Pioneers Bar NYC — Restaurant in New York

Embarking on an adventure to "Pioneers" in New York City, I found myself gathered with a bunch of actors, there to toast a fellow student's birthday. From the moment I crossed its threshold, and the (not-so-happy-looking) security guy, the venue promised an escapade as animated and spirited as the company I was in. Pioneers, a sports/game bar that prides itself on an eccentric blend of amusement and libation, is an enclave of fun in the city's bustling heart.

With decor ranging from the whimsy of Alice in Wonderland's rabbits to the notorious charm of Frank Sinatra's mugshot - this is Pioneers. The decor, an eclectic mix of fantasy and reality, sets a stage that encourages guests to shed their external worries and dive headfirst into the carefree revelry that defines the place.

The air at Pioneers is thick with anticipation - of the next laugh, the next game, the next impeccably crafted drink. Speaking of libations, they are, quite frankly, a bartender's poetry in motion. Each concoction, a testament to the bartender's mastery, is mixed with a precision that suggests not just skill, but a genuine passion for the craft. It's this dedication to perfection that infuses every sip with an unmistakable sense of joy and abandon.

But, be warned: the tranquility of this spirited haven can be abruptly pierced by the clamor of brick Jenga games. The tumbling of each block, reminiscent of a gunshot, serves as a jolting reminder of the world beyond Pioneers' whimsical walls. It's a curious blend of exhilaration and momentary alarm that somehow adds to the venue's unique charm.

Pioneers, with its vibrant atmosphere, extraordinary decor, and cocktails crafted to perfection, is more than just a bar; it's a sanctuary for those seeking refuge from the mundane. The sounds of laughter, the clinking of glasses, and even the startling crash of Jenga bricks create a symphony that celebrates life in its most unguarded moments.

In essence, Pioneers is not merely a place you visit; it's an experience you live. It's where stories unfold, friendships strengthen, and memories are etched. Whether you're a local or just passing through, whether you come with a band of actors or a group of friends, Pioneers promises an escape into a world where fun reigns supreme. It's a destination I eagerly anticipate returning to, ready to dive back into the carefree jubilation that pulsates...

Pioneers of New York, meet the Pioneers Bar.

A few blocks away from the FIT and the 1 line lies a lonely bar with pinball machines, alcohol, and the adult Jenga blocks.

Mind you, I don't do many bar nights, but this one that I have gone to is much different than that of your sports bar, or your night club, or even your corner tavern. Pioneers is a small place to look at in the front, but delving in, you will find yourself a large playing ground for the inebriated, a comfortable couch or two, several tables for those who need to dine, and common entertainment such as the television or the music.

The venue for the drinks, nothing special, nothing amazing. It doesn't have blue moon, period. I wouldn't really say, go for the the drinks and stay for the television, no this is more of a bar where you socialize and bring friends to socialize.

Now, those adult Jenga blocks I mentioned, It's quite awesome. Do you remember building blocks in pre-school? You build one thing, another person builds another, and somewhere along the lines of building, you reach for the last piece and then you realize that person who's also building has more blocks? Well, what happens afterwards is similar, but rather than fighting and making up after nap time, you collaborate and have a drink instead. It's like making friends the way we used to. Oh, by the way, the blocks are actually huge, not those tiny tooth picks from Parker Brothers.

The decor is nice, relax, and dark. It sets a suave mod, which is killed by the terrible music. Not all the time, just sometimes.

Service is ok, they're not bad, and not good. I am pretty neutral about these guys.

There's also a stage, so if you want to dance or sing, go for it!...

The bartenders were negligent and had unwarranted negative attitudes. There was a short male bartender flirting with a woman (who's boyfriend was right there) the whole time i'm waiting to order a drink, didn't acknowledge me at all. So a woman takes my order and i finally get my drink with the most offensive tasting alcohol i've ever tasted, most likely the cheapest alcohol present. So i order another without any alcohol. So whatever, not a big deal. After a while of sitting there and being ignored, I ask for my check. The short man comes back with the wrong tan and it's cheaper than what my order was originally, after trying multiple times to get his attention to solve my issue i FINALLY was able to tell him (most people wouldn't, clearly i shouldn't have). He and the other bartender, a tall man, give each other a sly look like "hey more money for us", which i found offensive. So he goes to fix it, proceeds to come back and ask me for my card again, so that i can pay extra for his mistake of course, and i'm hesitant because i don't want to get wrongfully charged (spoiler alert, I WAS). So not only was i treated poorly and charged extra (somehow 3 times) but afterward i sign and set it down, i was so tempted to not tip but i felt guilty, tipped 2 dollars, the short man has the AUDACITY to check my tip IN FRONT OF ME immediately after. Incompetent staff, bad drinks, bad vibes. Unfortunately, cool concept for a bar but poorly staffed. Oh and i called three times now and they pick up and...