One of the great novelties of New York City living is the turnover of businesses that come through like a whirlwind. Unfortunately, lately I have grown more accustomed to seeing establishments leave the neighborhood due to all the construction. But in this entry of Upper East Side Informer, I am happy to introduce a new local hang out to my fellow Upper Eastsiders…Off the Rails.
The exposed brick, open front and mahogany bar may add to the appeal but not the uniqueness of this bar. A concept, which is rare in this neighborhood but not uncommon in other parts of the city, is that this bar actually has a DJ and not a jukebox that plays the latest hits from lame and lamer. This feature adds an element of liveliness and action, which sets it apart from the rest.
If that doesn’t encourage you to come, maybe the unpredictable crowd will. You can enjoy a low key night on Second Avenue with exceptional cocktails made to your liking by experienced bartenders, come into an atmosphere where girls dance on bar-tops and do body shots across the bar, giving Coyote Ugly a run for its money. A night at Off the Rails is a gamble but the odds are win-win.
Notable too is the friendliness of both the patrons and the barkeeps, some of whom speak in a charming brogue. Our local friendly DJ came in, instantly recognizable with his easygoing smile and manner. Watching him shake the hand of the man behind the bar, I got the sense that while OTR may not be “Cheers,” it definitely has that intimate feeling that a bar with recurring clientele can afford. At the same time, people coming in for the first time are equally treated to a smile and a frank assessment of what beers are good.
In summation OTR, is a great alternative to the Yorkville nightlife scene (that is generally Manny’s) and is increasingly becoming my favorite new resident spot. Whether you live nearby or if you just come to UES to experience one of the many fine restaurants and enjoy a cocktail out, this pick definitely gets my recommendation.
1754 2nd Avenue
New York, NY
212-369-1900
http://www.facebook.com/OffTheRailsNYC
TwitterID: OffTheRailsNYC
