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Amor y Amargo
Master Critic Review
Amor y Amargo
8.4
A tiny East Village bar dedicated to bitters and amari, best treated as a precision happy-hour stop for people who actually care about balance and structure in a drink. Go with one bartender-guided pick and one classic-leaning order, then leave before it turns into a standing-room squeeze.
Must-Try Dishes:
amaro-forward house cocktails, classic cocktails built with bitters, small plates (when available)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 7.2
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A one-of-a-kind bitters-and-amari bar with bartender-guided drinks.
Who should go: Cocktail nerds who want something different
When to visit: Weekdays 5–7pm for happy hour
What to order: One house amaro drink, one classic, one bitter spritz-style
Insider tip: Tell the bartender your preferred spirit and bitterness level—then trust them.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is very limited and competitive; plan on walking, rideshare, or subway access instead.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning stylish—jeans are fine, but polished footwear and a put-together look fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate early, loud later—easy one-on-one conversation before 7pm, tougher once it fills shoulder-to-shoulder.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes is common due to the tiny standing-room layout.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—this is an evening-only cocktail bar.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—all offerings are cocktails with no food dependency.
Vegan options: Yes—most cocktails are vegan-friendly; confirm if concerned about specific liqueurs.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many cocktails are gluten-free, but ask the bartender about specific spirits or modifiers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you both like cocktails and conversation—it’s intimate, focused, and memorable, but not ideal if you want space or food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations and very few seats; arrive early and be prepared to stand.
Is it kid-friendly? No—this is a small, alcohol-only bar designed strictly for adults.
Best For
Better for: Precision cocktails, amaro education, and bartender-guided drinks you won’t find elsewhere.
Skip if: You want food, a relaxed lounge vibe, or guaranteed seating—look elsewhere for a longer hang.