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About
Big Bar
Welcome to Big Bar, a cozy jewel nestled in the heart of the East Village at 75 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003. This haven boasts an inviting atmosphere, perfect for a chill night out or a spur-of-the-moment gathering with friends. As a food reviewer for Foodjoyy, I can say this spot offers so much more than just drinks; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking to unwind after a bustling day in NYC.
From the moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by soothing red neon lights and an ambiance that encourages connection. With limited seating—about four booths and a few bar stools—Big Bar creates an intimate setting that allows new friendships to bloom, while the intimate space never feels cramped—the fogged windows hinting at the fun that awaits inside. That’s the essence of a true dive bar: a place where everyone knows your name, even if it takes a drink or two to get there.
What stands out at Big Bar is not just its charm but the incredible value offered. Patrons rave about the reasonably priced drinks, with favorites like well-made Manhattans and surprisingly affordable shots. One enthusiastic visitor, Tessie Viola, recounted a night where she found herself amazed by a larger-than-life pour of Jameson priced at a mere three dollars. It's these delightful surprises that keep guests coming back, wallet-friendly without compromising quality.
Adding to the appeal is the staff—famed for their friendliness and expert pours. Reviews consistently highlight the bartenders' genuine approach, making each visit feel personal and warm. Every interaction is wrapped in authenticity; it's easy to see why a loyal customer like polarisdude21 describes Big Bar as a "home-away-from-home," a place where strangers become friends over a shared love of music and great drinks.
Speaking of music, the vibe at Big Bar is enhanced by curated tunes, often emanating from the vinyl records that patrons can bring to spin on designated nights. The atmosphere is relaxed, allowing for conversations that flow as easily as the drinks. A hidden gem among NYC bars, it’s a location where DJs, like Spencer Coplan reminiscing about past gigs, contribute to a sense of community and shared enjoyment.
If you’re looking for a slice of New York that combines good vibes with affordable drinks—where memories are made over laughter and clinking glasses—Big Bar should be your next destination. Just remember, it’s cash only, so prepare accordingly for an effortless, cash-driven experience. In a city often overwhelmed by pretentious venues and pricey tabs, Big Bar stands firm as an outpost of authenticity, ensuring that every visit is more than just a night out; it’s an experience worth savoring.
“ Great vibes, friendly staff and crowd. A reasonably priced, well-made Manhattan, something in short supply these days in the easy village. ”
“ A friend of a friend showed me this place 2 years ago. I instantly fell in love. When we stopped talking, I used the opportunity to steal Big Bar as my own. It's a very small bar-- about 4 booths. A couple of bar seats and limited standing room. But even while packed it's not claustrophobic. (Despite the fogged windows!) Before I go on, I must add IT IS CASH ONLY! But if you can run to an ATM or have a cash oriented mate, it's totally worth it! The lights are super soothing and I think they play music? I've never noticed, which is great because I love bars you don't have to shout at. The bartenders are cool and have a heavy pour. The drinks are very cheap. I think we paid three dollars for a good sized Jameson shot. We were shocked it was three dollars and shocked it was real Jameson. BB is def one of my regular haunts when I remember to take out cash. (Which is more often now.) ”
“ my fav bar when i visit nyc...reminds me of home, chicago. the bartenders are kind and interesting, the dj's are on point. ty ev. ”
“ Great local dive! Cash only, red neon lights and good tunes. Can’t ask for anything better in a busy city like NYC. ”
“ This is where I used to DJ my vintage vinyl records. In 2016 after my seafood delivery shift one night I wanted to toss a couple back before hitting the sack for the weekend so instead of my usual Holiday Cocktail Lounge visit (best bar with no windows btw-also a big bouncing souls fan) I gave this place a try after walking by on the opposite side of 7th one day seeing two signs in the window “open mic Fridays-Bring Your Own Vinyl Monday”. My test cocktail at the time for all my NYC bar visits (spirits permitting) was always a Tom Collins Bombay Sapphire. I stepped inside the red spaceship with the sounds of the Easy Rider soundtrack not coming from an ipod but from a little record player in the opposite corner of the entrance across the parlour floor. A man with a cool hat was sitting down looking at a milk-crate filled with LP’s. “This might be my new favorite place.” I thought. He was the bartender for the night and I ordered my cocktail and he passed the test it was made deliciously. He tomd me he was the owner. Stefan was his name and after a little bit of time he told me all about both the open mic and the BYOV night. It sounded like Mondays were gonna be my new haunt to extend my weekend from 3 days to 4. In my apartment at the time I had a bunch of 45’s I never spun in college bc I was too busy. I looked over to see a neon Red Stripe beer sign which is my all time favorite beer. People, when I tell you this beer was ice cold I could feel the tempreature drop in my body after sipping on the coolness of not only this drink but this vibe of the bar. Stefan and I became friends once he discovered my deep taste in music. I became somewhat of a resident DJ there every week as a volunteer to help bring a following and keep the guests satisfied. The family grew and soon local celebrities heard the music was good on Mondays so the word got out. I spun there until 2018 when I moved out of the city. Believe me when I say, this place was like my little heaven on earth, my home-away-from-home. I make it my base of operation every visit to the city now years later. No checks or credit cards, cash only. The best bar in the city and the best the Ukranian Village has to offer. Total strangers can become your new friends if you buy the ticket and take the ride. Life is worth living to be here. ”
“ Cool little bar, decent prices and a really friendly crowd. We had a great time. ”
“ Big Bar is the place I miss the most about NYC. We had the absolute privilege to live a few houses up from Big Bar for 4 years. The bar is cool, funky, the drinks are great, Stefan is awesome and the music is the shit. I loved everything about, and everybody in this place. It really made me feel like I belong. Next time I'm in NY, you are my first stop. ”
“ Lucky I found this joint decades ago. Familiar with the best bartenders and generous proprietors, who keep the joint relevant. Ukrainian owned business on e7th, not a touristic, trendy, phony joint, can meet real new Yorkers as well as transplants. It is cash only, makes sense, if you can't afford to drink, don't. Near Tompkins Square Park, near the 2nd Ave subway for franki (f), bali (b) trains, small venue so expect to socialize, not the joint for pensive, solo action, it is a bar, you can meet whomever you wish, drinks are no more than most joints with similar stock. ”