Corner Social

So I had a meeting in the neighborhood and was looking for a spot to grab lunch & a drink. I initially sought out a few other places that were physically closer, but upon getting to them, the vibe did not seem copacetic towards outside patrons. So I ventured a little further until I came upon Corner Social. It was precisely what I was looking for.

The outside patio hardly even seemed “outside”, by pandemic standards. They did an excellent job of segregating it from the sidewalk traffic & passerby pedestrians. To the point where it almost felt like I was dining inside.

The altered entrance is a little hard to find (a bit down 126th) and because of that fact, the staff doesn’t always see incoming patrons. I had stood at the gated entrance for a short while before the hostess noticed me. But when she did, she checked my temperature (all good) and gave me hand sanitizer before entering. It wasn’t too crowded at lunchtime, so I was able to sit where I wanted.

The music was blaring, but not overpowering. In fact, it set the mood for my entire experience. My server, Joe, approached me soon enough & was very helpful about my draft beer inquiry. I live in the neighborhood, and spots that can boast such an extensive beer list around here are few and far between. If you’re a beer connoisseur, you should definitely check theirs out.

I had the “Harlem Goddess” salad, which is Mediterranean with feta cheese & lamb lollipops. I requested it without onions, but it still came out with some; it’s not an allergy for me so wasn’t that big a deal, but the chef should be weary of such exclusions for patrons who might have allergies. Nonetheless, it was a tasty and satisfying protein-rich lunch that I would order again.

Although I had initially planned to just grab a quick bite and head out, the atmosphere & great service induced me to stay on longer & drink more than I really should midday. Joe was personable & friendly, to the point where I felt like I had been coming here for years. Because of him, I will definitely be returning soon.

Bottom Line: Great beer list & atmosphere, with even better service. Cheers!