Nestled in the heart of Little Italy at 176 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10013, the Mulberry Street Bar stands as a timeless establishment with a rich history and a surprising Hollywood connection. This iconic bar, easily located with online maps, has been a neighborhood fixture since 1908, retaining its classic charm with pressed-tin ceilings, tiled floors, and a traditional wooden bar. While it may appear to be just another dive bar, Mulberry Street Bar offers an unexpectedly delightful culinary experience, particularly its standout grilled burger.
Mulberry Street Bar’s unassuming exterior belies its significant presence in popular culture. Serving as a backdrop for numerous films and television shows, including iconic productions like The Sopranos, Contract on Cherry Street, Donnie Brasco, and several episodes of Law & Order, the bar has earned its place in cinematic history. Despite this celebrity status, it has always maintained its identity as a genuine local haunt. In its earlier days, it was a place where you could find a diverse clientele, from neighborhood regulars to visiting bikers, all enjoying the unpretentious atmosphere.
The appeal of the old Mulberry Street Bar was in its simplicity and affordability. With features like a vintage jukebox playing classics alongside contemporary hits, cheap PBR tall boys, and budget-friendly beer pitchers, it was a no-frills destination. Adding to its character, the bar operated without a formal menu, further enhancing its laid-back, unpretentious vibe.
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Changes began when renovations hinted at a shift in direction. While concerns arose about Mulberry Street Bar transforming into a generic Little Italy tourist spot, the reality proved to be a pleasant surprise. The bar retained its essential character while introducing a concise menu that includes brick oven pizza and, most notably, a fantastic Pat LaFrieda burger. It successfully navigated a subtle upgrade without losing its soul.
The highlight of the Mulberry Street Bar experience is undoubtedly the burger. Crafted from a six-ounce Pat LaFrieda patty, a blend of chuck, sirloin, and brisket, the burger is generously seasoned and grilled to perfection over an open flame. While the cooking might sometimes lean slightly less rare than requested, the quality of the beef ensures a delicious experience regardless.
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The burger comes with cheese, crinkle-cut dill pickles, Romaine lettuce, fresh red onions, and tomatoes (which are optional). It is a classic pub-style burger, exceptionally well-executed. The balance of seasoning, fat content, melted cheese, and toasted bun creates what can be described as a near-perfect example of its kind – a truly platonic ideal of a grilled burger.
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Adding to the burger’s excellence is the bun itself. A soft roll, lightly dusted with semolina, it is perfectly domed and compresses satisfyingly with each bite. Its subtle sweetness enhances the rich beef flavor, and the even toasting ensures it holds up against the burger’s juiciness.
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Beyond the burger, Mulberry Street Bar also offers sandwiches, salads, and noteworthy brick oven pizzas. Another standout side is their house-made potato chips. These thick-cut chips boast a robust potato flavor and a unique texture, with a delightful mix of crispy and soft areas, resembling a hybrid between a chip and a fry.
While some may miss the grittier dive bar atmosphere of the past, the evolution of Mulberry Street Bar has brought a welcome addition to Little Italy: a truly exceptional burger in a setting that still retains its historic charm. For anyone visiting Little Italy in New York City and seeking a memorable meal in a location steeped in history and popular culture, Mulberry Street Bar at 176 Mulberry Street is a must-visit destination.
