Ear Inn Introduce
Nestled on Spring Street, the Ear Inn is more than just a bar and grill; it's a living piece of New York City history. Established in 1817, this establishment holds the distinction of being one of the oldest working bars in the city. The moment you step inside, you're transported to another era, surrounded by a warm, historic atmosphere that feels both authentic and full of character. It’s a place that manages to be both trendy and timeless, attracting a mix of locals, tourists, and groups looking for a unique and memorable experience.
The Ear Inn prides itself on a no-fuss, genuine approach to hospitality, offering a relaxed and cozy environment where you can enjoy great food and drinks without any pretense. The historic charm is palpable, from the warm wood interiors to the old-school bar details and the relics accumulated over centuries of service. It's the kind of place that feels like a treasured neighborhood secret, a spot where you can unwind, enjoy good company, and soak in the city’s rich past. Whether you're coming for a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or just to catch a beautiful sunset with a drink in hand, the Ear Inn delivers an experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.
The Ear Inn is conveniently located at 326 Spring St, New York, NY 10013, USA. Its prime position in the city makes it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. Situated on Spring Street, it is a well-known landmark and a popular destination for those exploring the downtown area. The area is well-serviced by public transportation, with numerous subway stations and bus stops within walking distance, making it easy to reach from almost anywhere in the city.
For those who prefer to drive, the location offers both free and paid street parking options. While finding a spot can be a typical New York challenge, the availability of both choices provides flexibility. The restaurant is also designed to be accessible to everyone, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their visit comfortably. The location also allows for a lovely view, especially during sunset, making outdoor seating a highly sought-after spot.
The Ear Inn provides a range of services designed to accommodate various dining preferences and occasions.
- Dine-in: Enjoy the full, historic experience by dining inside. The venue offers comfortable seating and table service.
- Outdoor seating: Take advantage of the pleasant New York weather and enjoy your meal and drinks on the outdoor patio.
- Takeaway: For those on the go, you can order your food to go and enjoy the delicious menu items at home or elsewhere.
- Reservations: The Ear Inn accepts reservations, which is particularly useful for planning a meal with a group or during peak hours.
- Bar on site: A full bar is available on-site, offering a wide selection of alcoholic beverages.
- Table service: The attentive and friendly staff provide excellent table service, ensuring a pleasant and smooth dining experience.
- Happy-hour drinks: Take advantage of their happy-hour specials for great deals on a selection of drinks.
The Ear Inn is celebrated for several unique features that set it apart from other establishments in New York.
- Historic Atmosphere: As one of the oldest bars in NYC, its history is a major draw. The cozy, lived-in feel and authentic decor make it a truly special place.
- Live Performances: The venue regularly hosts live music, especially on Sunday evenings, creating an intimate and lively atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.
- Great Drinks Selection: Known for both its great beer selection and creative, spot-on cocktails, the bar offers something for every taste.
- Delicious Comfort Food: The menu focuses on well-made, classic American comfort food, with options like their perfectly cooked burgers, New York Strip Steak, and incredible fried dumplings.
- Fast and Friendly Service: The staff is known for being attentive, friendly, and efficient, contributing to a top-notch guest experience.
- Diverse Menu: The menu includes a variety of options to suit different dietary needs, including vegetarian choices and organic dishes.
- Popularity: The Ear Inn is a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and tourists alike.
- Late-night food: The kitchen stays open late, making it a great option for a post-show or late-evening meal.
To make a reservation, inquire about a live music schedule, or get more information, you can contact the Ear Inn using the following details:
Address: 326 Spring St, New York, NY 10013, USA
Phone: (212) 226-9060 or +1 212-226-9060
Choosing the Ear Inn is an excellent decision for anyone seeking an authentic, quality experience in New York City. The food is a major highlight, consistently receiving praise for its no-fuss, well-executed approach. One of the most talked-about items is the fried pork and chive dumplings, which one customer called "out of this world" and "seriously, the best dumplings I've ever had." The combination of a crispy exterior, flavorful filling, and perfectly paired dipping sauces makes this appetizer a must-try. Another popular choice is the classic Pat La Frieda Burger and the New York Strip Steak, both of which are described as perfectly cooked and satisfying. The menu also features daily specials, so it's always worth asking the staff about the day's unique offerings.
Beyond the food, the drinks menu is a significant draw. The Ear Inn has a reputation for its excellent selection of beers, both on tap and in bottles, and its well-crafted cocktails. Customers appreciate the quality of the drinks, noting that they are consistently "spot on." Whether you're in the mood for an ice-cold draft beer to pair with your dumplings or a well-made cocktail to enjoy the sunset, the bar staff delivers.
The atmosphere of the Ear Inn is arguably its most compelling feature. The casual, cozy, and historic vibe creates a unique backdrop for any occasion. It's a place where you can feel the history in the walls, surrounded by authentic details that remind you of its long and storied past. The addition of live music, particularly on Sundays, elevates the experience, providing a "lively, authentic, and full of life" ambiance that feels intimate and special. The staff, like the attentive and friendly Colin mentioned by a customer, adds to the welcoming feeling, making every guest feel like a local.
Whether you are a New Yorker looking for a new neighborhood spot or a tourist wanting to experience a true piece of the city's history, the Ear Inn offers a complete package. It is the perfect place to enjoy great food and drinks in a setting that is both relaxed and full of character. Its blend of historic charm, quality food, and live entertainment makes it a truly authentic and unforgettable NYC experience.
Ear Inn Menu
APPETIZERS
- Soup of the Day
- Cowboy Chili
- Fried Veggie Dumplings US$10.00
- Steamed Pork & Chive Dumplings US$11.00
- Hot & Spicy Garlic Shrimp US$14.00
- Mac and Cheese US$12.50
- Steamed Mussels-white wine and garlic sauce US$16.50
- Oven-Roasted Buffalo Wings US$13.50
ENTREES
- 8oz Pat La Frieda Burger US$17.50
salad, home fries
- 8oz Lamb Burger US$19.50
Tzatziki sauce, salad, home fries
- Veggie Burger US$14.50
salad, home fries
- Cobb Salad US$16.00
grilled chicken, romaine, bacon, tomatoes, avocado, blue cheese
- Turkey B.A.L.T US$14.00
bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato
- Chicken Pot Pie US$17.50
- Grilled Salmon over Mesclun Salad US$18.00
- Beyond burger US$16.50
- Philly Cheese-Steak US$16.50
- Fish of the Day
- Pasta of the Day
- New York Strip Steak US$33.50
Ear Inn Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Live performances
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Food
- Food at bar
- Happy-hour drinks
- Late-night food
- Organic dishes
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Spirits
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar on site
- Toilet
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Locals
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Free of charge street parking
- Paid street parking
Ear Inn Photos










Ear Inn Location
Ear Inn Reviews
historyschoolguinnesslive musicdumplingswallpot piecharactercrayonsale
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We’ve come to The Ear Inn many times for cocktails ,it’s one of our go-to spots to catch the sunset with a drink in hand. The vibe is always relaxed, the view is lovely, and there’s a timeless charm to the place.But tonight was the first time we decided to dine inside and we’re so glad we did. On Sundays from 8pm, they have live music, and we happened to get a beautiful table right in front of the band. It felt intimate, authentic, and full of life.We ordered the New York strip and a classic burger, both were perfectly cooked and satisfying in that no-fuss, well-done kind of way. The cocktails, as always, were spot on. But they do everyday special as well! Don’t forget to ask !The interior brings you back in time , warm wood, old-school bar details, and a lived-in coziness that reminds you this is one of the oldest bars in New York City. It feels like a piece of local history , not polished or pretentious, just real and full of character.It’s the kind of place that feels like your neighborhood’s secret backyard , somewhere you can relax, hear good music, and enjoy good company.We’re really glad we finally experienced the full Ear Inn charm. Can’t wait to come back
July 13 · ZoeWow, what an incredible experience at the legendary Ear Inn! 🤩 From the moment I stepped inside, I felt like I'd been transported to another era – it's pretty surreal to enjoy some food & drink in a space that's been serving patrons since 1817.Biggest surprise? The food! The fried pork and chive dumplings were out of this world. Seriously, the best dumplings I've ever had. Crispy, flavorful, and perfectly paired with their dipping sauce and some incredibly "horseradishey" English mustard. I highly encourage double-dipping in both and washing it down with an ice cold draft beer.The service was also top-notch. Colin was friendly & attentive and shared some fascinating stories. This place has a classic NYC charm that you just can't find in newer establishments. You can feel the history in the walls and see the relics they've accumulated over the years.If you're looking for a truly authentic NYC experience with great food, cold drinks, and a fantastic vibe, make sure the Ear Inn is on your list.
May 13 · Michael LeeThis is one of the very few places that still captured and preserved the "old spirit " of NY.Considered the date when this place established it was able to do so for few hundreds of years. The place has a vibrant collection of locals who seems to have this place for socializing., the place provides you with crayons and playing cards while you are waiting for your order, but it seems lots of people just keep entertaining themselves and after meal is over. The place is crowded and a bit loud, but this is expected from such place.The wings were very good, they are baked instead of fry and literally falling from bones. I also really enjoyed their chicken pie and fried dumplings. We walked in and waiting time was about 5 minutes, not sure if they get reservations.
June 26 · Alex SerebrovYou are not coming to Ear Inn for the Instagram Photos (or you may be kicked out or spit on...)... You are coming for a taste of history and an even more incredible taste of food, if you have the opportunity! I watched enough YouTube videos about every place I "planned" to visit on my trip and this was no exception. The second oldest bar in NYC and the history of this place deserves it's own attention, so go look at YouTube for yourselves. The owner, Gary, was the bartender the day I was there. I did not need to re-watch the YT video to realize this immediately upon walking in based on his incredibly strong, yet empathetic and deep down, softie personality. He had all the flavor of someone who has dealt with everything and I loved it. The bar regulars were exactly that and their love for their favorite spot was so evident in their energy and enthusiasm for it all.Now, let's discuss the Chicken Pot Pie... I have always been a fan of the CPP, but there is a level of "homemade" vs "ok this is good"... This was the homemade vibe all the way home and I am pretty sure they put an entire chicken worth of chicken in it. It was everything it could have been and you could tell it was made with love. THIS is a hidden gem in a hidden gem.
June 06 · Jennifer KoppI had the best time there with my boyfriend. The chicken pot pie is amazing!!! I can’t wait to go back. Oh, I couldn’t forget to mention how sweet and friendly Yvett, the waitress, was with us. ❤️
April 25 · Otavio Luis Barbosa
More Best Restaurants Near Me

508 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013, USA

307 Spring St, New York, NY 10013, USA

315 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013, USA

287 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013, USA

259A Hudson St, New York, NY 10013, USA

2 Renwick St, New York, NY 10013, USA

284 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013, USA

325 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013, USA

333 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013, USA

225 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013, USA

333 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013, USA

452 Washington St, New York, NY 10013, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites






Trending Bites & Banter Posts





