Relaxed house-party vibe w/ expertly crafted cocktails [1]. Unique drinks like Larb Gai & olive oil martinis, plus snacks [1]. Reservations recommended due to popularity [1].
Will Hartman reviews Schmuck, an East Village bar offering a relaxed, house-party vibe with expertly crafted cocktails like the Larb Gai and personalized service.
Schmuck, from the acclaimed duo behind Barcelona's Two Shmucks, offers a relaxed, house-party vibe with expertly crafted cocktails [1]. The reviewer highlights the attentive service and unique drinks like the Larb Gai cocktail and martinis with olive oil, alongside snacks such as cacio e pepe beans and chocolate mousse [1]. It's noted for its comfortable atmosphere, making it a great spot for intimate gatherings or a "See & Be Seen" experience, though reservations are recommended due to its popularity [1].
Schmuck is primarily known for its expertly crafted cocktails, with specific mentions of the Larb Gai and martinis presented with olive oil [1]. However, opinions on the drinks are mixed, with some finding them mediocre and overpriced, while others praise their innovation and quality [3, 5]. The establishment also offers snacks, including cacio e pepe beans and chocolate mousse, which have been positively noted [1]. One dish, the "pastry puff pizza," received harsh criticism for being poorly executed and inedible [6, 7].
"Recommended dishes include the Larb Gai cocktail and martinis with olive oil [1]. Snacks like cacio e pepe beans and chocolate mousse are also positively noted [1]."
Customer sentiment is divided, with some praising the innovative cocktails and comfortable atmosphere [1, 2], while others criticize the cocktails as mediocre and the atmosphere as unpleasant and noisy [3]. Some found it "decent but nothing special" [4], and one user called it the worst bar in the East Village [5].
Important Note
Reservations are recommended due to the bar's popularity, and some users have reported long waits, especially on weekends [1, 2]. The atmosphere has been described as noisy and brightly lit, making conversation difficult for some [3].
"This commenter notes that Schmuck is nearly impossible to get into these days."
Negative"The original poster lists Schmuck as an example of a restaurant they have loved on past NYC trips, indicating their taste preferences."
Positive"Schmuck offers interesting cocktails and has a large communal table, making it potentially good for groups, though it can be difficult to get a large party in due to its popularity."
Neutral"The user recommended Schmuck as an alternative to Snack, noting it's a short walk away and offers a different but fun vibe with unique cocktails. They also mentioned that while weekend door waits can be tough, weekdays are usually more successful."
Positive"The author had a negative experience with both the cocktails and the staff at Schmuck, noting the staff's attitude and dismissive service with bar snacks. This discouraged them from ordering more."
Negative"The author considers Schmuck to be the worst bar in the East Village."
Negative"The author defended Schmuck's innovation, citing flavor profile combinations like cocoa with bleu cheese and a unique take on a Piña Colada."
Positive"The author mentioned having the bratwurst at Schmuck and felt it was well executed."
Positive"The author did not find Schmuck to be particularly special beyond its decor and was glad they didn't have to wait in line."
Neutral"Responding to a claim of innovation, the author questioned what made Schmuck innovative and stated the three puff pastry pizza was practically inedible."
Negative"This commenter disagrees with negative reviews, stating that both the food and cocktails at Schmuck were fantastic and considered it the most innovative bar in NYC."
Positive"The author found the signature martini overpriced and weak, and also described the "pastry puff pizza" as terribly executed and inedible. They felt the restaurant prioritized style over substance."
Negative"The original poster stated that the cocktails at Schmuck were bad, weak, and small for the $20 price point."
Negative"This commenter defends Schmuck's cocktail pricing, stating $20 is standard in NYC and their cocktails offer decent value and technical craftsmanship compared to average bars."
Positive"This comment, in response to a comment about a bar in Barcelona, implies Schmuck's bar is good."
Positive"The original poster described their experience at Schmuck as one of the worst they've had, criticizing the insane prices for weak drinks and the "God awful" food, specifically mentioning the "pastry puff pizza" as a terrible dish. They strongly advise against visiting."
Negative"This commenter included Schmuck in a list of bar suggestions."
Neutral"This is listed as a recommendation."
Neutral"Shmucks is mentioned by the user as one of their top cocktail bars."
Positive"The user finds the frozen margarita with salted cream at Schmucks so enjoyable they could drink it daily."
Positive
