The Wayland — Restaurant in New York

This is a pretty long review, so if you want the one sentence synopsis skip to the bottom!

I am super delayed in posting this review, but let me tell you this place is amazing!

I walked in unannounced, not knowing what to expect. I was organizing a birthday gathering for my girlfriend and she had said that she wanted to try out The Wayland b/c she had read some reviews about this new place opening and thought it seemed like it would be a nice atmosphere w/ great drinks - SHE WAS SPOT ON!

I cannot speak highly enough of the The Wayland. Here are the specific reasons why anyone and everyone should go to The Wayland, which is the perfect spot in East Village for planned gatherings of larger groups, a low-key evening knocking a few back with your buddies, or an intimate setting to share a meal and a few delicious cocktails with someone special:

-amazing cocktails - they really are as good as they sound / look on The Wayland's website, and most of them are even better!

-quiet setting + great atmosphere, with shockingly friendly customers (considering we are in NYC)

-the owners + bartenders are unbelievable - they very carefully prepare each and every drink, it is the highest bartender to customer ratio of any bar I've been to in NYC (and that is no small number), and they are exceptionally friendly (b/c they are so heavily staffed w/ competent, no actually highly skilled, bartenders I was able to hold many great conversations with them throughout the course of the night).

-Location: this is the perfect place location-wise b/c it is slightly outside of the craziness of East Village (for those people who sometimes want a degree of separation from the wasted, college-kid scene just a few blocks away, but close enough to both the subway and the heart of college-kid East Village that it is convenient for everyone to get to and easy for a late-night migration to a more clubby/ dance-scene type of bar if you want the drunken late night dance party).

One last thing I have to add to this RAVE review of The Wayland: I mentioned how amazing the bartenders and owners are, but I would be remiss if I did not comment on how generous and kind they are as well. While I can't promise or purport that they will repeat these efforts, I can say that for my girlfriend's birthday party they were SO KIND as to (FOR FREE) provide the plates and silverware for a cake I had bought, and even put candles in it and brought it out from the kitchen when I asked them to later in the night

BOTTOM LINE: GO TO THE WAYLAND FOR ANY AND ALL TYPES OF SOCIAL GATHERINGS IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AMAZING DRINKS + FRIENDLY BARTENDERS, A GREAT ATMOSPHERE, CONVENIENT LOCATION, AND...

The Wayland, located in the vibrant Alphabet City of East Village, New York, is a place where the art of mixology and the joy of gastronomy meet. This bar is a haven for those seeking an experience that transcends the ordinary, offering a blend of immaculate cocktails, expectation-surpassing food, and an ambience that is both welcoming and exciting.

The Wayland's cocktail menu is a testament to their commitment to craft, with drinks that are as delightful to the palate as they are to the eye. The 'Garden Variety Margarita' and 'I Hear Banjos' are just a few examples of their unique offerings, each with their own distinct flavour profiles that are sure to impress even the most discerning cocktail enthusiasts. The 'Smoked & Roasted' cocktail, a mezcal and pineapple-infused drink, is a local favorite.

But the Wayland isn't just about drinks. The food here is so good it almost outshines the cocktails. While the menu may not be extensive, each dish is crafted with care and precision.

The Wayland is also known for its lively atmosphere. Despite attracting an older crowd, the bar is fun for all ages. The open-air seating is perfect for a hot summer day. The bar also doubles as a live music venue, adding another layer of entertainment to your visit.

The staff at The Wayland deserves a special mention. They are not just bartenders, but friends to the patrons, often doubling as therapists. Their friendly and attentive service is a big part of what makes The Wayland such a beloved spot in NYC.

The Wayland is more than just a bar. It's a place where memories are made, where every visit is a unique experience, and where the drinks and food are always sure to impress. Whether you're a local or a visitor, The Wayland is a must-visit when in...

Rustic is sexy. And the Wayland oozes with it. This is now my new favorite bar in all of New York. I was designated as a happy hour organizer and found this place- Again. Turns out, I had been here before, and didn't even realize it til I was crossing the street towards it.

Last year, I was there for a group bar hopping scheme, which turned out to be very anti-climactic since we stayed there for hours. As an old hilarious companion pointed out, "this is the slowest bar crawl ever." We were there during the afternoon, and the feel is completely different. I suppose it's just not my thing to be at a bar during daylight; that's what brunch is for- to make us all feel better about drinking in the noon time. I prefer the Wayland's night setting with the candles flickering against the wooden tables.

A couple of weeks ago, I returned foolishly thinking I had discovered the equivalence of America. I missed dining at Animal, and opted for some $1 oysters as a precursor for dinner. The oysters were super fresh and my mostly legitimate vegetarian friend enjoyed them too. Don't judge. We all have our off days.

I was recommended the margarita to start, but I ended up ordering another of it because it was too deliciously made. The spice rimmed glass added the right amount of salty kick needed to accompany my well-balanced drink. It was an elevated version of what a typical margarita would be.

I'd recommend bringing your date here: someone you've been dying to take out. This bar will impress with your exquisite taste, and offer you a main course of intimacy that you've been craving.

I couldn't understand it then, but I get it now. You come into the Wayland, and you realize there's no other place...