Utica’s Top 5: Places To Get A Beer

Nail Creek Pub and Brewery is a mainstay on Varick Street, serving around 100 different styles of beer. Their beverages range from the basic American classics to craft beers that will leave you in awe. With music in the background and a staff that knows its ales, Nail Creek makes for an interesting and relaxing atmosphere. As an added bonus, if you happen to be on Varick Street during lunch, rest assured that Nail Creek is up and running. They’ll be the ones serving up some of the best sandwiches and beers in the area.

Who could possibly have a problem with a bar that’s got the Blue’s Brothers resting atop the front porch awning? Tiny’s is a classic bar featuring live bands, big screen TV’s, a mean kielbasa sandwich and a staff that understands the art of a good beer. The service is always quick and the place is always clean, playing a huge role in my search for a solid beer swilling establishment. For a good time, look no further than State Street.

This one is a personal, and sentimental, favorite of mine. It could be the beer selection. But, it could also be because I can’t ignore the opportunity to visit The Black Cat, then wander next door for the biggest plate of nachos I’ve ever seen outside of a ball park. This place is a good-natured, regular bar with a little bit of flair. However, it isn’t so classy as to make you feel like that Browns-era Charlie Frye jersey won't be welcome. It doesn’t hurt to mention their beer is fantastic and they make a mean White Russian, too.

This fantastic bar sits across the street from Union Station and is one of the nicest places I’ve ever had a beer in. The first time I stepped foot in Pier's and Blake, I was greeted by a plate of FREE tiny muffins, an energetic bartender and a well-priced, cold Stella Artois. To go with my Stella were onion rings so good my taste buds couldn’t even comprehend what they were dealing with. With ample space for shows and an atmosphere that smacks you with a fist full of hipster-ism, Pier’s and Blake is a bar worth getting to know.

Although it doesn’t seem like much of a stretch to put this place at #1, there’s a logical method to my choice. First of all, the Utica Club at The Electric Company is always crisp, cold and served with just the right amount of foam… or in a can, because cans are cool, too. Secondly, the shows at The Electric Company are almost always raging, a huge plus if you’re a fan of the Utica music scene. Lastly, there’s a wide variety of beers that can please almost anyone, including the condescending beer-snob.