Nestled in the heart of Little Italy at 176 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10013, Mulberry Street Bar stands as a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern culinary delight. This iconic dive bar, a stone’s throw north of Grand Street, exudes a timeless appeal, seemingly untouched since its establishment in 1908. Its pressed-tin ceilings, classic tiled floors, and sturdy wooden bar whisper tales of a bygone era, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic New York experience. Beyond its historical ambiance, Mulberry Street Bar has garnered acclaim for its unexpected culinary offering: a truly exceptional burger.
Mulberry Street Bar’s allure extends beyond its vintage aesthetics. It boasts a silver screen pedigree, having served as a backdrop for numerous films and television shows. Scenes from The Sopranos, Contract on Cherry Street, Donnie Brasco, and episodes of Law & Order have all been filmed within its walls, solidifying its place in popular culture. Despite this Hollywood fame, it has maintained its status as a beloved local haunt, a place where you might find yourself sharing a pint with neighborhood regulars or encountering a diverse mix of visitors, from motorcycle enthusiasts to curious tourists. The bar’s unpretentious atmosphere is part of its charm. Once known for its no-frills approach – $2 PBR tall boys, $12 pitchers of beer, and bartenders with character – Mulberry Street Bar offered a simple yet satisfying experience. The absence of a menu added to its easygoing, come-as-you-are vibe.
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Change inevitably arrived at Mulberry Street Bar. Initial signs were subtle renovations, sparking concerns about losing its original character. However, the new management navigated this transition skillfully, retaining the bar’s soul while introducing subtle upgrades. While Mulberry Street Bar might not be the quintessential dive bar of yesteryear – especially now that it features brick oven pizza and gourmet burgers – it has successfully evolved without sacrificing its core appeal. It has become a place where the past and present harmoniously coexist, offering both its historical ambiance and a surprisingly refined menu.
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the Mulberry Street Bar burger. Crafted from a six-ounce Pat LaFrieda patty, this burger is a testament to quality ingredients and expert grilling. The blend of chuck, sirloin, and brisket creates a rich, flavorful base, seasoned simply with salt and pepper and cooked over an open flame. While the cooking might lean slightly towards medium-rare, the exceptional beef ensures a delicious experience regardless. The burger is customizable with your choice of cheese and comes adorned with crinkle-cut dill pickles, crisp Romaine lettuce, fresh red onions, and tomatoes (though skipping the bland tomatoes is recommended to truly appreciate the burger’s quality). This is not just any pub burger; it’s an expertly executed classic, achieving near perfection in seasoning, fat content, cheese melt, and bun-toasting. It’s truly a platonic ideal of a grilled burger.
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Adding to the burger’s excellence is the bun itself. A soft roll dusted with semolina provides a delightful textural contrast and a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory beef. Its robust structure and golden-brown toast ensure it holds up against the burger’s generous juices. Beyond the burger, Mulberry Street Bar offers other enticing options, including sandwiches, salads, and noteworthy brick oven pizzas. Their grilled hot dog, served on a similarly excellent bun, is another solid choice, although opting for natural casing Sabrett’s dogs would elevate it further.
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However, a standout side and a must-try at Mulberry Street Bar are the house-made potato chips. Thick-cut and intensely potato-flavored, these chips are a delightful departure from the ordinary. Their varying textures, with some parts shatteringly crisp and others soft and fluffy, create a unique hybrid reminiscent of both potato chips and french fries. While some might consider this textural variation a flaw, it’s precisely what makes them so compelling.
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In conclusion, while the landscape of Little Italy evolves, Mulberry Street Bar successfully balances its cherished dive bar roots with elevated food offerings. While some might miss the purely unrefined days, the introduction of a truly exceptional burger and other quality menu items is undeniably a welcome addition. Mulberry Street Bar offers a unique experience: a chance to soak in the atmosphere of a historic New York City bar while enjoying a burger that would impress even the most discerning palate. It’s a testament to how a classic establishment can evolve while retaining its essential charm and becoming a culinary destination in its own right.
