Alison C.
Yelp
I have been to Pier 13 so many times in the past few years, so I am shocked to discover that I have not yet composed a review of the space. As you walk out onto the pier, there are about 5 food trucks offering a variety of gourmet street food and snacks. The participating trucks tend to rotate, but often include options like brick-oven pizza, Thai, soft-serve bananas, and more, providing something for everyone. There are several tables across from the food vendors that offer seating without entering the "bar" area of the space.
Once you pass the trucks, you show your id and are ushered into the main portion of Pier 13, where you will find various picnic tables, 2 bars, and a library of board/card games, all followed by astroturf covered with casual lounge chairs. While I have previously had to sit on the fake grass or sprawl out on a lounger, during COVID-19 they are only offering table seating. Also, these tables are first-come, first-serve, are required for your stay, and are allowed only for a strict 2-hour limit. However, it was thanks to these security measures that we decided to indulge in an afternoon in the sun.
In addition to the seating regulations, the menus can only be digitally viewed on your phones, and drinks are delivered to your table by masked and gloved servers. The drink menu is much more diverse than one would imagine - including a vast beer list, several types of cocktails, pitcher options, wine, and more. My historical Pier 13 beverage of choice had been their on-tap White Peach Sangria, which was a touch sweet, but super potent! However, given the high heat and humidity on my recent trip, I decided to opt for a frozen margarita...or 3...instead. The margaritas were sheer perfection - not too sugary or too tart, and certainly strong! The bar boasts about its use of natural and organic mixers, and we could tell that this margarita mix was top-notch and without additives.
I also have to mention that the space offers incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and Hudson River crossings. In addition, prior to the coronavirus, there was often a live DJ playing pop music hits. The early hours tend to bring more families and groups, but as the day progresses, the place caters more to an older, more intimate crowd. They also occasionally host outdoor movies, food truck festivals, and more.
Pier 13 offers something for everyone, making it an ideal place to enjoy a nice day outdoors.