Great beer bar. The draft menu has a lot of great options to choose from. The bartender was helpful in making selections, if need be. The bar is pretty tiny and intimate. Most of the seating is along the bar, with a table in the front and a table in the back. I will definitely stop back in the next time I am in NYC. read more

Proletariat is a craft beer bar and vegan gastropub that opened in Manhattan, New York in 2012. It was founded by the Overthrow Hospitality group, which is run by restaurateur Ravi DeRossi. After opening a number of successful bars in New York City, including Death & Company and Cienfuegos, DeRossi decided to open a new bar with a focus on rare, new, and unusual craft beer offerings. Originally opening in the St. Marks section of the East Village, Proletariat quickly earned a reputation for being one of the best craft beer bars in NYC. In June 2022, Proletariat moved to a new, larger space just two blocks away on East 7th Street. In addition to the excellent beer selection, the new location also features a kitchen that offers an array of plant-based dining options. I recently visited Proletariat while I was in the Village to see a concert. I arrived a few hours before the show so I could grab some beers and bites beforehand. Proletariat has been on my NYC craft beer bucket list for a while; they have an excellent reputation. There were maybe four other customers there when I arrived; I felt like I was entering a secret craft beer club. I really liked the wolf featured on the bar's logo. It was clearly a reference to the Latin botanical term for hops: "humulus lupulus", which roughly translates as "the little wolf that comes from the Earth". There were 20 impressive beers on draught during my visit. I decided to order a pour of The Drowned Lands Brewery's "Winnow" (Festbier). It was an excellent example of the style: light and malty. Afterwards, I went with a pour of Sante Adairius Rustic Ales' "The Sky and the Sea" (Blueberry Saison). This was a fantastic beer: nice and tart with delicious notes of blueberries. If you're looking for some great craft beer bars in NYC then add Proletariat to your list! read more

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Proletariat is now my favorite craft beer bar in Manhattan. They're on Untappd. The beer tap (20) curation is immaculate, and the beers have all been tasty and interesting. The beers are a little off-beat, harder to find, and you can order half pours or tasters at ultimately reasonable prices. The vibes are good. The bartenders are cool. The glasses are comfortable to drink from (and you can purchase them for $16). read more

Proletariat is a small, narrow beer focused bar in the East Village. They are next to McSorley's and serve as a perfect counterpoint, since McSorley's offers just two beers, and this spot offers tons. Even better, they focus on rarer and harder to find brews, but they don't charge huge prices. In fact, you can purchase full pours, 8 oz pours, or 4 oz pours, so it's easy to sample. The selection was varied, including two really nice stouts I had never heard of before. Resident Culture brewing was not on my radar, but their Half as Lonely stout was so smooth and roasty. If you're a beer love, this is the place to come to discover something new. It's a nice, welcoming atmosphere with comfy bar seats and a really welcoming bartender. Solid playlist, too. I would love to come back to see what they have next. read more

Great beer bar with a fantastic variety of beers. Two beers stood out- the Vanilla Joe tasted like an espresso martini in beer form, and the Spotlight Merlot Grape was the perfect mix of wine and fruity beer. Bartender was friendly and service was quick on a Friday. The crowd does tend towards middle-aged men if that's your vibe. read more

Really cool looking, small which adds to the awesomeness. After some light and dark beers next door I found this gem. I ended up having some amazing beers I had never had or seen in California, had some great beer related conversation with the staff and patron. Service was quick and friendly. I was supposed to go back before I returned to Cali but unfortunately time was not on my side. read more

Abundant selection of beers from all over, I could spend the entire night here sipping from the rotation on tap and bottle. Service is quick, friendly and very helpful. Music selection was right up my alley and added to the relaxed atmosphere. Really cool spot and connected to a restaurant on the other side I would easily try. Absolutely one of the best spots to go to for a good pour. Thank you Proletariat! read more

Proletariat - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Nice ambience. Very limited options for food. The beyond burger was good. If you're going in happy hour, you'll get burger, fries and a Pilsner for $20. So, not a bad deal. Good service. You've to order at the bar and they'll serve you. Cheers! read more

Proletariat - Beyond burger with fries - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Great place to hang out with fellow beer enthusiasts. Great selection of brews with great people serving and drinking in an intimate setting. read more

Surprisingly spacious bar in this part of the village with an eclectic beer list and chill vibe. Saturday evening, crowds haven't rolled in yet, as most of the place is empty, particularly a small table outside for nicer weather. As mentioned, the beer list is unique, but the prices match that. $12-14 for full pours and $8-10 for half (so on). They also have a few cans for sale towards the end of the bar, though not as fully stocked as their tap list. For food, there are some items on the menu, but not substantial. Decided to get some food from somewhere else for pickup while finishing the beers outside. Seems like a fine spot for a more lowkey bar as opposed to the normal sports bars in the area. read more

Proletariat - Beer - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

What a cool and unique place. A bunch of friends and I were bar hopping in the area on this street and decided to stop by here first. I really like the concept of the place. You get to order super unique specialty beers from all around the world. I've been to 60 countries and drink like a fish, and never heard of most of what they had to offer. We sat outside, although the seating there isn't great because the street is pretty busy and some trash were nearby. Service was great and very knowledgeable about everything they had. If you're the type of person who gets paralyzed by making decisions, then you can answer a few questions and they will give you a top notch recommendation. I tried 3-4 different ones and I can't complain about a single one. All my friends loved it too! Highly recommend. read more

Proletariat - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

I remember coming here very randomly years ago and really enjoyed my time here. It is a very small establishment that fits around 20 people and prides itself on rare, new and unusual beers. They still have a lot of options on tap during COVID. I got a really good stout and a sour one. I recall that the first time I was here I was able to sample some of the beers before committing to one. That may have changed because of COVID or we just had a very nice bartender that first night. I will be coming back to try other beers. read more

Proletariat - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Beer was good and bartender was sharp. But it's New York City. There are a lot of places to get beer and a lot of great bartenders. We chose it bc we thought it would be interesting--it's painfully inauthentic. No vibe or ambiance. The name is Proletariat and there's NOTHING inside that reflects that. The decor is literally hundreds of small frames of mostly Japanese tattoos. Which is a fine choice, if you're going for a tattoo parlor vibe. It's a weird choice if you name your bar after the working class. But despite the quirky artwork there's zero vibe. Just beer. The beers are, unlike the rest of the joint, interesting and unusual, but it gets boring quickly. It could be something so much better! read more

Great selection of beers. They rotate frequently. If you love beer and more quiet bars, come here.

Proletariat is my new favorite place! What an original beer menu and ALL TASTE GREAT! The service is spectacular and the atmosphere is supercool, laid back, and inviting with your choices between darker/lighter/private/communal nooks and crannies all around. The B burger and fries were fantastic, as were the peppers! This place rocks my world and I'm already planning another rendezvous there soon. read more

Proletariat - #20 stout in the foreground and this was the only pic I took because I was having too much fun - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Couldn't find parking on a Friday night but came Sunday was well worth the beer and experience chatting with affable Logan, the bartender. Chill and knowledgeable, Logan played good music and gave us local recommendations. You know, if the proletariat wants to fight the bourgeoisie, fine... Soviet. read more

Love the place, the locations, the atmosphere, the staff, and the beer. Like everywhere in the world, the beer has gotten pricey and there are not enough pilsners and kolcshs. Not their fault. It's the way of the world. read more

Great selection of beers , cool and cozy atmosphere. Just a heads up it gets busy inside and is a the place isn't huge, be ready to get close to your neighbor read more

Gavin is a legend. Truly a class act. Cantillon pours served with great conversations

Great East Village craft beer bar from (who else?) Ravi DeRossi. Great service, nice aesthetic etc. Their selection of beers was good (though not as varied as I'd expect for a place that specializes in beer) and seemed to focus on heavier beers (IPAs, DIPAs, stouts, etc.) when I went. I personally prefer the flavor of lighter beers like witbiers/weissbiers/hefeweizens, of which they only offered like 1-2. Would definitely go back if I'm in the area. read more

Proletariat is my go-to spot for some serious beer if I'm around East Village. Most of their beer are not for everyone. Many of them are citrusy, bitter, and super strong. So if you are a person who likes to drink light beer with some bar food, this is probably not the place for you. But if you are a adventurous foodie like me, welcome, you've come to the right place! The items and flavor notes are all written on a piece of blackboard. But if you really have no idea, just ask the bartender to give you a bunch of half glasses to try (the portion is really not that small). All their beer are served in fancy wine glasses, so drinking from it makes me feel like a big shot~ haha This place does get a little be packed during the weekend though, people will have to stand shoulder to shoulder, but hey, that means you gonna be standing a lot closer with your date right? Tips: + just ask the bartender for recommendations read more

Proletariat - The perfect rainbow - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Cool craft beer spot with rustic vibes. Go in for a drink and hang out! Not sure if they have food but solid spot read more

Proletariat - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Finally! My first visit in the new space. Thought I'd be good dropping in just after 10pm when hours listed say midnight closing. Nope. Closing early. Bummed Three stars based on reputation and good memories at the old place. But... boo. read more

Still a great beer bar even in the new spot. Now, you have a little more room to stretch out. The beer list is still great, with a good showing of local-ish breweries. read more

I don't think I have ever come across a beer bar in NYC until now. If you love trying out craft beers or just have a palate for beer, this is definitely the spot for you beer lovers. If you're a liquor kind of person, sorry, this place isn't for you as they don't serve liquor. No food service either if you're looking for that as well. read more

This is a great beer bar. Consistently have new, rare, and unusual beer. A lot of them are even collabs with other breweries around New York. I can pretty confidently say you will not be able to find a more interesting beer list around. They have so much variety and truly something for everyone. They also have very cool (vegan?) small food menu. Right on! I give 5 stars to almost everywhere I go because I have impeccable taste and everyone is always nice to me. However, you will notice that this is a very intentional 4 star review. The reason is because of the music. It is driving, up-tempo house music. (before some nerd on here goes: "AcTuALlY iTs EDM" - I don't care) It's not particularly loud, nor do I consider electronic music bad, but it makes absolutely no sense for the vibe of the place. This is not a one time thing either because I have been here at least 3 times. Think about it this way; we have tasteful mood lighting, unique craft beer, an inspired food menu, and electronic music -- one of the previous doesn't belong and it's pretty obvious. And that's about all I have to say about that. read more

I just looked back to see what review I initially gave Proletariat. 4 stars. I commented on the ridiculously amazing beer, the "meh" ambiance and below-average service. What I also mentioned, was that I sincerely hoped to update my review after subsequent visits. Well, I've since been back to Proletariat (I believe four more times), and I've gotta up my review. The beers remains ridiculously amazing, and the rest has grown on me. I didn't love the ambiance here initially. I've changed my mind. There's hardly any standing room - just generally very close quarters. To say there's a "narrow aisle" facing the bar through which one could walk is a stretch. And yes, it can get really, really crowded. But the past few times I've been here, I've waited for a seat at the bar. In my opinion, it's worth the wait. When I first went to Proletariat, I had only recently been exposed to the craft beer world. Since then, I've started using Untappd and learning more about my taste in beer. All of a sudden, Proletariat has ceased being intimidating and has become one of my favorite beer sanctuaries in the city. Since I've already written a review for Proletariat, I'll keep it short. I'll occasionally recognize a handful of beers on Proletariat's draft list, but more often than not, it's all gibberish to me. A rare beer bar indeed! I love sitting at the bar here because these experiences for me are as much about education as they are about imbibing (the balance of those two things definitely varies depending on the time of night...). I like to learn about what's on the menu and I'm always intent on trying new things, diversifying/refining my taste in beer, etc. etc. I make a point of chatting with the bartenders here, because they know their s***. These guys are generally friendly and incredibly knowledgeable. And of course, the beer is top-notch. Complex, rich, interesting, and yes, rare. Unlike most things y'all have tried, I'm guessing. Couldn't be more pleased with my many visits here! So there! I stayed true to my word. Review update complete. read more

Proletariat - Philly beer in a New York haunt. Nothing better. - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

You had me at Name, New and Unsual Beer. This tiny, intimate and very dark bar nestled in the heart of the East Village is everything I love about bars that specialize in craft beer. The service was A+ and around 7PM on a Sunday night there was plenty of seating for us to enjoy the ambience and stronger than hell beers they had on tap. What struck me as odd, but cool, was the bartender served us our beers and sent us on our merry way to our table. Usually at bars you are bombarded with "open or close your tab?". Whether this is their custom or not, I love not feeling rushed and having time to quietly enjoy my beer. Do note that they have a $20 minimum for credit cards, but if your tender is feeling extra nice, he might let you slide by with a cheaper bill. Thank you for making my first night in NYC a memorable one, and for serving amazing craft beer that I cannot find in California. Oh, and did I mention their beers are around $7?! Try the Barrier "Money" West Coast IPA! Prost. read more

Proletariat - Front of Proletariat - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

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Schlenkerle oak smoke. Thank me later. Though the taps change here so swiftly, you may not see if for awhile. To accurately describe it: this beer tastes like a barbeque of roasting meats and everyone is invited to that party in my mouth. Think Bacon and suckling roast pig that was turned into a beer. Not like that Rogue donut bacon crap. This is done so much better because the smokiness isn't over-powering. I also tried the Westbrook Bearded Farmer, which was surprisingly only $4 and a really delicious Saison. I've wanted to go to Proletariat for a really really long time. Ever since I saw pictures of it in my weekly subscription to Time Out (nerd) and heard great things from it on Yelp and Zagat alike. Its very small and intimate and dimly lit. You may not find a seat during rush hour happy pants time on a weekend. There are just a few stools along the bar and that is the entire place. But for showing up at around 5:30 on a Saturday, it wasn't jam packed. Yet. I got to relax. Really cool picture frames of images of tattooed vagrants all over the walls. I like. It's a classy beer speakeasy. The bartender is also incredibly well-knowledged. You can talk about beer with him I feel for hours. Prices a bit steep for beer but you will find things in here nowhere else. Also, I believe bottles of beer are 30% off during happy hour on weekdays. They open at 5pm. read more

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I'm not even really a fan of beer and I LOVE this place. Very trendy, narrow, intimate space. They have a mindblowing selection of good craft beers and the best part is you can try a little bit of each for very little $! This is a quality experience if you're feeling adventurous in the beer department, so come here ready to try everything! Also, shoutout to the bartenders here: SO nice and helpful and just really added to the experience! read more

Proletariat - Draft menu - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

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A dive bar that has some craft brews for any and everyone to enjoy. It's a very long, narrow, and dimly lit place. The staff are friendly, cheerful, and will make sure you get a glass in your hands. We came here for after dinner drinks and it was a very solid time. I don't think there is much more to say then that. If you were denied at Please Don't Tell, come here instead. read more

Proletariat - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

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Chill, low key place. Came with a group of 4 and the only comfortable standing area were near the tables and coat racks. Everywhere else is too narrow or squished to be comfortable. This place sells several beers on tap and offer sizes of 4 oz, 8 oz, and 12 oz. Good for trying just one or sampling a couple. Quadrupel dry-hopped double ipa beer. Pretty strong, hoppy with a smooth finish. Surprisingly enjoyed it considering that I usually don't like IPAs. read more

This is not where you go for a casual Corona or Blue Moon. They serve draft beers only, all kinds of new and unusual beers in a very intimate atmosphere. People just sit (or stand if the bar runs out of seats) and talk to their date or their friends. This is exactly how people should always behave in a bar. The menu changes every day, so ask and trust your servers. They are very quick, very attentive, and very knowledgeable about each drink. The default size of an order is a "HALF," as in half of the glass so don't be surprised why no one is drinking from a bottle or why your server doesn't give you a full glass. read more

Friendly people, good vibes, and pours a great Guinness! They have a great beer selection.

Proletariat is a beer oriented bar in East Village. I came here with 3 others for some beers and catching up. They have a dozen or so crafty beers ontap; there is a choice of S,M,L (increments of 4oz) beers. Would come back for a low key night of catching up with beers. It's a pretty narrow venue, with a long bar and standup tables. There are a few coat hangers. Ordered: Unfiltered lagger - decent, but i could still see through it :P read more

Proletariat - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Unbelievable brew selections. Best beer bar in nyc. Stayed on same block, thank goodness. And couldn't get enough. Be sure to check it out if I'm the area and if not, make a trip. Rotating board of way crafty craft A real test to find and now I don't want to leave!!. read more

Proletariat - Today's menu! - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Proletariat is, without a doubt, the best beer bar in NYC. The draft list is highly curated, featuring a selection of excellent beers - fresh, local IPAs and sours, plus the best of the best from other locales. Unlike some bars that only focus on what's currently trending, Proletariat always maintains a variety of stellar selections for all palates. The bar staff is efficient and incredible knowledgeable - I love coming on Saturdays, when Ramon and Ari will guide you through a journey of beers you never knew you wanted. My only gripe might be with other guests, who often don't seem to understand the bar's vibe - it's small, not meant for groups, or for people who want mixed drinks. But whether you're a novice seeking new knowledge or a total geek, you'll find what you're looking for here. I've never felt moved to write a review before but this bar is too good not to laud. I only fear that great reviews will make the place too packed for me! Thanks read more

Who would have thought that the words beer bar and classy would ever go together? Ravi de Rossi manages just that with his latest addition to the East Village bar scene. This place started out as a hidden speakeasy but they've since expanded and taken the front space that used to be Jane's Buns. Proletariat specializes in rare craft beers and their weekly selections are stellar. You can check their website to see what's on tap. The bartender is also very nice and helpful letting you have a taste before you commit to a full pour. And unlike other bars they don't hike up the prices too much and a glass starts at $6. I have to say that my appreciation for the variety of beers have steadily grown since I discovered more craft beers and this is a bar I would actually even consider a good spot to take a date to. The lighting is soft and the background music lets you enjoy your conversation. This is no dive and drinking beer here is a sophisticated practice. Yes, this is joining my list of classy drinking spots and I'll definitely come back! read more

Proletariat - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

This is a long , narrow, dark bar. There is only the bar and no tables. They have a nice list of beers of always changing craft beers. They serve them in 3 sizes, sample, half and full. I don't know what the pours are but my half was huge for a high alcohol porter , in a large wine glass. The only downside of the bar was just one chalkboard menu at the very front , so we had to hoke to the front to order and then hike back to our seats. Service was good and it's across the street from Crif dogs so awesome food is nearby. read more

Proletariat - Some porter... this is a half - Beer Bar Near Me - New York, New York

Proletariat is always a fun stop when I'm rolling through the east village, as they always have either rare or at least weird beers on tap. I do love a good craft beer, and the only thing I love more than drinking a good craft beer is trying a new craft beer I've never seen, so these guys rarely disappoint in that regard. The inside is small, even small by NYC bar standards. You've got just about enough space to sneak behind people sitting at the bar to get to the bathroom in the back. This adds to the charm, though. There's a bit of space up front for a handful of people to congregate in a group, but really I wouldn't recommend coming here with more than 2 or 3 in your party. It's a pretty intimate spot. As one of the other reviews did say though, it's rather ironic that they call themselves Proletariat, as sipping on a 6oz pour of beer in a Teku glass that you paid $9 for is rather bourgeois, haha. Not a comment that the prices are too high; you generally get what you pay for here. That said, I believe this bar is owned by those who had started cocktail bars in the past, so I think the name points to the idea that the proletariat are the beer-drinking class. Correct me if I'm wrong. Anyway, this is a fun stop if you're into beer. I just wish they'd figure out how to accept all major credit cards. Maybe get Square? read more