First Gastropub Opens in Washington Heights

Uptown Social, 186 Dyckman St., is THE first gastropub and sports bar to open in the trendy Washington Heights area of Manhattan. This exciting venue is the latest brainchild of restaurateur Yamil Martinez, the designer of the space as well as the creator of many other popular restaurants in the area, in-cluding Mamajuana Cafe, Mamajuana Sushi, Altus Cafe and Papasito.

"I think of Uptown Social as a modern 'American Bistro'," explains Martinez. "A welcome addition to this ever evolving neighborhood, offering great food at reasonable prices in a sleek, casual setting."

Upon entering Uptown Social, one is bowled over by the super-sized matrix TV at the comfortable bar area that serves a tantalizing variety of original cocktails and exotic "Island" drinks. One is further impressed by the "modern, urban, technical look", a hallmark of Martinez's design background. This is a most inviting atmosphere to savor afriendly-priced gourmet meal employing the freshest of ingredients. Chefs Raul Romero and Fermin Teco's speciality is small and large plates, ideal for sharing, prepared with organic, sustainably grown fruits, vegetables, meats and fish as often as possible.

Owner/designer Yamil Martinez's interest in culinary arts began in his hometown of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. His grandmother's kitchen ignited a teenaged curiosity and natural talent that would fuel a life's career in creative hospitality and design. For over ten years, Martinez has designed and lent his vast knowledge to a wealth of restaurants in Chelsea, the Upper West Side and Washington Heights. Recently, he opened one of the largest nightclubs in Corona, Queens -- Glazz -- featuring a stellar outdoor light show and a state-of-the-art sound system.

Uptown Social is located at l86 Dyckman St., in the heart of Washington Heights/Inwood.

The phone number for reservations and information is 212-304-0244. The restaurant opens at 5PM Monday - Fridayand is open for brunch on the weekends.On the weekends, Uptown Social features live DJs and offers an "Open Mic" on Tuesdays. All major credit cards are accepted, www.uptownsocialnyc.com