Jason M.
Yelp
I found myself at Sid Gold's Request Room for an after-work team member engagement event. I typically enjoy these events as it's a more relaxed environment than the regular work day and I can get to know my colleagues a little better. I quickly learned that in addition to a standard bar, Sid's was also a piano bar that offered karaoke. My participation in karaoke is usually on a case-by-case basis, so while it was tentative I would be participating, I was looking forward to checking this place out regardless.
Located in Flatiron, Sid's is kind of unassuming from the outside, but once you enter you're greeted by a pretty spacious bar area. The space is somewhat rectangular with the large bar serving as the focal point. There is also a back room which houses more seating and the piano bar. This area was more intimate - the lights were low, and it was more appropriate for performances and private events. I felt there was a poor design choice in the seating back there - it was a combination of high tops and banquette seating, but the latter's material was too slippery and we all kept falling out of the seats. We literally had to press our feet against the table legs to stay put - no good.
Sid's offers karaoke, and unlike most places that use a machine to play instrumentals, all of the music comes from a pianist. I thought this was a great touch and something that sets it apart from the typical karaoke experience. The pianist was great, he was really engaging with us and did a great job with all of the performances. The space can also easily be utilized for non-karaoke performances, or just a pianist playing.
Looking at the menu, they offered a nice variety of food and cocktails. The food selection wasn't anything outrageous, but totally appropriate for a bar/lounge. The drinks looked good, they had a section of specialty cocktails as well as more traditional ones. I didn't get a chance to try the food as my work provided its own, and our drink selection was limited to well drinks. The drinks were fine - I had two rum and cokes and a vodka Sprite. They weren't that strong as I didn't feel a thing after 3 rounds, and the cola they used was flat.
Service was good - everyone was friendly, plates were cleared, and despite us being a group of over 50 people, I never felt forgotten. Overall, I think Sid's puts out a good experience, I just wish I had better drinks and seats I didn't slip out of. However, I wouldn't hesitate to return here to try their specialty cocktails and food selection.