Unless you already live there, the Upper East Side of Manhattan is not what most NYC Residents would consider a "hang out spot." But for those intrepid whiskey drinkers willing to brave the extra subway stops, Bondurants more than makes up for the added commute time.
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| The wall is about half of the collection... |
- Location: Upper East Side, Manhattan
- Designation: gastropub
- Whisky selection >70, all American whiskeys including many rare labels
- Quite reasonable prices for Manhattan
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| ...a column houses the other half, with a well cultivated bar below for cocktails. |
With rustic reclaimed wood decor and carefully curated menus, Bondurants is a neo-traditional American gastropub boasting a strong offering of American whiskies. Additional offerings include rotating kegs for craft beers, creative cocktails and a local farm-to-table cuisine profile, but the focus is on the whiskeys.
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| Dram is healthier than it looks - it's a very wide glass. |
The Bondurants staff was amiable & knew their whiskey. There are no scotches or Irish whiskeys here, just American, but the sheer amount and number of rare and small batch offerings indicates that they're doing this one type of whisky right. Pours were strong - the staff seemed eager to bond with any and all of their clientele over a shared love of whiskey, the bar manager even snuck away to their reserve basement stores to bring up a bottle just for the love of conversation. Prices are fair and measured, a rarity for the UES, which makes Bondurants reason enough to brave the 4 train for a few extra stops.
Rating: recommend x3.
"As the very knowledgable staff put it, 'we'd rather do one kind of whiskey great than do all whiskies okay.' And when it comes to American Whiskies, they certainly do. The Michter's Toasted Barrel Bourbon I had was perfectly complimented by the wood-paneled EVERYTHING and comforting atmosphere. It's kind of a hike to get to from Brooklyn, but definitely worth stopping by for a glass and some food if you're exploring the UES." - Evan
"They care about whiskey, specifically American. Side of rocks came with a spoon, nice touch. 25 taps and 1 cask for those who aren't in the mood for brown booze. Friendly, helpful staff. The bartender recommended a scotch bar in the neighborhood to us. Overall a bar I wish was closer to me, although it is probably good it isn't." - Greg
"Like. I'm a sucker for those old-school metal ceiling things. Should have tried a cocktail." - Quinn
Website: http://www.bondurantsnyc.com/
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