Sip & Secrets: Unveil Great Neck's Cocktail Gems!
Anonym
Looking for New friends 25+
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Natasha Surti
It’s Ice Cream Day🍦🍨 🍽Where I went: Bona Bona Ice Cream ✔️What I got: Chocolate B-Dough 💰What I paid: ~ $7 ⠀ 🤔What I think: Since it’s National Ice Cream day, I wanted to share with you my experience at Bona Bona in Port Chester a week ago. Aside from the ice cream itself, the decor of the place made this experience that much more pleasurable because of how thoughtfully it was put together. For the ice cream I got a small scoop of the Chocolate B-Dough (brownies and cookie dough) which was delicious and their charred marshmallow on top of the ice cream made the ice cream so unique! I liked that this fluff was not super sweet and complimented the ice cream perfectly. 10/10 would recommend this place and I will definitely be going back for more!
1Anonym
All New Yorkers will defend the city, and the way of life. However, everyone has their “I hate NY” moment. I hate New York because there’s no space. Can’t breathe without something in your face. What’s yours?
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Food Baby
Go to Time and Tide for an amazing meal of seafood in all forms! The menu has sections for Raw Fish, Small Fish and Big Fish, with great dishes in each one, and you obviously need to start with that giant Goldfish cracker. 👶🏽🐠 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
Time Out New York
Grand Central Terminal gains a massive French brasserie! However, this historic landmark has given us plenty of reasons to bide our time there... This month, the terminal gained another tenant, sure to ease the trials of traveling with its Parisian charms. Grand Brasserie took over the former City Winery space on October 8. Designed by the Rockwell Group, it seamlessly blends into the historic architecture of Vanderbilt Hall and mimics the various sidewalk cafes found in Paris—the front of the restaurant welcomes with towering greenery and black and white bistro chairs. Passing through the wrought iron bar entryway, the main dining room houses red leather banquettes and enough chairs to seat a staggering 300 souls. As if that wasn’t enough, the 100-seat Green Room is decorated with black and white photos of New York’s past and features a grand marble bar with bottles that climb up to the ceiling.
Foodie_NYC
I had a great dinner at Kalye (“Street” in Tagalog). It’s an amazing, affordable Filipino restaurant on Broome Street specializing in Filipino street food. Kalye, a small, unassuming restaurant, delivered an amazing parade of unique, delicious food based on the owner’s chef heritage, as seen on the restaurant’s page. “Our menu is full of Rob’s cherished family recipes, offering a variety of mouth-watering dishes that will make you feel like you’ve traveled straight to the Philippines. From our famous Ube Sliders to other traditional Filipino favorites, every bite is a celebration of our culture and love for good food. Whether you’re here to dine in, taking food to go, or having it delivered to your doorstep, Kalye makes enjoying Filipino food easy and convenient.” Totally enjoyable unique experience. Salamat, Chef 💖🙏🏼💖
Cheryl
this szechuan spot just opened in the lower east side, nyc. right by delancey you can satisfy your szechuan cravings with their gorgeous interior. each dish was delicious and had strong flavor. • thin sliced pork belly with chill garlic sauce • egg custard bun • tradition stewed pork belly cubes • superior dry fried crab szechuan style • stir-fried string beans with minced cabbage and garlic • wagyu beef black truffle fried rice • handmade brown sugar glutinous rice cake 📍Fan Szechuan 大宅门
See also
Dining in Port Washington Near NYC: Discover Local Dining Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Spots
New York Locals
The Commodore I and Commodore II are iconic spots known for serving up some of the best crispy fried chicken and refreshing piña coladas in Williamsburg. 🍍✨ Founded by Chris Young and Taylor Dow, their success led to Commodore II’s opening in Manhattan’s East Village, bringing their famous menu to a whole new crowd. 🙌 With a strong focus on community and nightlife, Commodore II is already becoming a local favorite for both food lovers and partygoers alike. 🪩 🍽️ Stop by for a lively atmosphere, great eats, and a taste of what made The Commodore a Brooklyn staple! 🎉
Food Baby
One of the best restaurants to open this year! CHLOE is back in the SAME location where she originally opened By Chloe. Your best new lunch / quick dinner option in the area, so many things here are so good. The Butternut Nachos are a must to start, the Classic Burger is one of the best vegan burgers in town, and every salad is so good, especially the Quinoa Taco Salad. And all the cookies are a must for dessert! Will be here for lunch all the time. 👶🏽🥗 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
Melanie Yu
Foxface Natural is a natural continuation of Foxface sandwiches. We're going wild and natural! During Halloween week 10/30-11/3 Foxface Natural will be offering a five course special wild game menu (with an optional blood & guts focus for Halloween).
New York Locals
Charoen Krung Thai is bringing the vibrant flavors of Bangkok’s famous Charoen Krung Road to Midtown East! 🇹🇭 Founded by Avirut Lerddirekrat, this restaurant pays homage to one of Thailand’s oldest and most culturally rich streets, blending traditional Thai recipes with modern Asian flair. ✨ Signature dishes like Hunk-Lay, Hor Mok, and Nam-Yar Crabmeat take inspiration from Bangkok’s renowned street food, offering an authentic taste of Thailand right here in NYC. 🍲✨Whether you’re craving bold flavors or a welcoming dining experience, Charoen Krung Thai is the perfect spot to enjoy a fusion of heritage and innovation in the heart of the city. 💛
Cheryl
This is the perfect spot to eat, drink, and watch a game! With their vintage decor, it makes the perfect cozy spot to catch up with friends. They also have trivia night on thursdays at 7:30pm at their park slope location. don’t miss out on their oysters especially during happy hour. the oysters were fresh and the honey garlic wings are a must! Happy hour is monday-thursday 3pm-7pm • pineapple sunset • oysters • honey garlic wings • bg’s famous burger • homemade guacamole • fried shrimp • bacon mac ‘n cheese 📍The Beer Garage
Food Baby
Always love a reason to go back to the excellent Stretch Pizza, and the latest one is this great Happy Hour menu, Tuesday - Thursday 4-6pm, and also the amazing “The Bear” special, like an Italian beef in pizza form. Aside from their staple pizza, you have to try new items. This is one of our favorite spots to indulge in delicious cuisine. 👶🏽🍕 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
Time Out New York
Ess-a-Bagel has been a Manhattan staple since 1976, and local love for the family-owned business radiates throughout all of the five boroughs. Now, its expertly rolled, boiled and baked beauties are available right here in Brooklyn. Choose your own adventure with a doughy, fluffy everything, pumpernickel or cinnamon raisin bagel, and schmear it with all manner of decadent cream cheese options. Or, leave it to the experts and choose a sandwich from their curated menu of NYC faves.
See alsoExplore the Vibrant Community in Port Washington: Anonymous Local Discussions, Networking Events & More Near NYC
Foodie_NYC
WOW! I had an amazing experience at Chef Guo, a world-renowned expert in Chinese imperial cuisine. The chef invited me to the first tasting of his plant-based menu, and it was an absolutely amazing experience. Servers with white gloves, a restaurant that felt more like a palace, and a meal where every item was a perfect celebration for the taste buds. All that with five different kinds of tea servings, a continuous aroma designed by the chef, and a dessert served in an eggshell. While I was the first to experience this meal, the chef hasn’t set a price for it yet, but it is planned to be very affordable. The plant-based tasting menu is planned to be available in October. Definitely one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in the city, clearly a Michelin star-worthy restaurant.
Melanie Yu
In the heart of New York City resides Thirteen Water, a sushi bar that promises an intimate and casual dining experience. This gem offers a variety of sushi dishes that will leave your taste buds satisfied. With the option for reservations and catering services, Thirteen Water ensures a seamless dining experience for all. While dogs are not allowed, the friendly staff and delicious food make up for it. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a novice, Thirteen Water is a must-try for any food lover in the Big Apple.
Food Baby
Reminder how good KING UMBERTO is. Whether you get slices in the pizzeria area or sit down for service in the huge patio, the food is amazing, especially their famous Fried Capellini and excellent pastas. Going back ASAP for Bomobloni on Wednesdays and just all the great slices. 👶🏽🍕 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽
New York Locals
La Flor, founded by Giancarlo Villa and Bri Heu, is Brooklyn’s newest pizza hotspot. 🍕 Opened in July 2024, La Flor is the culmination of Giancarlo’s 15+ years of experience at NYC favorites like Roberta’s and Upside. ✨ Known for its thin, crispy crust, La Flor offers creative pies like the Spicy Hawaiian, Pepperoni with housemade ranch, and a vegan Bruschetta slice, alongside the classics. 🌸 The pizzeria’s name, meaning “the flower,” is a nod to its proximity to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Giancarlo personally designed and built the interiors, channeling the charm of classic New York pizzerias and Italian cafes. All pies are baked in a rare vintage Frank Mastro oven, giving each slice a distinct flavor with perfect charring. Come grab a slice and experience the artistry behind La Flor! 🍕
Morgan Raum
When you are fave college slice makes its way 🥳🍕 Mama’s Too has been a beloved Upper West Side gem for years, and founder Frank Tuttolomondo is nothing short of a pizza maestro. He’s perfected the art of combining unique toppings into flavor experiences you won’t find anywhere else in NYC. Take the Poached Pear slice, for example—aged mozzarella, sweet gorgonzola, and hot honey paired with poached pear for a sweet-savory masterpiece. Or my personal favorite, the Cacio e Pepe, featuring whipped mascarpone, Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano Reggiano, and cracked black pepper. The lines can get long, but trust me, when you finally reach the counter, you’ll want to order 3-4 slices to make it worth the wait. And it absolutely will be!
Foodie_NYC
Pring, Thai Restaurant. Had such a great evening at Pring, an intimate Thai restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. 🌿 Definitely not your run-of-the-mill Thai spot—Pring offered unique, innovative dishes with refreshing twists on traditional Thai flavors. 🍲✨ The vibe was cozy, intimate and relaxed, and the service was impeccable. Definitely a place I’d want to come back to!
Natasha Surti
🥩The steaks are high🥩 🍽Where I went: Le Relais de Venise - L’Entrecôte ✔️What I got: Salad, Steak & Fries 💰What I paid: $32 ⠀ 🤔What I think: This restaurant is arguably one of my favorites in the city. They only serve salad, steak (cooked to your preference), and fries for a fixed price of $32. That being said, this steak is cooked to perfection and what really makes entrecôte so special is the sauce that they serve with the steak. If you like steak, I would highly recommend trying this restaurant.
See alsoNetworking Events & Trending Community Gatherings in Port Washington Near NYC | Local Insights & Socializing
Foodie_NYC
Pring, Thai Restaurant. Had such a great evening at Pring, an intimate Thai restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. 🌿 Definitely not your run-of-the-mill Thai spot—Pring offered unique, innovative dishes with refreshing twists on traditional Thai flavors. 🍲✨ The vibe was cozy, intimate and relaxed, and the service was impeccable. Definitely a place I’d want to come back to!
Eater
This Restaurateur Helped Define a Brooklyn Era: Now, He’s on to Manhattan! After all these years, what is it that pulls serial Brooklyn restaurateur, Andrew Tarlow, across the river? It turns out it’s the stunning, 2,400 square-foot space with a wood-fired oven where I Trulli resided since 1994. Rustic Italian newcomer Borgo opens for dinner, on Friday, September 27. Borgo is the first Tarlow restaurant to open in a decade since Greenpoint’s Achilles Heel. Before that, he opened Diner over 20 years ago, before Williamsburg was what it is today. He’s also behind Marlow & Sons, Roman’s, and She Wolf, along with natural wine shop, Stranger Wines. The 140-seat spot, debuts as a trattoria with a wood-burning oven, an open hearth, and a martini cart. “It’s really epic,” Tarlow says of the hearth in a walk-through. The space features two large rooms with arched entryways, along with the original I Trulli bar, and an 800-square-foot back garden. The food parallels a bit with Roman’s in Fort Greene, featuring seasonal Italian dishes and straightforward Italian mains. Yet the size of the restaurants allows the kitchen to be a bit more ambitious. “The bigger kitchen and the bigger facilities allow me to do more: It’s like the alligators grow as big as their tank kind of thing.”
Eater
Next Stop Vegan Next Stop Vegan, a Downtown Brooklyn restaurant, specializes in meat and dairy-free Dominican food that has garnered local fanfare (the business was recently the subject of a Righteous Eats video as well). The team recently also added a Greenpoint sibling.
Infatuation
Shrine Bar Harlem A few of Harlem’s storied jazz spots are still around, but there are also some exciting spaces in the neighborhood where new artists are keeping the genre interesting. At the Shrine, you can listen to jazz and funk in a vibey purple room almost every night, and most of it is more danceable than the stuff at your dad’s favorite jazz club. This is a low-key spot where you’ll discover stray records in the crevices and mingle with a fun, younger crowd.
Natasha Surti
Ramen love with you ❤️ 🍽Where I went: Ichiran ✔️What I got: Classic Tonkotsu Ramen 💰What I paid: $18.90 ⠀ 🤔What I think: The setup of the restaurant in itself is extremely unique as they have individual booths where you have to order by filling out a form. They use this setup because they want the people who come to their restaurant to be able to focus on the flavor of the ramen without any distractions. Ichiran only serves tonkatsu ramen, and they've clearly mastered it. The broth is rich and perfectly seasoned, the pork is tender and tasty, the noodles are made to your texture preferences (here we went with firm), and of course the egg just adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Overall one of the better bowls of ramen you can get in NYC.
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Okatte Tanto This spot is a traditional and authentic Japanese joint serving fresh sushi and a variety of elevated cold and hot Japanese dishes. I really enjoyed their popular pork katsu sando, mentai udon, and fried oysters that they make right in front of you. Their drinks are also fantastic - I’d recommend getting the Shochu Woolong and the Summer Orange! Pro tip: If you want to get the $34 hidden menu item tuna bone, call ahead to make a reservation - they only serve the tuna bone from 5-6:45pm and it’s first reserved, first served with their limited stock per day. What I Ordered: - Tuna Bone [must-try] - Mentai Udon [must-try] - Pork Katsu Sando - Fried Oysters - Octopus marinated with wasabi - Shochu Woolong - drink - Summer Orange - drink
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Dashi Okume Dashi Okume is both a store and a restaurant cafe packed into one beautifully minimalist but intricately put together building in the most popular part of Brooklyn! It comes from a Tokyo location that’s been around in the Tokyo location in the Tsukiji Fish Market since the 1870s. Walking in, you’ll see a cute DIY high quality dashi-making shop in the front of the store and a lifestyle shop Cibone selling upscale tea sets, kitchenware, and other traditional Japanese work on the right. Walking toward the back of the building, you’ll find a small cafe area selling only Teishoku (a meal set) that comes with your select tea, fish, rice, Kyuri no Asazuke (Japanese cucumber pickles), miso soup, and Kobachi (sides of the day) priced anywhere from $35-$150+ depending on your choice of specially prepared fish. I generally don’t even prefer to eat cooked fish but it was absolutely mind-blowing how delicious everything was, and I left so full but not bloated AT ALL because they only use additive-free ingredients - love everything here! What I ordered in my teishoku set meal: - Haiboshi Saba (because they were out of stock with the most popular Saikyo Zuke!) - Nasu Agebitashi: deep-fried juicy eggplant soaked in their in-house dashi - Tomato Tosazu Zuke: tomato pickled in a sweet vinegar, soy sauce, and their in-house dashi - Kabocha Nitsuke: simmered kabocha squash - Hojicha Tea Bonuses - I got to try my friend’s sides too: - Nikujaga: gently stewed pork, carrots, and potatoes in sweetened soy sauce - Donko Shiitake Umani: dried donko shiitake simmered in lightly sweet soy sauce
See alsoCocktails in Port Washington: Discover Local Cocktail Bars & Trending Rooftop Nightlife Near NYC
Melanie Yu
NYC Must Try: Foxface Natural 🦊 Foxface Natural is a continuation of NYC’s famous Foxface sandwich shop which served unconventional meats - camel, elk, hare and more. They change their menu every few days to weeks, but there are several that stay on longer, like the kangaroo tartare which I came to Foxface just to try! Must tries are definitely any dishes that has their super popular fluke (melts in your mouth!) as well. Also, all meats are sustainably sourced and from non-endangered species! This was the epitome of casual fine dining - absolutely amazing and I’d love to go back again! If these items are ever on the menu again, find my must-tries below. Pro tip - make a reservation! What I ordered: - Point Judith Squid - black aguachile, fermented tomatillo, crispy berkshire pork ear, pickled ramp - Tajarin Pasta - our sake cured mullet roe (karasumi) - [must-try] Kangaroo Tartare - warm spices, charred eggplant, sardinian flatbread - [must-try] Maine Uni - wood oven roasted seafood quenelles, nantua sauce (seafood) - Sweetbreads Schnitzel - melted leek, chestnut purée, fermented sourdough mustard
Infatuation
Cositas Ricas If you’re standing under a large, multicolored cow suspended over Roosevelt Avenue, you’ve come to the right place. It’s hard not to be in a good mood at this neon-lit, 24-hour Colombian diner in Jackson Heights, open since 2000. The hand-painted cartoon characters, peace signs, and Postobon bottle caps make an immediately warm impression. So does the service. The staff are eager to offer recommendations, which is highly appreciated, given that the extensive, photo-filled menu ranges from trout, to chicken fingers, to ham-and-cheese sandwiches.
Discovering the Hidden Gems: Local Cocktail Bars in Great Neck Near NYC
Great Neck is not merely a quaint suburban town on Long Island; it is a thriving hub for cocktail aficionados seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of NYC. As you explore the winding streets, you'll discover an array of local cocktail bars known for their exceptional drink menus and captivating atmospheres. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a curious enthusiast, there's something special waiting for you just around the corner.
Unveiling the Magic of Trending Rooftop Bars
Rooftop bars have become a sensation across neighborhoods, offering unparalleled views and an ambiance that complements the cocktail experience. Although Great Neck might not boast as many rooftops as downtown NYC, the few spots available deliver mesmerizing experiences. Perched above the town’s quaint architecture, these bars bring a slice of city life to a more relaxed and intimate setting. Glimpse the Manhattan skyline while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails, prepared with the freshest of ingredients and a twist of creativity. A favorite for locals in the know, these bars serve not only as a perfect celebratory spot but also as a serene escape.
Bars that Offer a Taste of Authenticity: Local Insights and Characters
One of Great Neck’s best-kept secrets lies in its deeply-rooted establishments that cater to a local crowd, offering authenticity in both drinks and character. Step into a local cocktail bar and you’ll find mixologists who have mastered the art of cocktail making over decades, ensuring each drink tells its own story. From bartenders who remember your favorite order to secret menus exclusive to regulars, these bars foster a community spirit that’s as invigorating as their libations. Learn about hidden favorites like the “Great Neck Mule” or a “Smoking Tequila Sunset,” designed to surprise and delight those adventurous enough to inquire.
Navigating the Nightlife: Where to Go and What to Order
Great Neck’s nightlife is a carefully curated blend of sophistication and casual appeal, attracting diverse groups who seek both nostalgia and novelty. Venture into these buzzing spots, where whispers of the evening come alive. It's not merely about finding a place to enjoy cocktails, but about immersing yourself in a local experience. Order from signature beverages themed each season, or perhaps ask your bartender to concoct a personalized drink based on your preferences. As you soak up the vibrant atmosphere, you may find yourself amidst live music or themed cocktail nights, where the scenes are perpetually changing but the quality remains consistent.
Culinary Pairings: Restaurants That Complement the Cocktail Experience
Any cocktail lover knows that a good drink is best enjoyed with equally enticing culinary offerings. Great Neck’s bars are often attached to or collaborate with renowned restaurants that understand this synergy. Indulge in savory tapas, charcuterie boards, or artisanal pizzas that make the most of locally sourced ingredients, enhancing your evening tenfold. With chefs who take pride in their craft, each dish is designed to harmonize with the drinks menu, offering notes that amplify the complexity and flavors of cocktails served. Seek out these spots for an indulgent evening that caters to all senses.
Engaging with the Community: A Platform for Local Insights
Finally, while Great Neck offers some well-known spots, the true essence of its cocktail scene is shared through local insights. Residents and frequent visitors often share their tips and secrets via platforms like Kikihub, where you can engage in anonymous chats to unearth hidden treasures. These discussions can lead you to uncharted waters, directing you to exclusive events, pop-up bars, or simply guiding you away from tourist traps. Tapping into the pulse of the community reveals the genuine secrets of Great Neck, ensuring your cocktail journey is authentic and unforgettable.
