Harlem Hops is an African American owned and operated beer bar offering beer from local breweries and other breweries where the owner seeks and hunts. This is a place to find rare beer not ordinarily seen elsewhere. This was my first visit and I must have walked past Harlem Hops innumerable times along Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard in Harlem. This time I caught myself walking past on a beautiful Saturday with a five second delay and turned around and walked into Harlem Hops. Initially I thought I'll have a beer and keep it moving. I ordered a canned Hefeweizen, Deep Fried Highlighter Hefeweizen. Yep, that's the name and it was great. It supposed to have a banana note, but that was barely detectable. The clove note was there and it rode the top of this summer Hefeweizen nicely. Given this is one of the canned beers, they may have this anytime. Then I had American Pale Ale on tap, another great choice for a summer day: crisp, refreshing, cloudy light amber in color and unfiltered reminding you of a Hefeweizen. It has a slight citrus fruity flavor to my palate. There are sixteen taps. The taps change with the kegs, the season and what the owner sources from local breweries and beyond. Meanwhile, I'm having good conversations with folks who are regulars and the woman behind the bar, giving great recommendations. I forget the woman's name, but she is great. You can sample whatever they have on tap. She is good at understanding your taste profile and making recs. They also have a limited food menu. There is a backyard patio or garden and one can sit outside in front on the sidewalk. The dark interior is nice and cool on a summer day. The bathroom was clean as well. Four stars! read more

Harlem Hops - The menu for the sixteen taps - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

See all

I was really excited to find this little place. It was quiet when I was there on Saturday afternoon, but heard that it picks up later on in the day. It was nice for me, though, because I got a chance to chat with the woman who tends to the bar and really explore their ample beer and ale offerings. They have an extraordinary selection with lots of things that I have not run into before. They tend to focus on local breweries. I found a couple of things I really like. I look forward to returning and trying some more of their ales. read more

Wow!! Completely blown away. The beer selection, both draft and in cans is incredible. By far the best selection of beers from incredible breweries that you can't get anywhere else. If you enjoy hazy IPA's this is especially incredible. Taylor the bartender was fantastic and met owner Kim who was so welcoming. This is must visit if you're on a beer trip to NYC or a beer fan in the area. Can't say enough good things. Cheers! read more

See all

I am genuinely proud that this establishment is still open and thriving after all these years. It has become part of the community now. I remember when it first opened and the buzz was real. It was the spot. It had that energy where you walked in and felt like you were exactly where you were supposed to be. The space has an elongated design, a warm atmosphere, and a backyard that gives it a little extra charm. The ceiling even spells out Harlem in lights, which is a beautiful touch. Over the years, I have watched the vibe evolve. It used to bubble with nonstop energy and then it mellowed out. At one point I joked to myself that it was quiet enough to be a library. But in a good way. When I walk past now, the clientele still looks cool and laid back. An associate of mine used to DJ there once in a blue moon for special occasions. I am not sure what their current social calendar looks like because I do not follow them on Instagram, but I know they are still relevant and respected. And I am happy they are still here. Truthfully, I want them to get that original buzz back. Harlem needs establishments like this. That whole avenue used to be the place to be. You could spend an entire night out without ever leaving the neighborhood. Restaurants, bars, lounges, everything right there. But Harlem has changed. Rent has skyrocketed, and it is tough for businesses to stay afloat. That is why places like Harlem Hops matter even more now. I hope they continue to grow, promote themselves, and attract the kind of supportive clientele that keeps the doors open for many more years. They deserve it. Peace. read more

Hit up Harlem Hops while on a guy's weekend in NYC! First, the spot is a great little local hole in the wall sort of vibe with a remarkable beer listing. The bartender clearly knew her beers and served each customer with precision and a smile. I don't drink alcohol so was thrilled that they had a couple different non-alcoholic beer options available so I could join the guys in a couple of NA pints while there. Great spot for the beer lover finding themselves in Harlem! read more

I stopped by Harlem Hops while waiting for my friend nearby. They were playing the game on tv, which was great. The music was fun and not too loud where I didn't have to yell. I was a little frustrated at the bartender who took 15 minutes before she addressed me, even though I was seated directly in the middle of the bar. They have a great selection of beers on tap, as well as other cocktails. I tried the #10 (forget the name) but it was really good. I'll definitely be returning to this spot. read more

Harlem Hops - #10 - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

In a weird twist, I went to the Chelsea location before I got to the Harlem location. Recently, I got an opportunity to change that during an NYU alumni meetup. This place is awesome, is a great place for a small or large group to meet up and hang out and has some good bites and beer. The pretzel bites were buttery. The crab spicy pies were good but I liked the beef better. I had a Barrel Aged Maple Pecan Pie Mead that was pretty good! The Broccoli Queen IPA was also interesting. The Broccoli Queen was also one of the best value for ABV if you care about that stuff (with the Dead 2023 Stout being the best for ABV to price). Personally, the Maple Pecan Pie and taste mattered more to me. They have a Hudson North Cider and a Toasted Pumpkin Cider, both in a can for the Cider heads! If you are in the area and looking for a place to hang with friends and be low key, this is it. read more

This place has a nice beer selection with a wide variety of styles and many beers from regional brewers. There are bar snacks such as pretzel bites, which helps let you drink more beer without going on an empty stomach. The music is nice and the beer is good. read more

Harlem Hops - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Loved this find while visiting Harlem. A nice selection of brews and opportunity to learn about local brewers. That said, their Old Fashion was the highlight of the afternoon. The ambiance was bustling but not too loud to carry conversation. Highly recommend! read more

Harlem Hops - Swipe Right - Old Fashioned - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Awesome craft beer option in the Harlem area and black woman owned business! We ordered a Ramstein Oktoberfest Marzen Lager and a Double IPA that were both solid. They have local and mostly small business owned options for many different styles, from different breweries/distributors. Service was friendly and helpful. It's clearly a more local place, but as beer travelers we couldn't miss checking this place out and were welcomed warmly. I think pricing is a par for the quality of options available compared to going to any old bar for any old beers. There was a book club finishing up in the smaller outside covered patio(has large steps down), I can't think of a better place to do an activity like that! They are a gorgeous art piece in the back with their name in street art style. We didn't have anything, but they have a food menu and the kitchen is open until about 9pm. There is plenty of bar seating and barrels with chairs accompanying them inside. It's a more cozy, chill, vertical space so not particularly good for large groups. There are clean bathrooms! No reservations needed. read more

See all

We need more spots like this in the area! Great selection of beers, with a tap list that contains a lot of local options. I've been several times and always found service to be friendly, if at times a little slow. The back patio area is a nice option to have in warmer weather, and there's a good amount of seating given the fairly small size of the indoor space. There's a limited food menu as well, if you're looking for a snack while you're there. read more

I've visited a number of times, and it checks off on almost all of my boxes. Let's focus on what makes for their winning combination: 1) Great Staff & Service: They offer samples if you're unsure of just what to choose. The staff is very knowledgeable about each of the many types of beers available. 2) They also sell cocktails but I think beers are more the star of the show. 3) Back patio area. This space is covered and I recommend sitting back here if you have a large group. 4) A TON of different types of beers 5) They serve bites Worth checking out when in the area, or to get some beers in Harlem and support a Black owned business. read more

Harlem Hops - I had the #15.. Others had the #7 & #4. - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

What a wonderful spot! Was here last month and sampled the beer and it was delicious! I'm not typically a beer drinker but I really enjoyed it. The staff is absolutely amazing: very friendly and helpful and the ambience is warm and inviting. read more

Discovered this place as I was bopping around Harlem. Walked in and sat at the bar. Was intimidated by the list of beers but Drew (I think this is how her name is spelled) was so kind and patient and walked me through the different beers and suggested some based on my taste. I settled on the Pineapple Downside-Up Cake beer and was not disappointed-it's so good! I would highly recommend this spot for the selections and the staff. Will be back again! read more

Such a fun spot for casual drinks and small bites! The beer was delicious (Robot Love is my favorite) and the space is comfortable. read more

Harlem Hops - Robot Love beer - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

I am ashamed to say that I didn't spend as much time here as I would have liked too. From what I experienced, I did enjoy the time I did. This place is what happens when you get rid of the babers chairs and replace them with craft beer and small plates. I thought I was alone, being a person of color, who had an elevated appreciation of small batch beers. It's nice to know that I'm not alone. Like a barbershop, this is a place where locals gather to speak of things that matter to them. To enjoy in each other's company and to spoil their elevated taste bud's. When I return to N.Y. this place will be at the top of my list. BUT you guys REALLY need to update the menu on Google. read more

Harlem Hops - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

See all

To be clear, this review is based solely on the rude, obnoxious, and unprofessional manager (Drew/Dru) who sits at the bar on her laptop drinking and becomes increasingly loud and belligerent the more she drinks. The final straw for me was her refusal to put on a women's basketball game. The tv was on with 4 grids showing the Olympics, another game, CNN, and local news. I asked the bartender who said she had to ask the manager. The manager, knowing I was the one who requested the women's basketball game, turned to me and yelled we're watching the Olympics tonight. Mind you, it's Friday night and there were very few people at the bar and no one - from what I could tell - was watching the news or CNN. Kevin, one of the owners and the consummate professional, is always happy to put on a game when I asked in the past. Had I known, I would have asked him to put it on before he left since he was there earlier to change one of the kegs/taps. That said, after the manager refused to put the game on, I asked for my check and left. Needless to say, I won't be returning as long as that manager remains employed there. That's a shame since, but for her, this is an amazing place with a great beer selection. And while I understand the industry and staff drinking is par for the course, it appears this manager needs to curb her drinking while on the job and interacting with patrons. read more

I came in here to try it out. I sat waiting for service for almost an hour and got completely ignored.

Absolutely loved this place! They ran out of the sour they had on draft while I was there but they made great backup suggestions. The pretzel was amazing--highly recommend! I practically ate the entire thing on my own. I also thought that outside area was super cute and will definitely be returning. read more

Harlem Hops - Outdoor back area - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Really cute spot. So glad I discovered it. A little pricy for Harlem but they have so many unique options and the staff is very friendly. Will be bringing friends back here. read more

See all

Black owned by women! How dope. Chill vibe, a lot of brew options. Outdoor seating area but I did not explore. It's a cool quaint place for a good beer! read more

Harlem Hops - Indoor/outdoor view - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Great beers, good food, nice atmosphere. Prices are a bit steep for me, but not unreasonable for the area.

Harlem Hops has become a routine stop whenever I'm in the neighborhood. Firstly, one of the owners is a Hampton University grad like me and I have to support the home team! Secondly, it's a Black-owned bar with an emphasis on beer and that's not something you come across everyday. The breweries they feature are often also Black-owned, or locally based, or both! You can find some really unique and interesting brews on their taps. If you're not sure how you feel about beer, or a particular offering, don't worry about having to commit to a full pour. You can get a 5oz just to test the waters. Not into beer at all? You can also find mead and cider flowing. They also serve whiskeys and bourbon, some of which are also Black-owned like Uncle Nearest and Brough Brothers (which was very smooth). Harlem Hops is a great place for a small group, a date, or just to stop and have a beer as you're on your way. Great music, nice patio space, and very welcoming to all. read more

I visited Harlem Hops in the middle of the pandemic so we weren't allowed to sit inside and enjoy; however, we were able to taste and buy a great selection of beer. The beers were all delicious and interesting. The staff was very helpful and knowledgeable. I cannot wait to attend again when we can sit inside and enjoy the beers. read more

Harlem Hops - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

See all

The #15 the "Gemini" was by far the best sour I have ever had. The ambiance was perfect. The owner Kevin was very helpful with choices. read more

See all

Neighborhood gem with 15+ mostly-local beers on tap, plus a cider and a wine. Beer is definitely the main attraction, but their purple haze cocktail is also excellent. Tiny little patio out back with steps and metal stools and barrel tables. Limited food menu - pretzels, brats (meat/veg), empanada-like hand pies (meat/veg), and a sandwich or two (meat). We've been fans since they opened and never regret stopping by! read more

Great, great spot. I read a few articles about Harlem Hops over the past year and I finally had the opportunity to make a visit. This is quite a shame because I live only about 12 blocks away. I really love the fact that it is a Black-owned business. At Harlem Hops, I was glad to see that there was a great representation of beers especially of the IPA sort . . . which is my favorite. The vibe of the place is pretty chill and relaxed. Also, the design of the bar is pretty cool and inviting. I will say that I was a little surprised to see that there was not much clientele diversity. Maybe, I visited on an off night. I will definitely be back to try the food and more beer of couose. Keep up the good work. read more

See all

I was in the area and we walked in, no reservation needed. Great ambiance- cozy and new. The service was excellent and the food and drinks were delicious. I recommend the jerk chicken (mild) sausage and there's a vegetarian option, for those wondering, which my friend really enjoyed. The beer in the picture is a definite favorite, I'll be coming back for it! read more

Harlem Hops - Lemon pound cake beer - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

I love this brewery! I've stopped by a couple times now and have had a great experience every time. They have a great selection of constantly changing beers and ciders, are generous in allowing you to taste, and always provide great service. The vibe is awesome, with a cozy feel and room to sit both inside and out. We went this past weekend and it was the perfect place to actually have a seat and watch the world cup over beers. read more

Terrible service. Or should I say no service? A few months ago, I had some beers from their location in Chelsea Piers, and always wanted to come to and check out the main location. Today, my sister and I went up to Harlem to do just that. We wanted to have some of their bites and try some new beers. We walked in around 4:45 today and checked out the outside patio to see where we wanted to sit. We ended up deciding to sit at the bar (easier to order another round ). None of the four people (presumably bartenders and servers) behind and near the bar said hi or welcome. (They all had the same uniform shirts on, so we knew they worked there) No big deal. So we look at the menu on the wall to see what we wanted to drink. After over five minutes pass, not one person acknowledges us. The bar wasn't even busy! There was a group of people, who already had their drinks, at the front of the bar and some other patrons at the back. The staff just spoke to each other, stayed on their phones, and avoided eye contact with us. One of the bartenders came over eventually...but just to move one of the menus to the other side of the bar. After a few mins of waiting, I took my phone out to time how long until any of them would come over or acknowledge our existence. We decided to leave after five minutes. Absolutely ridiculous. Call Jon Taffer! read more

A top tier brewery in NYC that highlights local beers from all over New York. Great staff, plenty of seating and an awesome interior. This is a must stop if you are in Harlem. Additionally, the merch is on point. read more

A long overdue review for this Harlem gem! Had the pleasure to visit before COVID and was amazed to see a trendy spot with a rotating craft beers on tap! The IPAs are certainly strong, some better than others. They also serve wine and cocktails, but the beers are definitely the star of the show. The food options are limited, I remember the spicy chipotle chicken empanadas being pretty good, but the plantain chips even better! Even though I can't stop in and have a beer at the bar anymore, I was pleased to find out that I can stop in and take it to go. Yep, that's right, they actually can your draft beer of choice in front of you!! A quick and easy process, best of all you can still try before you buy. It's such a treat to have this option nearby. I just want to say thank you to the Harlem Hops staff for bringing amazing craft beer options and a sophisticated vibe to the Harlem bar scene. Even their work for the community and their scholarship program is commendable. Hope to see more businesses like this pop-up! read more

Harlem Hops - IPA to go! - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

It only took me about a week to realize Harlem hops is not the same as Hop House Harlem. I am glad I got to check out Harlem hops tonight for the first time as part of Harlem Restaurant Week. The beers I tried were the wheat ale and the wit ale. They were out of the widow Jane bourbon :(. I enjoyed both beers I had. They were interesting and yummy and -- for a petite under 5 foot person like myself -- just the right size at 5 ounces each. I often don't like going to bars because I can't drink much. The 5 oz servings is easy on my wallet and my low tolerance. Not to mention their food is quite tasty! I enjoyed the pretzel bites and the tangy artichoke dip. Our party also enjoyed the veggie empanadas and the bratwurst. They get the pretzel dough right here. Will definitely be back if I can find another excuse to come back soon! read more

Friendly neighborhood bar with an impressive rotation of kegs. Bar food only, but better than it needs to be. People on both sides of the counter are cordial and welcoming read more

Super cool decor, good beer. But glacially slow service. I just had a soda with lime (strangely served as soda with a splash of lime juice, rather than the normal Lime slice), and my pal had some of the specialty beers, which he raved about. So ok ok on the drinks. But OMG the bar tender was easily the slowest I have ever dealt with. The place was not crowded, but he just didn't seem able to multitask--anyone who's ever tended bar knows FAST multitasking is Job 1...2, 3, 4, 5+. I waited several minutes for just the soda water. And even several minutes to pay the bill. Booming bass music was way too loud. Wanted to love this place, but just couldn't. However plenty of neighborhood hipsters do seem able to overlook the poor service. read more

We came here for drinks to unwind after a really brutal week. We came and ordered our drinks, the pumpkin ale for me. There is a lot of variety on the menu and definitely something for everyone. The atmosphere itself is rather loud and punishing for conversations, but we moved outside where there is a lot of space and more of a quiet sitting area. We sat outside, nursing our drinks and catching up. It was a wonderful time and the beers were very refreshing. It wasn't located too far out of the way but we did have some trouble catching a train back uptown because of the late night. Definitely would come back, but wouldn't bring a huge group as it is a tad intimate. read more

Friday afternoon, headed up here during opening hours for a beer-infused lunch. A modern taproom showing off a polished wooden interior and even an outside area for warmer days. Took a seat at the bar and looked over the beer/food list. At first glance, the draft menu is priced well; however most of the sizes are at 10 oz for about $8 a pop, which isn't that great. For food, settled on the Habanero Beef Spicy Pies ($7) - 2 stuffed patties served with hot sauce and banana chips. Decent flavor in the meat, albeit you can tell it's just heated up. Also, one of the patties was actually the crab meat, which wasn't worth complaining about. Banana chips are solid. For my second drink, opted towards the Can specials, which are at $5 - much better price wise. Service started off well, then got slower as the bartender chatted up the cook. Definitely a bar that provides a need in the area; not worth a special trip over. read more

Harlem Hops - Habanero beef pies - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Had friends in from different cities which finally got me to explore some local haunts. This was one of my favorites. The staff was super and made us feel like regulars even though we'd never been before. The beer selection impressed my beer drinking friend (she'd been given a list of things to try by her beer-snob husband who said it was a must-visit spot) and she was really happy with her choices. And our food was the perfect pub-type feel-good food you'd expect and want. Such a cool vibe, cool people, and I definitely can't wait to go back. read more

See all

TLDR: Nice relaxed placed for a beer and a light bites. I would return when in the neighborhood. Overall rating: A This place has only been open for about a year (June 2018). Been looking forward to supporting this black owned business! I've tried to come here several times but failed. Finally, my friend and I successfully went here for after dinner drinks around 9:15pm on Wednesday. It was about half full. Very dark but not super loud. There is a small outside seating area in the back. There are also 2 single occupancy unisex bathrooms I think. Here's what we tried: -Torch & Crown Xpert Ambassador 6.0 , 16oz CAN, $10 (Wu-Tang name generated: X-pert Ambassador. It's fruity, sour, and a little sweet, and packed with Mango and Pineapple.): Even after I poured this into a glass, I still couldn't pick up the pineapple taste. The mango was there slightly. The sourness of the beer overwhelmed a lot of the flavor notes. I wouldn't get this again. B -Gun Hill IRL 8.0 , 12oz Draft, $8: (Tropical fruit bowl aromas of grapefruit, pineapple, and passion fruit layered among zesty citrus and kaffir lime leaves.): I'm not a big fan of passion fruit but this tasted juicy and delicious! It was nicely balanced. I didn't taste kaffir lime leaves though. I would definitely get this in the future. A There was a slightly awkward moment when a woman stood between me and my beer, chatting to a man. When I said excuse me, instead of moving over so I could get my drink myself, she picked up my beer and handed it to me. A bit weird but nice I guess? They also serve some pub snacks here. Looking forward to trying the Habanero Beef Spicy Guma Pies ($7). We would return when we're in the area. Unfortunately, I'm in not Harlem very often. Pro Tip: This is about a 6 minute walk from Ponty Bistro if you're looking for good food (though service could be better). read more

Harlem Hops - Beers outside out back! - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

See all

My favorite hang in my neighborhood. Roger is the best. Always has a group of beers (not all IPAS, thank goodness) I've never heard of, usually by bipoc and/or female-led breweries. Delicious little nibbles if you need them. Come hang! read more

Harlem Hops - Bar - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York