When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Union Square Wine & Spirits
Why Union Square Wine & Spirits is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Union Square Wine & Spirits, located at 140 Fourth Avenue in New York City's bustling Union Square neighborhood, is a distinguished liquor store that has been serving the community since 1995. Known for its inviting and elegant interior, the store offers an extensive and thoughtfully curated selection of wines and spirits from around the world, including countries such as Italy, France, Oregon, and California. This venue is perfect for meeting up with friends, whether to explore new flavors or to find the ideal bottle for a special occasion. What truly sets Union Square Wine & Spirits apart is its commitment to making wine approachable and enjoyable for everyone, with helpful signage and a knowledgeable team ready to provide personalized advice. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, encouraging discovery with frequent in-store tastings and events that create a lively and engaging ambiance. The staff prides themselves on down-to-earth customer service, turning casual shoppers into regulars through expert guidance and genuine friendliness. Union Square Wine & Spirits is not just a store; it is a neighborhood hub where every visit feels like an opportunity to embark on a wine journey, share stories over a glass, and create memorable moments with friends.
Here's what people think of Union Square Wine & Spirits
As of recent, Union Square Wine & Spirits holds a 4.3-star rating based on 372 reviews.
Reviews of Union Square Wine & Spirits highlight a strong overall satisfaction among customers, reflected in a solid rating of 4.3 from over 370 reviews. Customers frequently commend the store's exceptional customer service, with specific praise for staff members such as Katherine, Hector, and Wilma, who create a welcoming and family-like atmosphere. The staff's expertise and willingness to offer personalized wine recommendations prominently feature in positive feedback, making many patrons feel confident and cared for during their visits. Reviewers also appreciate the store's extensive, high-quality selection of wines and spirits, which caters to both casual drinkers and serious collectors. The inviting store design and helpful signage add to the positive shopping experience by making product browsing intuitive and enjoyable. On the other hand, some negative reviews touch on occasional lapses in customer service or unmet expectations, although these are less common and often overshadowed by the overwhelmingly positive comments. A few reviewers have also noted issues with pricing or limited availability of certain products. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a well-loved local business that excels in creating a friendly, knowledgeable environment where customers feel valued and eager to return.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
lancegriffith1
Costas is amazing. I cannot imagine a more helpful, caring and attentive response from any business. Fro start to finish they treated me like I was spending hundreds of dollars and I only bought one bottle. They delivered free of charge. Can’t say enough good about Union Square W&S.
ZONI SMITH
Love this place have been coming here for some time now. I would highly recommend if you’re in NYC. Amazing choices to choose from. The staff is great friendly smiles and inviting. This location reminds me of Total Wines which is my overall favorite. The options are great from fine French, Italian, Ethiopian, and Norway. I recently found the New York Cocktail and Co. the Negroni is my personal favorite for a nice smooth taste. Gorgeous bottle design. It’s $27 but worth it. I was recommended to my friends who are out of town. ❤️
Michael Gabriel
Would not recommend this store to anyone. Terrible staff and customer service. I wasted a half hour attempting to pick up an online order for Mr. Black. They refused to fulfill the order because the price I ordered online was 10% below the price in store (their fault). They first attempted to lie by claiming they do not carry the product. After I found it on the shelf they said they would not fulfill because of the price difference. Terrible customer service for $2.00 mistake that was their fault. I will never go back, and recommend others avoid.
Susan Gregory
Friendly, knowledgeable employees. Always helpful and easy to work with, whether in person or over the phone. They’ve earned my loyalty!
Claudia G Green
Excellent courteous timely!! Union Square Wine knows service and efficiency. I tried some of the others. Their deliveries were by Uber and GrubHub and they misse deliveries. It was a nightmare. Love Union Square Wine. The best!!!!!!
How to reach Union Square Wine & Spirits
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Why Union Square Wine & Spirits may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?\ Union Square Wine & Spirits presents an ideal gathering spot for friends and family seeking a convivial and enriched drinking experience. Its location in the bustling Union Square neighborhood of New York City places it at the heart of urban excitement while offering a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The store boasts a vast and curated selection of wines and spirits from around the globe, catering to all palates and occasions. Whether you're a connoisseur or a casual drinker, the knowledgeable and friendly staff make it easy and enjoyable to explore new tastes, creating a communal vibe perfect for groups. Complimentary tastings every Saturday provide a social event where friends can gather to sample various wines and spirits together, sparking lively conversations and shared discoveries. With regular in-store wine events and a warm, welcoming design, Union Square Wine & Spirits transforms a simple outing into a shared experience that strengthens bonds, making it a destination where friends can rally for quality time, fun, and flavorful adventure.
What makes Union Square Wine & Spirits perfect for group meetups?\ Union Square Wine & Spirits excels as a venue for group meetups largely due to its accommodating and vibrant environment. It hosts hundreds of free in-store wine events annually, including tastings and winemaker-hosted sessions, which are excellent opportunities for groups to immerse themselves in wine culture together. The presence of a sophisticated tasting machine offering 48 different wines enables group members to explore an array of varietals, encouraging interpersonal discussion and discovery. The store’s layout is thoughtfully designed to be warm and inviting, with helpful signage and a relaxed vibe that makes browsing enjoyable and stress-free, even for larger parties. Additionally, its extensive hours—from early morning through late evening—offer great flexibility for scheduling meetups at convenient times. For groups with diverse tastes, the wide price range of wines, starting as low as $10 and extending to luxury bottles over $1,000, ensures there is something for every budget and preference, making it inclusive. In sum, the combination of the store’s atmosphere, amenities, expert staff, and wine variety creates a perfect setting to bring friends together for an engaging and memorable experience.
What activities can groups enjoy at Union Square Wine & Spirits?\ Union Square Wine & Spirits offers a range of activities that make it much more than a typical wine shop, especially suited for groups. The cornerstone is their interactive wine tastings, including the use of a unique tasting machine that allows patrons to sample up to 48 wines by the glass, providing a playful and educational experience. Weekend tastings are typically free and provide a lively social hub where groups can gather and savor new flavors. The store frequently hosts winemaker events, where guests can meet producers, learn about the origins and nuances of their offerings, and deepen their appreciation for wine craftsmanship. These events are ideal for groups wanting to engage more deeply with wine culture together. Beyond tastings, the store’s knowledgeable staff offer personalized recommendations, helping group members discover beverages tailored to their individual or collective taste profiles. This interactive and educational aspect fosters a shared experience that is both fun and informative. Customers can also combine their visit with exploring the vibrant Union Square neighborhood, making the store a great kickoff or conclusion point for a day out with friends or family.
Why is the location of Union Square Wine & Spirits advantageous for meetups?\ Situated at 140 Fourth Avenue, Union Square Wine & Spirits benefits immensely from its prime location in the energetic heart of New York City’s Union Square neighborhood. This area is well known for its lively atmosphere, with easy access via multiple subway lines including L, N, Q, R, 4, 5, and 6, ensuring effortless arrival for guests coming from any borough or neighborhood. The proximity to Union Square Park and the famous Greenmarket means groups can extend their meetup outdoors to enjoy fresh air and local produce before or after their visit. Being surrounded by an array of restaurants, theaters, and cafes allows groups to craft a fuller day or evening experience that combines wine tasting with dining, entertainment, or shopping, all within walking distance. The neighborhood’s vibrant yet comfortable urban setting complements the welcoming vibe inside the store, making it a natural social hub where friends or family can rally easily. Accessibility and surrounding attractions amplify the store’s appeal as a meetup spot by providing convenience and additional activity options that enhance the overall social experience.
How does the staff and service enhance group experiences at Union Square Wine & Spirits?\ The staff at Union Square Wine & Spirits are a significant part of why visiting as a group is so enjoyable. Known for their down-to-earth yet expert approach, they strike the perfect balance between friendliness and professional knowledge, making all guests feel welcome regardless of wine expertise. They are attentive to group dynamics, offering tailored recommendations that suit the both adventurous palates and more traditional tastes within the same party. Their ability to educate without overwhelming helps groups navigate the impressive selection with confidence, turning the shopping experience into a fun exploration rather than a chore. During special tasting events or sessions with winemakers, the staff facilitate smooth interactions and foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels invited to ask questions, share opinions, and learn together. This supportive service presence enriches the group dynamic, making the experience not only about purchasing wine and spirits but also about creating memories and shared stories. Their warm design and helpful signage complement the human touch, promoting a relaxed flow for groups moving through the space.
What unique features does Union Square Wine & Spirits offer that cater specifically to groups?\ Union Square Wine & Spirits distinguishes itself with features that specifically appeal to groups looking for an engaging venue. One standout is the tasting machine that dispenses 48 different wines by the glass, allowing groups to sample multiple varietals without committing to full bottles—a feature that encourages exploration and lively group discussions. The store also curates an expansive inventory that includes both affordable everyday wines and premium luxury bottles, accommodating groups with varied budgets and event purposes, from casual hangouts to celebratory occasions. The frequent free Saturday tastings and regular winemaker-hosted events serve not just as retail opportunities but as social experiences where groups can bond over shared interests and new discoveries. The interior’s thoughtful layout, including clear signage and ample space, ensures that even larger groups can browse and taste without feeling cramped. Lastly, the store’s commitment to sustainable and educational values, exemplified by responsible sipping encouragement and frequent informative events, appeals to modern groups valuing both enjoyment and awareness in their gatherings.
How can a visit to Union Square Wine & Spirits be part of a memorable day out?\ A trip to Union Square Wine & Spirits can be the centerpiece or a delightful component of a broader day spent enjoying New York City with friends or family. Starting your day with a stroll through the nearby Union Square Greenmarket offers an immersive local experience, with fresh artisan foods and street performances that add to the neighborhood’s charm. Following that, a visit to the wine shop for a tasting session or browsing the vast, carefully chosen selection can provide a relaxed yet stimulating pause. The store’s inviting atmosphere encourages lingering as you chat, sample, and share suggestions—perfect for deepening friendships or family bonds. Afterward, nearby cafes and restaurants await to continue the social vibe with delicious meals or light bites paired with your newly discovered wines. Additionally, the cultural venues and theaters in the vicinity offer options for entertainment, making the area an all-in-one destination for culture, cuisine, and conviviality. This seamless blend of activities ensures that your meetup is not just an outing but a memorable experience enriched by community, discovery, and celebration.
What do reviews say about the experience and atmosphere at Union Square Wine & Spirits?\ Customer reviews consistently praise Union Square Wine & Spirits for its excellent balance of quality, service, and atmosphere, with many highlighting the friendly and knowledgeable staff as a key reason for return visits. Reviewers note the extensive and well-curated selection, which caters to both casual drinkers and serious collectors, making it a universal crowd-pleaser. The in-store events, especially the free Saturday tastings, receive frequent commendation for their relaxed and educational nature, fostering a community feel that customers appreciate. The store’s design and signage are often described as inviting and easy to navigate, helping groups and individuals alike to feel comfortable exploring without feeling overwhelmed. Several reviewers remark on the value for money and the availability of both affordable and high-end options, which invites a diverse clientele and makes the store practical for all types of social gatherings. Overall, the 4.3-star rating based on hundreds of reviews attests to its strong reputation as a neighborhood treasure and a go-to spot for groups looking to enjoy wine and spirits together.
What practical tips should visitors know when planning a meetup here?\ When planning a group meetup at Union Square Wine & Spirits, it’s helpful to consider the store’s operating hours, which run from 9 AM to 10 PM Monday through Saturday and noon to 9 PM on Sunday, allowing you flexibility to plan at a convenient time. Taking advantage of the free Saturday tastings is a great way to start your visit, but if you want a more curated or winemaker-hosted event, checking their event calendar in advance is recommended as these can require reservations. The location is very accessible by multiple subway lines, so organizing group transportation is usually easy without the hassle of parking. Since the store encourages responsible consumption, it’s wise to plan your outing so that everyone can enjoy tastings safely; designating someone to handle transportation afterward might be necessary if spirits are involved. Finally, don’t hesitate to engage the staff for personalized recommendations or private group arrangements; their expertise can elevate the experience and help tailor your visit to your group's preferences and occasion.
Why is Union Square Wine & Spirits a top choice for wine and spirits shopping in NYC?\ Union Square Wine & Spirits stands out as a top spot in NYC due to its combination of an extraordinary selection, expert guidance, and community-oriented programming. Since its establishment in 1995 and under the stewardship of Mitchell Soodak since 1999, it has set high standards for retail wine experiences in the city. Its extensive range spans everyday values to fine rarities, meeting the needs of wine novices and collectors alike. The commitment to education—through tastings, winemaker events, and staff expertise—turns shopping into a cultural experience, enhancing customer appreciation for the craft of wine and spirits. The warm, inviting design and focus on customer service contribute to a customer-centered approach that is both approachable and sophisticated. Moreover, its active role in the vibrant Union Square neighborhood connects it directly with the city’s social and cultural life, making it not only a store but a community hub where people come together to share in their passion for wine and spirits. This holistic approach helps explain its consistent high ratings and dedicated clientele.
What makes the tasting experience at Union Square Wine & Spirits unique?\ The tasting experience at Union Square Wine & Spirits is unique primarily due to its innovative wine tasting machine that offers 48 different selections for sampling by the glass, something few retail stores provide. This technology enables patrons to try a broad variety of wines in smaller amounts without the commitment of full bottles, perfect for groups with diverse tastes or for individuals exploring new styles. The availability of this self-guided tasting option democratizes the experience, making it accessible and fun while also educational. Additionally, the store’s regular free tastings on weekends allow visitors to sample various wines and spirits with expert guidance, creating a social and interactive atmosphere. Winemaker-hosted sessions further enhance this offering by providing direct insights from producers, enriching the tasting experience with storytelling and provenance. Combined with attentive staff recommendations and a comfortable, inviting environment, the tasting experience here goes beyond mere sampling to become an engaging exploration of flavors and stories shared among friends or family.