In the bustling heart of Manhattan, amidst the towering skyscrapers and vibrant city life, does a haven for craft beer enthusiasts truly exist? City Swiggers, nestled on the Upper East Side, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of meticulously curated brews and a welcoming atmosphere, offering a sanctuary for those seeking a taste of the extraordinary.
Located at 320 E 86 NYC, City Swiggers isn't just a shop; it's a destination. It's where casual beer drinkers and seasoned professionals converge, united by their appreciation for exceptional craft beer. The shop is a craft beer shop & tasting room offering 14 beers on tap and more than 1000 bottled/canned beers.
The Upper East Side, often associated with upscale establishments and refined tastes, might seem an unlikely location for a craft beer mecca. Yet, City Swiggers has carved a niche for itself, becoming a beloved institution for both locals and those willing to venture a bit off the beaten path. It's a place where you can enjoy a pint or grab a growler to go.
The store's success lies in its curated selection. The shelves are lined with an impressive array of bottled and canned beers, representing a diverse range of styles, origins, and breweries. With over 1000 different bottled/canned beers, the selection is bound to captivate any beer lover. This expansive inventory is complemented by a carefully chosen selection of 14 beers on tap. The taps are rotated regularly, ensuring that there's always something new and exciting to discover, and providing ample opportunities to explore new flavor profiles. The store provides a good selection of bottled beers (over 400 bottles) and 14 rotating beers to try on draft.
City Swiggers isn't just about the beer; it's about the experience. The atmosphere is inviting and neighborly, fostering a sense of community among patrons. The staff members are knowledgeable and passionate about beer, eager to share their expertise and guide customers through the vast selection. Each bottle has been chosen with the utmost care. Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, the staff is committed to helping you find something to suit your palate.
For those who enjoy a little something extra, City Swiggers also offers vegan snacks, including sandwiches and soups from the owners. This addition demonstrates their commitment to providing a comprehensive experience, catering to diverse preferences and dietary needs. There's always something to complement the beer, be it a savory snack or a light bite.
The location itself is significant. Situated on the Upper East Side, the store benefits from its proximity to a diverse population of beer lovers and has a dedicated customer base. It's a destination for those seeking a more refined drinking experience, a place where the focus is on quality and variety.
The popularity of City Swiggers is reflected in its online presence, boasting 2,629 likes and 4 talking about this. The shop has clearly established itself as a local favorite, with 2,739 people having been there. This online engagement shows that they are valued by their community.
This store is one of the best bottle shops on the UES and also has a great tap selection, and lots of seating. For those looking to expand their beer horizons, the shop offers the perfect opportunity to explore new and exciting brews. The shop also serves as a valuable resource for the local community, providing access to a wide variety of craft beers. It's a place where beer enthusiasts can gather to sample, discuss, and learn about the world of craft beer.
As with any establishment, City Swiggers has faced its share of challenges. The rejection of its liquor license renewal by the UES community board, following the alleged disregard of a previously agreed-upon stipulation, presented a significant hurdle. However, such setbacks are not uncommon in the dynamic world of business, especially in a city like New York, and it serves as a lesson that, as in life, it is always best to honor commitments. It is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the owners and staff, who continue to provide a superior experience to their patrons.
The offerings at City Swiggers extend beyond the typical beer selection, as reflected in the various events and promotions held throughout the week. Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the shop has an event. On Thursday, April 17, 2025, they featured a Singlecut free beer tasting. These initiatives further demonstrate the shop's commitment to engaging with its customers and fostering a vibrant atmosphere. The free beer tasting, where patrons can sample various brews, encourages exploration and discovery.
City Swiggers is not alone in providing a great beer experience, as there are other venues that enhance the overall UES experience for craft beer lovers. Bondurants and The Jeffrey are also highly regarded spots in the neighborhood. Nearby, there are also establishments offering unique drinking experiences.
Other recommended places include Carmine Street Beers, Harlem Hops, Blind Tiger, Proletariat, As Is, Beer Run, City Beer, Milk & Hops, The Jeffrey, and City Swiggers in Manhattan. In Brooklyn, Beer Witch, Beer Street, Queue Beer, Trst, and Bierwax are all well-regarded locations.
The shop's commitment to providing a great selection is reflected in the positive reviews and ratings it receives. It currently has a 4.15 rating with 42 reviews and opinions. The feedback highlights the quality of their offerings and the excellent service provided by their staff.
The ambiance of the shop is an integral part of the overall experience. The space is designed to create a welcoming and comfortable environment, inviting patrons to relax and enjoy their beer. The seating adds to the comfort, providing a place to socialize or simply enjoy a quiet moment of contemplation. This environment is designed to make people want to stay, taste, and enjoy the craft beer, and it succeeds in providing a place where people can relax and enjoy themselves.
Many factors make City Swiggers a must-visit destination for beer lovers. It's located in New York, NY. It provides a good selection of bottled beers (over 400 bottles) and 14 rotating beers to try on draft, and the fact that you can enjoy a pint or grab a growler to go. It offers an experience that surpasses the ordinary, as the store is the best of both worlds.
The store has been described as the best bottle shops on the UES and also has a great tap selection, and lots of seating. The location is convenient for those in the Upper East Side.
The store is a place where you can gather after work, on the weekends, or any time that the mood strikes. This makes the shop a great place to unwind, sample new beers, and maybe even discover a new favorite. Its a place that seamlessly blends the worlds of casual and professional.
The experience in City Swiggers offers something for everyone. Whether you're searching for your favorite seasonal ale or if you're looking to try something new, City Swiggers has something for you. The shop's wide variety of beers means you can always try something new.
The shop's location also makes it a great destination for those looking to explore the neighborhood. Other destinations in the neighborhood include Uva, Boqueria, Pil Pil, Jones Woods Foundry, La Esquina, Thep, A La Turka, and B Cafe.
City Swiggers is not just a business; it's a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and community. It's a place where beer lovers come to explore, discover, and celebrate the art of craft brewing. And in the vibrant landscape of New York City, where trends come and go, it is an unwavering source of quality, community, and the sheer joy of a perfectly poured pint.
City Swiggers has certainly earned its place in the hearts of the UES and beyond. From its impressive selection of beers, inviting atmosphere, and knowledgeable staff, it has become a go-to destination for beer enthusiasts. This store is more than just a shop: it is an experience, a place to discover and appreciate the rich world of craft beer. So, the next time you find yourself on the Upper East Side, be sure to pay a visit to City Swiggers you will be glad you did.
Heres a glimpse of what awaits at City Swiggers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper East Side, Manhattan (320 E 86 NYC) |
| Beers on Tap | 14 |
| Bottled/Canned Beers | Over 1000 |
| Atmosphere | Neighborly, homey |
| Staff Expertise | Knowledgeable, "encyclopedia of beer information" |
| Extras | Vegan snacks (sandwiches, soups) |
| Growler Fills | Available |
| Ratings | 4.15 with 42 ratings, reviews, and opinions |
| Specials | Happy hour specials |
For those seeking a taste of the extraordinary, City Swiggers stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of meticulously curated brews and a welcoming atmosphere, offering a sanctuary for those seeking a taste of the extraordinary. Whether you are a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, City Swiggers welcomes all. From a well-stocked bar to the excellent customer service, it truly offers it all!
