The Folly

Great bar, great prices, great music. Anything else I didn’t mention? It’s a bar. Expect the floors to be sticky, and bathrooms to be untended. As long as the drinks are flowing- who cares? There’s a nice sitting area, dancing area; and a bar area. I would return 120%

I hosted my 26th birthday party at The Folly, and it was amazing. The staff was extremely accommodating, and the drinks were great. I highly recommend this place if you want to listen to good music in an even better atmosphere!

One of my friend groups favorite bars in NYC! Came here to start the night for my birthday. When there was a mixup with my reservation, Jon and Jess went above and beyond to make sure we had a great experience. This place has amazing drinks, service, food and atmosphere. Can’t recommend it enough!

Reserved a room for a birthday party and they double booked that same room for five other birthday parties. Extremely packed place where you will get pushed around and not be able to move. Definitely go elsewhere if you are looking to have a good night.

What a fun place! After getting sat realized it's a pirate ship theme and details were impressive. We sat in one of the bench/cubie areas. The music was 90's/2000' hip/hop and R&B so we were jamming the entire time. The layout is unique and actually cool to have the restrooms 'upstairs' as you walk down you've got a great view. This would be a fun place to host a party to use that as a focal point. One of the best parts was the Peg Leg chart in the restroom. This had me going, I'd go back to spend more time and see how their other drinks are.

Came in with some friends on a Sunday night, had a fantastic time. Decor and vibe of the bar is wonderful, loved exploring all of the little details throughout. Service was impeccable and drinks were great. Highly recommend checking out, I’ll be back next time I’m in town 💙⚓️

We were looking for a place for light dinner one evening, and found this interesting spot. The entrance is down the stairs from the street, almost hidden a bit. The inside felt like you are on some kind of large, old ship. I really liked the atmosphere. The space go quite far down, much bigger than it looked from the outside. We wanted some light snacks, so we ordered two small items to share. The first one up was Lump Crab Mac & Cheese. It had great flavor of crab in every bite, and it was soooo cheesy, super delicious! Another items of choice was Salted Cod Tater Tots. It is more like cod croquettes. They were packed with flavor, and loads of cod fish in there. Soft and juicy, lightly fried, really great! The staff here was nice and efficient, we had a nice, comfortable, relaxing time here. We didn’t get try any of their craft cocktails, but I would love to go back to try some cocktails and more of their tasty dishes!

Great bar my daughters 21st birthday trip to New York the bar man was awesome the drinks we're amazing

We had an incredible Halloween at The Folly, huge thanks to AJ and John! They brought fantastic energy and kept everything running smoothly for our group of 50. They weren't just behind the bar--they were part of the fun, checking in with everyone and making sure vibes were great all night. If you're heading to The Folly, definitely look for AJ and John. They're great at what they do, super helpful all around, and made our evening one to remember. Can't wait to come back and throw another event with them!

Dropped in for a few drinks with friends this past Saturday. Place was busy but still comfortable. The bar tenders were attentive and it was easy to get a drink. Drinks were good and the place was clean. I give 3 stars because an automatic gratuity was applied to my bar tab. I have never been anywhere that did this. I wasn't seated and I wasn't part of a party with a private server or anything. I stood at the bar to order and receive my drinks, then walked back to my group. I always tip, but 18-20% is for table service, not standing bar service so this automatic gratuity left a poor taste in my mouth.

Good variety of canned and draft drinks as well as a full liquor assortment. Cool interior that resembles a ship. Bartenders super nice.

Nice ambience full bar with cute seating along sides also back room good but loud music , Good bar food , service great , nice cozy bar

Cute bar, my friend rented out the back space which was really nice and spacious, only complaint was the bar was a bit difficult to maneuver. Would come again for a night out!

Cool spot on Houston for a drink! They have a selection of craft beer on tap, along with some cans/bottles too. Given the theme of the bar, there is a portion of the menu solely dedicated to rum-based cocktails ($18 as of Jan 2025). Good for groups, especially the upstairs section in the back. Our bartender was super cool too. Would recommend if looking to grab drinks in the area!

Despite my last review I went back to the Folly and did not regret it! The owner reached out to me apologize which I really did appreciate, so I gave it another shot. When there I spoke with Jon the manager who was very welcoming and also apologetic for my pervious experience. Justino served us and was very kind, my partner and I had an espresso martini and the fall in love and we thought both were very yummy! We also had fries and we thought the amount of fires for the price ($9) was great! Definitely enjoyed my experience this time and would come back to try some of the other drinks on the menu! The place is cute and great for a date night/a celebration!

Great happy hour spot! It's available Monday through Friday until 8 pm. You can get all-well drinks, beer on tap, a delicious painkiller frozen drink, and wine for just $8. It's also a fantastic place to host a gathering. I've been here for birthdays before, and the pirate ship-themed decor is really cool.

What a fun place! After getting sat realized it's a pirate ship theme and details were impressive. We sat in one of the bench/cubie areas. The music was 90's/2000' hip/hop and R&B so we were jamming the entire time. The layout is unique and actually cool to have the restrooms 'upstairs' as you walk down you've got a great view. This would be a fun place to host a party to use that as a focal point. One of the best parts was the Peg Leg chart in the restroom. This had me going, I'd go back to spend more time and see how their other drinks are.

We had a going away party for my friend here tonight & it was so wonderful! John was so kind and helpful and the rest of the staff was amazing as well. The space was beautiful, drinks and food were delicious. I would 10/10 recommend visiting The Folly!!! We'll be back :)

Great spot. Drinks and service were very good. Attentive bartender. Enjoyed the music. Get there early or have a reservation. It got crowded quickly.

There's Happy Hour until 8pm. Wells drinks, wine. And drafts are $8. We sat at the bar which had a friendly staff. They came to check on us to see if we were good on drinks and asked about our food. We ordered the fish and chips. The fish was great, lightly battered and crispy, not burnt or soggy. Only wish the pieces were a bit bigger just like the real fish and chips in UK would be. Their fries were skinny and crispy. Not too onily

Shhhh a hidden gem in this area. We only came for drinks on a Saturday night but it was SO FUN and the workers were SO NICE and we already want to go back. Love the theme and the vibes, music was good and not too loud. We got to sit but it looked like it might get more dancey later into the night.

This place was a little dark and I was a bit worried, but the food was good and came out quickly. The happy hour has great specials. The bartender was nice enough to charge my phone while we ate. They have a cute little outdoor area to sit as well, so I would do that if I went back.

Great happy hour spot! Beautiful indoor seating and very friendly service (the bartender gave my friend and I two free drinks). We had the frozen painkiller, spaghetti western cocktail, and a margarita and they were each $8 until 8pm. Good vibes!

Came here for happy hour. Great deals, friendly service, good vibes, and good tunes! I'll be back.

Came here for happy hour with a group of 8 on a Tuesday afternoon. We were seated outside in the booth and it was very spacious. They offer $8 well drinks, beer, and wine. The bartender was really friendly and recommended The Pain Killer which reminded me a lot of a pina colada + orange juice. Interior was also a nice ambiance with a pirate ship theme throughout.

This is not a dive bar. They have a very good Happy Hour menu for drinks($8) and food($8), all til 8p. The staff and owners are great. I loved the music. The owner sets the playlist. On the night I was in, it was 80s Music from Elvis, Big Audio, Blondie, etc. Good crowd, fun night

Went here for happy hour. Good selection at fair prices. The vibes were great- the bar is spacious and the whole place is spacious. They played good music and the nautical theme is cool also. Recommend overall.

Nice happy hour, good ambiance, decor, and kind staff. Music is a bit loud, hard for conversations. Good for big groups.

Nice little spot for an intimate place to grab drinks. Come here with the expectation to pay nearly $20 for a cocktail. The service wasn't exactly the fastest and they seemed to have a tough time communicating amongst each other. Regardless the drinks were fancy and pretty strong. I'd say this is the perfect place to enjoy a nightcap at the end of a fun day or after dinner drink. We didn't try the food, but seafood seems to be the theme.

My friends and I stumbled upon this place after the horrible experience we received a couple of doors down (see previous review). It was packed inside but they happily sat us in their outdoor eating area. The area had heaters which was helpful since it was pretty cold. They had a really good DJ who was playing really good music. The waiter came over immediately to take our drink orders and brought us menus. They don't have an extensive menu so three of us ordered the fish and chips and one ordered the guacamole and nachos. I ordered a Moscow mule which was basically ginger beer and lime juice as I didn't taste any alcohol in the drink. The fish and chips were ok. It was alot of food (I could have shared my plate) and it came with dippings of vinegar, spicy Mayo, tartar sauce and some kind of aioli. The food was ok but what impressed us was the great customer service we received and for that alone I would go back.

Tiffany is a fantastic person. I want her from every drink I get. She is o nice and so efficient. I would sad if no one else gets here

Incredibly rude female staff. Do not support this business! Female worker grabbed a drink out of my hand and said "we don't sell white claws here." It was a Nutrl which they do in fact sell. F this bar.

UPDATE: Recently, the owner of The Folly, Aron Watman, finally responded to my review nearly six months later, telling me to "lighten up" and demanding that I "change [the review] to 3 or 4 stars." Rather than offer even a modicum of an apology for the unprofessional behavior of his employee, Mr. Watman doubled down on the intimidation and made me into the bad guy. Not only will I not be visiting The Folly again, but I will be making sure my friends and family do the same. And for all of you reading this, just know that this is what Mr. Watman thinks of paying customers at The Folly, where he charges $16 for a watered down rum and coke: "Lighten up, or else."

Good ambiance and chill music. Grabbed a seat and served by the bartender with a brown mustache. He later walked away and we ended up paying the bill with a different bartender who was bald. He was very genial and wished my friend good luck on his surgery the next day, which was a classy move. Five stars for that second bartender, who's a true gentleman. We had such a positive experience that we came back later that evening. When my friend and I sat down, the first bartender -- mustache man -- accused us of not paying for our beverages earlier in the night. I calmly explained to him that his colleague took my card (I even described his physical appearance). Mustache man was clearly not buying it and he began going through the records after I detailed what I paid for. At this point, my good impression of The Folly was beginning to evaporate. After his feverish search and my statement of the exact amount ($20 according to the email receipt), mustache man was satisfied with the explanation. It was an off-putting experience that left a bad aftertaste. We left shortly afterwards and I elected to not make a big scene out of respect for my friend. Zero stars for mustache man. Add it up and the average is 2.5 stars. It was my folly to come back to The Folly later that night. Lesson learned.

I haven't been here in a while and was finally able to go for happy hour with a friend. The painkillers are still amazing and came out to $8 each for happy hour. The drink was cool and refreshing and similar to a pina colada.

The food was soooo good!! We got the fish and chips and salted cod tater tots (the portions are huge compared to other bar food options) The happy hour drink was also the next best thing here. Loved it and definitely will go back!

i love this place! the service is amazing- fabulous owner/ manager. great music, cold drinks and delicious small bites!! super cute atmosphere- will come back again and again!

Great drinks and a killer happy hour that goes until 8! Love the pirate ship decor. They also have a decent gastropub food menu

Saturday afternoon drinks. I didn't know what to expect with such a small entrance but with the octopus mural sprawled over the black doorway, I was instantly intrigued. They had set up a sizable outdoor seating structure but as the sun was going down, we opted to sit inside. Our booth was the best seat in the house -- under the window so we got natural light, and against the wall, so we got a view of everyone coming and going. We ordered cocktails, wine and some appetizers. All pretty tasty! Will definitely be back if in the area for elevated but casual drinks and atmosphere.

Great place too be! And the dj Greg is Awesome! He is the best! U will enjoy urself at this bar

Every time I go here it's a good time. The one thing that kinda sucks is the bouncers, but that's easy to get over. They have a solid selection of drinks, especially rum drinks, and overall the vibe is great. It gets a little loud but definitely worth going on off hours or sitting outside. I've only ever seen one waitress in the four or five times I've been here, but she's great. Very quick, handles the tables really well, and is super nice. When it's slow she's very chatty. The bartenders are all fine and a lot of them pour on the heavy side. It's a pirate themed bar so sit in the back if you can to get the full experience, otherwise chill outside where you can actually hear each other talk. All in all it's on regular rotation for me and I'll be back many times I'm sure.

I've been hesitating on writing this review. I have virtually nothing bad to say about the Folly. It's at it's best on a Thursday night right after work. Stop in for happy hour and dinner and then stay for the drinks. It's great for a group of friends where one person never wants to eat (aka me) while the entire group is starving. It's a safe and equal food/drink space. The DJ is usually pretty good. The happy hour specials last pretty late and if I recall correctly- -- into the weekend. They have frozen drinks that are pretty strong. While I do love the Folly, something is missing for the proper 5 stars. Still one of my go to bars in the area!

I have to suggest you try the Painkiller drink if you like feeling like you are on vacation. It is not overly sweet (even with the cane sugar rim) and reminds me of a pina colada. They were also slightly cheaper during their happy hour, which is until 8. We had a table outside. It was a very sunny day and the reflective glass just made it feel even hotter so the 'Painkiller' was needed. After the sun went down, I switched to wine. For food I had to try the Lump Crab Mac and Cheese. It was flavorful and filling. I could only eat half at the time. Their fries were also good. The waitress we had was attentive and kind (we even saw her bring a dog a water bowl.) We really enjoyed dinner & drinks here. Definitely recommend as it was not crowded, the staff was nice and food tasty!

We were looking for a place for light dinner one evening, and found this interesting spot. The entrance is down the stairs from the street, almost hidden a bit. The inside felt like you are on some kind of large, old ship. I really liked the atmosphere. The space go quite far down, much bigger than it looked from the outside. We wanted some light snacks, so we ordered two small items to share. The first one up was Lump Crab Mac & Cheese. It had great flavor of crab in every bite, and it was soooo cheesy, super delicious! Another items of choice was Salted Cod Tater Tots. It is more like cod croquettes. They were packed with flavor, and loads of cod fish in there. Soft and juicy, lightly fried, really great! The staff here was nice and efficient, we had a nice, comfortable, relaxing time here. We didn't get try any of their craft cocktails, but I would love to go back to try some cocktails and more of their tasty dishes!

Omg, guuuyyyyzz! The Folly is where it's AT! Hear me?! Ok, so listen. I had some friends in town who wanted to hang and left it up to me to decide on a happy hour spot. So then I hit up my other friend for his happy hour recommendations, and The Folly was one of his picks. After doing a little research, I decide, "why not"?! So I let my friends know that we'll meet there for happy hour. I arrived early to check the place out and make sure it wasn't just a big scam lol. I first noticed the cute outdoor seating area. It's really nice and cozy! I also noticed the outer decor. It was lovely and inviting! The entrance is actually down some stairs, which I thought was interesting. You walk inside to find this HUGE (for NYC) space, with classic decor. It really does have a 70's...maybe 80's-ish kinda vibe. I dug it! There was just so much space and I felt like I could breathe lol. They're known to have really good cocktails, but I ended up ordering a red house wine that is the closest they have to Cabernet Sauvignon, according to the bartender. It was a VERY tasty house wine and I ended up getting 3 glasses. But wait, wait, ok? Let me express the most exciting part about my experience at The Folly. Girl.....they have happy hour from 1pm-8pm!! Crazy, right?! So listen, you can go to happy hour during your lunch break, and then AGAIN after work, if you live that type of life! Lol. I'm not judgin'. But no seriously, you cannot beat that, and I don't believe I've encountered a happy hour in New York that has such a lengthy happy hour. I'm still kinda blown away by it. Ok, so my friends arrived, and also ordered drinks. The bartender was super kind to us and really helpful with recommendations. My friends also ordered appetizers, which I tried. They ordered the grilled octopus, which had a lovely grilled, charred taste. It was very well done! They also ordered the hot wings, which were good! This is a gastro-lounge, so the food is a bit more gourmet than your typical bar. They have great seafood options! So listen, The Folly is officially my go-to happy hour spot! I'm sorry that I haven't learned about this place sooner! It really is a vibe, and a gem! I can't wait to get back to try their cocktails!

A great time EVERY time! If you are in the area you have to check this place out. I love the nostalgia about this place! Every time that I've been here, it's been a great time. So much character, reminds me of my granny's house in the late 80's early 90s with the decor! The Service: I've only popped in during the week after work for happy hours M-F and it's can fill up rather quickly. There is a ton space with a cute quaint upstairs area if you have small group of folks. I don't think that you have to reserve it. There is also a "back living room" type of area that is nice for groups. The food and drinks-- clutch! The painkiller is a favorite of mine, it's like The Hulk version of a pina colada! A must order! Food wise-- I would avoid the tots- A cod tater tot was just my least favorite experience of 2019! Totally my fault for not reading the menu thoroughly and ordering those. Otherwise, the service is great. I have witnessed a man running the show solo with an unexpected weekday packed house for happy hour and he kept his cool and provided impeccable service!

Love this spot! Everything from the decor, to the food, to the drinks, to the service, and ESPECIALLY the playlist. #tbt anyone? They have happy hour until 8pm every day. Hello $6 glasses of sparkling rosé for this #basic chick right here! The wings are also really good. Talk to the bartenders, they're a lot of fun!

Totally random stop at this soho/noho spot. Beautiful NYC spring weather, so we sat outside on their patio. We order two cocktails, guac and chips and the tacos. The food was so good. Fresh chips and the tacos had a delicious sauce. I ordered a cocktail that I did not like and our server said no problem he's being me something else. Really?! Yes. Excellent service...thank you Christian! He was our server and he was one of the best I've had at any restaurant I've been to. Great food reasonably priced and a cool location all lead up to that you must check it out.

The grog was amazing -- it's like a strong smooth pina colada. Many tables for seating but a large bar area as well. The bartenders were super attentive and quick at making the drinks. Definitely recommend!

I would not recommend this place to anyone, unlesss you're looking for a place to hit up before heading to the club. It's very loud, and yelling is in order if you want to have a conversation. I didn't have the option of putting zero stars, but if I could I would. The service was bad. The ONE bartender that was working, was taking shots with a customer, who he said was his "buddy" and was making rude comments to the customers. Also this restaurant is accused of false advertising! They have a menu that supposedly states Happy Hour and our drinks were not discounted at all. What a sh** show. Do not recommend. Like I said, you have to get trashed or already be trashed to go to this trashy place. I sure hope that they change the employees, because the setting has so much potential. It is adorable!

Their service is prompt and attentive. It doesn't hurt when you quickly finish their painkiller and want another one - or another five, but who's counting when they have an amazing happy hour promotion..

When The Folly was closed last week for a private holiday party, my friends and I knew we would make reservations for this evening after reading all the stellar reviews. How could we not? as it was listed in several articles for great happy hour, food and atmosphere. We were sold! Fast forward to today when I messaged the general manager to make a reservation via email requesting a table (not standing at the bar) for a party of 3. We were confirmed and all set for 5 pm. Or so we thought. As soon as we arrived, we discovered 1) our reservation was not in the system 2) there were no available tables 3) general manager wasn't around. Much to my dismay and disappointment, things seemed unsettled and I had no idea if we would get the table that I reserved hours earlier in good faith. However, one of the all around employees, Chuck stepped in to assist us. We were both annoyed at this situation and he promised to resolve it. While we hung out upstairs to have a drink (on the house due to this unpleasant matter), it was not more than 20 minutes later when Chuck escorted us to our table. Phew! We were ecstatic and thankful. We really wanted to experience The Folly since it was known for its charming nautical ambiance, happy hour and (limited) mostly seafood menu. And so we did. Draft beer and house wine were $6. Certain cocktails were also part of the happy hour which ends at 8 pm. The menu, as.mentioned was mostly seafood such as fish and chips, fish tacos, mac and cheese with either lobster or lump crab meat, Angus beef sliders and pulled pork sandwich. There were other items on the menu appearing equally good. I'm huge on seafood and so were my friends. The fact that the entire menu was mainly seafood was fine with us. Here's what we ordered ( again, thanks to Chuck for recommendations, taking our order and taking care of us all evening: Grilled octopus skewers. Just 2 but cooked nicely and garnished with grape tomatoes. These were delicious and we wished we had more. Codfish tator tots with potatoes. Extremely delicious and highly recommended. Served with 2 sauces--a cocktail and tarter sauce. For main, my friends and I chose the mac and cheese. Two of us selected crab meat while my other friend chose lobster. This was a sizable portion served in a mini cast iron skillet. Flavors of seafood were prominent and scrumptious while the tender elbow macaroni was smothered with cheese. Decadent and so yummy. We loved the atmosphere and food. The venue is only 3 years old but it already felt like home and we will definitely visit again soon. What started out as a questionable evening turned out to be a great time for my friends and I to catch up and enjoy really good food. A rough idea of prices: a few rounds of wine (a couple on the house), two shared appetizers and three seafood mac and cheese entrees. Grand total split three ways including tip: $165. Again, shout out to Chuck for his above and beyond service allowing my friends and I to experience a fun reunion. Winner! Definitely recommend

Cute casual spot. Came here with my friend after work. They have a everyday happy hour. Drinks and food are good.

First time here last night with some co workers and had a great time! When you walk in the bar is on the left side with booths and seats on the right. Keep walking and you will see the bathroom on small set of stairs, right across from it is a photo booth. When I got there it was crowded in the front but got less packed in the back where there is more seating, although not sure if you have to reserve it. I arrived around 7:55pm and the lady was nice enough to squeeze in 2 happy hour drinks before time ended. Painkiller is delicious if you want something yummy to drink, the tequila shots however were warm... but anyways. The music was great, lots of oldies fun to dance to and the vibe is great. Definitely a fun place that's not too fancy but not divey either. I'll be back again for happy hour :)

AJ did an excellent job catering to a extra large crowd. Went above and beyond to take care of everyone's needs. I didn't know the folly employed Michelin rated bartenders. Stop by and ask for Aj. He took care of our party or 58, he'll easily manhandle yours.

Hosted my fiancés 30th birthday party here and my group had a blast! My group was about 30 people and we had enough room and the service was great! Aron was helpful and always responded to my emails promptly. I can't wait to be back. Cheers!

This place has a good happy hour deal and many seafood options! I came here for lunch during the weekdays and it was very quiet. I had a great time and I will revisit here sometime. I had Salted cod tater tots and Lump crab mac & cheese. I wasn't a big fan of mac & cheese because it was oily and heavy but I loved the cod tater tots!! Other foods on the menu sound tasty and I would try them for the next visit. The most popular drink is the painkiller but I didn't get it because I didn't feel like having sweet drinks on that day. I just had a sip and it was good. I got some prosecco instead. The owner served us and he seemed nice. He was the only person working at that time but he did his best to accommodate everybody. I recommend this place!