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Bar56
Master Critic Review
Bar56
8.2
Bar56 is a modern American restaurant and wine bar in DUMBO, pairing a 50-plus glass wine list with an intimate, design-forward dining room. It’s popular for smaller birthdays, engagement-toasts, and business-adjacent celebrations that revolve around thoughtful plates and serious wine service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tajarin with peekytoe crab, Duck confit, Prime ribeye for two
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Wine-focused dining room with polished, seasonal modern American plates.
Who should go: Wine-loving couples and small groups celebrating in DUMBO.
When to visit: Later seatings for a more grown-up, candlelit energy.
What to order: Tajarin with crab, duck confit, ribeye for two.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for easier walk-in celebrations and wine recommendations.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in DUMBO is limited, especially after 6pm; nearby garages on Front Street and Pearl Street are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Smart casual with a lean toward dressy; elevated denim is fine but most guests opt for polished outfits.
Noise level: Moderate—lively buzz from the bar but still comfortable for conversation at two-tops.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for walk-ins depending on bar availability; reservations are strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; Bar56 is dinner-focused and typically closed at lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several composed vegetarian dishes plus flexible mezze-style starters.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 dishes can be adjusted but the menu leans dairy- and butter-forward.
Gluten-free options: Multiple GF-friendly plates; servers are knowledgeable but there is no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the lighting is soft, tables are intimate, and the wine-by-the-glass list makes it easy to settle in without overcommitting. The vibe feels elevated without being stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly. The bar is your best bet for walk-ins, especially early evenings on weekdays; weekends generally require a reservation for a proper table.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal. The space is tailored to adults, with a wine-focused menu and a quieter, date-night tone; better for teens than young children.
Best For
Better for: Wine-driven celebrations, intimate groups, and guests who appreciate thoughtful modern American cooking in a design-forward setting.
Skip if: You want large-group seating, a budget-friendly menu, or a kid-oriented environment—other DUMBO spots are better suited for that.