When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Penrose Bar
Why The Penrose Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Penrose Bar, located at 1590 2nd Avenue in New York City's Upper East Side, stands out as a vibrant, inviting neighborhood spot perfect for meeting up with friends. Its ambiance strikes a compelling balance between vintage charm and modern warmth, featuring warm lighting and elegant, cozy décor that makes every visit feel special. With a kitchen open nightly until 3 a.m., it serves as an ideal destination from brunch through late night, catering to a range of moods and occasions. The Penrose offers a curated menu boasting classic cocktails like the renowned dirty pickle martini and a selection of excellent bar foods that consistently receive praise for being delicious and creative; notable dishes include a lobster roll with a unique twist, beet and strawberry salad with pistachio and goat cheese, kale Caesar salad with anchovies, and fried pickles. The bar’s lively yet approachable atmosphere fosters honest conversation and good company, attracting a diverse crowd from Tinder dates to longtime locals, making it one of the few spots on the UES that feels both bustling and comfortable. With friendly service, a strong focus on quality, and popular happy hour specials, The Penrose is an outstanding meet-up spot that blends an indie-chic East Village spirit with the Upper East Side’s sophistication.
Here's what people think of The Penrose Bar
As of recent, The Penrose Bar holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2333 reviews.
Reviews of The Penrose Bar overwhelmingly highlight its consistent delivery of delicious food and superb drinks, underscoring its reputation as a reliable neighborhood favorite with a lively nightlife scene. Positive reviews commend the varied menu, creative cocktails, and especially the inviting ambiance—described as warm, chic, and perfectly balanced. Patrons praise the unique dishes like the dirty pickle martini, latke with salmon, and inventive lobster roll, alongside generous portions and a late-night kitchen. The friendly, attentive service and the bar's ability to maintain a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere also receive strong mentions. Many reviewers enjoy the bar’s role as a social hub where conversations flow easily, making it conducive for gatherings ranging from casual dates to group outings. On the other hand, some critiques focus on how busy the venue can get, especially on weekend nights, potentially leading to a packed, less intimate experience. A few find the space noisy or the crowd a little overwhelming at peak times, which may not suit those seeking a quieter environment. However, these negatives are generally noted in the context of the bar's popularity and active scene rather than flaws in quality or service. Overall, The Penrose Bar garners high praise for delivering a chic, enjoyable, and authentic gastropub experience on the Upper East Side, consistently satisfying its visitors' expectations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tatiana Solano
Such a good spot- definitely worth the hype! The servers and hostesses were so accommodating and approachable! Very knowledgeable on the wines and cocktails list! Food and as really delicious we got the cheese board-the spread was so well paired! The bang bang shrimp was good too! We just went for drink and apps but curious and will be back to try other items!
Remi W.
Long time neighborhood staple, fabulously great for a last minute bite. The food and drinks are great but it is the excellent service that really makes the Penrose a wonderful place to dine at. If you are adventurous I recommend ordering the pickle martini. They also have an amazing Happy Hour!
Andrea Garcia
Love this bar. They have a $10 after 10 of spicy margaritas and other cocktails and a late menu that is really good. Service is super friendly from the man on the entrance to the server. Really fun place with excellent atmosphere. Would come back any time.
Mkaurene
Oh my gosh..... the Penrose?! Lets go! ...literally. lets go to the Penrose because it is the bees knees! The food is next level.. when I lived in the UES I would pick up Penrose once a week maybe.. the shishito peppers, the popcorn chicken, even the homemade salt and vinegar chips.... e v e r y t h i n g there is amazing! I only sat in once, and our server Kelly made it a really great experience... huge shout out to Kelly! Whoever mixed the Pickle Martini is also getting a shout out and I wish I got the meet that person. Penrose is a highly recommended restaurant. During the day you likely won't have to wait long for a table, if at all so get in while you can! Can't wait to go back!
Ivy colon
A truly exceptional brunch spot! I can highly recommend the birdcage, south of the border, and the pickle martini! If you like pickles, that is The salmon crispy was absolutely exceptional! And my friends and I thoroughly enjoyed the steak and eggs, side of tater tots, which is the go to, of course. Also, the chicken biscuit was extremely moist, and saucy the chicken was cooked perfectly and not dry! We will be back !! Gotta check out dinner
How to reach The Penrose Bar
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Why The Penrose Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at The Penrose Bar with your friends offers a uniquely warm and lively experience that combines the best of neighborhood charm with a buzzing social atmosphere. Situated in the Upper East Side, this venue stands out for its blend of chic sophistication and cozy comfort, making it an ideal gathering spot for casual meetups or special celebrations. Whether you seek a relaxed brunch, an energetic night out, or a place to share memorable moments over thoughtfully crafted drinks and great food, The Penrose Bar delivers on all fronts. The ambiance is remarkable—elegantly designed with antique lighting, aristocratic details, and a welcoming glow throughout the space. This creates a warm backdrop that invites conversation and connection. Notably, the bar has a stellar reputation for exceptional service and attention to detail, which turns simple outings into cherished memories. If you want a place that feels both intimate and vibrant, where the drinks are excellent, the food satisfying, and the staff goes the extra mile, The Penrose is a top choice for your next friend or family meetup.
What Activities Can You Enjoy at The Penrose Bar?
When you choose The Penrose for your group meetup, you’re opening the door to a variety of engaging activities that complement its fantastic food and drink offerings. First, the bar itself is a focal point for socializing. Its long, curving structure invites groups to gather around and enjoy handcrafted cocktails or a wide selection from a well-curated beer list. The atmosphere encourages conversation, whether you’re reconnecting after a long time or meeting new faces. Beyond drinks, food plays a major role here. The Penrose offers a menu featuring crowd-pleasers like fried pickles—crisply battered and served in a perfect circular shape for easy eating—burgers made from premium LaFrieda beef, and a spicy beef sandwich with a rich and complex preparation process. The food is designed to share and pairs beautifully with drinks, making it ideal for groups. The bar also hosts brunch, notable for its long-time popularity, where you can enjoy casual meals in a sunlit, warm setting. All these activities facilitate a dynamic and inclusive experience for groups seeking both quality and variety.
Why Is The Penrose Bar Perfect for Group Meetups?
The Penrose Bar excels as a group meetup destination primarily due to its thoughtful space, welcoming vibe, and excellent service tailored to accommodate larger parties. It has plenty of seating, including a popular back area that comfortably holds sizable groups with bar seating and tables. This arrangement is ideal for facilitating conversation and mingling without feeling claustrophobic. The staff are praised for their attentiveness and ability to manage group needs seamlessly, often personalizing the experience—whether it’s curating food quantities, controlling beverage service, or setting up a special atmosphere with custom music and decorations. Events like family celebrations and memorials have been handled with professionalism and empathy, showing how the venue can adapt to different moods and group dynamics. Moreover, the combination of quality food, extensive drink options, and a lively yet approachable environment means that everyone in the group can find something they enjoy. For social events, group dinners, or casual hangouts, The Penrose Bar creates an effortlessly comfortable yet festive setting.
How Does The Penrose Bar Stand Out in Its Neighborhood?
Located on the Upper East Side, where traditional dining and nightlife options often skew more formal or quiet, The Penrose Bar injects a dose of indie-chic energy reminiscent of downtown New York bars. Unlike many places in the area, it offers an authentic scene with a diverse crowd, including locals, professionals, and even people out for casual Tinder or “bro dates.” The bar’s design—mixing reclaimed wood, warm antique lighting, and aristocratic decor—strikes a balance between trendy and timeless, making it visually inviting without feeling pretentious. This welcoming and vibrant atmosphere makes it easy to strike up conversations with strangers, adding a communal feel rare in uptown bars. The Penrose’s reputation for consistently delicious food and thoughtfully crafted drinks helps it maintain a loyal following, contributing to the lively scene. Unlike typical neighborhood pubs, The Penrose manages to be a hotspot without losing the friendly, approachable vibe that invites repeat visits. This makes it the perfect place to gather with friends and family who want a real New York experience with something for everyone.
What Kind of Food and Drinks Can I Expect at The Penrose?
The Penrose Bar is well-known for its well-balanced menu that complements its bar program—a crucial factor in making group outings enjoyable. The food focuses on approachable, tasty dishes served in portions perfect for sharing. Signature items include the acclaimed fried pickles, which stand out because they are cut into thick circular slices and coated with a perfect fried crust to hold the pickle inside. The burgers, thanks to a special LaFrieda beef blend, satisfy after a few drinks with classic toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Another standout is the spicy beef sandwich, which undergoes an elaborate preparation involving smoking and marinating before being served with toast, onions, and spicy pickles, offering a complex flavor profile. For lighter bites, offerings like oyster sliders and franks in a blanket are customer favorites. On the drinks side, The Penrose boasts a craft beer selection priced to encourage sampling alongside well-made cocktails like their famous dirty pickle martini. They also have specials such as $2 off drafts, wine, and wells during specific times, making it economical to enjoy a round with friends.
How Does The Penrose Handle Special Events and Large Groups?
The Penrose’ ability to host and handle special events with professional care sets it apart from many other bars and restaurants. When it comes to group meetups, celebrations, and even sensitive occasions, the venue shines thanks to its exceptional event management. An event manager personally assists customers in choosing the right food and beverage quantities and coordinates logistics to ensure a smooth experience. For example, a recent memorial gathering held there was praised for the staff’s empathy, attention to detail, and ability to create a warm and respectful atmosphere fitting the occasion. The team’s dedication extended to playing custom music playlists, arranging a slideshow, and setting up ceremonial elements—all of which made the event meaningful and memorable. Staff members managing the front-line service are noted for being attentive but never intrusive, maintaining clean spaces and timely drinks service. The space at The Penrose is flexible enough to accommodate groups as large as 30 people or more, making it a reliable venue for diverse social needs.
What Is the Overall Experience Like at The Penrose?
Visiting The Penrose Bar is more than just eating and drinking; it’s immersing yourself in a vibrant social hub that has become an Upper East Side institution. The lasting popularity—reflected in a strong 4.4 rating with over 2,000 reviews—underscores how consistently it delivers quality and service. The dual appeal of elegant design and convivial energy shapes a space where guests feel comfortable lingering from brunch through late-night hours. The synergy of good food, well-crafted cocktails, attentive staff, and a lively crowd creates a fun yet relaxed atmosphere for all types of gatherings. Whether you are meeting friends for an evening of drinks, celebrating a milestone, or hosting a casual family gathering, The Penrose offers a versatile venue that effortlessly suits the occasion. The staff’s attentiveness ensures that each visit is personalized and smooth, while the diverse menu and drink list cater to varied tastes. Simply put, The Penrose Bar is a standout destination for any group looking for a memorable, quality meetup in a quintessential New York setting.