upstate craft beer & oyster bar

- 95 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003

For New Yorkers craving fresh seafood and a great drink in a cozy, unpretentious setting, Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar is a name that needs to be on your radar. Located in the heart of the East Village, this restaurant is a beloved local secret, celebrated for its daily commitment to freshness. It's the kind of place that embodies the neighborhood's laid-back yet discerning spirit. The name says it all: it's a haven for oyster and beer enthusiasts, but it's also so much more. The focus here is on high-quality, seasonal ingredients, with a menu that rotates to reflect what’s best and freshest. One of the restaurant's most impressive claims is that it doesn't even have a freezer, a testament to its dedication to serving only the freshest seafood. The atmosphere is casual and cozy, making it the perfect spot for a post-work happy hour, a memorable date night, or a relaxed dinner with a friend. The friendly and knowledgeable staff add to the welcoming vibe, making every visit a pleasant one. It’s a place that feels like a neighborhood institution, a true stronghold that locals rely on for an exceptional seafood experience.

Upstate isn't just a place to eat; it's a place to linger and enjoy. The combination of a top-tier raw bar and a carefully selected list of craft beers and wines makes it a destination for those who appreciate the finer things without the formality. The menu, though small, is expertly curated to highlight the quality of the ingredients. The seafood is the star of the show, from the diverse oyster selection to the daily fish specials. The restaurant's popularity means it often has a wait, especially during prime dining hours, but regulars know it’s well worth it. This a place that appeals to a wide crowd, from solo diners looking for a quick, delicious bite to groups celebrating a special occasion. The consistent quality and warm, inviting atmosphere are what make Upstate a gem in a city full of dining options. It’s a place where you can sit back, relax, and savor every bite and sip, knowing that you're getting some of the freshest seafood and best craft beers the city has to offer.

Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar is conveniently located at 95 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, making it a central and accessible spot in the vibrant East Village. The neighborhood is well-connected by public transportation, with several subway stations within a short walking distance, including lines that serve the East Village area. This makes it a great choice for a spontaneous dinner after work or a planned weekend outing. For those who choose to drive, paid street parking is available in the vicinity, though as with most of Manhattan, it's best to allow extra time to find a spot. The restaurant is also noted for its accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible restroom, ensuring that it can accommodate a diverse range of diners. Situated on a bustling street, Upstate is surrounded by other unique bars, shops, and restaurants, making it an excellent starting point for an evening of exploration in one of New York's most famous neighborhoods. Its prime location draws a crowd of both locals and visitors, who appreciate the convenience and the lively atmosphere of the area.

The restaurant's intimate size adds to its cozy and trendy atmosphere, but it also means it can get busy quickly. This is why dinner reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table. The wait can be a bit long, but many customers find that the food and drinks are worth the wait. The central location and ease of access from various parts of the city contribute to its popularity, solidifying its reputation as a go-to spot for seafood lovers. The blend of a central, convenient location with a small, intimate setting creates a dining experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming, a balance that is highly sought after by New Yorkers.

Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar offers a variety of services to enhance your dining experience:

• Dine-in: Enjoy a full-service experience in a cozy and intimate setting.
• Takeout: Grab your favorite dishes to enjoy at home.
• Happy Hour: Features a popular deal with happy hour drinks and food, including a special on oysters and beer or wine.
• Reservations: Accepts reservations, and they are recommended, especially for dinner.
• Diverse Offerings: The menu includes alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, small plates, and wine, with options for happy hour food.

The combination of these services shows the restaurant's commitment to catering to different customer needs, from a quick bite to a full, sit-down meal. The happy hour is a particularly popular feature, drawing a crowd of locals looking for a great deal on fresh oysters and drinks. The ability to make reservations is a significant convenience for those who want to guarantee a spot at this busy restaurant.

Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar stands out for several key features and highlights that have earned it a loyal following:

• Amazing Happy Hour Deal: A major draw is the happy hour, which offers an incredible value of six fresh oysters and a beer or wine for a very reasonable price. It's often called one of the best deals in the city.
• Incredibly Fresh Oysters: The restaurant's dedication to freshness is a hallmark. With no freezer on site, everything is brought in daily, and customers rave about the quality of the East Coast oysters, describing them as fresh and delicious.
• Great Beer and Wine Selection: As the name suggests, Upstate has a curated list of craft beers and a great wine list. A customer specifically mentioned a dragon stout that reminded them of a Guinness Extra Stout, and the variety is a significant highlight.
• Delicious Food Menu: Beyond the raw bar, the menu features delicious mains like the "fettuccine with clams," which is often praised. Other offerings like uni, escargot, and bone marrow are also mentioned as must-try dishes.
• Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The vibe is described as cozy and trendy, making it a great place for a casual dinner or a date night. It's a spot that feels relaxed and welcoming.
• Friendly and Helpful Service: The staff is frequently praised for being friendly, funny, and very helpful, adding to the overall positive dining experience.

These features, from the value-packed happy hour to the commitment to freshness and a welcoming staff, are what make Upstate a special place. While one reviewer had a mixed experience with some of the cooked dishes and the uni, the consistent praise for the oysters, clams, and the overall atmosphere proves that the restaurant excels at what it does best. The friendly service is a recurring theme in reviews, which is a major factor for a pleasant dining experience.

Contact information for Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar:

Address: 95 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (646) 791-5400

The phone number is available for making reservations or for any inquiries. Its address in a prominent part of the East Village makes it easy to find and a great location for a night out.

In a city overflowing with dining options, what makes Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar worth choosing? It’s a simple equation of quality, value, and atmosphere that few can match. The happy hour deal alone is a compelling reason to visit, offering an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy fresh, high-quality oysters and a drink at an unbeatable price. Beyond that, the commitment to freshness is evident in every bite of their seafood. While some of the more complex dishes may have mixed reviews, the core offerings—the oysters and clams—are consistently praised for their quality and taste. The restaurant's curated beer and wine lists also cater to those who appreciate a good pairing with their seafood. The casual and cozy atmosphere, combined with fast and friendly service, creates a dining experience that feels both special and effortless. It’s a place where you can feel comfortable whether you’re on a date or dining solo. Upstate is more than just a restaurant; it’s a neighborhood staple that delivers a truly authentic and enjoyable seafood experience. If you’re a New Yorker looking for a reliable spot for fresh oysters and a great beer, this is the place to be.

upstate craft beer & oyster bar

95 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA