What's our story?
—

After 14 years, Bar Belly remains a beloved destination for LES locals and travelers alike. From timeless favorites to bold new creations, our house cocktails are lovingly crafted. Being part of a community that has given us so much, we thank you.

We have been described as one big hug.

ABOUT OUR NAME

We opened in 2012 as The Lead Belly. In 2015, the lawyers showed up. The Lead Belly Estate sued us. Blame Kurt Cobain and Nirvana. (Not really — but it adds color to the story.) In 1993, they closed MTV Unplugged with “Where Did You Sleep Last Night?” Widely considered one of the most haunting live performances ever recorded. It made Lead Belly legendary all over again. And once that happened, the name wasn’t just history. It was protected. We were forced to drop the name. The Lead Belly became Bar Belly.

Same bar, same soul, same chaos.