The Gutter Bar LIC

- 10-22 46th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101

For New Yorkers seeking a vibrant and authentically cool spot in Long Island City (LIC) that blends a classic bar experience with retro entertainment, The Gutter Bar LIC is the premier destination. As an outpost of the popular Brooklyn original, this Queens location successfully captures a casual, trendy, and notably low-key vibe that attracts a diverse crowd. It is much more than just a bar; it is a full-fledged social hub featuring vintage bowling lanes, fun bar games, and a full kitchen, making it an ideal place to hang out for a few hours or celebrate a special occasion.

The atmosphere at The Gutter Bar LIC is intentionally nostalgic, designed to be reminiscent of an old-school bowling alley. The space features eight vintage hardwood lanes with classic screens and mid-90s software, providing a unique contrast to the venue's modern-day status as a popular neighborhood haunt. The bar itself is expansive, offering plenty of seating and featuring television screens often tuned to live sports, allowing patrons to choose their desired level of engagement, whether it's throwing strikes or just chilling with a drink.

The Gutter’s commitment to quality is immediately apparent in its offerings. The bar is widely known for having a 'great beer selection,' featuring 24 taps with rotating American craft beers, along with specialty cocktails, wine, and hard liquor. The food menu, often described as 'pub fare,' complements the action with simple, delicious options like loaded hot dogs and popcorn, perfect for snacking while you bowl or play pinball. This blend of quality drinks, tasty food, and engaging activities ensures there’s something for everyone.

Importantly, The Gutter Bar LIC actively cultivates an inclusive environment, proudly identifying as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace. However, potential visitors should note that as a walk-in-focused venue, the bowling lanes are first-come, first-served, and waiting times can sometimes be long, especially on weekends. While the staff is generally fast and professional, there have been occasional reports concerning operational issues with the vintage lanes and communication about waiting times, underscoring the importance of patience and perhaps calling ahead during busy times.

The Gutter Bar LIC is situated in the thriving Long Island City neighborhood of Queens, an area known for its industrial-chic aesthetic and growing nightlife. Its address is 10-22 46th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA. This location is accessible via several subway lines, making it convenient for Manhattan and Brooklyn commuters.

For New Yorkers who prefer to drive, the location offers the rare convenience of free street parking, a significant perk in this part of the city. The venue has also made sure to provide excellent physical accessibility:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating

In addition, the bar prioritizes comfort and inclusivity for all patrons by featuring a Gender-neutral restroom.

The Gutter Bar LIC functions as a full-service entertainment and hospitality venue, providing a robust menu of offerings that cater to various social needs, from a casual drink to a full-scale private party.

• Full Bar Service: Offering a wide selection of alcoholic beverages including 24 American craft beers on tap, specialty cocktails, hard liquor, and wine.
• Food at Bar: Serves a menu of pub fare and snacks, including hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, nachos, and more, available for dine-in.
• Bowling Lanes: Eight vintage hardwood lanes available for walk-in play on a first-come, first-served basis, often featuring late-night specials.
• Bar Games: Features classic bar games including pinball machines (about $5 per 6 plays), foosball, and often a pool table.
• Happy Hour Specials: Offers both drink and 'Happy hour food' deals, perfect for an after-work visit.
• Reservations: Accepts reservations, particularly for groups and parties, with a minimum booking often set at two lanes for two hours.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Private Events: Ideal for corporate events, team building, birthday parties, and large social gatherings, with booking inquiries handled via their dedicated events page.

The highlights of The Gutter Bar LIC are centered around its authentic retro appeal, its inclusive culture, and the quality of its beverage program, making it a standout bar in the Queens scene.

• Authentic Vintage Bowling: Features 8 lanes with original hardwood and old-school scoring systems, offering a genuinely nostalgic experience.
• Great Beer and Cocktails: Known for having a highly-rated selection of American craft beers on tap and quality, well-made cocktails.
• Inclusive Community Space: Highly welcoming atmosphere, explicitly LGBTQ+ friendly and identified as a Transgender safespace.
• Bar Games: Provides engaging bar games like multiple pinball machines and foosball for entertainment when lanes are full.
• Affordable Late-Night Fun: Offers 'Unlimited Bowling' specials (e.g., Sunday-Thursday after 11 p.m.) at an affordable per-person price, including shoe rental.
• Casual and Trendy Vibe: The decor, featuring red leather booths and a long wooden bar, creates a fun, low-key, and stylish environment.
• Convenient Parking: The availability of free street parking is a significant advantage for a NYC venue.

For inquiries regarding lane rates, current specials, party bookings, or any issues related to service, patrons can contact the LIC location directly:

Address: 10-22 46th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA

Phone: (929) 328-0409 or +1 929-328-0409

For New Yorkers seeking an active, social, and unpretentious night out in Queens, The Gutter Bar LIC is worth choosing for its authentic blend of a high-quality bar and an entertaining vintage bowling alley. What truly makes this venue a standout choice is the consistent quality of its beverage program—the 'great beer selection' and 'great cocktails' mean you never have to compromise on your drink order just because you’re at a bowling alley.

Furthermore, its commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive space for the entire community is a major draw. While the bowling experience is primarily walk-in, the numerous bar games and spacious seating areas ensure there's plenty to do while waiting for a lane, and the Unlimited Bowling specials offer exceptional value for late-night fun. If you appreciate a retro aesthetic, good craft beer, a variety of games, and a casual, friendly atmosphere, The Gutter Bar LIC is the perfect spot for your next group outing or date night in Long Island City.

The Gutter Bar LIC

10-22 46th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA