Brandy's Piano Bar

Super cute piano bar on the upper east side. Reasonably priced drinks too. Only downside is that it's a very small and intimate venue so it could get crowded very quickly.

On a recent trip to NY, my friend pitched the idea of going to Brandy's, and WOW am I happy I picked this for our Saturday evening! It was a PHENOMENAL evening! Live music starts at 9:30 pm, but you'll definitely want to go early to get a seat. My friends and I got there around 8:30 pm and had the pick of almost any table, so we picked a corner table and enjoyed a happy hour drink while we chatted. I will note that if you want to chat, definitely plan to get that done before the music starts, as the decibel level shoots up at 9:30 and talking becomes a no-go. By the time music starts, the place is packed though (and they do enforce the maximum number of people allowed inside), so be prepared to wait outside if you come later in the evening.

Music started, and I immediately knew we were in for a treat. The pianist (John, I believe) was incredible - clearly a master pianist and also great at interacting with the crowd. The music selection was varied, but almost all are songs that most people knew and could sing along to. The musicians all take requests (with tips), but are great about playing popular songs in between requests. Everyone was singing and laughing - impeccable atmosphere!

In addition to the pianist, the waitstaff also sings! The main waitress the night we went (Lauren) sang several songs and was sooooo good! Also, just on a logistical level, she was a GREAT server - took all orders without notes and didn't miss anything, helped people pay quickly, and did it all with loud music and minimal space to move around. A true icon. The bartender (Bobby) also sings wonderfully! Overall, a super fun, unique vibe to have all the staff be performers as well.

There is a two drink minimum after the music starts, but it's easy to hit that since you won't want to leave once the music starts! My friends and I stayed until about midnight and they were still going strong when we left (apparently they keep playing until like 3:00 am!) They do pass a tip jar around (they also take Venmo), but it's honestly not annoying because there is no cover charge for getting in and it's clear that all the musicians [1] are very talented pros, and [2] love what they do and its infectious. The only downside is that the bathroom is TINY and you basically have to stand right up against the people sitting at their tables while you wait to enter the mini-bathroom. Minus that though, couldn't ask for a better time! Can't wait to be back next time I'm in town!

OMG had such an amazing night here! Incredible service with the best waiters and waitresses. Went early, not really knowing the vibe and ended up staying until 1am listening to Dan Pardo playing. Everybody was so funny and laid back and drinks weren't too expensive. Definitely coming back!!

Definitely an Upper East Side staple! We have been coming here for a few months now and it is always so much fun. This is a perfect spot for a date night, girls/guys trip, or a family weekend! The bartenders and performers are always so welcoming and have good energy. The music is always top notch, ranging from Harry Styles to Billy Joel. They also always take requests (and actually play them lol).

Brandy's is more relaxed during happy hour and the party typically starts picking up around 8 or 9. I would recommend arriving around 8 or earlier to snag some seats, but I prefer coming during happy hour because it's a great way to meet people!

If Mario is bartending I recommend asking for his special margarita!

Omg Maria makes you feel like a superstar just being there. Fun vibe and loved singing with Maria

One of my favorite spots in NY! I have been here multiple times, and the staff and customers are all so friendly. It's always a good time

Been there several times. First on the waiting que line. People behind us gave door man $. They were admitted before us. Be prepared to pay door man to get in. Horrible

12/10 - incredible live music! All staff are also singers and take recommendations for songs. The drinks were lovely too and the vibe was spot on.

Brandys is so great I wrote this poem for it.

On the Upper East Side, there lies a bar so fine,
You can find it at night if you look in time.
The music is great, you don't have to choose,
The Bartenders perform, it's never a snooze.

The music is loud and the drinks are flowing,
The happy hour is fun and relaxing.
The Barkeeps are friendly, they make you feel good,
The few times we've gone, we can't help but come back for more.

If you're looking for a cocktail that's just right,
Brandys is the best, it's worth the night.
Happy hour is the time to be there and sing,
You'll never forget the night at Brandys.

Have you heard about Brandy's?

Brandy's is a must visit for anyone that not only lives in the Upper East Side, but all of NYC. The ambiance and incredible hospitality makes this a go to spot any night of the week.

If you enjoy live broadway quality vocals and delicious drinks - this is the spot to be.

Make sure to give a friendly wave to Mario and Lauren when you're there!