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Dutch Kills
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Dutch Kills
8.2
A Long Island City cocktail institution where late night feels intentional—low light, serious drinks, and a room that stays conversational even when it’s busy. Treat it as a drinks-first stop and keep the food simple and shareable so the pacing stays smooth from first round to last call.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hendu’s hero sandwiches (in-house pop-up), Deviled eggs, Classic cocktails (house builds)
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A true craft-cocktail bar that stays strong late into the night.
Who should go: Cocktail people who want a composed room
When to visit: Late night after dinner for best flow
What to order: Classic cocktail, hero sandwich, deviled eggs
Insider tip: Go early for easier seats, then ride it late as the room fills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability and tougher after 7pm. Most guests use rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but lean polished rather than sporty.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation-friendly early, louder but still manageable later at night.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for seats after 9pm; earlier arrivals are usually quicker.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—closed for lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—small bar snacks and shareables fit vegetarian diets.
Vegan options: Very limited—best for drinks rather than food-focused visits.
Gluten-free options: Some snack-friendly options; cocktails are the safest bet.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—low lighting, strong cocktails, and a composed crowd make it ideal for an easy, conversation-driven first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially early. Late nights fill quickly, so standing room or a short wait is common after 9pm.
Is it kid-friendly? No—this is an adult-focused cocktail bar with a late-night crowd.
Best For
Better for: Craft cocktails, intentional late-night pacing, and a grown-up bar atmosphere that stays conversational.
Skip if: You want a full dinner menu, a high-energy dance-bar scene, or a spot suitable for kids.
Dutch Kills
8.6
A craft-cocktail institution that runs on precision: cold glassware, balanced builds, and a calm-but-buzzy room that feels purpose-built for after-work decompression. Happy hour works best when you treat it like a “one great drink, one great conversation” stop that can easily turn into a longer night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic daiquiri, Old Fashioned, Seasonal house cocktail
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: A classic-cocktail bar where technique and consistency lead every pour.
Who should go: Cocktail fans who care about balance
When to visit: Weekday early evening for easiest entry
What to order: Daiquiri, Old Fashioned, bartender’s seasonal pick
Insider tip: Sit near the bar and ask for a spirit-forward recommendation.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in the evening; most guests rely on nearby garages or ride-share, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished — jeans are fine, but this is a place where a nicer top or jacket feels right.
Noise level: Moderate — lively hum, but you can comfortably hold a conversation at the bar or a small table.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes during peak evening hours without arriving early
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — this is primarily an evening cocktail bar
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — small plates and snacks that work for vegetarians, though food is secondary to drinks.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with careful ordering, but not a focus.
Gluten-free options: Yes — cocktails can be made gluten-free, and staff are knowledgeable about spirits and modifiers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s one of the best first-date cocktail bars in the area thanks to its calm confidence, attentive bartenders, and atmosphere that encourages conversation without feeling stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes — especially early in the evening. Bar seating is usually the easiest option and still delivers the full experience.
Is it kid-friendly? No — this is an adult-focused cocktail bar best suited for 21+ crowds, with no kid-oriented amenities.
Best For
Better for: Classic cocktails executed with precision, thoughtful service, and a composed atmosphere that rewards slowing down.
Skip if: You’re looking for a loud party bar, heavy food menu, or fast-paced happy hour with big discounts and volume.