Lucy’s a.k.a. Blanche’s Tavern

Bars, Dive bars East Village
4 out of 5 stars
(3user reviews)
Lucy's a.k.a Blanche's Tavern
Lucy's a.k.a Blanche's Tavern

The nice lady with the blond wig and penciled eyebrows is Lucy. Alphabet City residents of all ages shoot pool on the two worn tables and select tunes from a jukebox that features Paul Stanley and Stan Yankovic (the polka king). Come at night for lively atmosphere; in the light of day, the place seems more like Harry Hope’s Last Chance Saloon.

Posted:

Venue name: Lucy’s a.k.a. Blanche’s Tavern
Contact:
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Address: 135 Ave A
New York
10009
Cross street: between St. Marks Pl and E 9th St
Opening hours: 6pm–4am
Transport: Subway: L to First Ave; 6 to Astor Pl
Price: Average drink: $4. Cash only
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LiveReviews|3
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tastemaker

Lucy's is a legend. The owner, Lucy, still mans the bar and though she's brusque, no one cares because you're getting $4 beers and she's in her 70's.


I'm partially biased, because I met my boyfriend here (which makes Lucy's that much better), but if you appreciate a good dive, this place is a must. 


Plus, they have pool tables. Boom. 

tastemaker

Lucy's is the most authentic bar I've visited since moving to NYC. It's not trying to be anything other than what it is, and that's perfect. Yes, the exterior can trick you into thinking that the bar isn't actually open, but Lucy's is a great dive nonetheless. Spending the night here almost guarantees you a great story to bring with you to work on Monday, and the drinks are priced so that you can routinely visit for Happy Hour and won't break the bank.


People bitch about how much the East Village has changed, but a lot of venues on Avenue A look a lot like they did 20 years ago when I first got to NYC—least of all Lucy's. The beers are cheap, the bathrooms are kinda gross and the crowd is an awesome mix of old-school East Villagers, Eastern European immigrants and slumming college students. Don't let the creepy exterior fool you. There vibe here is almost always friendly and relaxed; it's one of the least pretentious dives you'll find below 14th Street.