It's on 1 of my list. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- Cost$3-$5
- SubwayL to 1 Av, 2 min
- Address211 Avenue A, New York
- Health gradeA, city inspection
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
Named after a laundromat that used to occupy the space, Before Drop Off is a dive bar serving the most affordable happy hour deals in the East Village. Offering $3 craft beers and $5 well drinks, you wouldn’t know about the deal without being told because the bar doesn’t have an online presence (the closest thing you’ll find is an instagram page).
From the ambiance and friendly staff to the great beer selection, this feels like a local’s joint through and through. We try to time our visit before the happy hour rush (which is usually after 5pm when people get off work), because the bar gets packed quickly (the happy hour prices are unbeatable).