Seemor
City Hops Craft Beer and Wine BarA-Worth Trying
1145 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065
· Brewpub, Bar, Beer garden
· 4.7/5 Google (281 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Small, welcoming craft beer and wine bar with an adventurous tap list, personable bartenders, and neighborhood vibe; best for drinks rather than a full meal.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
City Hops delivers A-grade performance as a specialty craft beverage bar through exceptional bartender expertise and attentive, personalized service paired with thoughtful curation of rare beers and wines. Reliable execution and strong customer loyalty reinforce its standing as a respected neighborhood destination for enthusiasts. The compact space and drinks-focused format prevent higher distinction, but the bar excels authentically within its category.
Restaurant Summary
A compact Midtown East hangout with neighborhood warmth, City Hops packs a rotating slate of rare beers, ciders, and wines into a small room with big windows. Guests rave about the bar team, with one noting, "the bartender walked me to a perfect pour and made me feel like a regular." Expect a friendly, lively scene during games without clubby chaos. The curation leans adventurous and enthusiast-focused rather than basic. You will find hop-forward IPAs, limited-release stouts, crisp European styles, and polished wines by the glass. Staff encourage exploration with tastes and spot-on recommendations. Come for discovery and conversation, not for a meal; snacks are minimal and the focus is squarely on the taps. For families, this is primarily an adult-oriented bar. There is no kids menu and food is limited, but non-alcoholic options and ciders offer flexibility for varied preferences. Best suited for parents with older teens or adults-only outings rather than young children.
At a Glance
- Standout bartender guidance and hospitality
- Deep, rotating selection of rare beers and quality wines
- Very small space; can feel tight at peak times
- Drinks-focused venue with limited food
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- curated_rare_beer_selection
- knowledgeable_bartenders
- cozy_windowside_people_watching
What People Love
- Feeling known and welcomed by staff
- Discovering rare or high-ABV beers
- Trying tastes before committing
- Relaxed neighborhood vibe with big windows
- Balanced mix of locals and visitors
Points of Concern
- Small room; seating can be limited during games and weekends
- Primarily drinks; food options minimal to none
- One report of restroom access refusal to a non-customer
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$28-44 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- If sensitive to high ABV, ask staff to steer you to sub-6% options
- Wine drinkers: start with Albariño or Sauvignon Blanc by the glass for value
Perfect For
- Post-work craft beer exploration
- Pre or post Roosevelt Tram drink stop
- Casual date with people-watching
- Solo bar session with guided tastings
Location Insights
Area: Busy Midtown East corridor serving commuters and locals; after-work drinks and casual evenings.
Safety: Well-lit, high foot traffic, generally safe into late evening.
Nearby: Near Roosevelt Island Tram, 59 St-Lex subway, retail and residential buildings, sports-viewing bars.
Turtle BayTurtle Bay is a quiet, upscale residential enclave within Midtown East, characterized by tree-lined streets and historic townhouses alongside modern high-rises. The dining scene here includes a mix of casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and international cuisine, catering to both local residents and the daytime office crowd. The area is known for its safe, walkable streets and proximity to landmarks like the United Nations.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–00:00
Tuesday12:00–00:00
Wednesday12:00–00:00
Thursday12:00–00:00
Friday12:00–02:00
Saturday12:00–02:00
Sunday12:00–00:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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