I’m always up for a quality made libation! Very nice addition to the Murray Hill area close to where I work here in NYC. Middle Branch is the sister speakeasy cocktail joint to downtown Little Branch. Lacking the bro-fisting that is normally seen in bars around these parts it’s a classier choice to score a liquid refreshment. Heck, “Home On The Range” is a terrific cocktail, and at $12 a bit cheaper here than at most speakeasies in NYC!
Been here a few times now for an after work cocktail. As it’s kind of hidden in what looks to be just another residential brownstone you can easily walk by, but it’s not all that hard to find. There is a plaque on the face of the building with the letters MB along with a wrought iron fence that surrounds it. As it’s a two story place the open windows with patrons seen drinking during warmer weather kind of gives it away.
Head downstairs to the lower level, walk through the curtain, and enter a dimly candle lit bar area with plenty of communal high tables to rest your elbows on and enjoy a drink. Mainly standing room here. The upstairs features a brighter lit room with tables and chairs along with waitress service. A bit more upscale looking. The doorman/host will direct you where to go if you have parties larger than two, or if on a date and want a more intimate deal upstairs.
The libation menu is pretty simple and reminds one of the Little Branch offerings. Many cool and fun drink names with descriptions, but I usually go with the “Bartender’s Choice” when I am feeling more adventurous as per usual in a speakeasy spot. Make me something with bourbon or whiskey and I’m a happy camper. Can’t go wrong with the great mixologists at these places. As stated earlier I did get a “Home On The Range” which I really enjoyed, along with a sazerac, and a few other boozy concoctions that escapes my memory. Yes, my liver still hates me.
It’s a laid back spot that is just so perfect for an after dinner drink to relax and unwind. I am a sucker for a quality cocktail bar with a speakeasy ambiance. Such a different and welcome vibe than the normal bars that dot the Bro-Murray Hill area offer. What it lacks in frattiness and bro-fisting it makes up for with exceptional cocktails and atmosphere.
Middle Branch –
154 E 33rd St, New York, NY 10016, b/t Lexington Ave & 3rd Ave
http://www.yelp.com/biz/middle-branch-new-york
So what were you drinking? That looks like one I’ve made before with Makers Mark and apple cider. Yum. Looks like a fun, cozy place. Cool bartenders make all the difference too. If you sidle up and they make you feel like you just showed up to the party, it’s all good, and I have a feeling this place was like that.
Hey Linda!
Thanks for reading. I think that might be close to what you made. As I had few brain cells after that night I can’t recall too much. All I know is that the drinks were good and strong! Love spots like this.
Also, check out my previous post and offer your two cents on the subject!
Hi Phil, I love some of these neat finds your share in NYC, and places such as Middle Branch are among my favorites. Quiet interesting environment to relax, enjoying a nice cocktail, or two, or three. Thanks for sharing another good treasure. Have a great weekend!
Hey Peggy!
If I keep finding these cool spots I will keep blogging about them! It is a good spot to have a relaxed cocktail in a more adult setting.
I’ve always been partial to a Cosmopolitan or a Manhattan – as a chaser to the beer!
Hey Gary!
Nothing wrong with a good classic cocktail I always say!
Looks like such a cool place! If everything goes our way, husband and I will be visiting New York in late March, so I’m on the lookout for great bars/man caves to try out:)
Hey Mitzie!
I have a list of them to give you so let me know when you’ll be here. Many I have not even covered here yet.
Great place … and I absolutely love the logo of the bar ….
All the best to you, Phil!, Aquileana 😀
Hey Aquileana!
Hope you are having a great week! This is a terrific spot for a post work wind down.
That looks like apple cider. Was it delicious? Love the review.
Hey Holli!
Yup – with booze. Yes, it was so good I had three of them!