Stationed above the 2nd Ave Deli through a nondescript side door, I met a few people here for happy hour (runs 5-7(?) don’t quote me) on a Friday. The old NYC deli marketed a soup and half a sandwich as the ideal lunch. Could 2nd Floor & Essen be the most NYC bar? The deal is a cocktail and half a sandwich for less than $30. It’s overpriced by some standards, but not for New York City. Have you heard of the $29 hotdog? We got a few cocktails, half sandwiches, and the corn dogs wrapped in everything bagel seasoning. The vibe was like a speakeasy: dark, chill, and quiet. Perfect for a first date or date 78. They have a no standing policy, much like NYC parking. Once again, the most NYC bar.
Excellent date spot, one of the best in Yorkville. Dark, not quiet, but private. Tasty+fun food. Lots to talk about, great collection of new Yorkers. Music is great and a good volume. Versatile place
The entrance is a small door on the side of the street. After walking up the stairs you find a cozy cocktail bar. They have a number of distinct drinks. I ordered the "Upper Eastsider" which has a veggie taste that really stands out. It was a bit more expensive than I'd care to pay for a whole night out, but this place is definitely memorable.
10/10 low key cocktail spot. Incredible drinks, dim lighting in a fun atmosphere. Always people there but never overcrowded. Great for a date or drinks with friends etc
Pigs in a blanket were unreal! Drinks were good as well and the atmosphere was top tier
Just went the other night, the drinks are really really strong (two thumbs up for that) The ambiance is rustic but cozy. The only thing that's lacking is their menu everything is pickled or contains pastrami which to be honest, doesn't match well with a Hawaiian cocktail ...(yes they have a Hawaiian cocktail). The staff was really attentive and welcoming too. I will definitely go back just not for the food...
Drinks are expensive but it's a fun ambiance and experience. Happy hour has 1/2 pastrami and cocktail for $24 (regular cocktails are $18)
Bradley Witover (Qbrad)
+5
Very dark. It's dark on the stairway up, and it's dark in the lounge itself. The darkness is a bit disorienting during the day, but the ambiance really works here. There's a bar, a seating area with a dozen small tables and what looks like a private room in the back. It was closed, so I don't know what it's like inside. Gotta upgrade to VIP, I guess.
I got a Maya Made cocktail and it was very simply presented. The drink was very nice, though I'm not sure I would get it again. It probably doesn't need the cilantro for my tastes. The deviled eggs are some of the best I've had, and could eat several orders by myself. There's pastrami in there and it's perfect. The dry aged salami is also unreal. Quite possibly the best dish there, and one of my favorites ever. The flavors are all very complimentary, and the texture of the salami on the bread with the aioli is amazing. I want more. Every day.
I was less impressed with the pickle trio. It was good, but standard and I may have been expecting another "wow" dish. We also received a complimentary Kugel dish that was nice. Different. I don't recall all the flavors, but I didn't leave any leftover.
I'll be back very soon!
Great bar above the 2nd Avenue Deli. Has sophisticated offerings of the type of deli food you can find downstairs and a lovely cocktail and beer menu. We had the sliders, perogyis, some of the sours, and a few other bites. The ambiance is really nice with lower lighting and a beautiful bar and comfy booths. Would recommend this hidden treat.
Good drinks for sure, and the mini hot dogs were great. It was a little dark for my liking, and I wish they had more food options!
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