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The Jeffrey Craft Beer & Bites
Master Critic Review
The Jeffrey Craft Beer & Bites
8.4
Under the Queensboro Bridge, The Jeffrey is a craft beer bar with a serious kitchen, where the cult-favorite pho tacos sit alongside one of Midtown East’s best happy hour lineups. The split indoor–outdoor setup makes it a go-to for after-work pints, elevated bar snacks, and casual taco runs that feel more beer garden than taqueria.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Tacos, Jeffrey Smash Burger, Chili Cheese Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 6.9
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A craft beer hub where the pho tacos and happy hour compete with the tap list.
Who should go: Beer-focused groups who still care about inventive bar food.
When to visit: Weekday happy hour for cheaper pints and easier seating.
What to order: Pho tacos, smash burger, and chili cheese fries to share.
Insider tip: Target the back patio for a more relaxed vibe and quicker bar access on busy nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited under the Queensboro Bridge; expect metered spots to be scarce after 5pm. No valet service—use nearby garages on E 60th–62nd St if driving.
Dress code: Casual and brewery-friendly. Jeans, tees, and sneakers are fully acceptable; office-casual fits in during after-work hours.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud during happy hour; conversational indoors early evening, louder on the patio once crowds build.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes for groups; solo and duo seating usually quicker at the bar.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though kitchen pacing is relaxed compared to dinner service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid options, including veggie-forward snacks and rotating seasonal bites. Not a dedicated menu, but workable.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes rely on dairy or meat bases. Expect 1–2 adaptable items but confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Several beers and bites can be adapted; tacos can be made with GF components depending on rotation. No separate prep area, so cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re going for a relaxed, beer-centric vibe. The patio offers enough space to talk, but peak happy hour can get loud. Not ideal for a romantic or intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—The Jeffrey relies on walk-ins. Arrive before 6pm on weekdays for easy patio seating; otherwise expect to hover briefly for a table to open.
Is it kid-friendly? Acceptable for older kids during daytime hours, but it’s primarily an adult beer bar. Evenings and happy hour skew crowded and not stroller-friendly.
Best For
Better for: One of the strongest craft-beer tap lists in the area paired with uniquely inventive tacos—an uncommon combo in Midtown East. Excellent for groups that want both quality brews and elevated bar food.
Skip if: Skip if you want traditional taqueria authenticity, a quiet sit-down dinner, or a budget-friendly outing—prices reflect the craft beer program and neighborhood.