Whiskey Trader

71 W 55th St, New York
(212) 582-2223

Recent Reviews

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Carly Steeve Augustin

A Cozy Midtown Gem: Friendly Vibes, Affordable Drinks, and Authentic Atmosphere

Tucked away on 6th Ave and W55th in Midtown Manhattan, this cozy bar with both lower and upper lounge levels is more than just a typical after work hangout spot, it’s a local favorite, especially among finance professionals and Midtown workers. With affordable drinks and a laid-back vibe, it's easy to see why people keep coming back, even during the dry seasons of the industry.

The atmosphere is welcoming, the staff: bartenders, servers, the doorman are friendly and professionals. Many of the servers come from around the world, and despite English not being everyone’s first language, they all do an incredible job making customers feel comfortable and served efficiently. I’ve never experienced the kind of passive aggressive tipping pressure you sometimes get in other places.

The security at the entrance is top-notch. He is stern, friendly, checks for IDs, keeps the vibe safe and respectful. I first came here two years ago with a friend to watch a basketball game. At first, I thought it was just another sports bar until I noticed how warmly the staff interacted with him. That level of pleasant interaction with regulars made me look at the place differently.

I also appreciate the fact when they’re short staffed on an unusual busy day like Monday for example, the service is still acceptable and understandable. The team clearly works well together and that “teamwork makes the dream work” energy shows.They support each other and stay accountable.

The decor is another standout. Interesting wall art, famous quotes, and dollar bills with handwritten messages from customers add a unique and authentic touch you won’t find in many bars in the city. Plus the free popcorn for all customers? That’s a win. 🍿

As a certified melomaniac, I have to say their Spotify playlist is solid lots of pop, electro house, afro, hip hop, reggaeton and other music genre. Still, I think bringing in a live DJ, even just once a week, could take things to the next level.

To anyone reading this long review whether you’re a local or a tourist exploring NYC you should definitely consider stopping by on a weekday night. It’s in a safe area surrounded by luxury hotels, fancy venues, and office buildings.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Michael Mattera

Saylor took great care of us despise mixing our cocktails with a wrist hurt! She made our New York experience better than we could’ve expected!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 1

Service: 5

Ash N. Patel

Awesome midtown bar for happy hours ! They have a great lounge area in the back!

Hugh Miller

Lovely bar. Stocked my favourite bourbons, so that was all I needed. Will be back whenever I'm in Manhattan!

Ingrid Chavez

Very poor service. We were overcharged, probably assuming we wouldn’t notice—but we did. Unfortunately, I only realized it after paying. They told me they would refund the money, but it’s been a week and nothing has happened. They don’t answer phone calls or emails. Fortunately, my friend caught the overcharge before paying—so I was the only one who ended up losing money. Please make sure to check your receipt before paying!

Leon LaSpina

This bar doesn't know what it wants to be. Is it a sports bar? A loud disco dance bar? A whiskey bar with a great selection? Or is it as the bartenders claimed, a dive bar?

Yes to all of the above, but not really a dive bar.
One srar for food because they don't have any food, except for🍿 which really hit the spot.

Sean Gilmore

The most gorgeous and kind bartenders on the planet. Way to go NY. Thank you Natalia!

Mando Orozco

Great spot with a solid whiskey selection! Had an Old Fashioned, a Modelo, and a Blue Moon—everything was on point. Friendly staff and a fun vibe! Oh and free popcorn and TB’s to catch a game.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Brian White

Was visiting NYC for 5 days. Great wee bar highly recommended, staff super friendly

Chris Tipton

Great place to watch a game!!

Dmitriy V

Chill club style place, good Vibes.

Jennifer LittleBear-Soto

You are greeted by lovely welcoming security upon entering. Happy hour prices range from about $8-$12 for beers/wine/shots. The waitress I had, I wouldn’t say she was rude but English clearly isn’t her first language and she misunderstood multiple things I said. She assumed what I said and mixed up what I needed all three times. I asked for the wifi password and she gave me a glass of wine. I asked her if they sold food and only then did she offer me popcorn and give the people seated next to me bowls as well. (Popcorn is the only food available here but you can order food and eat there) By the way, if you love the smell of freshly popped pop corn … you’ll love it here. So yes there’s FREE popcorn with your drink purchase. Also, the same waitress was only friendly when giving us the bill … I will not sit on her side of the bar again. The music was great, they have multiple floors and a large seating area. I’d recommend you stopping by if you want a cheap drink, warm atmosphere, and huge screens to watch sports.

Jaime Garcia

Not bad for a drink if you’re around the area. Does feel like an old school Pub for serious drinks but chill. Come on by while the wife sleeps.

Tammy Burke

Very cool, quaint spot! Espresso martini and Old Fashion were spot on! Thank you ?

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Ronnie Benz

At first glance this bar looks like it would be a lot of fun, unfortunately looks are deceiving. Got a seat at the bar & it took the bartender 20 minutes to offer me a drink. Second drink took 23 minutes. 3rd drink 22 minutes. Since I had so much time to wait between drinks I noticed all the flies around the bar. Pretty disgusting ?? So I did not order any food. This place has potential to be a great bar but their employees need a lot more training in service & respect. I would not recommend this place. You have been warned.. come here and you will leave unsatisfied & thirsty

Atmosphere: 3

Service: 1

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