The Bitter End

Love this music venue. They do everything right here. Great music acts and friendly attentive bartenders. It's a great vibe. They really make you feel like they're glad you're there. If you're looking for great live music in a cool friendly venue, the Bitter End is your place.

Saw a performance here a few weeks ago. Great intimate venue, got a table near the stage. Two drink minimum per person the evening we were there.

Sound guy was on point- running around like a madman making sure the mix was good from all angles. Sounded 🤌. Bar staff was great, friendly. Moscow Mules a'plenty... Doorman was very chill and funny. The village spirit is alive and well.

We came down for the songwriters collective evening as this is a historic venue in NYC and we were keen to visit. Iconic location which has seen ALL of the greats over the years and continues to offer opportunities to new (and older) talent. While perhaps we didn’t see the next Joni, Bob or Neil Young we did enjoy everyone giving it their best and the service was great and the host was enthusiastic about each act. A great and memorable evening for us and we would definitely go back. Plus some great graffiti in the washroom 😀

Ah, The Bitter End, NYC's oldest music club, with an incredible history of legendary acts over the last 60+ years! Particularly Bob Dylan, it is definititely a "bucket list" kinda place for any music fan, but particularly for me, that grew up listening to most of these artists. So was incredibly excited when rising music star (and my friend) Hannah Ray Teal, (and her great band) were booked to play The Bitter End! The pics here are from her recent 2nd show and they were greatly received, well on their way to creating their own legend...:) As to the overall experience, The Bitter End has a chill informal vibe all around, great and friendly bartender/servers, strong drinks, every seat in the house is good. Pictures up everywhere tell some of the long cool history of this place, one can almost hear and feel the legends..:) Very cool that newer acts get to play here, inspiring to the acts on their journey I'm sure, and typically generous of the place. If you are a music fan, and/or into NYC history, pick a night and immerse yourself in the history of the NYC music scene. (Yes, the poster I am pointing to is Bob Dylan!)

Wonderful, historic live music venue. Lots of wonderful memories made here through the years.

Quality bands and sound, great staff and historic bragging rights just being there! If you’re looking for quality music, this is the place. Hehe my video is me

The music is really crappy originals that had me yawning relentlessly. Also, the staff are pretty rude (the large woman with a back tat) followed me to ask for a higher tip ($3 for 3 bottles is a fair tip, especially when ordering at a bar). We should have realized why it was fairly empty when we first walked in - much better options on the same block for live music

This venue has premium musical acts! I went 2 days in a row I'm so blessed to have seen 4 amazing bands. Day one seeing Danielia Cotton with her amazing band followed by Matt Schofield and and his amazing band. The flowing night we saw oz noy and the annoying band lol great name for his band! Which includes Paul Shaffer. I want to thank the staff, owner and of course the musicians for 2 amazing nights of entertainment! I didn't try food this trip but the burger looked good! I hope to visit again on my next trip to NY!

The Bitter End is a very famous music bar. Alot of legends have played here before they were famous I think. Knowing its rich history I would love to give this place five stars but I just can't. I had a pretty watered down Moscow mule. It does not even come in the right type of glassware ( copper mug) And as I said It's watered down. I had a beer next in a bottle and it tasted kinda strange like maybe it was old or maybe just my taste buds not really sure. For food I had chicken sliders. It seemed like they had a small piece of chicken breast cooked already sliced it into three small slices and boom that is the chicken sliders. With lettuce tomato and bacon. The bacon was one of the thicker kinds it was ok but again very small pieces. The lettuce looked a little wilted and the tomato was not great either. I know this place is not know for their food at all but wanted to include all this. My parents had chicken tenders and a burger they seemed to enjoy their food. The sound here is good like you are at a real concert. It's a smallish place so the music can get loud and hard to hear the bartender and waitress. They have small wooden tables that are set up kind of like right next to each other which is a little annoying but they want to pack in as many people as they can. The Bartenders and waitress here were nothing special. Bartender seemed a bit rude but that is it. The bar is in the front of the place and there are not many bar seats here. There is also a back area with tables and chairs. Also, the bathroom situation here.. very small rooms, filled with stickers, a bit dirty. But once again people come here to hear the music and drink. There is a 2 drink min per person at each table if you make a reservation which is understandable. Come here for the music is all I will say!

It's funny to think about going to this historic venue just to get drunk, but that's exactly where my friends and I found ourselves looking for a place to park ourselves in the village one night. They opened in 1961 and claim to be the oldest rock and roll club in NYC, and while I've enjoyed a couple of jazz shows here, I'm here to review my experience boozing at their outdoor tables. That a jazz club would have outdoor tables at all is quite funny, but if a place can capitalize on outdoor dining and if people will pay, then I understand the capitalist urge. NYC rent ain't cheap and we gladly did our part to help them with the many buckets of beer we ordered from here. While all the other dives in the area were overflowing with Friday night revelers, there was plenty of space for our large group to plop down here. Our server was fantastic and we never had to wait long for her to come back outside for our orders.

Great music and good drinks! Would recommend 100% - the bat had a good amount of space and seats for live music, I saw Kidbrass and they were doing some great song covers and original stuff

5 stars just for Richie Cannata. If you don't know who that is, look him up! He performs here every Monday night with a band and allows for locals to join and perform! He had personally invited the people I went with to the gig! It was honestly one of the best concerts I've been to in such a small, simple venue. The place itself had a $10 cover charge which was very nice. If you sit down, they do have a 2-drink minimum. If you want, just grab some of the non-alcoholic drinks and you'll spend about $10 more.

Awesome venue for a fantastic band. The burger was excellent and the fries were also very good. If you didn't like the bartender Karen there's something wrong with you because she's absolutely delightful. I can't wait to go back again real soon.

Incredibly rude staff. It's a shame that a place that should be fun is completely ruined by the people working it. I'd say skip this spot and check out any number of other great venues in the area.

The bitter end is a historic location in New York City where folk music had it start in the 60s, and famous acts like comedian George carlin and Lady Gaga performed. Now it's a little bit more low-key with local music created for a more mature audience including jazz fusion and I've been there for some other comedy shows that my friends hosted. It's an interesting space with a large space stage with a beautiful blue carpet. The two servers who are friendly and attentive. They have a two drink minimum and the cover charge is around $10 for a Saturday night. This is where you come if you're more of a musician, as opposed to red lion down the block where you will get some cheesy cover bands. It's a historic location so it's absolutely worth checking out for the history of music and that's why I see a lot of tourists out front. I will always continue to come here to support the local music scene in New York City. A bunch of my friends have played here and some of them have even recorded records. Now they have much more updated technology and I think any bands can record their show.

One of the memories of my life is July 1971 seeing John Denver with his lead guitar player Steve Goodman. Door was 5.00, and you got a pint of ice cream floating in either cider or coffee. What a great place!!!! Next day I went to the Steel Pier in Atlantic city and caught the Allman Brothers in a practice session-they invited me to eat lunch with them. Duane had just come from a Mussel Shoals Alabama recording session with Eric Clapton. I found out later they were recording Layla. I hitchhiked to New York with 20.00 in my pocket, hit Virginia Beach on the way home and borrowed 5.00 from my cousin, made it back to Madison Indiana, where I had a record shop.

I saw a great James Maddock show and the manager was very nice. The drinks were good, the service quick and the neighborhood is classic NYC.

It's home away from home! I have been coming to The Bitter End since the 60's using fake ID (sorry CAZ) Its a slice of history for serious music lovers...still smells the same.. I love everyone affiliated with this great venue, its like coming home! GREAT original music , Intimate venue....

This is such a hidden gem. So many talented artists performed here. It's s very cozy and intimate space to enjoy music. Their food is amazing too. I recommend their hamburger. I came here when umamihouse was playing. This place is an official landmark of new york. Definitely worth the visit if you're from out of town.

Man I stay the hell away from NYU country if I can but I'll go pretty much anywhere for live music. I got in half price the night I came because they only had one band left. Atlas Gray, with an amazing song called Bagel Believe, about how carbs and a bit of schmear can save the world and bring us all together - check em out! Along with the cover is a 2 drink minimum. The bar is small and narrow, filled up mostly by tables with waitress service. It's old and cramped and dirty and lovely. The women's bathroom is narrow and has the most hilariously hazardous first step.

It's a legendary music venue in the Village. Appropriately divey-esque. Great musicians. The normal drill: $10.00 fee at the door. Two drinks minimum. Close friendly seating. Enjoy the show! The staff is friendly and efficient. No qualms. Tonight: Funk Shui brass band were fabulous!!

The Bitter End is one of the places fans of live music should be sure to visit if they happen to be in the East Village and are looking for something interesting to do. The club has been here for decades and is generally going to have four or five live acts across the night. The bands get paid by the amount of people who come to see them that night so let's assume my friends in Command Z are performing, then anyone who comes in and says "we are here to see Command Z" will add to the amount that they get paid on that night for that set. The sets are generally an hour unless the band has worked out something special with the house but its unlikely. For those who perform there is a backline provided which means amps and standard drums. The guitar players need to bring heads while the drummers are encouraged to bring a snare drums, cymbals and their bass drum pedals. Some also require the high hat clutch but I am not certain that The Bitter End asks their artists to do that. The Bitter End is mostly a seated venue and there is table service for anyone who chooses to sit. The server will not take kindly to you just chilling out since this is how she is making her own money and be careful of where you stand if you choose to do so. I cannot count how many times I am in the way of their fast moving waitstaff. I don't think I've found the perfect spot to be out of the way in the years I have been coming there. I don't recall the place having an open WiFi so pardon me on that. I will suggest that if you plan on being in the region, that you open their event page and then do some Facebook or YouTube searching to see if you like who might be playing that night so you can mention their name and help their own set while rocking out. The full bar should greatly assist you in that part as much as the music.

Came to see Sydney Gordon and her band.... Most importantly Martin Shapiro on keyboard. What a great place for live rock and roll music.... DO NOT MISS!!

I visited this place yesterday and it was great. Good vibe, and most importantly perfect drinks. I went to see one specific singer Nicolette Capua. She has so much passion and such a beautiful voice. I'm not sure when is her next show but It's a must go if she shows up. The place was packed but they have enough space and chairs. The ticket was pretty affordable $10 , the service and servers were super friendly totally worthy! Nicolette Capua s fan.

Good venue for striving artists. Lights and sound are pretty official. Quite a different experience for the audience. Super nasty about the 4+ ppl at a table, 2 drink minimum, per show specifics. Like chill out, we got money AND a party of 5. Mixed drinks are horrendously watered down and small. Rude bartender service when we mentioned how weak they were. Can't expect much more from Bleeker st area establishments, unfortunately.

I bought a ticket at the bar to support my student. Came down, sat at the bar, was asked to move down the bar so that someone else could sit in their seat, and then the host put two people in front of me who blocked the whole show. And they didn't have a ticketed deal. Disgusted! So glad this host wasn't here when I played at the club almost 20 years ago.! Absolutely vile treatment of paying customers .

A nifty bar space with an amazing history of folks who have entertained or raised a glass to toast to life here. Tonight - celebrating the new peace with "Three Dot Dash" and the one and only (and three time Grammy winner) Nile Rodgers (co-founder of the We Are Family Foundation) and Jamal Joseph (Oscar nominee - Raise it Up) with Impact Repertoire. Great night!

The staff here the past couple of times has been very kind. I really enjoy the selection of bands. It's such a legendary spot in the village. I really like that they don't use a stamp at the front door. They provide bracelets. No one likes to have a weird mark on their hand for days after showering. Just one thing I don't agree with is not receiving an itemized bill. I suppose when you ask for the bill, ask for an itemized bill. This is the only place I've ever been and they just write a total and circle. If you have a table, a service charge is applied and the bar will not let you know. Solution? Ask staff all the questions.

Came here on a Thursday night for a friend's birthday. We came specifically to see the band 45riots and had a really good time! Cover was $10 and the guy at the door carded me twice. I guess they get a lot of NYU kids but still... why you gotta single me out like that?? You walk in past the bar and there's the music venue. It's a small venue space and the front tables are touching the stage. Don't sit at the front if you have sensitive ears, the speakers are loud in addition to whatever instruments are on stage! The band was great! 45riots played a variety of oldies funk to newer alternative to pop and everything in between. They definitely had their own twists with the mix ups and mash ups. They were a great band to see live! Each singer had their own style at the vocal chords to back that up! If you do decide to grab a table, it's two drinks minimum per person and the server definitely made that clear. She came by multiple times grabbing our finished glasses and asking if wanted a second round. None of us ordered mixed drinks but there have a handful of beer selections but not too much variety. The band played from 8 pm to about 9:30 pm. The next band was getting ready so plan on finishing two drinks in the span of about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you don't plan on staying the whole time or grabbing 2 drinks, you can stand off to the side of the stage by the bar.

Iconic Bar where you can hear live music. Owner, Paul , is great. Never seems to forget a face. They often have live music performances by up and coming performers. It is much smaller than I imagined but nice so you can see the show. If you are going to be there for an extended period of time, eat first. They do not serve food!

I had a good time. I wanted to see open mic performances. Its interesting to see people get up there and do their thing in front of strangers. So great to see the Village tradition of live music and comedy continuing. The vibe was low key. Rocco the emcee kept the show tight and had some funny Henny Youngman style jokes. And, finally, what a pleasure the awesomely coiffed door dude was. I shall return(so said some famous general).

Good for watching bands & singer / songwriters. Smaller than I thought it would be but iconic.

You should probably be somewhat of a music fan if you are going to come here. Why? because just about everyone from Lada Gaga to Joni Mitchell have gotten their start here and whatever you come to see will most likely be on par. I really enjoy the Monday singer/songwriter circle. talk about getting a big a big bang for you buck. I've been here with a group and by myself and had a great time doing both.

My band played here a few years back. Unfortunately, I heard that the proprietor made a racist remark about the amount of family I brought. ( I am Filipino). What a way for me to never come back.

Went to see a friend perform this evening and was greeted by surly staff who made me feel unwelcome. They even tried to kick out my 75-year old mother because of their "2 drink minimum per band" because she was only drinking soda due to a medication she's taking. When she explained this, the bartender said "I don't care". Even the sound guy was talking down to the bands who were setting up through the speaker system. For a place that carries such prestige, it was sad and disappointing to see what it's become.

Fun bar with awesome music system. We saw a band and paid a $10 cover but it was totally worth it! Wine was good - 2 drink minimum during shows. Servers were very friendly.

Saw Aaron Downs tonight....excellent show and venue. Right up front for a great act! And I don't know about some of those other reviews, but the service and staff were excellent. Our waitress didn't pressure us, but was right there when we needed a refill. And the bill was clear and itemized the included tip. No problem! The guy at the door was polite and welcoming...and get this...he came asking us if we dropped a $50 bill that he found!!! How many people in NY, or anywhere, would do that in a bar no less!!! Good karma for him. Fun night, great performers who we can say "we saw them when..."

Had pleasure of performing here!! The sound engineer was amazing! Stage and lightning were perfect! Great monitor mixes on voice and guitar!! Friendly atmosphere and staff!!!

I messaged one of the managers about booking a show at their venue, enthusiastic about the possibility of playing at a place that holds renown in NYC. I gave them examples of some places I have played very recently (including an awesome place called Bar Nine) and the following is what I got as a response, word for word: Jerimiah, Bar 9 is a bar in Hells Kitchen. The Bitter End is a world renowned music venue. You have to have at least a 30 person draw to play on one of my nights. Best, Pete Fogel Let me just say that, to assume that I don't know the difference between a bar and a music venue is insulting. Secondly, to assume that I could not get a crowd of 30 people is also insulting. Thirdly, the short answer and lack of interest back is about as disrespectful as I've seen. The whole response screams "We think so highly of ourselves and are better than you. You're too small time" I've known a few artists who have played here. None of them big time artists, and certainly none of them that could guarantee a 30 person crowd on their own alone: that is dependent on the venues prowess when it comes to helping advertise. I've worked with Defjam producers, have had music on pop radio, and recently did a radio talk show about my upcoming independent album. I've worked with John Lithgow and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. I have SO much experience under my belt, that to be talked to like this was just extremely insulting and presumptuous. Even if I WAS NOT this experienced, it would be a disrespectful. All the greats that have performed here would not agree with this type of attitude. I'll take my music, my crowd, and my upcoming newest radio single elsewhere. I would suggest that any other musician that has been treated this way to do the same. No venue is worth devaluing yourself or your integrity. Good luck out there, folks! -J.B- P.S. a 20$ cover charge and 2 drink minimum is a bit much, dontcha think? Also. you're more like a big dive bar than a music venue. Nothing against dive bars at all though. Billy Joel began in dive bars.

LOVE THE MUSIC! But the tall bartender lady is rude. Before I could order a beer, she told me I couldn't stand there. I work behind the bar as myself, so I understood what she mend. Then I ordered a beer, no smile whatsoever. Then I ordered two drinks, and the only thing she told me is: "we tip here". Ok so I'm not that familiar with tipping culture (when to do it and when not to, it's a bit confusing as an outsider) in the US. I felt bad and gave her (what I thought was decent for her terrible job) a tip. Her reaction: a judging look... what an asshole am I, right? After that, she went back to her regular position: standing against the back bar, arms crossed, not wanting to be there at all. She doesn't quite understand that customers are like mirrors: smile, and they smile back.

The Bitter End borders on legendary, if only for the paradoxical fact that it was the beginning for an absurdly long list* of now-famous acts. After all, operating in NYC for 50+ years, you're bound to book an impressive amount of talent. At the end of the day though, nostalgia can only take you so far. It's a grimy spot with a terrible beer selection, weak drinks, a disgusting bathroom and surly bartenders who will add a tip on your scrawled check with no indication they've done so. Nothing sets it apart as a live music venue other than the band in question; it's a venue that lives and dies by the act you came in to see. So choose wisely. ___________ *http://www.bitterend.com/played.html

Tonight was my first time coming to The Bitter End, and what a first time it was. Talk about losing your virginity, I'm glad I went all the way! Tonight's show was one of the best shows I have ever been to. And apparently it was a historic show, because he had first played there 40 years ago and tonight was his homecoming. Oh I'm sorry, I forgot to mention who I saw: NEIL DIAMOND. Yes, THE Neil Diamond. "Love on the Rocks" Neil Diamond. "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" Neil Diamond. "Song Sung Blue" Neil Diamond. I know i'm forgetting a song or two but these i remember him doing: - Solitary Man - Don't go There - Pretty Amazing Grace he then talked about how he first appeared at the bitter end 40 years ago and how glad he was to be back home. Then he said, "let's do some oldies" and launched into: - Kentucky Woman - Cherry Cherry - Sweet Caroline played just under 40 minutes but what an amazing 40 minutes of bliss. As you can see from the picture, he was thatclosetome. As for the place itself, like everyone says its where you go see up and coming bands and singers. People who've played there include Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Woody Allen and others. So coming here, you may just be seeing a future legend. And since its an old place, don't expect classic, A-1 furniture or service. Yes, the waitresses were pretty good, considering they had to keep maneuvering around the excessive crowd. But they were good, and the drinks were cheap. I think I paid $4 for a Pabst, I don't remember because the dude next to me bought my drink. The tables are small, and can fit 4-6 people, and there are a few tables right in front of the stage. There is a little back area with a raised floor where you can still see the stage rather easily. All in all, it's a divey place but with alot of history. I'm glad that I came during one of those historic nights. And apparently, the owners also knew it was a big deal, so they installed speakers outside on the sidewalk, and they kept the windows open so people could peer inside to watch as well. Only in New York.

The music was great. Very very hot in there... everyone was sweating... the waitress was so mean and demanding. Wasn't even crowded and she was flustered as well as nasty, she overcharged me and wouldn't take care of it. Just shook her head rolled her eyes and walked away. Monday night 10pm 10/28/19

I probably would have never come here on my own volition. But since they were hosting a Japan benefit with an all-star line-up of Asian American singers and musicians, I could not pass it up. Thanks RT for inviting me. I am all about pan-Asian solidarity. Where else can you see Alfa, Magnetic North, Taiyo Na on one satge? The venue is odd. There is a low raised stage with tables that face the center of the stage. It is great if you score a seat. Not so great if you are standing. The place got really packed and the waitresses had a hard time maneuvering between tables and bodies swarming around. Just make the place all standing already. And despite the venue failing, I couldn't help but still enjoy myself. Alpha has an amazing sultry voice and she reminds me a bit of Rachael Yamagata. It is great break-up suicide music. After a couple of her songs, I was ready to heat up the night with something more fast-paced. A singer from Cali named Scooter came up next and he reminded me of Rage Against the Machine. Now we're talking. But what really made me grin from ear to ear was Magnetic North and Taiyo Na. Magnetic North is a duo Asian hip hop group. One is a girl and although tiny, she packs a major punch. That girl can rap. "She is like an Asian MC Lyte," as per RT. I have to agree. Taiyo Na is hip hop and soul rolled into one cute Asian face. That man can sing and has a smile that lights up the room. And although the venue suffered, I am so glad I came to this benefit. It feels really good to support up and coming Asian American artists!

Popped in here for a friend singing in a small band. The lack of food here isn't helped by their minimum 2 drink rule that night... especially as they are expensive, and weak. That on top of a cover. The place is small and crowded, a good venue for those who want to perform and get their music out, much of the crowd were regulars or passionate fans.

We decided to check out a bar in the same area, and once we got there, it was terrible....despite its good reviews. So we hop in a taxi and drive for 2 minutes. As we pass 'The Bitter End' I think it looks fun, there are a crowd of people standing outside, so I tell the cabbie to stop. We get out, pay our 5 dollar cover and we're in. There was a live band that was playing so it seemed pretty cool, and the crowd seemed fun too. The drinks were reasonably priced, about $7 for a beer and $8 for a shot. The waitstaff was quick, and when I ordered from the bar there wasn't a long wait either. They stayed open very late, and up until close it was pretty crowded. I would definitely go back to The Bitter End. It proved to be a fun night.

Hi. We stay on a sturday here... It was a open stage show. Everyone can perform .. It was so great!!!! Only drinks ... over 21 .. Great place for hang on for a while...

Not the best dive I've been to. Came here for Moth Slam story telling which was pretty cool. Different. The venue is small, crowded and doesn't have much space to walk through. Also 2 drink minimum for a table is a bit annoying. Staff wasn't super attentive either. The place is famous as a music venue so check it out for yourself. It just didn't speak to me and I don't have much of a desire to return.

The Bitter End - A fitting name for a venue that is a hollow shell of it's former self. Do you like being treated like complete garbage? How about being harassed by waitresses to buy more drinks, or having the bartender refuse to give your friend back his credit card after accidentally leaving it at the bar? Then this is the place for you! If I had to imagine what hell is like, and the type of people I might encounter there, The Bitter End is pretty close. What's astounding is the sheer amount of MEAN, unhappy people one establishment has managed to employ. From the waitresses to the sound guy to the owner, you are guaranteed to be treated like a worthless piece of crap. Furthermore, if you're a band, expect to be harassed by a pompous, arrogant sound guy who has no problem shouting at you through the PA system as 30 of your closest friends and paying customers watch on. Here just to hang out? Hope you like cover charges AND 2-drink minimums, PER SET. This place is more reminiscent of a factory farm, in which customers are herded like cattle, required to buy drinks, then escorted out of their seats the moment they stop drinking. Don't want another drink? Get out. If you enjoy being harassed, verbally abused and treated like garbage, go here, and bask in the palpable negativity that fills this once legendary venue. Or if you have a morsel of self-worth and want to enjoy yourself, do not go here. The legends who once graced this stage would never step foot in here, and as the lineup shows, they still don't.

Was in NY for a week and made my way down to the Village to see a show. I arrived well into a performer's set and since all the tables/seats around the stage were taken I sat at the bar. This wouldn't have been an issue but all the bar stools were broken and the bartender was making a lot of noise. At one point during one of the quieter acoustic songs, the bartender decided to load and unload the ice buckets. Not sure why that couldn't have been done between songs. When the set was over, the performer was hanging around the bar so most of the fans abandoned their seats to talk to each other, get drinks, visit the restroom etc while the stage was set up for the next act. Since these were acoustic acts the switchover didn't take too long and before we knew it the next set has begun. The probelm was new people had arrived to see the next set which left a bunch of people seatless, standing around unable to see the stage or socialize since that would disturb other people's ability to hear the performer so people had no choice but to migrate outside and leave. It seemed like too many people were let in for that night's show. I love live music shows and I love bars, but this place doesn't blend the two elements well. The Bitter End left a bitter taste in my mouth.

Two words. Bobby Storm. She is a great performer!!! I recommend going there just to see her. She is fantastic. I am a fan

Came here for the Moth. It's small and cramped. Wasn't really crazy about the two drink minimum. Ended up sitting on the floor for most of the show, which I couldn't see. If you're trying to stay dry, be sure to order their super expensive seltzer served in a cocktail glass. That'll really get you to come back. Also - they charge a service fee on top of a cover to get in. Do they really attract that many douche bags who won't tip? It's nyc for Christ's sake.

I looked at a few reviews below and found them to be incredibly accurate, rude waiting staff is the biggest problem at this location. I went to this venue to listen to the live music (which undoubtly is the best part of this place). My friend and I immediately purchased beers and sat next to the stage. The waitress was incredibly pushy, insisting that we buy another drink, even when we weren't ready for another one. It became very clear to me that she was getting frustrated with me because I drink my beers very slowly. But since purchasing anything in NYC is substantially more expensive, I like to savor my beers. The worst part about this venue is that if everybody in your party doesn't have a drink, then you have to leave the table you are sitting at if you are close to the stage. I find this rule to be incredibly offputting. What if somebody in our group is the DD? I feel that if I have purchased a drink at all, I should have the freedom to sit anywhere. I also find it unsettling how much the waitresses would pressure people to have another drink. I understand that this is a business tryin to make money, but that is also a risky way to get people to go overboard and drink part their limit. I am not sure if The Bitter End reads these reviews, but if they do, PLEASE please please stop hiring waitors/waitresses that are pushy and please stop forcing people to leave their seats close to the stage if they do not have drinks. It will just lead to a better experience for all involved, and better Yelp reviews!

Only been here twice to see a friend perform. It's a great spot for live music, and bartenders were quick to serve my drinks. Only downside is that the drinks are pricey in my opinion. Perhaps it's because I'm not bar frequent, but I wouldn't usually pay $30+ for only 4 drinks (before tips).

If this walls could talk I saw so many now famous Musicians and Comedians there. And they continue to have great live Music

This might be the worst customer experience I've ever experienced. I went to close my tab at the end of the night. When they handed me my card, I did not look at the name on the card as it was dark and looked like mine. I left the tip and went back to join my group. Shortly after I heard my name yelled out and was scolded by the bartenders for taking the wrong card. They had given me the incorrect card and caught their mistake when the other person went to pay. The staff was SO rude at something that was obviously their mistake, and scolded me for both accepting the incorrect card and not keeping the receipt. I am honestly appalled at the way they handled a situation that clearly had nothing to do with my actions - I have never been treated so rudely in my life.