Ray's Hometown Bar — Restaurant in New York

So here’s the thing: mistakes happen. They’re an unavoidable part of life. It’s how you respond to mistakes. My bartender was very kind, forgot to ring something in, and he made it right.

Here’s the inconceivably stupid part of this review: I’ve worked in the hospitality industry for almost 25 years, most of those in NYC. I work down the street, on my feet, in hospitality, for 9-11 hours at a time. Tonight I was lucky enough to get out a little early. I walked by Ray’s and there were seats at the bar. I sat at the bar. I got something to eat and drink. I was having a nice time. At 9:35 I was told I needed to give my seat up because the establishment takes the seats out at 10:00. It wasn’t 10. It was 25 minutes before that. This wasn’t a question. It was a command. I, a paying customer, who was enjoying their time sitting down because they work on their feet for huge amounts of time in the SAME INDUSTRY, was told I had to stand up and give up the seat I was sitting in. This is the craziest thing I’ve ever heard of as a guest in the hospitality industry in NYC.

If this is what you want as a business, DON’T PUT SEATS AT THE BAR or figure out how to finesse this.

I still tipped the bartender 30% because it’s not his choice and he is trying to earn a living despite the inappropriate and stupid choices of ownership and management.

I work 300 feet from Ray’s. I could be a consistent guest. But I will assuredly not ever go there again. And you can think to yourself, “Not a problem, we’re in NYC. The people will just keep coming.”. And some people will. But I doubt that I’m the first person who has taken this poorly.

FIGURE OUT A DIFFERENT WAY TO DO THIS. Off the top of my head I can think of a way RIGHT NOW to pull this...

It disappoints me to write my first negative Google review, but my experience at Ray's Bar troubled me enough to do so.

Jeff, the bar manager and ‘the owner’ (possibly Jack Berry) are extremely aggressive and unprofessional in the way they approach and interact with patrons in their establishment.

As a Greenpointer with close friends who grew up in the neighborhood, who has friends with small business in the neighborhood (one less than a stone’s throw away from Ray’s), and who actively supports local Greenpoint businesses - I am saddened that a place that has so much promise, with an incredible staff that I wish to support, would treat its patrons with so little grace.

Greenpoint does not need wealthy, famous, restaurant mogul business owners infiltrating our neighborhood and the incredible close-knit community we have worked to build together if they have no interest in supporting the neighborhood themselves or the people who...

The overall ambiance of Ray's bar was electric and lively, yet never overwhelming. The acoustics were well-balanced, allowing for conversation without sacrificing the enjoyment of the music. The crowd was a diverse mix of locals and tourists, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment where strangers quickly became friends.

In conclusion, my experience at this New York bar was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I walked in, I was immersed in a world of incredible entertainment, expertly crafted cocktails and friendly service. Whether you're a music lover, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a night of unforgettable fun, this bar is an absolute must-visit. I cannot recommend it highly enough, and I guarantee that you'll leave with incredible memories and a desire to return as soon...