When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Greats of Craft
Why The Greats of Craft is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Greats of Craft is a vibrant destination located at 10-15 43rd Ave in Long Island City, offering a unique blend of rooftop vibes, speakeasy charm, and an extensive craft beer selection. Founded by Joe Schinco, a native of the Queens area, the venue is designed to accommodate a wide range of gatherings—from casual daytime meetups with friends over coffee to lively evening drinks. The Greats of Craft features a spacious rooftop area ideal for enjoying city views, two versatile lounge spaces perfect for both work and relaxation, and a private speakeasy room called Bar Enzo, which is excellent for special events. Its carefully curated atmosphere makes it a great place for socializing in a relaxed yet stylish environment. Highlights include a 36-variety draft beer menu showcasing local brews from Brooklyn, Queens, upstate New York, and coastal regions, alongside classic cocktails such as mezcalitas and espresso martinis. The venue also incorporates a café, bottle shop, and retail section stocked with carefully hand-selected, high-quality products like coffee blends, apparel, gift boxes, and subscription packs for beer and cider enthusiasts. Additionally, The Greats of Craft offers mobile and catering services that extend its reach beyond its physical locations, making it a versatile hub for craft beverage lovers and community gatherings alike.
Here's what people think of The Greats of Craft
As of recent, The Greats of Craft holds a 4.7-star rating based on 382 reviews.
With a stellar rating of 4.7 from 382 reviews, The Greats of Craft has garnered strong praise for its welcoming ambiance and wide-ranging craft beer offerings. Customers frequently commend the venue for its rooftop lounge, which provides enjoyable views and a great atmosphere for socializing. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff who enhance the overall customer experience, as well as the diversity of draft beers available on tap, including many local New York selections. Positive reviews also mention the speakeasy Bar Enzo as a hidden gem that adds an exclusive feel to private events. The versatile space suits various occasions, from relaxed coffee meetups to lively evening gatherings, appealing to a diverse crowd. On the other hand, some less favorable feedback points to occasional wait times during busy hours and cramped seating in the more popular lounge areas. A few customers have noted that the price points can be slightly higher than average, likely reflecting the quality and local sourcing of products. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overwhelming majority of reviews celebrate The Greats of Craft as a vibrant, community-focused venue that successfully blends quality craft beverages with a comfortable, stylish setting. Overall, customer sentiment reflects strong enthusiasm and consistent satisfaction, making it a standout spot in Long Island City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
THE EXPLORER
We stopped in the other day for the first time to have a coffee. It is a very relaxed vibe here with most customers having a morning coffee and snack while working on their computers. They have seating outside on the sidewalk, in a closed off area on 54th street and inside in front and in a larger room in back. The choice spots seem to be the counter seats looking out on the streets thru fully opened windows. We will come again. Came back again while waiting for my wife who was at an exercise class. Got a decaf americano and it was delicious. Nice vibe to this place even on a rainy day. Sun came out today so I came back to enjoy a delicious decaf americano and grabbed a seat at the open bar looking out. Waiting on my wife at another exercise class. Wonderful way to chill out! Stopped back again today to grab a cup of drip coffee and enjoy the nice atmosphere. I was able to snag a seat at the bar overlooking 1st ave. A very nice experience.
Doosan Baik
True neighborhood gem. It became my weekend routine to come here to read books, get work done. Services from Manny and Austin are great - they recognize every patron and make sure all patrons are having a good time. Ham & Brie sandwich is especially good.
Sebastian
I have been coming here for four years, but I think my visit a few days ago will be the last. The service is awful, employees on their phones, etc. I was really disappointed because this place used to have great service where they actually had conversations with customers. It was a true neighborhood bar. Now your lucky to even get another beer after you glad sits empty for 10 min. Definitely don’t expect 4.7 stars worth of service if you come here.
Alex B
UPDATE: Missed a detail in original review. The cans of beer in the fridge grouped by type, each with numbers for some reason. There’s no description for them, unless it’s on the can itself, and no QR codes linking to more info, so unless you already know exactly what you want, it's a bit of a guessing game. Wish it was as detailed as regular beer menu. On a more positive note, the patio furniture is back out, which means dogs are allowed outside again. Coffee drinks, which used to be consistently good, are now hit or miss. Still 3 stars. — I used to come here often for both coffee and really interesting beers, especially during the pandemic. I personally think it's still a great neighborhood spot, but a few things have made me visit less. The removal of the outdoor structure reduced seating, which was very much expected because of changing city rules, but the bigger issue is the inconsistency around dog policies—sometimes my dog is welcome, sometimes not, which has become frustrating. I also had an unresolved issue with a consistently rude employee a couple of years ago that management kind of but never fully addressed. I miss this place and stop by occasionally with guests visiting from out of town, but have been going to Jeffrey’s for a more predictable experience where I can feel comfortable with my dog hanging out.
Maya
Our favorite brewery in the summer! We always come here for their beers on tap in the summer. They have lots of outdoor seating and the atmosphere is always high.
How to reach The Greats of Craft
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Why The Greats of Craft may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Greats of Craft with your friends?
Gathering with friends at The Greats of Craft is an excellent choice for anyone looking to combine a lively, welcoming atmosphere with a standout selection of craft beverages. Located in Long Island City, this venue stands out thanks to its spacious setting across two floors, making it perfect for accommodating groups of various sizes comfortably. Whether you're an early riser wanting breakfast and coffee or looking for a late-afternoon drink with panoramic city views, The Greats of Craft covers all bases. The rooftop bar, often praised for its breathtaking views of the Queensboro Bridge and the Manhattan skyline, provides an unmatched backdrop for socializing, creating memorable experiences for your group. Additionally, their diverse beverage menu offers over 200 craft drinks, including beers, ciders, hard kombucha, wines, and cocktails, ensuring everyone in your party will find something they enjoy. The combination of a broad drink selection, ample seating options, and an engaging ambiance makes it nearly impossible for even the pickiest friends not to have a good time here, establishing The Greats of Craft as a smart rallying point for group meetups.
What activities can you enjoy at The Greats of Craft?
At The Greats of Craft, activities center around enjoying high-quality craft beverages and socializing in comfort. The venue is designed to blend the charm of a classic pub atmosphere with modern craft culture. Guests can start their day here with freshly brewed, house-roasted coffee alongside breakfast offerings, allowing groups to catch up over a relaxed morning meal. The wide range of beers and other beverages can sustain you well into the evening, providing an excellent setting for conversations, celebrations, or casual hangouts.
One of the key activities is exploring their extensive drink menu. With three dozen taps pouring everything from unique craft beers to hard kombucha, guests can embark on a tasting journey tailored to their preferences. While the formal food menu is more limited – focusing on classic bar food such as sandwiches and an enjoyable ice cream sandwich dessert – the emphasis is on quality pairing with drinks rather than full dining. The location also hosts various seasonal festivals, pop-up events, and private parties, offering guests novel experiences beyond a regular bar visit. For larger groups, the layout supports mingling with friends at different seating areas, including an open rooftop space that allows for unobstructed views and the fresh air of an outdoor gathering.
Why is The Greats of Craft perfect for group meetups?
The Greats of Craft's thoughtful design and vibrant vibe make it an ideal spot for group meetups. Its spacious two-floor interior provides plenty of room, avoiding the cramped feeling often found in city bars. This space is crucial when accommodating groups, as everyone can find their niche—whether it’s a lively chat by the bar, a cozy corner with friends, or the expansive outdoor rooftop area. The rooftop bar, in particular, is a social magnet with its scenic views that naturally spark conversation and create an ambient setting for group photos and shared moments.
Moreover, the vast selection of craft beverages caters well to diverse tastes, reducing friction when your group has different drink preferences. From craft beers for enthusiasts to wine, hard kombucha, cocktails, and coffee, there are options for everyone to enjoy, which means no one feels left out. The casual yet curated food offerings provide convenient bites to complement the drinks without the formality or wait of full restaurants.
The Greats of Craft also supports social events and private gatherings, making it a versatile venue—suitable not only for casual meetups but also for birthdays, small celebrations, or even informal business mixers. The attentive and friendly service enhances the experience, ensuring groups feel welcome and well cared for. Ambient features like free Wi-Fi and outdoor seating add to the venue’s appeal for those who might want to blend socializing with light work or just unwind in pleasant surroundings.
How does the atmosphere at The Greats of Craft enhance your meetup experience?
The atmosphere at The Greats of Craft strikes a balance between relaxed and energetic, which is crucial for a successful group meetup. The décor blends industrial-chic elements with warm lighting and spacious seating, creating an inviting environment that feels both trendy and comfortable. The lively buzz of multiple conversations, paired with the hum of music and the clink of glasses, fosters an upbeat social mood without overwhelming noise levels, allowing friends to talk easily and enjoy each other's company.
The rooftop adds a distinctive touch, offering open-air space that feels refreshing and lively, especially during warmer months. This area gives your group a chance to enjoy the cityscape under the sky, turning an ordinary night out into something memorable. Seasonal festivals and pop-ups hosted at the venue inject variety into the atmosphere, making every visit unique and exciting.
Additionally, the crowd is known to be friendly and diverse, making it an inclusive space for various types of groups—from longtime friends and families to coworkers and new acquaintances. The overall vibe gives guests the freedom to relax or celebrate as they choose, enhancing the personal connection and enjoyment of your meetup.
What dining and beverage options should groups expect at The Greats of Craft?
Groups visiting The Greats of Craft will find a carefully curated selection of beverages alongside approachable small bites. Among the highlights of the drink menu are more than 200 craft beverages, including an impressive range of beers on tap that cater to the craft beer aficionado as well as casual drinkers. Beyond beer, the bar offers wine, cocktails, hard kombucha, and vibrant non-alcoholic options such as house-roasted coffee, ensuring everyone in your group can find something satisfying.
For food, while the focus leans more heavily on drinks, a handful of classic bar food options are available. These include sandwiches made with thick, flavorful bread, though the menu is deliberately concise rather than overwhelming, emphasizing quality over quantity. The popular ice cream sandwich dessert is a charming, shareable treat that adds a celebratory touch, especially if you happen to be marking a special occasion.
This balance of beverage variety and snack-type foods is perfect for groups who want to socialize over drinks rather than a full sit-down meal. It promotes a casual, convivial atmosphere where eating complements drinking and talking, rather than dominating the meetup’s focus.
How does the location and accessibility of The Greats of Craft add to its appeal?
Positioned in Long Island City at 10-15 43rd Avenue, The Greats of Craft benefits from being easily accessible to both locals and visitors coming from other parts of New York City. Long Island City has become a vibrant, culturally rich neighborhood known for its art spaces, parks, and waterfront views, making The Greats of Craft a natural hub for social gatherings in this dynamic setting.
Its proximity to landmarks such as the Queensboro Bridge and the Manhattan skyline adds scenic interest and provides great photo opportunities after a couple of drinks, enhancing social media-worthy moments among friends. The location also benefits from good public transportation connections, making it convenient to reach without the hassle of driving or parking, which is especially valuable for larger groups.
Inside, the establishment’s layout has been optimized for both comfort and conviviality, with ample seating spread across multiple distinct zones, including the prized rooftop, indoor tables, and bar stools. This means you can tailor your meetup’s vibe, from lively bar chatter to more intimate corners, all within the same venue while enjoying easy flow between spaces.
What types of events and special gatherings can The Greats of Craft accommodate?
The Greats of Craft is well-equipped to host a variety of social events, making it an excellent choice for groups seeking more than just a casual drink together. The venue frequently offers seasonal festivals and pop-up events that showcase new craft beverages, local art, or themed celebrations, giving your meetup an extra layer of excitement and novelty.
For private parties — such as birthdays, reunions, or after-work social hours — The Greats of Craft provides flexible space arrangements and attentive service to cater to the group’s needs. Whether you prefer a dedicated area for your group or a more open mingle with other patrons, the staff can help create an inviting experience tailored to your occasion.
Their event programming fosters community connections while ensuring guests can enjoy unique experiences beyond routine bar visits. The rooftop setting lends itself particularly well to festive occasions, offering both atmosphere and views that elevate any celebration into a memorable gathering spot.
Why is The Greats of Craft rated so highly by its patrons?
The Greats of Craft consistently earns high marks from its customers, reflected in a robust 4.7-star rating across hundreds of reviews. Patrons regularly praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who enhance the overall experience with genuine hospitality and helpful recommendations. The extensive beverage selection resonates strongly with craft beer and cocktail enthusiasts, while the comfortable and spacious environment receives frequent commendation for accommodating groups without feeling overcrowded.
The rooftop bar, in particular, is a standout feature that receives rave reviews for its stunning views, ample seating, and fresh-air ambiance. Visitors also appreciate the venue's commitment to variety and quality, which appeals to diverse tastes and makes repeat visits worthwhile.
Though the food menu is limited, customers acknowledge the focus is on complementing the drinks rather than full dining, which suits the bar’s concept well. Combined, all these elements contribute to The Greats of Craft’s reputation as a top destination for group outings and social gatherings, delivering an experience that’s enjoyable, accessible, and memorable.