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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Northside

Cool spots

You prefer a cool atmosphere that is easy to reach by car.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated May 2026
01
Bad Astronaut Brewing Co. image 1
Bad Astronaut Brewing Co. image 2
Bad Astronaut Brewing Co. image 3
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Large brewery space combines graffiti-inspired art with high ceilings and views of brewing vats. Atmosphere stays all ages friendly with free games like pool, air hockey, and shuffleboard keeping energy lively. Community vibe centers on art, music, beer, and comedy.

Large space includes a parking lot and free street parking on Sundays. Parking suits the area's typical availability.

A cool open space hosts lots of games like pool, air hockey, and basketball. The venue includes a family friendly atmosphere and a taco truck for casual hangouts and events.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is solid and definitely worth trying."

"It's a cool place with lots of games."

"There's plenty of parking available, and it's pretty close."

Good to know

1

Food trucks are available outside, but no food is served inside the brewery.

2

The brewery is outdoors, which can be very hot, especially in summer.

3

Parking is ample and available for visitors.

02
Johnny's Gold Brick image 1

Bar offers a cozy interior with comfortable booths and a lively yet welcoming atmosphere. Music is top-tier and eclectic, creating a laid-back vibe that avoids crowded party scenes. Unique cocktails like exceptional espresso martinis and a patio space with a tent provide varied settings for guests.

Plenty of parking spots surround the bar. Ample space makes parking easy despite the busy area.

Effortlessly cool vibe fills the space, never pretentious and always welcoming. Staff match the atmosphere with their super cool attitude, making the whole spot feel relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and thoughtfully made."

"It's a great chill spot to unwind with friends."

"The vibe here is so effortlessly cool and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink prices.

2

Tuesday nights offer a $10 deal for a burger, tots, and an Old Fashioned.

3

Women bartenders are highlighted on Mondays, adding a unique touch.

03
Camaraderie image 1
Restaurant

Modern Scandinavian design shapes the space with open kitchen, natural light, and cool wood tones. Atmosphere balances relaxed and inviting vibes, especially on the patio, though brightness and acoustics lean toward casual. Bar area stands out with expertly crafted cocktails and a curated wine list.

A private parking lot offers plenty of space and self parking, making arrival straightforward. Parking is consistently easy to find.

Beautiful cool wood tones and soft lighting set a relaxed mood. The ambience feels cool and suits catching up with friends or a date.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"Parking available here is easy and there's plenty of space."

"The hash browns here are the crispiest I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the tasting menu, especially on weekends.

2

The prix fixe menu is not available for walk-ins; advance booking is necessary.

3

Parking is ample and free in the restaurant's private lot.

04
Wolfsmiths image 1
Coffee shop

Space combines motorcycle garage and casual hangout with vintage bikes and cars on display. Atmosphere feels vibrant and comfortable, featuring live music, DJ sets, and outdoor seating. Crowd enjoys events and diverse seating, creating a unique blend of energy and relaxation.

Parking availability varies by location. One spot offers ample parking while the original site has difficult parking and sometimes none at all.

Vibrant energy fills the space with live music, cool meetups, and diverse activities. Shade and fans keep the atmosphere comfortable while enjoying artisan coffee or cocktails.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great, and the vibe is super chill."

"The vibe here is really cool and chill."

"There was lots of parking available."

Good to know

1

Wolfsmiths hosts a Bikes and Coffee meet every Saturday morning.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events like steak night.

3

The space is dog and stroller friendly.

05
Agnes and Sherman image 1

Cozy modern diner with an open kitchen, natural light, and thoughtful details like coat hooks and multiple server stations. Atmosphere feels family-oriented and casual but can get very loud when full. Music and cocktails add to the lively vibe, making it a spot with top-tier energy.

The atmosphere has a cool vibe with great customer service. The cucumbers stand out as cool, spicy, and finish with a zingy Szechuan peppercorn kick.

People are saying

"The deconstructed rangoon and rice cakes offer a great fusion of flavors."

"I found parking available and the food was so good!"

"The tteokboki with ragu was unbelievable and singular."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends due to high demand.

2

Family-style menu costs $65 per person with a mandatory 22% gratuity.

3

The restaurant is now open for lunch on Wednesdays.

06
Kirby Ice House image 1

Huge bar with massive beer selection and TVs everywhere creates a lively, fun atmosphere ideal for game days. Spacious, dog-friendly patio offers plenty of room, shade, and social space. Energy peaks during weekends and sporting events, drawing crowds who enjoy cocktails and casual hangouts.

Plenty of parking spots sit right in the front area. Finding a spot is usually quick and easy.

A long bar creates a standout spot to hang out. The door staff are welcoming and friendly, adding to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"The servers here are so attentive during live sports."

"The servers here are so attentive and friendly, it's really cool."

"There was tons of parking available."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed inside Kirby Ice House.

2

Parking can be tricky, but there's a large garage nearby.

3

There is only one food truck available outside Kirby Ice House.

07
Feng Cha image 1
Bubble tea store

Bubble tea store offers a chill atmosphere with clean, cozy interiors decorated with chalk art and neon signs. It provides free Wi-Fi and power outlets at tables, supporting studying, working, and playing board games. The space accommodates groups comfortably and encourages socializing in a relaxed setting.

A cool vibe fills the space with a clean, cute decor and a chill atmosphere. Board games add a fun touch for hanging out and cooling down.

People are saying

"The milk tea here is delicious and worth trying."

"I loved the cool vibes and atmosphere here."

"There's plenty of parking available in the back."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back area of the building.

2

Feng Cha has an app for convenient ordering ahead of time.

3

You can customize your drink with different levels of ice and sweetness.

08
Dan Electros image 1
Live music venue

Dive bar with live music and a large outdoor patio offers multiple atmospheres to explore. The vibe is friendly and lively, supporting local musicians and punk and metal scenes. Indoor and outdoor spaces feature retro styling and a history-filled theme, creating a cool hangout for music and dancing.

Street parking is usually available around the block and not a problem on regular visits. Parking becomes limited for large shows, sometimes requiring carpooling to manage the space.

A mix of retro styling and varied atmospheres creates a cool vibe throughout the venue. It offers an intimate concert experience with a great neighborhood bar feel.

People are saying

"This bar has awesome live music every night."

"It's a cool dive bar with awesome bands playing."

"I found parking available around the block, it wasn't a problem."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays feature 50% off whiskey and steak night with live music.

2

Live local music has no cover charge on Thursday nights.

3

Expect exciting events on weekends for a fun night out.

09
Baso image 1
Basque restaurant

Open kitchen with a live-fire hearth creates a dynamic dining experience. Minimalist, urban-style decor sets a modern and sophisticated atmosphere that feels warm and inviting. The space is extremely loud, making conversation challenging despite the cozy vibe.

Watching the chef prepare black sea bass over an open flame adds a unique touch. The care given to the brick oven also stands out.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have unique, flavorful dishes meant for sharing."

"It's cool watching the chefs prepare food over an open flame."

"There was plenty of parking available."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be honored on time, regardless of restaurant hype.

2

The restaurant does not label allergens on their menu.

3

Expect high prices; a meal for two can cost around $420 including gratuity.

10
Plume image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with art deco style and chic, inviting decor creates a bright, vibrant atmosphere. Live music and DJs provide engaging soundscapes without overwhelming noise. Spacious patio and valet parking support comfortable, upscale evenings.

Plenty of parking exists with massive lots and street parking options. Valet parking is also available despite the large parking areas.

A vibey spot with a cool crowd and good service keeps the energy fresh. Events add to the lively atmosphere, making it a great place to celebrate or go on a date.

People are saying

"The cocktails are crafted with creativity and perfect attention to detail."

"It's a cool spot with a great vibe."

"The parking is available and the decor is swanky."

Good to know

1

Pasta date night and steak night specials are offered during the week.

2

Themed brunches occur on weekends, providing a unique dining experience.

3

Happy hour is a great time to visit for discounted drinks and appetizers.

11
H-Town Brewing Co image 1

Outdoor space features covered patio, gravel seating area, and mature native trees creating a tranquil, hidden oasis. Atmosphere shifts from family-friendly and lively to occasionally noisy with nearby parties. Live music and food trucks add to the casual, social vibe.

Parking includes onsite spots but can be horrible. A $15 fee applies at H-Town Brewing Co.

A cool patio and modern interior create a laid back vibe. The spot hosts themed nights and events with nice music, making it feel tranquil and hidden.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their delicious house beer."

"The outdoor space here is beautiful with lots of trees and greenery."

"I found parking available right onsite."

Good to know

1

Parking is available onsite for $15.

2

The establishment is dog friendly, allowing pets in outdoor areas.

3

H-Town Brewing Co offers both indoor and outdoor dining options.

12
Café Forth image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop inside a boutique lifestyle market offers bright, spacious interior with vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy, welcoming dogs with treats and providing plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Wi-Fi covers patio area, supporting a community vibe ideal for work or casual meetups.

Free parking exists in the lot, but availability varies and sometimes there is no parking at all.

Relaxed, cool vibes create a great spot for working or chatting. The atmosphere feels laid-back and welcoming for laptop use or casual conversation.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be awesome and reasonably priced."

"Parking is available, though it can be a little hard to find."

"The coffee here is great and made with high-quality beans."

Good to know

1

Parking at Café Forth is limited, but there is free parking available.

2

Dogs are allowed indoors at Café Forth.

3

Not all tables at Café Forth have power outlets.

13
Tenfold Coffee Company image 1

Open floor plan with industrial vibe and large windows creates a bright, airy space filled with plants. Atmosphere stays cozy and lively, suited for working or socializing with friends. Pet-friendly outdoor patio and roasted coffee on-site add unique touches.

A spacious parking lot sits outside, making it easier to find a spot despite the busyness. The lot sits near an outside patio and natural decor inside.

Rotating their single origin espresso almost daily offers a cool chance to try new flavors. A dedicated section for coffee classes adds to the cool vibe, along with the presence of plants inside the shop.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, rich, and perfectly balanced."

"The parking lot here is really spacious."

"The espresso here is delicious and strong."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers various beer and wine specials.

2

Two taco trucks are available on weekends for breakfast.

3

Barista lessons and coffee tasting events are offered.

14
NettBar Shady Acres image 1

Bar and grill combines kid-friendly playground with multiple outdoor seating areas including covered patios. Atmosphere stays laid back and cozy with music volume balanced for conversation. Crowd includes families and friends enjoying cocktails and games in a modern, neighborhood-style setting.

A very small parking lot with about 10 spaces makes parking limited and sometimes challenging. The lot feels sketchy due to its street location, so arriving early helps avoid street parking.

Modern yet family oriented vibe blends with a neighborhood style feel. The outdoor area offers games and shade, making it a cool spot to hang out.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a playground."

"It's a really cool spot with a chill vibe and lots of space."

"Parking available is limited, so arriving early is advisable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday evening with a $5 entry fee.

3

Salsa Night occurs on the first Saturday of each month, featuring live music.

15
La Lucha image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Space combines vintage decor with an open kitchen and large bar, creating a warm, cozy atmosphere. Music plays through Polk Audio center channels, setting a lively yet comfortable tone. Outdoor patio offers fans and a relaxed spot favored by those without reservations.

Free valet parking offers convenience and eases the usual parking headache in the area.

The spot has a cool, retro vibe like a bar in Central America or Mexico City. Waiters at the bar are super cool and really engage with people.

People are saying

"The oysters here are amazing and have incredible flavors."

"The valet parking here is super convenient and tip-only."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool and cozy."

Good to know

1

Oyster happy hour offers $1.50 Gulf Gems raw oysters every day until 6 pm.

2

Arrive before 6 pm to enjoy the $1.50 oyster happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended as La Lucha gets packed quickly.

16
Trash Panda Drinking Club image 1

Eclectic decor with a Nightmare Before Christmas theme creates a vibrant, festive setting. Laid-back atmosphere features well-crafted cocktails and a large, covered patio where cigar and weed smoke often lingers. DJs spin a mix of R&B and hip hop, adding lively but balanced energy without overwhelming the space.

Parking is limited and can be tough to find, especially for larger groups. Some visitors find a spot, but many opt for ride shares to avoid the hassle.

Bartenders bring a cool vibe with their style and friendliness. Pop-up theme days add a fun twist by replicating food and drinks from other spots. The decor stands out as super funky and unique.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the birria tacos and pizza."

"The vibe here is so cool and laid back."

"Parking is limited and can be tough to find."

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer $1 tacos, while pizza Fridays feature $10 pizzas.

3

Live entertainment is available most nights, enhancing the atmosphere.

17
Heights Bier Garten image 1

Outdoor space includes covered patio, swing seats, and fans with mist that keep the area comfortable and mosquito-free. Atmosphere stays chill and lively, with live music and multiple TVs showing football games. Dog-friendly and kid-friendly features make it welcoming for families and pet owners.

Plenty of parking spots exist, especially on a Monday. Parking is better here compared to other places in the Heights, making it easier to find a spot.

Indoor and outdoor patios create a cool atmosphere with a chill vibe. The garden adds to the super cool ambience.

People are saying

"The craft cocktails here are incredible and Instagram-worthy."

"Parking available onsite can fill up quickly, and sometimes it's valet only."

"It's a cool spot with a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is now valet only, costing $7.

2

Heights Bier Garten serves food until 10pm and snacks until 12am on weekends.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

18
Jūn image 1
New American restaurant

New American restaurant offers an intimate setting with dim lighting and detailed decor that creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Bar seating provides a view of female chefs at work, adding a unique interactive element. The space feels cozy and never crowded, encouraging guests to linger past dessert.

Plenty of parking spots are available on site, avoiding the need for valet. This makes access straightforward and hassle-free.

A cocktail program features unique drinks like one made with beets that tastes amazing and looks cool. The kitchen view adds a cool vantage point while the atmosphere keeps a fresh, welcoming vibe without trying too hard.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken experience was fantastic all the way around."

"The staff's awesome energy made our whole experience magical."

"I was pleasantly surprised by the plenty of parking available."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait even with a reservation during peak hours.

3

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6 pm with discounted drinks.

19
Third Place image 1

Eclectic decor and upscale boho design create a calming yet lively atmosphere with hard surfaces that amplify sound. The space attracts students and creatives, often busy and loud, especially with a DJ playing music. An arts and crafts station adds a unique, hands-on element to the coffee lounge vibe.

People are saying

"I was blown away by the coffee's amazing flavor."

"The pastries and drinks here are so good."

"Parking available is limited due to shared spots and construction."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited due to shared location with other shops and ongoing construction.

2

The Nutty Brew costs $9.50, and prices can be on the higher side.

3

The restaurant offers counter service and has plenty of seating available.

20
Tikila's image 1

Huge patios with fire pits, heat lamps, and swings create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Big screen TVs show games while a DJ spins music, drawing a crowd that enjoys both indoor and outdoor seating. The space feels ideal for social events and casual gatherings with a pet-friendly vibe.

Parking offers plentiful spots and is generally easy to find on weekday evenings. However, the lot has a history of vehicle break-ins, which is a significant concern.

Fire pits and heaters create a warm outdoor vibe. The patio serves as a cool hangout spot with friendly bartenders.

People are saying

"The outdoor space is perfect for day drinking and people-watching."

"It's a cool place with a chill, laid-back atmosphere."

"Parking was plentiful and easy to find."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Karaoke night is on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, starting at 10pm.

3

Food trucks and vendors are available nearby, but Tikila's does not serve food.

21
Roast & Brew image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers charming decor with Greek touches and varied seating including a covered patio with fans. Atmosphere balances quiet, relaxing vibes with moments of high energy and late-night activity. Space supports working and socializing with charging outlets and free Wi-Fi.

Super cool artwork and stylish design elements decorate the walls, creating a chill vibe. The place feels like a cool spot to hang out or study with friends.

People are saying

"It's a great work-friendly spot with a calm, quiet vibe."

"Parking available can be tight, but street parking is nearby."

"It's a cool, chill place with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Roast & Brew is open until midnight, making it a great late-night spot.

2

Parking can be difficult, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

3

The coffee shop has reliable internet, ideal for working or studying.

22
Monkey's Tail image 1

Bar offers large outdoor patios with monkey-themed artwork creating a fun, playful atmosphere. Music ranges from live mariachi bands to DJs, setting a vibrant and lively mood. Crowd enjoys a cozy, hip vibe with affordable drinks and plenty of seating options.

Parking includes both on site and street options. The lot offers some free spots, but limited parking means neighborhood streets often fill up.

A bar with a lot of character and a large patio space. The outdoor seating adds a relaxed vibe, especially when it cools off.

People are saying

"Mel's bartending skills made every visit feel special and welcoming."

"The drinks here are awesome and mixed very well."

"Parking is available on site and on the street."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM with great drink specials.

2

Steak night on Mondays offers $25 steaks all day.

3

Parking is limited; consider using street parking or the nearby metro rail.

23
Simply Coffie image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers a modern, bright, and cozy space with intentional decor and natural light. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing with soft jazz and lo-fi vibes. Plenty of comfortable seating and electric outlets support work or leisure.

Plenty of free parking spots exist in the lot and on the street. Parking is limited but generally available.

Atmosphere feels cool and lowkey with a down-to-earth vibe. Staff members are polite and add to the relaxed mood.

People are saying

"I found the coffee selections to be great and the espresso perfect."

"Parking available was generally difficult to find."

"I found the atmosphere to be cool and lowkey."

Good to know

1

Simply Coffie only accepts credit cards and does not accept cash.

2

Parking is very limited, but there is a small lot in the back.

3

Expect high prices, with coffee costing around $9 for a small serving.

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