Blind Tiger - NYC

First impression? Arguably the epitome of a New York City craft beer bar and a true pioneer in the NYC craft scene, Blind Tiger’s been doling out a fine selection of the top tier libations since it opened in 1995. It’s the go-to spot to meet folks from your favorite breweries who happen to be swinging through town, and the tap takeovers are legendary, to say the least. Sip from 28 taps, two casks and a staggering list of microbrew bottles.

What's the crowd like? Cool cats sitting with their wives at cracked-wood tables near the stone hearth and under the copper fans. Newcomers too, circle around beer-belly-level tables or settle for standing and calling out their favorites.

Drink Review Quality of the beer is always perfect. Amazing selection of local and out of town beers, often those sought after by beer geeks. Beers such as the Other Half, Allagash Cooship Red, and Equilibrium. Again, not stuff you expect to find on tap everyone so if you love beer you'll die for this place.

Should you eat as well? What we have found at Blind Tiger is a New York City bar that actually has an extensive micro-brew selection AND excellent food. Unfortunately, we’re not the only ones that know it. The place gets very crowded at times, but weekend afternoons are perfect, as are late nights when you need a good beer and a grilled cheese. The wings and sandwiches are also excellent, and it’s a great place to mix it up and meet people. Be warned though - the bar staff know their beer, but they’re not very friendly. We’ll let it slide...but only because we want to keep coming back :)

Is it a YAY or NAY? You’ll have no luck ordering a Bud: Even a Guinness seems boring so it a NAY if you want a simple beer or arent a beer fan. However, for us its a YAY because of the craft beer it's the cat's pajamas...get it?

Def go!

The Blind Tiger is located at 281 Bleecker St., New York, NY, 10014. Hours are 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day of the week.