Seemor
Bin 71B+Worth Trying
237 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023
· Bar, European restaurant, New American restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (228 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Cozy Upper West Side wine bar with strong small plates and a broad by-the-glass list; food is better than expected, space is tight, and service swings from warm to brusque depending on the night.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Bin 71 delivers solid neighborhood dining through quality small plates that exceed typical wine-bar standards and knowledgeable wine guidance, competitive with the area's better local favorites. However, inconsistent execution and tight seating conditions prevent a higher grade—the cramped interior and occasional service rushes undercut what could be a more polished experience. A beloved UWS destination for wine-focused dining, but not yet a citywide draw.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels cozy and intimate, a corner wine bar where locals slip into bar stools and the sidewalk tables turn into people-watching seats. One guest said the team “walked us through several rosé tastes,” capturing the warm bartender guidance many mention. It can get tight and bustling, so expect a little hover-and-swoop for seats during peak hours. The cooking leans New American comfort with European touches rather than theatrics—think meatballs with sage and lemon, burrata toast, octopus with beans, and a solid burger. Plates are dialed to pair with wine; flavors are mostly straightforward with the occasional creative nudge like sriracha aioli. Ideal for pre-theater sips, casual dates, or a light dinner that over-delivers for a wine-first spot. Families will find enough familiar anchors—grilled cheese and burger, gnocchi, and sorbets—but the tight interior can be snug with strollers. There is sidewalk seating in fair weather, which eases the squeeze. No explicit kids menu, yet approachable dishes make it workable for school-age diners.
At a Glance
- Strong wine program with thoughtful, friendly recommendations
- Food exceeds typical wine-bar expectations
- Space is cramped; seats fill quickly
- Service can swing from warm to rushed on busy nights
What Sets It Apart
- broad_by_the_glass_selection
- cozy_street_corner_patio
- better_than_expected_food_for_wine_bar
What People Love
- Bartenders who guide tastings and pairings
- Neighborhood vibe that feels like a regulars spot
- Small plates that are both comforting and polished
- Sidewalk tables perfect for people watching
Points of Concern
- Cramped interior means hovering for seats at peak times
- A few reports of rushed or brusque service, including early bill drops
- Occasional complaints about slow ordering during busy stretches
- Wine pricing feels high to some, though typical for the area
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$44-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair burrata toast with a crisp Italian white
- Match meatballs with a medium-bodied red
- Choose sorbet or affogato to finish light after multiple glasses
Perfect For
- Pre-theater wine and small plates near Lincoln Center
- A casual date where conversation flows
- A neighborhood catch-up on the patio
- Solo glass at the bar with snacky plates
Location Insights
Area: Affluent residential corridor with steady foot traffic; locals meet-up zone near museums and Central Park.
Safety: Well-lit, busy, and generally safe into late evening; typical UWS comfort.
Nearby: Near Lincoln Center and Central Park; surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Upper West SideThe Upper West Side boasts a diverse dining scene ranging from casual cafes to fine dining, attracting locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and family-friendly, with many establishments catering to a well-educated and affluent clientele. The area is safe, walkable, and known for its community-oriented vibe.
Lincoln SquareLincoln Square, part of the Upper West Side, is centered around the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, drawing a crowd interested in cultural events and upscale dining. The dining scene here includes elegant restaurants and trendy spots that cater to both locals and visitors attending performances.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday15:00–22:00
Tuesday15:00–22:00
Wednesday15:00–22:00
Thursday15:00–22:00
Friday13:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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