NYC Nightlife: Cooper 35

Author: Tommy Leung | 01.07.2009 | Category: Nightlife

Cooper 35 is a nice little bar/restaurant located at 35 Cooper Square–hence its name–between East 5th and East 6th streets of the East Village. The absolute best part about Cooper 35 is their cheap drinks. Their mixed drinks go for $4. Shots, wine, and beer are in the same price range. Their menu is not extensive but, there is enough variety. They also serve food. The food is not the best in the world but, it is passable. I would not go there looking for a real meal–more like snacks. They provide free chips and salsa at every table.

I was first introduced to this place by a friend of mine who really loved it–oddly enough I don’t think I’ve been there with her much recently. That first time I was there, we were there until they were closing and they had to kick us out. Fun times.

The staff is general friendly and relatively prompt. I have had problems with paying the bill because of some computer issues one night. I think that was a rare hiccup–it has not happened since. We were basically waiting forever to pay for what we ordered. It was real strange to have to almost demand that they take our money faster.

During the warmer months of the year or when the weather is nice, there is an outside area with more seating. It is pleasant to sit outside and have drinks. People are allowed to smoke in the outdoor area so, it might not be your thing if you have a problem with smoking.

Now, of course, cheap drinks are nothing if they are weak. Cooper 35 delivers well in this respect. I have never been there and complained that the drinks were watered down. I often say that they serve the cheapest drinks that are still strong.

Cooper 35 is a place I’d go to when I feel like I want some food and drinks or I just don’t feel like spending a lot that night. It isn’t very fancy and it is often quite loud in there. Students from Cooper Union find themselves there when the semesters are in session. But bottom line: cheap, strong drinks.

It is also a good place to start a night and then hop around to other places on St. Marks Place two blocks north.

By Tommy Leung