The Neil Porter Team · Compass

Home / Neil Recommends / Lua Loves

Lua Loves · Upper West Side

The Upside Bar

A dog-friendly neighborhood hang

Neil Porter with Lua on his lap at The Upside Bar, a ballgame on the TV behind them
The Upside Bar588 Amsterdam Avenue, between 88th and 89th Streets, New York, NY 10024Monday to Saturday from 4:30pm, Sunday from 2pm; open until 1 or 2am · 917-261-6842

We weren't specifically seeking a dog-friendly bar when we first stopped in at the sports-ish Upside Bar. Then again, we are pretty much always on the hunt for places we can bring our dog. So when we noticed various dogs roaming and lounging around like they owned the place, we knew we would be back. The friendly vibe and yummy bar snacks (pigs in a blanket, White Castle sliders…) sealed the deal.

On one visit, the bartender let our toddler play with some of the toys meant as decorations, even though I was wincingly half-hoping he'd say no! (She didn't break anything. A miracle.) Prime activities at The Upside seem to be sitting or standing around chatting with friends, watching sports and, apparently, trivia night. Just a nice, easy hang.

When the bar snacks are no longer sufficient to soak up the suds, you can order in from the surrounding restaurants; Lua and I happily recommend both Tanpura (Indian, delicious!) and Bodrum Mediterranean Kitchen (yum!).

Neil Porter
Neil PorterThe Neil Porter Team · Compass