiance that keeps every moment lively and entertaining. Whether you aim to chill with craft cocktails and pizza or amp up the energy with a dance party or karaoke night, Sour Mouse offers a welcoming space where you and your friends can create lasting memories under one roof. It’s ideal for those who want more than just a typical bar scene—it’s a true social hub designed to bring people together through fun and culture.
What activities are available at Sour Mouse that make it perfect for group meetups?
Sour Mouse offers an impressive variety of activities that cater perfectly to groups looking for interactive and entertaining ways to spend time together. The venue boasts eight regulation-sized pool tables where friends can challenge one another, sparking competitive fun that brings out everyone’s playful spirit. For those who prefer a faster pace, two ping pong tables provide ample space for friendly matches, accommodating multiple games and players simultaneously. Foosball tables and giant Jenga add another layer of classic bar games that encourage teamwork and laughter. Beyond gaming, Sour Mouse doubles as a vibrant cultural venue with a dedicated performance area for live bands, comedians, DJs, and art battles, ensuring that your group is never without entertainment. The fourteen-foot projector enhances any visual experience, perfect for multimedia presentations during private events or simply complementing the nightly performances. This wide array of options means groups can mix competitive gaming with cultural engagement, all while enjoying a comfortable and spacious environment that fosters connection and fun.
How does the food and drink selection at Sour Mouse enhance the group experience?
A great venue isn’t just about activities; the quality of food and drink is essential to creating a complete and satisfying social experience. Sour Mouse excels in this area with a menu featuring specialty cocktails crafted to complement the energetic vibe of the space, providing both classic favorites and inventive drinks to suit diverse tastes. Their food menu highlights delicious, piping-hot pizzas, ideal for sharing among friends as you compete over pool or ping pong or unwind after live performances. Unlike many venues that close kitchen services early, Sour Mouse keeps its kitchen open late, allowing groups to enjoy fresh food well into the night, accommodating late-night cravings. The bartenders are noted for their friendly and accommodating service, making drink recommendations or customizations that enhance the overall experience. This thoughtful approach to food and beverage ensures that your group can stay fueled and refreshed throughout the event, seamlessly blending dining with entertainment for an effortless, fun-filled night.
Why is Sour Mouse an ideal venue for hosting private events or larger gatherings?
Sour Mouse’s design and facilities are exceptionally suited to private events, corporate gatherings, and larger celebrations, making it a top choice for groups seeking an exclusive and lively space. The venue can comfortably accommodate up to 200 guests, with seating for around 40, providing flexible layouts that adapt to intimate parties or bigger social functions. Its location in the Lower East Side means it is easily accessible, just steps away from subway lines, simplifying transportation for guests. The space includes in-house catering options but also allows for external catering, offering organizers the freedom to tailor the event to their preferences. A hallmark of Sour Mouse is its fully equipped stage and audiovisual capabilities, supporting events that require presentations, slide shows, or performances, thus expanding its functionality beyond a simple social venue. Additionally, the surrounding walls display curated local art, which not only beautifies the space but also offers a cultural element that can enrich the ambiance of any event. Its versatile features, combined with accommodating staff, ensure that organizing a private party or corporate event here is both easy and rewarding.
What is the overall ambiance and vibe of Sour Mouse for groups seeking a social night out?
Sour Mouse maintains a perfect balance of relaxed comfort and lively engagement, making it an excellent destination for groups wanting a social night out that feels both welcoming and exhilarating. The atmosphere is described as modern and chill, with a spacious layout that allows groups to feel comfortable without being crowded—ideal for conversations while still being part of a buzzing scene. The basement setting adds an intimate yet vibrant feel, enhanced by local artwork lining the walls, lending it a creative and unique aesthetic that sets it apart from typical bars. Nights at Sour Mouse are dynamic and varied thanks to a rotating schedule of entertainment, including live music seven days a week, comedy nights, DJ sets, karaoke, and dance parties, catering to diverse tastes and group moods. The friendly bartenders and staff add to this warm, inclusive environment, ensuring guests feel valued and engaged throughout their visit. Whether your group is looking to unwind over drinks and casual games or dive into an energetic night of music and dancing, Sour Mouse offers a versatile vibe to match your social desires.
How do reviews and customer feedback reflect the experience at Sour Mouse?
Customer reviews consistently highlight Sour Mouse as a top-notch spot for group outings, praising both the quality of the activities and the overall atmosphere. Patrons frequently mention the extensive selection of games—from foosball to ping pong to pool—and the ease of jumping from one activity to another as a key aspect that keeps the experience fresh and engaging throughout the night. The live entertainment options, including comedy and live music, receive positive remarks for their diversity and level of talent, which enriches every visit. Many reviews commend the staff for their friendliness and attentiveness, noting that their service helps make the night feel special and seamless. Guests appreciate the venue’s spaciousness and modern design, emphasizing how it can comfortably host larger groups without feeling cramped. The availability of late-night food and drink adds to the convenience and satisfaction. The overall 4.4-star rating from over 450 reviews underscores a consistent pattern of positive experiences, making Sour Mouse a reliable choice for a fun, social meetup.
What makes Sour Mouse stand out compared to other nightlife and game venues in New York City?
Sour Mouse stands out in New York City’s crowded nightlife scene due to its unique blend of games, live entertainment, and cultural immersion all under one roof. Unlike typical bars that focus solely on drinks or a single type of entertainment, Sour Mouse provides a comprehensive experience that melds social gaming with artistic expression and live performances. The availability of eight pool tables alongside ping pong, foosball, and board games creates a playground that suits different group dynamics and game preferences. Its evening lineup is not limited to music but extends to comedy, art battles, and interactive social events such as speed dating and book clubs, adding an uncommon depth to the venue’s offerings. The curated art gallery aspect not only enhances visual appeal but also supports local artists, giving visitors a culturally rich environment. Additionally, the flexible event hosting capabilities make it a preferred venue for both casual meetups and professional gatherings. This multifaceted approach, combined with friendly service and strategic Lower East Side location, clearly differentiates Sour Mouse as a premier destination for group entertainment and socializing.
How to plan a perfect group meetup at Sour Mouse?
Planning a successful group meetup at Sour Mouse starts with understanding the venue’s diverse offerings and how they can best fit your group’s interests and size. Since reservations are required and vouchers can be combined for larger gatherings, it’s advisable to contact the venue early to secure your preferred date and time, especially for bigger groups or private events. Consider mixing structured games like pool tournaments and ping pong matches with downtime for enjoying live music or comedy performances to keep the event balanced and engaging for everyone. Utilize the venue’s catering options by either arranging in-house food and drinks to simplify logistics or bringing your own catering if you have specific tastes or themes in mind. Take advantage of the audiovisual equipment if your event includes presentations or shared media. Lastly, encourage your group to explore the artwork on display or engage casually at the bar to fully experience the unique vibe that Sour Mouse offers. With these preparations, your group is set for a seamless, enjoyable social gathering that leverages everything this exceptional venue has to offer.