Bar of the Week: J-BIRD on the Upper East Side of NYC

We choose J-Bird on the Upper East Side of New York City for our "Bar of the Week" where it's all about the cocktails. In fact, many guests of J-Bird stop by for the creative mixes that have earned them a great reputation. They also serve a nice selection of wine beer, and a well-rounded food menu. This unique spot is a real getaway on 75th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues and convenient to the Yorkville neighborhood. You can stop by their bar area at the entrance or make you way to open and welcoming lounge where there are plenty of table and booths options for friendly get-togethers, date night or after work drinks.

Their "Live Large and in Charge" menu is perfect to share with friends and sweethearts and includes the Sadie Hawkins Sling ($28) a smooth tropical bourbon drink. And if that's not enough, try one of their "Punch. Drunk. Love." selections that work for groups of four like their Interlocuteur ($48) with white rum and banana liqueur.

J-Bird has the best Moscow Mutt ($12) around and we love their Honey-Nut Old Fashioned ($14) with roasted peanut bourbon. And, their signature J-Bird Swizzle ($13) is a truly unique mix with jasmine flower rum.

When you visit J-Bird, don't stop with drinks. There's a nice selection of food choices that pair well with beverages. Small plates, sandwiches and snacks may have you ordering a second round. We like their "Bar Bites" like the Savory Popcorn ($8) with avocado, cholula, lime and cilantro. And, try the Pulled Pork Sliders ($15) served with coleslaw and their rosemary. We suggest that once you visit J-Bird, it will be one of your go-to spots.

JBird is open Monday to Thursday from 5:30 pm to 2:00 am and Friday and Saturday from 5:30 pm to 4:00 am. They are located at 339 East 75th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenues. Call (212) 288-8033 or visit their web site at www.jbirdny.com.

Photo: Courtesy of J-Bird