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Welcome to The Lion's Bar & Grill

At The Lion's Bar & Grill, we celebrate the vibrant spirit of the East Village with a warm, rustic ambiance that welcomes all, including your furry friends. Our story is rooted in a passion for delivering exceptional food and drink. Renowned for our thick, juicy burgers and the must-try mozzarella sticks—praised for their unbeatable cheese pull—we invite guests to relax over expertly crafted cocktails or a refreshing Lion's lager. Whether you're enjoying a casual weeknight dinner or a lively night out with friends, The Lion's offers a cozy yet spirited atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Join us for an unforgettable culinary experience!

The Lion's Bar & Grill: Reviews & Ratings

David R.
David R.

Cheeseburger was delicious, as well as the cocktails. Service from bartender was on point and ambience was rustic.

Simon W.
Simon W.

On a sunny Sunday afternoon, my friend decided his sole mission for the day was to get a pub burger, so after some research we stopped by this place in the East Village that was purported to have great burger. It was fairly busy for 4pm but we got seated right away. Ordered burgers, beer and fries. It took a while to come out but it was worth the wait! The burger was really thick, juicy, cooked perfectly. It was delicious but on the expensive side at $19 before adding fries. You definitely should add fries though -- the fries were near perfection crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. I scarfed them down so fast I only have a picture of the burger.

Madison P.
Madison P.

BIG fans of Lions Bar! I cannot recommend the MOZZARELLA STICKS enough. The best cheese pull on earth. Between the burger, the fries, and the Cesar salad you're all set. It's a must hit spot for an after dinner pint of beer and a solid meal!

Lorraine S.
Lorraine S.

I will miss Lulu's. The restaurant that used to be here. However, The Lion's Bar is owned by the same owners. They just revamped it to a casual bar and grill that just so happens to make an excellent burger. The atmosphere is good for a night out with friends or even a casual first date. And solo diners , like myself , won't feel out of place either. The tables for one or 2 are small and it can be a bit cramped but it's cozy and the music is great ( classic rock ) and not too loud so you won't have to scream to be heard. I got a burger and fries and the Lion's lager. First off, the beer was cold and served in a frosty mug and only 5 dollars ! I see they have a HH with beer and wine deals. The lager was nice and refreshing. Oh. The burger. I usually don't like thick burgers bc they are sometimes tough or too beefy in flavor. Lion's burger has a very good crust , a bit salty , and a perfect grind. I did ask for it medium and it came out more medium rare but it soo good I didn't complain. The fries are very much like McDonalds and I mean that in a good way. A thick slice of American cheese and a grilled onion slice completed it. I haven't had Minetta's burger but I think this is what it's like. If you're in a mood for a steakhouse like burger and in the EV I'd recommend Lion's.

Evelyn H.
Evelyn H.

Really cozy neighborhood spot. I will dream of the fried mozzarella - seriously the best mozzarella sticks ever. Burger is also delish, steakhouse style with great flavor; the antithesis of Seventh Street! Sizable cocktail menu as well. Walked in on a Sunday around 8:30 and there was no wait. Recommend!

Josh W.
Josh W.

The Lions Bar & Grill is a St. Marks GEM! This neighborhood staple delivered on great food, attentive service and perfect old-school vibes! Every dish was exceptional - but you absolutely cannot miss the burger (add the fries!!), the fried mozzarella, and the Caesar salad. Not to mention their incredible espresso martini and classic New York cheese cake. This is the kind of spot that has you returning again and again!

Katie E.
Katie E.

Dive bar vibes, with a rowdy and fun vibe. Not a place for a quiet date, but it's a fun place to grab some drinks and a burger. Their burger was top tier, nothing fancy or extra about it. A simple cheeseburger, we did lettuce tomato pickle and onion on it! Great cook on the burger! Will be back time and time again

Silvie C.
Silvie C.

I can see why people compare this joint to Bernie's meets Red Hook Tavern, both in ambiance and menu curation. There's red sauce (Bernie's), which came to my table in the form of triangular slabs of fried mozz and a side of sauce for dipping, and there are the fat juicy dry aged burgers (RHT). I asked for my burger served medium with extra pickles, which was def the move. Beers came out in giant frozen mugs and my martini was also ice cold and filthy. Super classic. Service was great. I love and envy when waitstaff don't even write down my four top's order and punch it into the POS straight from the dome. I can't speak to how busy this spot gets because I came in on Christmas Eve but this seems like a great neighborhood mainstay that serves its regulars and curious folk like me.

Haley R.
Haley R.

Walked in on a snowy Sunday for an early dinner - no wait at all. Service was good and quick! Cocktails were yummy and the burger was sooo good. A great burger. Fries are kinda like McDonalds fries (which I love). Def recommend a stop here if you're into a cozy bar w good cocktails and food. Menu isn't huge tho, FYI. Seems like they have a few things on the menu that they do well.

James S.
James S.

Food: 4.5/5 Service: 4/5 Ambiance: 4/5 I read that The Lion's Bar & Grill serves a very good burger, rivaling that of Red Hook Tavern, but in a more convenient East Village location. I had to try. It is indeed a delicious burger. They aren't shy about the seasoning (salty) and the cheese is ample and melted nicely. Very juicy patty (I requested medium) and well-complemented by the sliced onions. The fries were shoestring variety and more crunchy than McDonald's fries. Daiquiri was satisfactory. No complaints about the service. My server was prompt and accurate. Although I note that she didn't introduce herself by name. No one introduces themselves anymore. The interior is informal, relaxed, low-lit, and looks how a neighborhood bar should, though a bit cramped. The furniture is all wood, reminding me of a college pub. There is outdoor seating with a large bench for a group and some two-top tables.

Location

Welcome to The Lion's Bar & Grill, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the East Village at 132 1st Ave, New York, NY. This lively cocktail bar offers a refreshing twist on classic bar fare, showcasing an enticing array of sandwiches, burgers, and expertly crafted cocktails. As a food reviewer here at Res Menu, I'm thrilled to dive into what makes this establishment a must-visit.

The Lion's Bar & Grill is more than just a bar; it's a destination for food lovers and casual diners alike. The warm, rustic ambiance sets the stage for a memorable evening, whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a cozy date night. You'll find a welcome atmosphere that resonates with the clinking of glasses and the classic rock tunes that play softly in the background.

  • Burgers: The pièce de résistance here is undoubtedly the burgers. Each one is a hefty, juicy creation, cooked to perfection with a delightful crust that locks in flavor. Customers rave about their thickness, and reviews consistently highlight the burger's irresistible juiciness.
  • Fries: Don't skip out on the fries; they’ve been garnering plenty of praise and have been likened to the beloved McDonald's variety—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. A perfect companion to the burgers, they elevate the experience to new heights.
  • Appetizers: The fried mozzarella sticks are a standout, revered for their gooey cheese pulls that leave diners dreaming of more. These cheesy bites are the ideal starter before diving into the succulent main courses.
  • Drinks: The cocktail menu is plentiful, and beer enthusiasts will love the Lion's lager, served chilled in frosty mugs. Happy hour deals on beer and wine make it an approachable choice for every patron.

My experience at The Lion's Bar & Grill was nothing short of delightful. The burgers were everything you'd hope for—flavorful and hearty, paired seamlessly with the rich lager. It's the kind of meal that warms your soul and makes any occasion feel special. Whether you enjoy a casual lunch or a late-night hangout, this bar and grill promises to satisfy your cravings.

In summary, if you're in the mood for a steakhouse-style burger, top-notch appetizers, and a great drink selection, The Lion's Bar & Grill should be at the top of your list. With a reputation backed by satisfied customers and a welcoming atmosphere, this spot is not just for locals but is a worthy destination for anyone searching for a culinary escape in New York City.