Vanguard Wine Bar (Upper East Side) Introduce
In a city as dynamic as New York, finding a place that feels like a true escape from the hustle and bustle is a rare treat. Vanguard Wine Bar, located in the heart of the Upper East Side, offers exactly that. This isn't your typical bustling, loud bar; it's a destination designed for conversation, relaxation, and a genuine appreciation of good wine. The moment you step inside, the ambiance shifts, inviting you to unwind in a space that feels both trendy and comfortably familiar. It’s a perfect spot for locals looking for a low-key evening and for visitors seeking a genuine neighborhood experience.
Vanguard Wine Bar has successfully cultivated a vibe that is both cozy and chic. The interior is thoughtfully decorated with cool posters and unique art that give it a homey feel, a welcome contrast to the often sterile environments of many city establishments. This blend of casual comfort and upscale flair makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, from a laid-back night with a group of friends to a quiet and intimate date. The gentle sound of classic films playing in the background adds a unique and charming touch, providing a calm backdrop without being a distraction.
The core of Vanguard's identity, as its name suggests, is its great wine list. While it might be considered short by some, it is thoughtfully curated, offering solid selections that are both delicious and reasonably priced. This focus on quality over quantity ensures that every bottle is a good one. Paired with a menu of delectable small plates and snacks, from marinated olives to savory tarts and meat & cheese plates, Vanguard Wine Bar provides a complete and satisfying experience. It's a place where you can enjoy a perfect glass or a bottle of wine without feeling rushed, making it a true urban oasis.
Vanguard Wine Bar is conveniently situated at 1372 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA. Its location in a vibrant section of the Upper East Side makes it a prime spot for locals seeking a refined yet casual evening. The bar is easily accessible from various parts of the neighborhood and is a short walk from a number of residential buildings and other local businesses.
Accessibility is a consideration at Vanguard Wine Bar. The establishment features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, making it a welcoming destination for all patrons. For those who choose to drive, paid street parking is available, which is a noteworthy convenience in this dense part of Manhattan. The well-situated location and accessible features contribute to its appeal as a convenient and inclusive destination for a night out.
Vanguard Wine Bar offers services that cater to a relaxed and social dining experience, focusing on in-person enjoyment of their offerings.
- Takeout: While the main draw is the dine-in experience, the option for takeout allows customers to enjoy their favorite selections at home.
- Dine-in: The core service of Vanguard is the on-site experience. The cozy atmosphere and table service make it an ideal place to sit, relax, and savor your wine and food.
- Food at Bar: The bar seating area provides a great option for solo visitors or pairs who want a quick, casual, and interactive experience with the bartenders.
The wine bar also accepts multiple payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions quick and effortless for guests.
Vanguard Wine Bar distinguishes itself with a number of key features that have made it a favorite among its patrons.
- Great Wine List: While the list may be short, it is carefully selected, offering high-quality wines that are both delicious and reasonably priced for the Upper East Side.
- Cozy & Trendy Atmosphere: The intimate and welcoming environment is a major highlight. It's a place that feels special without being pretentious, perfect for a relaxed date or a catch-up with friends.
- Fast Service: Customers have praised the quick and efficient service, ensuring that you can get your drinks and food in a timely manner, even on a busy night.
- Ideal for Groups & Date Nights: The comfortable setting and focus on conversation make it a prime spot for a group outing or a romantic evening.
- Unique Decor: The homey and cool posters on the walls and the classic films playing in the background create a memorable and unique atmosphere that sets it apart from other wine bars.
For more information or to make a reservation, you can reach Vanguard Wine Bar using the contact details provided below.
Address: 1372 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA
Phone: (212) 288-9463
Mobile Phone: +1 212-288-9463
In a city with countless options for a night out, what makes Vanguard Wine Bar a particularly great choice is its focus on creating a truly unique and relaxing experience. It's not just about the wine; it’s about the entire environment. The cozy, intimate, and slightly quirky atmosphere sets it apart from more corporate or generic venues. It's a place where a quiet, classic film can play in the background, offering a sense of calm that is highly valued by New Yorkers. The wine list, while concise, is well-curated, offering reliable and delicious options that won't break the bank. This focus on quality over an overwhelming number of choices makes ordering a breeze. While some might find the food options simple, they are perfectly designed to complement the wine, with tartines, cheese, and meat plates that serve as ideal companions to your glass. The service is fast and friendly, contributing to the overall positive experience. Ultimately, Vanguard Wine Bar offers a much-needed escape from the city's relentless pace, providing a comfortable and chic space for genuine conversation and relaxation. For anyone on the Upper East Side looking for a low-key date night, a peaceful solo outing, or a casual gathering with friends, this wine bar is a fantastic and reliable choice that truly delivers on its promise of good wine and great vibes.
Vanguard Wine Bar (Upper East Side) Food & drink
SNACKS
Roasted Almonds with Smoked Sea Salt
- Marinated Olives $11.00
rosemary, garlic, thyme
- White Bean Hummus $12.00
olive oil, lemon, pastry twists
- Pimento Cheese $13.00
NY sharp cheddar & baguette chips
- Prosciutto Crudo* $16.00
thinly sliced, dry-cured Parma ham
SALADS
- Arugula, Walnut & Grape Salad $14.00
goat cheese, champagne vinaigrette
- Kale & Apple Salad $14.00
crispy ham, apple cider-mustard vinaigrette
MEAT & CHEESE PLATES
- Daily Selection of French & American Meats $26.00
- Daily Selection of French & American Cheese $26.00
- Combination of Meats & Cheeses $28.00
TARTINES
(open-faced mini sandwiches)
- Ham, Cheese & Arugula $14.00
- Mushroom, Shallots, Truffles $14.00
- Mission Figs, Jambon Sec, Goat Cheese $15.00
SAVORY TARTES*
- Goat Cheese & Onion $15.00
- Mushroom, Ricotta & Truffle $16.00
- Ham, Onion & Gruyère $16.00
- Smoked Salmon, Chives, Crème Fraîch $17.00
- Baked Camembert & Apricot Preserve $15.00
SWEETS
- Macarons $10.00
assorted almond-meringue cookies
- Truffles $10.00
chocolate ganache-filled confections
Vanguard Wine Bar (Upper East Side) Details
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great wine list
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Food
- Food at bar
- Wine
Dining options
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Paid street parking
Vanguard Wine Bar (Upper East Side) Photos










Vanguard Wine Bar (Upper East Side) Location
Vanguard Wine Bar (Upper East Side)
1372 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021, USA
Vanguard Wine Bar (Upper East Side) Reviews
bartenderatmospherecheesefeelmenupricedateconversationmoviessmall plates
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1good wine and v nice chill vibes. service was great. cool posters/decorations on the walls making in feel homey. we got a bottle of white and it was perfect and reasonable. we went on a friday and it was pretty busy but offered a bit of calm. always playing some film in the background which gives it a unique touch. only qualm is that the cheese board was okay. not standout.
September 13 · Alison PouwThis spot offers a quiet, cozy vibe ideal for conversation, enhanced by classic films playing gently in the background. While the bartenders bring friendly energy, the rest of the service leaves something to be desired. It’s a fine date night option, especially if you're not in a rush. A short but solid wine list comes paired with prices that feel a bit ambitious.
July 18 · Mary MaccabeeOne of my favorite wine bars in the city! So cozy and warm inside with friendly, attentive service a varied, delicious menu. I love the descriptions of each wine - they've never steered me wrong. The food menu also looks so yummy although I haven't tried it yet. Such a great date spot (went here on an early date with my boyfriend, fond memories!) and I also love to come by myself to read at the bar with a nice glass. Lovely spot to catch up with friends as well, I often see groups here. Highly recommend!
November 29 · Nora HuntAn easy vibe for any mood. Whether I needed to hang with coworkers or be alone with a book, the ambiance plus service delivers. Dmitry brings congenial and classy conversation to any and all types. Whether it’s slow or slammed, he made it a great night for me and my guests. Not many places can claim a creative space, excellent selections, and a polished staff. Vanguard can.
April 20 · Know YourselfFriendly, helpful bartender and a good selection of wine. Was appalled however, at the meager rations on the $29 "charcuterie plate." I could make a better plate digging through a dumpster behind an italian deli. Go for the wine, but eat before.
November 11 · Jeremy McDowell
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