I usually frequent beacon establishments with hipster crowds and tolerate them because they are the rugged stoic type but the employees and patrons at this place are try hards that serve a try hard hipster crowd who grew up with a silver spoon in their mouths( the opposite of bukowski or Kerouac....even burroughs would be ashamed).The hipsters here act like they are on a movie set. I waited one hour for one drink which was delicious then me and my party were totally ignored. As i waited to be served the entertainment provided to me by the try hards sitting at the bar was priceless. I understand it was busy but looking at the reviews it is obvious this is the norm here and this place practices favoritism. I went home and drank cheap malt liquor kerouac style and saved a crap load of money. Hahaha read more

Stopped by here while walking around Kingston. Was not able to see the inside but they had tons of outdoor seating that is a nice change of pace for the summer. Our server was nice and attentive. Drinks were excellent and reasonably priced. Would definitely come here again to get the drink I got, jungle something. read more

Believe the hype! Having read a number of yelp reviews, I was prepared for the worst (overly crowded, all young, hipster crowd) but was pleasantly surprised that the great reviews were all right! We arrived around 6:00 on a Saturday evening; the place was busy but there where plenty of seats available. The space itself is lovely and warm, service could not be more friendly or helpful, and drinks were out of this world. I would go back in a heartbeat, and hope to slowly work through the drink menu. Food that went by looked good too. Do yourself a favor and check this place out. read more

Nice atmosphere, but be prepared to wait a looonnngggg time to be able to get a drink. Service is rather slow, unless you are a friend of the bartender. Drink was good when I got it. But not sure I will return. read more

Nick is a talented libation artisan who weilds his shaker like a trained swordsman aiming to please his audience. He can peg your desires like a skilled knife thrower who slices the apple above your head with perfect precision. Don't be scared of this descriptive, ever changing and incredibly diverse and lively vintage menu. Tell them what you love and they will nail it to perfection. read more

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Great drinks, cool bartenders, and in our current climate, excellent curbside (or window side) service!

Amazing drinks from a tremendously talented bar tender. Drinks are consistently amazing. Service in my experience has been fairly consistent, that is utterly lacking. Unless you sit at the bar, you are forgotten. On numerous occasions I've had one drink due to this. Tonight was the Kingston Block Party and we walked in around 8pm. The bar itself was full but the tables were not. After being served water and given menus we waited 20 minutes for someone to take our order. Needless to say I walked out and I won't be back anytime soon. I'm tired of the lack of service. Again sit at a table and be warned your service may be little to nonexistent. You've be warned.... read more

Snooty, ridiculously overpriced. Menu is a joke. If you're over 25, and just want to have a drink with a friend, don't bother, You'll be ignored. Meat market. read more

Cool-ass spot in uptown Kingston for fancy prohibition style cocktails. It's quite the happening little spot but classy.....you won't find any drunken brawls going on here. They offer live music on the weekends and was recently chosen by Esquire magazine as one of the best bars in America. The atmosphere has a hip, vintage vibe.....if my living room were a bar this is exactly what it would look like. I love the way the large, diamond grid front windows open up to let cool nighttime breezes blow in. Stockade is just a really fun place to come with friends, or come alone and make new friends. All of the cocktails created here are handcrafted, watching the bartender mix up some happy juice is almost as enjoyable as the drink itself. They do change up their menu from time to time to keep it fresh, but there is always a few classics to rely on. Shaken, stirred, built, sparkling, you name it they got it including a nice selection of beers on tap and crafted virgin cocktails, too. If you're hungry they do offer a small tapas-type menu consisting of cheese and meat plates, small sandwiches, etc.; and if you've got a sweet tooth definitely try the fried apple cider doughnut or the chocolate covered corn nuts. Check their Facebook page for upcoming music events and specials. read more

Best cocktails I've ever had in my entire life. "Lights out" drink all time fav. Owners are great and care and are masters at their craft. read more

The outside of the place is brick faced and somewhat nondescript except for the S emblem hanging- representing Stockade,(no duh), and what was formerly the Singer Sewing machine building, as we found out. It's only the warm light emanating behind the diamond-paned windows that gave a hint of a glimpse of the good times and lovely bar happening inside. Yeah, so kinda speakeasy style, seee. ( By the way, I'm fully aware that my above use of the stereotypical 30's gangster habit of ending sentences with the word, "See," barely makes little to no sense when yappin about pre-Prohibition era classic cocktails, but mnnyeah I do what I want, seee? ) Anyway, I dare say, this place is just about perfect. If only we could've found a seat! Then we definitely would have sampled even more of the cocktail menu than we did. Still, we did a number, alright. It's not that there isn't ample seating available inside this establishment- oooh how I coveted those little banquette alcoves by the window. It was a Thursday night a few weeks ago, and the place was packed out. I'm sure that it had a lot to do with the fact that the drinks are delectable, but there was also a nice little jazz ensemble happening too. So maybe that too was part of the draw. Yeah, good stuff. Honestly though, I would put up with any manner caterwauling to get down with the wonderful things they're doing with gin at this joint. The ole gal likes her gin. So whadda I care about standing? That was the best Ramos Gin Fizz that I've had in ages. It was perfect: Luscious thick frothy foam atop the most well balanced tasty gin fizz that I've had since the last time I was in good ole New Orleans. Also, for some reason, as the night wore on, my husband decided that it was time for me to try a Singapore Sling. Delicious! After tasting this concoction I am absolutely certain that I've never had a proper Singapore Sling before. It went a little something like: gin, cherry brandy, fresh juices and syrups, and yet not too sweet. Again I'm repeating the word, "perfect," here. I would surely order that one again. There's attention to detail happening here. I like the ornate meets rustic design of the bar, for example. I appreciate the fact that juices in drinks are fresh squeezed, and syrups homemade. I even noticed that the ice cube in my husband's drinks were par excellence- you know those perfectly perfect 1 inch cubes that don't melt and yo drink all watery? I dig it that there's a precision and balance and I dig it from the bottom to the top; from the ice cube down in your drinks, up to the pretty tin roof. I mentioned my affinity to gin, but the drinks menu was just a-brimmin with carefully constructed cocktails, punches, slings, on and on, all grouped by your booze preference: Bourbon, Rum, Brandy, Absinthe, Vodka, whaddevah ya want. Based on the quality of the drinks I enjoyed, I'd like to try every cocktail and creation on the blessed list. I plan to do just that, starting the next time I'm back in the area. Save me a seat. read more

I stopped by on a stormy night and fell in love with Stockade Tavern. Fortunately, it was early enough that I could thoroughly enjoy the ambiance: cool local art, romantic lighting, and a pressed tin ceiling. My drink was expertly crafted, and their bar menu is very lovingly executed. We ordered a pickled egg, and it was beautifully sliced and plated. It was the most elegant $2.50 bar snack I've ever had. An absolute must if you're in the neighborhood. read more

Always hits the spot from food to drink to atmosphere. I love the schnitzel!! Which changed a bit from the first time I had it to the second and only just got better!! read more

I don't go out very frequently any more, and to be honest, was a bit intimidated to go into this place at first. However, 2 minutes into my first visit I was made to feel like a life long customer. The staff, including the owner, are so welcoming it almost seems fake, but it's not. They will make you anything you want and if you aren't sure they will work with you like no other bar I've ever seen. Give them some ideas and they will concoct you something special. Speaking of specials, those are always the best, you always end up trying something you've never had before. Don't leave without trying a pretzle, fantastic. read more

Best cocktail bar I think I've ever been to. It may seem insane to think of all the fabulous cocktail bars out there I'd coin this one the best, but after my visit last night where Paul the owner and bartender (do not call him a 'mixologist') taught me that I could drink Gin again and enjoy it in the right accompaniment ... I'm impressed. I'm not sure what I can say that hasn't been said yet ... except.. bravo for Uptown Kingston to have such a classy joint to imbibe at. I've been here a handful of times, and each time better than the last. FYI... the munchies are tasty too. We had the cheese plate last night and it was fab. Home run! read more

Holy Hipsters Batman - are people moving from Williamsburg to Kingston and no one told me? Don't get me wrong - very cool vibe - even if I wasn't wearing skinny jeans (actually, I was) and I don't have a beard. Drinks were fabulous - reasonable priced and absolutely delish....oh, and we sat at a table in the back (4 of us; 2 couples) and had fabulous table service so perhaps the reviews calling this a negative made some positive changes. If you haven't been - GO read more

Hands down, best bar in the Hudson Valley. It's a hidden gem, the kind of place that doesn't loudly barge into your consciousness, but rather subtly sneaks up on you. I'm surprised I haven't found myself frequenting Kingston more often just so I can check out this bar. Last Friday was my first visit. It doesn't jump out at you on the street; it's situated inside an old brick building (which used to be an old shirt factory), and you have to be looking for it to find it. Inside is a very quiet and unassuming atmosphere. The decor hails back to the turn of the 20th century, evoking carefree and happy feelings. The bartenders were all very knowledgeable. I really liked that when you asked for their opinion they really tried to make a drink to match your own personal tastes. Drinks I tried were: Pimm's Cup-first thing I saw on the menu, and also sounded light and refreshing. There were fresh cucumbers too which I thought was a nice touch. Lion's Tail-Bourbon. Lots of bourbon. and tasty too. Not sweet at all. I also had a whiskey sour, but "with a twist." Basically a whiskey sour with absinthe in it. And it was damn good. I'll be back here again tonight. read more

Every time I visited this bar, I enjoyed myself....until Friday April 6th. The bartender, whose name I didn't get, was totally rude, smug, and unfriendly. He seemed stressed out, and acted like he didnt want to be there. He didn't give a damn about his customers. I've never experienced anything like that before. Bartenders are supposed to be polite and friendly to customers. He said he had a bad day. He was so bad that my wife and I left right after the first drink. A very nice women, maybe the manager, was apologetic, however someone like him should not be client facing. As we were leaving, he said that when I come back in a month the place will still be here! Imagine that... I don't think I'll be stopping in here again. Ownership should never have hired this guy. Your employees represent you. read more

Very hip speakeasy that takes its drinking seriously. And by that I mean that the folks that work here know how to mix drinks and know very well their spirits, wine, and beer. I also appreciate that there are many local products on sale here. The tap list is always interesting and well chosen as are the wines by the glass. The staff is more than happy to help you if you have questions. Also great are the little nibbles that you can order to go with your drinks. All lovingly prepared. The only downside is that this is the coolest bar in Kingston and people know it. It can get pretty crowded and loud on weekends, teeming with hipster types that took a wrong turn out of Williamsburg. I try to get there early, have my good times and depart just as the skinny jeans crowd is filing in. UPDATE: Just paid another terrific visit to Stockade. Can't say enough great things about this bar. The Hudson Valley is lucky to have Stockade. Paul made my wife a whiskey sour that was the finest example of the cocktail that either of us have tasted. Although my wife declined to have a fresh, locally-raised egg added to the drink, the offer underlines the attention to detail and care that go into these drinks. Impressive. I stuck to some local bourbon and rye (from Hudson and Delaware Phoenix, respectively) served in a frosted lowball glass. Although we were going out to dinner later, we could not resist the hot, soft pretzel. It had just the right amount of salt and was served with a bold, spicy brown mustard. Perfect compliment to the outstanding drinks. read more

I can't say enough about the Stockade! No matter when we have come here, we have experienced exemplary customer service, consistency, ambiance, cleanliness, and a whole lot of fun. From drinks, to appetizers, to plates, and desserts, everything has been mind-blowing, delicious, and flavorful. The old building and view out the window takes you back in time. The owner always takes the time to talk to you and make sure everything is fabulous. The staff are always on top of checking on your table, and everything is very fast. Whenever we are having a date night, meeting a friend, or just hanging out, we won't setting for anything less than the Stockade! read more

One of my all time favorite spots. A true craft place, not the kind of establishment I'd order a rum and coke in, and that's because I feel there's a hundred better options for libations here. That being said, if you're not in the mood for a specialty drink and just want good camaraderie this place is not too snooty to pop open a Bud for you. The company I've met and the staff here have always made Stockade a warm and inviting place. Whenever I'm in Kingston, which is about twice a month, I try to stop in. Everything is quality, from the atmosphere and the staff, to the carefully designed menu. And if you know what kind of spirit you like but don't have a clue what cocktail to order they'll usually suggest something. And in my anecdotal experience asking the bartender to "surprise" you rarely ends in disappointment. read more

I went here for the first time last week and loved it! Drinks are great and at reasonable prices. All drinks I had were under $10 for a craft cocktail. You can tell that the bartenders really know their stuff. I had a good gin gin mule, an ethereal Ramos gin fizz (think lemon meringue pie foam) , and a unique Manhattan (sweet, no ice), which included a house-preserved cherry. Their drinks are on the sweeter side, and I commented on this to a woman who appeared to be the owner, who responded that they tried to make their drinks "well balanced." Next time I will ask for less sugar. Interestingly, they use egg white in their whiskey sour recipe. I've had the same drinks at a similarly themed bar so it's interesting to see how their spin on it. I give them four and a half stars for their drinks, and five stars for their prices. Great find and I would not have expected to find a bar like this in this area. read more

I WISH this place was in DC. It is honestly awesome. It is a old school speakeasy. I hate the term "mixologist", but if anyone is deserving of that title, it is the folks at Stockade. I've only been one time, but it was a great experience. It was hopping. Easily one of the best bars I have been to. read more

Amazing cocktails. My first drink was the Mary cocktail. Horseradish infused vodka and celery. Quite different. My second drink was the lights out cocktail. If you like rum vanilla and lemon. Go for it! My girlfriend had the ginger blossom. Also excellent Everything on the menu is good. We come back every year. read more

I always felt I was born too late and my time spent drinking at Stockade Tavern reinforced that feeling. It was a pleasure to be served by Paul and his drink recommendations for my husband and I were expertly composed and delicious. I sat at the end of the bar on the first evening of Autumn and enjoyed a few cocktails, one being, The Proclaimer. I found out that Mezcal and Autumn go very well together. The Stockade Tavern is special and I hope to return very soon. read more

4.5 stars You had me at, "It's (cider donuts) my father-in-law's recipe." And it sure was delicious, warm and served whipped cream, thinly sliced apple and caramel. I wanted to go back there every night this past weekend just to have another one of these sinful treats. Impressive cocktail bar in Kingston, large space unlike the mixologist's dens in NYC. This place is would be nice for a date and also with a group (I'd suggest coming in earlier to grab seats at the bar if you are with a date, standing by the wall all night or sharing the communal table with others wouldn't be my preference). The music was kept at a pretty low volume when we were there Friday night, it's kind of nice to talk to your friends without having to scream. The drinks were tasty, strong, and not for the faint of heart. I had the pink stag and the old old fashioned, we also tried the boulevardier, opal and the frostbite. Careful, the opal contains absinthe! read more

A lovely surprise for the area. In a town with few bars and fewer enjoyable bars, it's awesome to see a place like Stockade open. The menu was honestly a little intimidating upon first glance. The drinks are mixed and utilizing a fair number of less than common ingredients. Jenny, one of the owners working that night was nice enough to come over and explain the gist of the bar. They focus in mixed drinks that were popular from the 1890's to the Prohibition era. I'm pretty much drink just whiskey, so all the odd and interesting combinations were somewhat befuddling to me. I let my dear friend choose my drinks for the evening, so I can't even comment on the specifics of what I consumed. Each beverage I had was very good and had a distinct flavor. We did make it a point to try one of the beverages that used egg whites. An odd technique, which the book 'Straight Up or on the Rocks: The Story of the American Cocktail' says dates back to the 1690's, gives the drinks a lovely, frothy thickness. (check out more about the history of egg whites in drinks here - http://drinkdogma.com/how-to-use-eggs-in-cocktails/) Don't shy away from these menu items, they're definitely worth a try. Didn't try the food, but did decide to have one of the grilled doughnuts in place of a final round for the evening. A very tasty treat for $2. The space is beautifully rebuilt. Part of the old Singer Sewing building, which dates back to the early 1900's, the floor plan is well thought out with a few booths, ample bar space and tables for larger parties I couldn't figure out if they had the original ceiling still in place or if they'd just designed it to look that way, either way it looks great. They are cash only and do not yet have an ATM. That's probably the biggest drawback of the place, but they're newly opened. I was told they're going to get one soon. A welcome addition to the neighborhood, something I will revisit when I'm back in the area. read more

Stockade Tavern - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Kingston, New York

Drinks--amazing. Not cheap, but well mixed, delicious, and not skimpy on the liquor. My personal favorites are the punches they often have as specials. They're served in these cut little crystal glasses. Service is also top notch. Paul, the owner, makes a point to make conversation with us every time we're in there, and he's very friendly. We went here on New Year's Eve one year and it was quite a party--the bartenders pouring shots and putting on a fancy show for everyone. Ambiance is great, you can sit at the bar, at a high-top table, or in a cozy booth. It does get really, really crowded here on weekend nights or holidays, but it's understandable, since it's easily the best bar in Kingston. read more

Love this place! Old fashion for days! I could sit in this place all day sipping on a cocktail and reading a book. This may be my favorite bar EVER! Always a good time and always a drink to remember. Enjoy! read more

This is absolutely one of the best taverns in the Hudson Valley, and worth visiting no matter how far away in the area you live. Their cocktail list is amazing, it's fun to watch them make your drink and some very beautiful vintage touches all over the interior. On this recent visit I shared a cheese plate with a friend and it was phenomenal; so well put together with the balance of flavor and interesting combinations. Hands down love this place!! read more

Is this place the best bar in America? I mean, damn! Great menu of drinks, knowledgeable staff, friendly atmosphere, great ambiance. This place has it all. In particular I recommend the Pink Stag -- a cocktail recipe by the owner himself. If you like Bloody Marys you'll enjoy its bouquet of fresh veggies, but with a sweet and clean taste that won't alienate folks who prefer regular cocktails. An amazing drink. At the perfect bar. Kudos. read more

Excellent food. Great charm. Free poodle (to pet,) solid draught selections, and a mixed crowd. Sunday's, half of everything is closed but not the stockade bar. Warm atmosphere and cooling dark tones set off the interior. The staff is top notch. Get in there. Trust me. read more

Hipsterish, overpriced drinks, and the bartender told my friend to stop asking her questions

Ahhhhh, am I in the lower east side or the Hudson Valley? Cool crowd, good overall noise level (not excessive), good drinks. Not obtuse or OTT which makes for a great experience. Cute girls here. Guys too, actually. I would hang out here if I lived nearby. read more

This place is such an old favorite. They've been around for a while and never miss a beat, an uptown kingston staple.

This place is the real deal - drinks are smart but not overly pretentious. Bartenders are friendly but not fake. Atmosphere is moody but comfortable. Get a skillfully made cocktail or just a shot and a beer - it's all good. Great mixed crowd. Love it all. read more

This is the place I've been praying for to come to Kingston! It's located in the old Singer sewing shop (hence the cool S on the door). The owners are incredibly welcoming and love what they do and that vibe spreads to the entire crowd. They are all proud of the drinks they create and love to talk about them. I had the best Sazerac there since New Orleans and every other drink I've ordered has been of the same caliber. The crowd there is awesome, I think the place brings out the best in people. read more

Best cocktails around, inviting, and low key on week nights. Perfect place to start and/or end an evening out in Uptown Kingston.

Old fashioned drinks and a great atmosphere. Can't say enough about Stockade. Vintage, classy, fun. Great cocktails!

To pile onto the many positive reviews here, this place is amazing. Great ambiance, and incredible drinks. Their bartenders are superbly knowledgeable about classic cocktails, and the new experiments that they put on their menus tend to be very rich, very flavorful new drinks. If you can, go a bit earlier in the evening, as chatting with the bartenders is always a nice pleasure. Later in the evening, the bro-tastic crowd shows up...so early evening is always better. read more