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2nd Floor Bar & Essen
ZipPicks Awards
Best Happy Hour in Upper East Side
Master Critic Review
2nd Floor Bar & Essen
7.9
A hidden-above-the-deli cocktail bar that’s perfect for happy hour when you want a quieter, more deliberate drink without leaving the neighborhood. The menu is snackable and specific—pair one house cocktail with one or two deli-leaning bites and call it a complete stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pastrami Deviled Eggs, Mini Burgers, Franks in a Blanket
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A tucked-away cocktail bar above a classic deli with a tight, craveable bar menu.
Who should go: Cocktail fans who prefer a calmer room
When to visit: Early happy hour for seats and quieter energy
What to order: House cocktail, pastrami deviled eggs, mini burgers
Insider tip: Use the separate 75th Street entrance to skip confusion downstairs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult after 6pm. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but lean dressy.
Noise level: Moderate – can easily hear your conversation.
Weekend wait: No reservations, expect a wait of 20-30 minutes during peak times.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially early in the afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – offers a few vegetarian options, including the deviled eggs and certain snacks.
Vegan options: Limited – 2-3 options, including a vegetable-forward snack or salad.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free options are available, and most small bites can be adapted.
Best For
Better for: This place is better for a low-key, drink-focused happy hour in a quieter environment compared to typical lively bars.
Skip if: Skip if you're looking for a high-energy happy hour or a more expansive menu. This is more for those who want a focused, quality experience.