I resisted coming here for so long because it was in Queens. But the truth is, almost everywhere that is good in Manhattan gets way too crowded (think happy hour at Frying Pan) and this place is a short subway ride from midtown.
The outdoor courtyard is spacious and doesn't get oppressively crowded post-work on the weekdays (weekends can get crowded but IMO not as bad as Manhattan places). The beer garden has a great laid-back vibe where you can hang out with your friends. Many nights they have live music too. Plus the food/drink prices are much better than Manhattan too!
The last time I went there were some changes that were annoying. I don't know if this is a temporary thing, but there were girls roving the tables selling shots. They were pretty persistent too (for instance, when we said no thank you she started questioning how much we had drank, saying we weren't drinking enough) and by the fifth time they came to our table it was just downright annoying.
There was also a bathroom attendant in the womens bathroom... this isn't a club??!!
I noticed they also started doing bag checks too... wonder if it 's a sign of times to come?
Anyway, despite the minor annoyances, I still highly recommend this place!
Pros: Outdoor courtyard, prices
Cons: Shot girls, Bathroom attendant
more