If possible I wanna give 0 starI was calling the phone number listed on an open mic website and I wanted to invite my friends over to the bar to see the open mics.The person picked up the phone was extremely rude, maybe he thinks I’m not gonna be a customer?I asked about their open mic situation, he first answered me super fast hard to hear through the phone. So I asked again he said no idea, don’t know the time and don’t know if there’s going to be a comedy open mic, he doesn’t know anything and extremely rude.So i asked, you worked there and you don’t know if there’s going to be an open mic?He screamed, excuse me.So I repeated again not raising my voice because it’s a legit question and I feel disrespected by him.Then he said no I don’t know.So I asked who should I contact, he said the comedy organizer.Then I asked who is the organizer, anyway contacts I can do?He said, No I don’t know. The conversation is over.Then he HUNG UP on me.I feel extremely disrespected and he shouldn’t be working there anymore unless he’s the owner??I’m a comics and I would never recommend here to any of my friends in town. Terrible service.
The bar is a lot of fun on club nights, but the bartenders and coat check staff are phenomenally unfriendly. That’s my only gripe about the place. Love the drag queens (especially Alotta McGriddles), even the door staff is fine. Basically come here for the djs, the diversity is great, the drinks are expectedly gay bar strong, but be ready to test your patience with the bar staff.
I recently spent two memorable months in New York City, and one of the highlights of my trip was discovering Phoenix Bar. On my second day in the city, I decided to stop by for a drink, and little did I know that I was about to embark on an incredible journey of friendship, warmth, and unforgettable moments.From the moment I stepped into Phoenix, I felt an immediate sense of welcome. Within half an hour, a friendly customer struck up a conversation with me, and soon enough, I found myself getting to know everyone in the bar. The owner, Garrett, deserves special mention for creating an atmosphere that goes beyond just a typical bar experience.The bartenders, without exception, were amazing throughout my two-month stay. Their skill in crafting drinks was matched only by their genuine friendliness and eagerness to make everyone feel at home. It wasnt just a place to have a drink; it was a community where strangers became friends.The ambiance of Phoenix is nothing short of beautiful, and I highly recommend taking a moment to appreciate the incredible Halloween decorations. The attention to detail was insane, adding an extra layer of charm to an already fantastic setting.Some of my fondest memories from my trip were made at Phoenix. The warmth, camaraderie, and support I experienced there made it hard to leave. Its rare to find a place where you feel so genuinely welcomed, and Phoenix became a home away from home for me.I cant thank the staff, including Garrett, enough for the hospitality and kindness extended to me during my stay. Ive never stuck to a single place for that long, and I attribute it to the incredible people at Phoenix. I wholeheartedly recommend this bar to anyone looking for more than just a drink – its an experience you wont forget.Thank you, Phoenix Bar, for the unforgettable memories. Ill be back soon!
Pretentious bartender. Wow, visiting with my partner, we werent acknowledged, bartender walked right by. Finally he comes up, we say hello, order a beer and then again wow, Ive never seen anyone since my baby sister roll their eyes so many in less than the 3 minutes we interacted. I have friends in the service industry so morally I felt obligated to tip, but man, Ive never questioned whether or not I should so strongly. Worst first impression and hopefully my last.2 stars because they have a decent outside sitting area. LolCheck out nowhere, not far down the road and friendly bar staff to boot!
Service is slow. Drinks are expensive. You cant pay a drink with a card (20 US min) but if they raise the price 10% you will be able to!
I appreciate how open and chill the open mics are for their comedy. I went in as a first timer recently and may have overstepped some of my new material that made some people uncomfortable. However, it was just something new to try out and a way to express my thoughts and not my intention to offend anyone. Had a lot of fun regardless.
I was having a great experience at Phoenix this evening. The bartender was kind and attentive, the drinks were top notch, and the atmosphere was so fun. Then, a new bartender (or barback?) started his shift. My friends and I were playing pool, and he knocked one of the remaining balls in to the pocket and insisted it was time for beer pong. This would make sense if folks were clamoring to play, but no one had any interest in playing. When I questioned why he had halted our game, Sean responded aggressively and nonsensically. I’d like to give all the praise to Phoenix as an establishment; but Sean needs to better understand how to interact with patrons who are just having fun and enjoying the space. Hopefully, Sean the Barback learns how to better interact with guests in the future.
This place isn’t what it used to be and last night the bartender was awful not only did he have a bad attitude, he gave us the impression that he didn’t want to be there. My friend and I ordered two ciders and asked for a squirt of bitters in it. You would have thought I asked for something completely outrageous. My friend and I decided to stay for a second beer each and this time the bartender charged me a dollar more for each beer because of a squirt of bitters. Rather than get into with him, we decided never to return. I don’t need to get attitude from a bartender when I am supporting their business and I also don’t need to be swindled for a squirt of bitters. I’ll take my business elsewhere where the staff isn’t so bitter.
This place is the BEST! Sean, Garrett and all the bartenders go the extra mile. Everyone is super friendly, the prices are great and the crowd is super chill. HIGHLY recommend!
Awful, aloof bartender. Hard pass. Don’t waste your tips. Also, nothing remotely worth it about the ambiance or the patrons. Not quite as gross as the bartender wearing a too-tight shirt (poor thing ain’t got a body to flaunt anymore, maybe 😐), but the crowd was literal LOL messy (like the bartender’s face)
Quiz nightA trip to the quiz night at Phonenix Bar, East Village, will leave you wondering whether the Covid pandemic is really over.This establishment is yet to revert to the ol’ fashioned pencil and paper quiz format, opting instead for mobile phones.This has the unfortunate effect of leaving customers with little option but to squint at tiny screens - much like they are still in the office.It also has the impact of stifling conversations and meeting-and-greets between groups, since the opportunity to mark one’s acquaintances work is now no more.I would urge this bar to immediately invest in a printer, paper and pencils.(P.S. I am aware this view may be somewhat unique, with many of my American colleagues preferring the screen method)
I would give a negative star if i could. horrible service and super rude and disrespectful bartender/waiters. Acted like he had 2 sticks up his a**. Drinks were watery and overpriced, tasted bad in general frankly and i tried 3 different drinks to see if any would even be decent but all of them were gross and just bad flavor combinations... and the place was completely empty (i guess for a good reason😁). do not recommend at all unless u like being treated without an ounce of respect and drinking straight up disgusting drinks. middle finger up to this place🤣it is trash. made sure to let them know too so now i gotta let y’all know! avoid this dumpster of a spot ✌️
Ryey is the best we love thim he’s the true protector
Riley and Lorcan were phenomenal. Not only are they so attractive but their drinks are mad yummy. Work. Boots the house down.
Will update this to 5 stars once its confirmed that Sean no longer has a job here. Very rude and condescending. Completely ruined what was an otherwise very fun night. Embarrassing behavior and completely uncalled for.
Love all the boys at Phoenix; Lorcan, Garrett and Sean have been amazing during the pandemic. Their new Happy Hour prices are pretty much the best in the neighborhood. Great vibe in the outside seating area and always a nice friendly crowd! Always worth coming back here for me
The Phoenix is an East Village institution. It’s been great fun for years, long may it continue. The bartenders are friendly and there’s varied entertainment, drags shows, pool table, dj’s etc. I accidentally left my coat there, and staff was super helpful and I was able to pick it up the next day. Thanks Guys! :)
Hey I went with my boyfriend to get a drink at the end of the night. I gave him a 20 to buy my drink for the the drag show. I planned to use the cash for the drag performers and start a new tag and pay for all the tips on that with my card. However the bartender saw two black man and yelled oh you all won’t tip. I just walked in and had no time to show my plans to the bartender and all and all it seem d racially charged. Honestly. I’m offended with how the company treated me during pride. I did the same thing and gave a huge tip in drinks a week before. It’s just crazy that this bartender thought I wasn’t going to tip today based purely on my face.
Super rude waiter moved me around 2x and then said he was being generous. Im definitely never going back and you shouldnt either. The days of rude and arrogant service need to end after this pandemic. I sincerely hope they go out of business (Ive never had that thought before for any restaurant or bar, but they need to be taught a lesson.)
Sean makes the best cosmo in NYC. Was only going to have 1, but then 3 or 4 or 5 who is counting suddenly appeared in my face. Use caution!
A hidden gem. I went there in a recent Saturday. Felt like a home away from home. The bartenders provided excellent service. I do have to highlight Michael. A real rockstar.
The phoenix is a great bar in the east village. they have great strong drinks and friendly bartenders. they have a great happy hour with cheap drinks. they usually host a viewing party for drag race (when its on) and have several drag shows throughout the week. any night you go, youll be sure to have a good time.
My fav and safest bar! A night is always had here. Michael at the bar does what he has to do. Love a good gay bar with a good bartender. Bless!!!
The service was okay, but they weren’t taken the measures to make sure all was safe as secure. No screening for temperatures no bar code for covid screening to ensure all clientele are safe and secure. Security Had lack of focus enjoying himself enjoying the festivities instead of making sure everyone is safe. Failed to comply to safety measures and hazards for the clients. Do not recommend and will not be returning
We came here for trivia, so we didnt get the full experience, but after the game ended there was a drag show with smoke machines, lasers, and disco balls- it was awesome.
Blah pretentious bartenders. Very unfriendly. Skip this bar if you’re wanting to feel welcomed in our community.++ fun excellent drag queen Corma Kelley on karaoke Wednesday nights.
Good music. Decent crowd. Needs more seating in the main room. Bartenders are fairly friendly. They did charge $2 for a club soda and lime which was kind of annoying.
Riley, Lorcán, Sean, Garrett, and Antonio are the best. Love the Phoenix. And DJ Max Volume plays the bops. Come on Sunday for Synthy Sundays with @queerth0ths.
Bartender was rude and nasty with my group of friends last Wednesday may 31, 2023. He was short and white. We talked to the host but it seems that he couldn’t do anything.
I mean, I would note the fact that everyone who reviewed this spot negatively specifically mentioned the bartenders. This bar should seriously consider a change of staff. Not going back
The vibe in that bar is absolutely amazing. I love how there is a decent amount of room to dance and the bar isn’t too small. The bathrooms are downstairs and are actually clean. Music was good, bartenders were nice! Had a blast!!!
First time going to this bar and i had a horrible experience. Not only the over priced drinks taste like throw up the people in there are so out of line and disrespectful. Drinks are so call accidently spilled on me and others. I was pushed so i had to leave. Music wasnt even diverse.
The staff is as friendly as can be. I know each bartender by name, along with the owner. Its very nice during the day when not too many people are there (my kind of atmosphere,because I can relax while I drink), but during some nights, it can be very crowded, which Im glad, because it gives good business.
We spent our final night tonight in New York at Phoenix bar, the barman was accommodating and provided the drinks as asked and even provided a cigarette as asked and I provided a 2 dollar tip on a $13 bill, shortly after I asked for a glass of water and from a very sulky barman i got a sarcastic comeback on a poorly $2 tip for pouring four drinks! I know 15% to 20% is the expected tip in NY and I realised that perhaps I has short-tipped but after his remark I resent having tipped at all. I had simply miscalculated but if that is the consequence of a simple mistake I would recommend avoiding this bar completely. I didnt need that and neither would you! Find another bar!!!
Great neighborhood spot. Have had many fun nights here from a random Wednesday to a packed Friday. It can get a bit old as they do the same thing every Friday, but when you’re young it’s great! Went on my first date with my husband here!
Great bar! The bartender, Michael, was super attentive and friendly! One of my favorite places in the city!
Came my first time had a blast bartenders was great the drag show was awesome even for a straight man I had a good time and felt completely comfortable in here second time not so much one bartender was upset about getting tips he was getting even though we were in a group and waiting for more ppl to come and he felt it was good enough cause he was prissy I guess...and decided to not serve us and argue about it
Michael and Antonio were amazing! Also, the bouncer was very personal! Staple east village gay bar!
Went to another bar previously and there wasnt anywhere to sit. Came across the street to this bar and was blown away. Super energetic environment, attentive staff, fast service, and excellent performances! What a cool bar to accidentally stumble into!
Low-key East Village gay bar, I checked it out on a Friday around midnight, was getting busy, decent, poppy music and a gogo dancer. There is also a snug area beside the bar thats better for sitting and conversations. Barmen a tad rude - to be expected?
My wife and I visited from out of town. The bartender intentionally ignored us and when we finally ordered and received drinks they were weak.
Max is amazing !! great trivia host and great dj. he made my experience at phoenix bar unforgettable
Delicious cocktails. The espesso martini is phenom. Sean runs the show.
Dimly lit chill gay bar in the East Village. Drinks are moderately priced. They have a drag show during the week. Good place to grab a drink with a friend if you are in the area.
They used to hold gay parties on fridays not sure if they still do but the owner is such a nice lady, she makes sure u get enough alcohol. Like A LOT of alcohol, worth the price haha wish she was serving more often. Not sure it its gay stilll
Pheonix is a great time. Music is a vibe and Michael the bartender takes care of you!
The most fun I’ve had in the city! Michael made my night worth the while. Will def be coming back 💖💖💖
Michael and Sean are incredible! Made a great green tea shot. GOT ME DRUNK
Do not come here. Bartenders are completely rude for no reason. Worst bar I’ve been to in NYC.
Fun trivia night, but I really couldnt tell you anything about the drinks as I only had softs.
Its a gay dive bar, no-frills, with a pool table. Whenever you can catch a drag show here, do. Also, I believe they have lesbian nights.
Michael the bartender is fabulous! Such a sweetie def will see me again 😈
Vibes were good and drinks were perf Michael & Shawn poured great drinks
Micheal was prob the best bartender i’ve met in a while, will b returning!!
I calmly approached the person in charge in regards to my female friend not being allowed in and was treated rudely. I had heard good things about this place, but I will never return to this venue.
Some of the best-looking men Ive seen in ages. No attitude in this bar. I recommend it very highly.
Decent music but dead crowd at 1am on a Saturday. Also, a $20 card? Yeah no Im good.
I’ve been in NY for 10 years and have always loved Phoenix. Until tonight. What happened to all the men!? All college girls. At the Phoenix?!?!
Hadn’t been in a long time, and had a great time! Special thanks to Michael who took care of me and made my night!
Wanted to scam people into between they had the best interest if residents in life. Not true. Scammers
Perfect spot to have a drink and chill. I went the other day and the music was great listen to it while chating or to dance a little bit.
Rude staff. Manager has an ego problem, can not deal with a complaint properly. I do not recommend esp when so many other cool places to go in nyc
Happy hour prices are good. Lots of space in this bar.. Pool tables and couches. Id return again.
Nice atmosphere and varied crowd. Drinks are good and the staff is very friendly.
Still trying to figure out its busy night...whenever I stop by,whether happy hour or later...seems to be on the slow side. Good draft beer selection.
Fun environment. Very welcoming.
Typical east village gay bar. More chill on weekdays. Has a nice lounge area in addition to the pool table.
Fun and friendly atmosphere, a great place to get the tastiest vodka soda which were made by the friendliest staff!
Eh. It was okay. Maybe it was the time we went. Im not a local so maybe this just wasnt for me. The fog made it a little hard to breathe. If i was staying longer i would have given it a second chance.
Happy hour ALL night!!!! $2 beers $4 wine and beer - AAAAND a DRAG SHOW ONa SUNDAY!!
I dont have yelp but the queens turn it and the drinks are great!!!
Came here after the pride parade!!! Great vibes, good music and bartender were generous with the servings 🤪🤪🤪🏳️🌈❤️
Come for Michael and Antonio on a Saturday night - super friendly❣️
Low key bar that has awesome happy hour specials, and comedy and trivia on Wednesday.
Dark, unpretentious and relaxing bar (when it’s not over-crowded) serving cold beer, strong drinks and music from the best jukebox around.
Great music and great drinks.
Great local bar with good vibes
Good drinks with good prices. But guys here are a little bit old actually
Good, chill gay bar. Pretty local vibe, not too divey, not pretentious.
Great neighborhood gay bar. Awesome happy hour specials.
Chance Bartender nop empathetic
Cheap drinks, occasionally good music. Good meetup spot for a group.
Such a great dive bar, a must for a cheap drink in NYC!
Great Irish themed gay bar with good value drinks.
I love swinging by this place, which so far has always been a pleasant surprise to walk by.
Awesome neighbourhood staple. Usually great music and the staff are cool.
Cute place for drinks with friends and partners, or a hook-up for LGBT singles
Fun atmosphere, and sometimes a good place to pick up hotties!
This bar is fabulous. If you are fabulous, youll be fine in this fabulous bar.
Fun gay bar, solid crowd on Friday nights
A neighbourhood workhorse. antisocial types have a separate little space off to the side for hanging out :)
Nice ambiance with great happy hour special.
Bad attitude from the server and terrible Bluetooth connection for the outdoor section
A typical gay bar. No complaints!
Great place to hang out with friends and make new ones.
Fun time with a drag show when I went.
Hot people all over the place. Nice chill environment
Local dive bar with a decent beer selection
Tiny dancefloor and very crowded on Friday nights.
Accidentally walked in here and walked out, but from what I saw looked pretty chill.
I love the special drinks😘❤️🇧🇷🇪🇸🇺🇸
The barmans were very antipathique
Nice place enjoy watching rupaul here
Nice place, service was very bad very Rude staff
Fun and cheap gay dive bar.
For a quick drink 🍸 ok
Fun & wild this place is a good time !
Good fun but not amazing
Your classic gay dive bar with a pool table
Trivia night is always fun.
Great neighborhood gay dive bar
Really cool bar!
Good/friendly local queer bar
Gotta love Debbie Stern
Always a great time!
Like no other place! u need to come here
Very nice bartenders
Unapologetic and rude bartender.
Cute little neighborhood bar.
Nice gay dive bar.
Great service
Just loved it!
Cool neighborhood bar
Fun local bar
Grungy gay bar
European bar, nice decor! And very affordable
The stripper show is amazing, good drinks and bartenders. Happy hour is so much fun