Great spot to grab a beer in Manhattan. Beer Authority has a really good selection of beers and the place itself is clean and well kept. It definitely has a lively atmosphere and can get a bit loud, but not so loud that you can't still have a conversation with the people you're with. It's also in a great location, especially if you're grabbing drinks before heading to a show nearby. Just a heads up that it's cash only, but that didn't take away from the experience at all. Overall a really solid bar with good beer and a fun vibe. Would definitely stop in again. read more

Love this place. Always my go to before a bus ride home. Miss your bus? Head here for a drink! Arrived early for your bus? Head here for a drink! Need a quick bite before a Broadway show? This is your place! Service is always so welcoming and friendly! They have individual bathrooms which is a plus! Come thirsty! read more

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came to watch the superbowl and eat all the food in the world - nachos n wings :ppp the service is on it and the vibes were great with a ton of tvs everywhere the food was solid - exactly what i was looking for fatty american food. wings came w blue cheese which i love def would watch every superbowl here solid spot read more

Beer Authority - Buffalo Chicken Wings Platter - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

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Came here at the end of a day trip to see our Seattle Kraken play the New York Rangers before taking a Greyhound back to Silver Spring, Maryland from Port Authority Across the street. Food was great and their wings were some of the best and up there with Anchof Bar (granted we've only been to Buffalo Airport location). Beer selection is good too. Only thing dissapointing was we ordered different beers for our second round and ended up with same ones as our first. read more

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Spacious place and was kind of busy during 6p. They have a happy hour option. I do think that service was lacking, with us having different people looking after us and so it was unclear. Water glasses are also so small. The margaritas weren't strong and still pricey on HH prices. Chicken linguine was a huge portion, tasty, but a lot of their entrees were expensive still. read more

Beer Authority - Chicken linguine - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

The entrance to this place fools you because the storefront is not on the corner and appears to occupy only one small storefront. Well, that is the small bar in the main foyer. The stairs next to the bar lead you up to a second floor that occupies pretty much the entire street side of that building. It's huge! Beer authority is kind of a mix between your typical pub and date restaurant. It's nicely decorated and updated. We got the Hells Kitchen nachos, sliders, mozarella sticks and Brie cheese bruschetta. All were fresh and tasty. For drinks we got the white winter mojito, pina Paloma and mimosa. They were delicious and strong. The restaurant was clean and the staff was super friendly. The bathrooms were also very clean. We made reservations but we did see a few walk ins as well. Highly recommend! read more

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Great bear selection, atmosphere was great break from the chaos outside. Pot pie was great, except for the mushrooms in it...which isn't my thing. Highly recommend. read more

Beer Authority - Pot pie - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

Beer Authority is conveniently located right beside the Port Authority. My husband and I often take the bus into the city so we have frequented this place often. Today is the first time we hit the rooftop bar. When we arrived on a Friday around 6:30, the rooftop was full but we sat at the indoor bar and then moved upstairs. The service is always quick and servers are very friendly. Highly recommend if you are in the city, ESP if you are entering the city via Port Authority. read more

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Nice spot for drinks and food after a movie night. We stopped by here the last two Tuesday nights after seeing superman and the fantastic four. Drinks are good and I'm loving trying the different flavored ciders. The dinner entrée from the salmon and the chicken burger with fries were excellent . In addition to the spring rolls, which I enjoyed as well and they're not small either. The calamari could be seasoned better, a little bland. However, their crispy, flaky and tender and you get a lot. I look forward to coming again and appreciate the staff friendliness as well as the security being cool. read more

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Delicious wings and big screens is what you will find inside this place .across the street from the Port authority the beer authority is what you will crave after a long travel on the interstate or just local travel on nyc transit. It has a live atmosphere doesn't matter if you decide to remain downstairs or go up a flight . And friendly service staff. The wide variety of beer will keep you coming back for more. read more

Beer Authority - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

Quintessential Irish pub. Great view from the second floor. Great open floor plan and vibe. The food was to die for. I got the burger my friend got the ribs. The drinks were fancy and yummy. High alcohol content. Staff was alittle on the mellow side. read more

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It was busy but we were seated quickly. The upstairs was a hit loud but the vibe was good. The service was fast and the servers were friendly. Both drinks were delicious and the nachos had lots of toppings. Would definitely stop in again next time we are in the area. read more

Beer Authority - Drinks - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

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I wish I could give this 3.5 stars. The vibes in here are so fun and the location is perfect. The menu is expansive and has something for everyone. The service was great also. However, my veggie burger was bland and my pumpkin ale was simply gross. I would come back, but I would not get the same things. read more

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Review based on the downstairs bar, the bartender was super nice, the drinks were good and the vibe was quiet (a lot more loud and a lot going on upstairs) but on the downstairs it was really nice. The drinks were made well, the only reason this isn't 5 stars is because they're cash only, and while they're next to a chase so that's not terrible, it's also still annoying that in 2025 some places are cash only... read more

Beer Authority - Times runner - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

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This was a fun place to stop for a beer, I had already had dinner or I would have definitely ordered. Everything coming out of kitchen looked good and they were still serving around 10pm on a Sunday. The downstairs was a cozy pub area, great place for a quaint meetup. The upstairs is spacious and definitely can accommodate larger parties. I had a Pilsner, efficient service upstairs and down. It looks like they have great Reuben, and Shepherds Pie, green beer was still available shortly after St Patrick's Day. read more

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I have come to find out, after a few trips here of trying different food, that only nachos, desserts, and maybe the burgers are safe. everything else is terrible, not even bar-food-passable. But they have a huge space, great outdoor rooftop, and most importantly, SO MANY DIFFERENT BEERS. Notably, the cobb salad and pizza are wiiiiildly bad. avoid at all costs. but, come for the alcohol. read more

Beer Authority - absolutely terrible - everything that u see except the mozz sticks - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

Absolutely not. After drinking all night with a group of friends we were informed that they do one tab per table. No splitting checks. Never again. Steer clear at all costs. read more

My husband and I were in the mood for a relaxed evening, and we spontaneously decided to check out Beer Authority -- and honestly, it was one of those places you walk into and instantly feel good about your choice. The space is modern, welcoming, and super cozy -- perfect lighting, buzzing with conversation, but not too loud. You can actually sit, talk, and enjoy your evening without feeling rushed or crowded. We ordered chicken wings and two different beers, and both were on point. The wings came out hot and crispy, and the beer selection is HUGE -- something for every mood and taste. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the service was quick -- no long waits, just smooth, pleasant interaction. You feel taken care of, which makes a big difference. Now... let's talk about the bathrooms. Clean, private, and each stall has its own little sink and soap -- I honestly loved that. Such a thoughtful touch that you don't see often in bars. It made the whole place feel that much more cared for. It's one of those places where you want to stay longer than planned, and we left already talking about coming back soon. Perfect for: * Date night or casual drinks * Small groups * Beer lovers * Anyone who loves a chill, quality evening spot 5/5 -- modern, warm, and totally worth it RECOMMEND (Personally mine) read more

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Great place right outside the Port Authority bus terminal. Small bar downstairs, main level and roof top also , always crowded and good vibe here. read more

Beer Authority - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

Visited this pub while in New York, nice spot with and upatairs overlooking the city streets. The food and service was good...oh and my drink! Good spot to visit if you want quick food, a nice cocktail and good place for groups. read more

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Worst bloody mary I have ever had. Was like 50% vodka, ice and a splash of mix. Food was not good either, they forgot the chicken on our nachos. Regrets! read more

Always wondered how this place was walking to and from Port Authority all the time. It always stuck out, but I wasn't sure if it was any good. I also wondered if it was the perfect tourist trap of sorts. I had to kill some time in the evening, so I stopped by to get some work done here. What I knew from getting off the bus at Port Authority vs. being on the ground at 40th st is that there are actually 3 floors with 3 different personalities of sorts. The ground floor, where I was at, had a bit of an old world vibe to it. Cash only - very limited options here and there. Super dimly lit. Not really meant to watch sports, but rather just sit and talk to the bartenders. There wasn't much space, but I think that fit the personality. The second floor is much larger and has the combination of dining + being at the bar. I didn't really venture here except to go to the restrooms, which were fairly clean. Unlike the ground floor, it was very well lit and had plenty of TVs to watch sports and such. Where I didn't go up to was the rooftop. That is what I'm used to seeing getting off the bus when I used to come into the office regularly for my last job. That probably would be nice to hang out at during the nicer times of the year. I can see the appeal for this place being literally a hop step next to Port Authority. Seems perfect for a group of people to hang out before grabbing the bus. I definitely understand it. It's got the same larger feel of establishments in this area vs. the other parts of Manhattan. read more

Worst service ever!! The waiters took forever to come and then said we were taking too long to leave after we were waiting 20 min to get the check. I never even received my drink order. Incredibly rude , very disappointing experience. read more

We picked the Beer Authority because it was near our hotel and we were hungry. It doesn't look like much from the outside but we went up the stairs to the restaurant and found a a fun restaurant with windows looking out at the New York scene, good music on the playlist, friendly service, and good food. I had some of the best crab cakes ever. read more

Stoped here late Tuesday night after a Broadway play. The manager was super friendly and accommodating. Even made sure my kid was happy with the table. The burger I got was done just right. There was plenty of beer choices to pick from and even a kids menu. Overall food was good. This is a three story bar. The rooftop is super cool and has a great view but limited selection of drinks. The dinning room on the first floor is the place to be if you want to eat and drink. read more

Beer Authority - Ice cream - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

I stopped here while waiting on my bus departure time over at Port Authority. It was late, I was hungry and didn't have that much time. I just picked the first thing I saw that would have food. Surprisingly, the burger I ordered hit the spot, service was fast and friendly and the bill wasn't a million dollars! Definitely happy with my experience and would come here again! read more

Beer Authority - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

Stopped in before my flight to check out this spot I saw walking down the strip the other day, it had the potential to be nice including the interior. But I hate it when a business is out of something and it becomes your problem. I asked for the $10 Cornita & tequila shot. They're out of the cornita's, but tell me to only choose from a list of other random beers that don't make for this concoction. She has an 11oz Corona but want to charge me extra for it, insisting that she Can't do that. So much for customer service and thinking outside of the box. Guess that explains exactly why this place is empty. Gladly take my $$$ elsewhere. read more

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Fantastic service by friendly people. From the bouncer to our awesome bartender, Paul. Enjoy a gourmet drink experience in the first floor with a Speak Easy theme. Adorable and delicious! A must visit. read more

Great place to stop in downstairs bar (cash only more intimate) for a quick bite or beverage or up for a full restaurant/bar experience. All of the staff were friendly and accommodating. We had wings and cobb salad one day and post matinee libations. Some Happy Hour specials. All very good. Enjoy! read more

Beer Authority - Post Play libations - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

Stopped here before ending my night with a friend-place was semi packed. Music was good and we had 2 apps, buffalo dip and wings. They were both very good. They have a variety of drink selections. I went with an IPA sour drink, reminded me of eating a sour candy. Tasty and fun. Good vibe people in this place and staff was very attentive making their rounds from around the bar. Second floor was a nice touch looking over the busy streets of port authority and I don't mind it. Would come back again read more

Nice enough place except... where is the beer? Expensive, short little list for a "beer authority". All low ABV, generic brews. Plus bartender thinks it's okay to loudly share his drama with patrons. Meh, look elsewhere. read more

Beer Authority - Menu - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

Paul was an amazing bartender. He had great service and was very personable. All around one of the best bartenders I've had in NYC.

Great vibes, food is good, and everyone was friendly. But $14 for FOUR mozzarella sticks is wild lol.

The steaks at The Beer Authority can't be beat in my opinion. Always cooked perfectly and the gravy is out of this world. Absolutely love the wings too! Staff is friendly and very attentive. This has become my go to spot. read more

The only reason that one would come here is for the decent rooftop setting or when your bus is severely late. Since I live nearby, this does make a convenient spot to meet friends for a drink after work before they embark on their journeys home. They do offer an extensive list of beers; however, no blue moons. I am a cocktail person, so there isn't much for me besides their ciders and fruit beer, as the cocktails were a bit overpriced for the quality. Be aware that if you are seated indoors, they automatically apply a 20% gratuity to the bill (this didn't happen when we sat outdoors the 2nd time). They also insert additional charges for paying with a credit card. read more

TD;DR: large beer selection, great food, would definitely repeat ***Ambiance*** It is a spacious oasis in the busy corner of the 40th street.Open floor plan with lots of seating. The top floor has an option for outdoor/rooftop seating. While other restaurants are trying to cram as many tables as possible on the floor space, I found their open foor plan to very refreshing. Tables were well-separated, and there were ample space between them. They have both high-top standard tables. ***Staff*** I found the staff to be super friendly. We had a reservation and was promptly shown to our table. The hosting and checkin were being managed by a lady and a gentleman. I got the feeling that they might be either the owners or the managers of the property. Both of them looked like someone who took pride in the restaurant and interacted (with the staff) as someone in the position of authority. At different points in time, both of them stopped by our table to enquire how's everything going. Our server was friendly with good service. One unique feature of this place is that although we had a dedicated server for our table, any serving staff who walked by our table and saw an empty glass, they offered to get it refilled. I would estimate that the average time anyone had an empty glass at our table was 90 seconds. ***Beer Authority *** They definitely live up to their name. A huge selection of draft beers and beer menu was divided into different styles. For IPA lovers: they have a separate section for IPAs, double IPAs, NEIPAs, and double NEIPAs! Many were marked for happy-hour pricing (labeled as HH). They have good selection of beer for happy-hour pricing but the amount was reduced for some. (8oz pour vs 16oz pour) It's definitely a place to be for beer lovers. The only (glaring ) omission on the beer menu was the absence of beer flights. For such a wide selection, a flight is the best way to start the evening. I asked the server about it, and he responded by saying that he can get samples for me (i didn't go for it, though). ***Food*** They have an extensive food menu that is beyond standard pub food in quality. The food was delicious, hot, and served on time. I ordered the biria taco special and absolutely loved it (see pics). Would highly recommend that. Other food on our table included: pretzels, fried calamari, fish and chips, and grilled salmon, which were all good. Chips & Guacamole was nothing special, and I would recommend switching it out. ***Overall*** It was a wonderful experience, and i would highly recommend it. Excellent food, excellent beer, and excellent staff & seating. It checks all the boxes for me. A definite repeat for me. read more

Beer Authority - Pretzels with mustard Pretzel Sticks - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

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Omg!! Sooooo good!! Randomly needed to use the restroom and we ended up staying!! The staff is sooooo nice and Antonio was AMAZING!! Great vibes!! read more

Beer Authority - Linguine pasta, waffles, omelette. - Speakeasies Near Me - New York, New York

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We have been to this place on multiple trips and never been disappointed !!!!! On a 14 day trip, we went at least 8 days ! Plenty of good food options , excellent service , fun atmosphere, very accommodating! Don't skip this "what seems to be basic bar food" kinda place. It's worth a trip ! Especially if you love Mac and cheese !! read more

I picked this place for my company happy hour because it was in a good location relative to Port Authority and Penn station and because they take reservations. I'm really glad that I did! Service was great, drinks came really fast despite there being 8 of us and somewhat busy. I would choose this place again for a happy hour in the future. The vibe was exactly perfect for a corporate happy hour. read more

Very loud. Bar can only make traditional mainstream drinks. No fruit flavored liquor.