Somebody's Darling

- 1664 1st Ave, New York, NY 10028

If you're looking for a bar that breaks the mold of the typical New York City scene, you need to check out Somebody's Darling. Nestled in the heart of the Upper East Side, this lively spot offers a refreshing dose of nostalgia with a modern twist. Stepping inside feels like a trip back to the 90s, complete with retro decor, arcade games, and a vibrant, unpretentious atmosphere. It's the kind of place that's equally perfect for a lively group gathering or a cozy, intimate date night.

More than just a bar, Somebody's Darling is a community hub. The owners, Dara Rock and his partners, have cultivated a space that's welcoming to everyone, from long-time locals to new visitors. They’ve gone above and beyond to create a place that feels safe and inclusive, a detail that many patrons appreciate. With its unique blend of a relaxed vibe and high-energy events, Somebody's Darling has quickly become a beloved fixture in the neighborhood.

Somebody's Darling is conveniently located on the Upper East Side at 1664 1st Ave, New York, NY 10028. This puts it right between East 86th and 87th streets, making it an easily accessible spot for anyone in the area. The location is a short walk from several subway lines, including the 4, 5, and 6 trains at the 86th Street station, as well as the Q train. This makes getting there a breeze, whether you're coming from another part of Manhattan or a different borough.

The bar's street-level entrance is easy to spot, and its welcoming ambiance extends to its outdoor space. As a great bonus for dog owners, the bar is pet-friendly, allowing patrons to bring their furry friends along for the fun. This kind of flexibility and neighborhood-centric approach makes it stand out from other spots in the city. The fact that the bar allows outside food is another unique feature that adds to its accessibility, giving you the freedom to grab a bite from a nearby eatery and enjoy it with your drinks.

The drink menu at Somebody's Darling is as diverse and exciting as its atmosphere. They offer a wide array of choices to satisfy any craving, from classic cocktails to unique creations. Here’s a look at some of the highlights from their offerings:

• A Wide Beer Selection: The bar boasts a great beer selection, including both bottled and canned options like Bud Light, Modelo, and Brooklyn. For those who prefer a freshly poured pint, the draft list features Somebody's Lager, Lagunitas IPA, Guinness, and Abita Purple Haze, among others. There's something for every beer lover.

• Signature Cocktails: The cocktail list is where the creativity really shines. You can find unique concoctions like the Prickly Pear Margarita, Elderflower Gin Spritz, and a Jalapeno Tequila Mule. They even have fun, whimsical options like the Adult Capri Sun and the Dirty Shirley Mule. For those who like a classic, the Espresso Martini and Maple Old Fashioned are always great choices.

• Happy Hour: For those looking for a great deal, Somebody's Darling has a fantastic happy hour. It runs from 4-7pm on weekdays, making it the perfect post-work destination to unwind with discounted drinks.

• Spiked Warm Drinks: When the weather turns chilly, the bar offers a cozy selection of spiked hot beverages. You can warm up with a Spiked Cider, Irish Coffee, or even a Peppermint Hot Chocolate. These are perfect for a cold winter night in the city.

• Creative Shots: If you're celebrating with a group, you can explore their wide range of shot specials. From fruity options like the Peach Ring and Jolly Rancher to fun, themed shots like Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Girl Scout Cookie, there's a shot for every palate.

What makes Somebody's Darling a must-visit spot in New York City is its exceptional blend of features that cater to a wide range of interests. It's designed to be a place where you can do more than just grab a drink; you can have a full-fledged experience.

• Bar Games and Entertainment: One of the biggest draws is the abundance of entertainment. The bar has a variety of bar games, including classics like Jenga and Connect 4, as well as old-school arcade games like Street Fighter 2 and Pac-Man. These games encourage friendly competition and make it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow patrons.

• Live Performances and Events: Somebody's Darling is a hub for community events. They regularly host live performances, with artists like Kacie Sky having graced their stage. They also have popular trivia nights, which are a huge hit with locals and create a fun, competitive atmosphere. Following their social media is a great way to stay up-to-date on their ever-changing schedule of markets, viewings, and other special events.

• Unique and Nostalgic Decor: The bar's aesthetic is a key part of its charm. The walls are adorned with retro movie posters, old-school toys, and other nostalgic memorabilia from the 80s and 90s. The payphone and photo booth are also fan-favorite features, adding to the fun and allowing for great photo opportunities to remember your night.

• Casual and Cozy Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the bar maintains a casual and cozy vibe. The seating includes large booths perfect for groups, as well as smaller, more intimate tables for date nights. The atmosphere is trendy yet comfortable, making it a great place to relax and feel at home.

• Free Popcorn: As an added treat, the bar offers free, buttery popcorn with every drink. It’s a simple but appreciated touch that adds to the overall welcoming and generous feel of the place.

• Outside Food Allowed: Unlike most bars in the city, Somebody’s Darling allows patrons to bring their own food from outside. This provides incredible flexibility and makes it easy to enjoy a full meal with your drinks without feeling restricted. It’s a huge plus for those who want to support local eateries while enjoying the bar’s ambiance.

Address: 1664 1st Ave, New York, NY 10028

Phone: (917) 409-1225

So, why choose Somebody's Darling over the hundreds of other bars in New York City? The answer lies in its unique combination of atmosphere, community, and quality. While many bars can offer a good drink, this one offers a memorable experience. It’s a place where the past meets the present, creating a space that feels both familiar and exciting.

The dedication to fostering a welcoming community is clear in every aspect of the bar, from the friendly staff to the inclusive atmosphere. The variety of events, from live music to trivia, ensures there's always a reason to come back. Whether you’re a local looking for a new hangout or a visitor seeking an authentic NYC experience, Somebody's Darling delivers. It’s more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a place to make memories, enjoy good company, and feel like a part of something special. The combination of a top-notch drink menu, fun games, and a genuine, friendly atmosphere makes it an easy choice for a night out. It truly lives up to its name, feeling like a place everyone can call their own.

Somebody's Darling

1664 1st Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA