City Winery at 155 Varick Street stands as a unique venue nestled in the vibrant SoHo neighborhood of New York City. More than just a winery, it’s an expansive space that harmoniously blends the elements of a restaurant, bar, event venue, and live music hotspot. This location, while feeling slightly removed on the western edge of SoHo near the Holland Tunnel, offers a distinctive escape from the typical bustle of the area, inviting locals and visitors alike to indulge in its multifaceted offerings.
Upon approaching City Winery 155 Varick Street, you’ll discover it encompasses several distinct areas. Navigating the entrances, you might encounter a bouncer-attended door signaling a private event. However, further along, the welcoming host at the entrance to the Barrel Room beckons you into the heart of their restaurant and wine bar. The Barrel Room immediately exudes a rustic charm, reminiscent of a cozy wine cellar. Wood dominates the décor, from the furniture to the wall adorned with wine bottles nestled in wooden cubbyholes. Adding a modern touch, a flatscreen discreetly integrated within the bottle wall cycles through upcoming events, keeping patrons informed of the diverse happenings at City Winery. The atmosphere buzzes with a post-work crowd, groups of friends, and couples, reflecting its broad appeal. As Yelp reviews suggest, it’s a particularly favored spot for those seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed setting.
The bar experience at City Winery 155 Varick Street is characterized by attentive service, albeit with a touch of initial over-enthusiasm. One bartender’s initial hovering eventually gave way to attentiveness from another, who pleasantly honored the happy hour prices even slightly past the designated time. The presence of a food preparation area right by the bar adds to the casual and approachable vibe, with staff seemingly at ease, even enjoying a moment with a tequila cocktail amidst their duties of assembling cheese plates.
City Winery 155 Varick Street takes its wine seriously, offering a unique “wine on tap” system. While unconventional to some, this method is part of a growing trend in the wine industry, emphasizing freshness and sustainability. They proudly produce their own wines, as playfully indicated by names like “Sohovignon Blanc” and “Downtown White,” reflecting their NYC locations. Happy hour at City Winery is a significant draw, slashing $5 off all glasses of wine until 6 PM. This makes exploring their wine list, like the recommended Roussanne 2014 from Mendocino, CA, both accessible and enticing. While a tasting pour wasn’t offered initially, the happy hour discount softens the commitment to a full glass, encouraging exploration of their diverse wine selection. Complementing the drinks, the marinated olives are a perfect bar snack, aligning seamlessly with the wine bar ambiance.
For those considering a solo outing, City Winery 155 Varick Street presents an inviting option. The relaxed and charming atmosphere provides a comfortable setting for enjoying a drink and unwinding, even on your own. It offers a welcome contrast to the more frenetic energy of typical SoHo bars, particularly during happy hour when you can take advantage of the discounted prices and quieter ambiance before events potentially ramp up the energy.
* Important Note: City Winery has expanded its presence and now includes a location in Hudson River Park. However, this review specifically focuses on the original charm and offerings at City Winery 155 Varick Street, providing insights into its unique appeal as a SoHo destination.
In conclusion, City Winery 155 Varick Street offers a delightful and rustic wine bar experience in SoHo. Whether you’re seeking a post-work happy hour spot, a casual dinner venue, or a place to enjoy live music, City Winery provides a versatile and welcoming environment. Its extensive wine selection, charming Barrel Room, and convenient location make it a noteworthy destination for both wine enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxed and enjoyable downtown experience.
