Beers, Burgers and Buns Experience

If you’re looking to get a taste of New York City beyond the usual landmarks, the Beers, Burgers and Buns Experience offers a fun, laid-back way to explore the East Village. This tour blends a bit of history, a whole lot of local flavor, and some well-earned drinks, making it appealing whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even a small group. We’ve seen plenty of reviews, and it seems to hit the right notes for most—especially those craving authentic spots and stories rather than just the tourist trail.

Two things we particularly like? First, the chance to visit three distinct local bars with a knowledgeable guide who shares stories that bring the neighborhood’s past and present to life. Second, the variety of food and drink—burger, chicken sandwich, and craft beers—are a great way to satisfy your hunger and thirst while soaking up the neighborhood’s vibe. The only caveat? The tour runs about 2 hours and costs $65, which is a fair grab for what you get but might feel a tad quick if you’re a foodie wanting more time at each spot.

This experience is best suited for adventurous eaters, history buffs, or anyone who enjoys small-group tours with a personal touch. If you’re someone who appreciates local stories, a cold drink, and a good burger, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just keep in mind, it’s not a full-blown pub crawl—more of a relaxed stroll with tastings—so if you’re hoping for a marathon night, you might want to plan additional stops afterward.

Key Points

• Authentic Neighborhood Vibe: The tour offers real insight into East Village’s history and culture.
• Multiple Stops: Visit three unique bars and two dining spots, with food and drinks included.
• Knowledgeable Guide: The host shares engaging stories, making the experience more than just tasting.
• Balanced Experience: Combines casual walking, history, and local flavors without feeling rushed.
• Great for Solo Travelers & Small Groups: The intimate size fosters good conversation and connection.
• Affordable Price: At $65 per person, it’s a solid value for a quick, memorable experience.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point in East Village

Your journey kicks off at 29 3rd Ave, a great spot in the heart of the East Village. Here, you’ll get a quick overview of what’s to come, and the guide will set the tone with some neighborhood stories. This initial stop is more about setting the scene than sitting down for a long chat—expect around 30 minutes to meet your group, get oriented, and start your adventure.

McSorley’s Old Ale House

Your first real stop is McSorley’s, the oldest bar in New York, dating back to 1857. Walking into this historic tavern feels like stepping back in time—wood-paneled walls, vintage photos, and a no-frills vibe. It’s famous for its simple, high-quality ale and has seen its share of history unfold, from Prohibition to countless century-old stories. The reviews rave about the guide’s storytelling here; one reviewer calls it “especially great hearing about the history,” which adds depth to the experience.

Vazacs (7B Horseshoe Bar)

Next, you’ll head to a local’s-only bar with Hollywood connections—Vazacs. It’s a cozy, unpretentious spot where locals gather. The guide will share tales about the neighborhood and the bar’s background, which many visitors find surprisingly charming. Expect about 30 minutes here, soaking up the atmosphere and chatting with your guide.

Alphabet City Beer Co.

Your final stop is a craft beer bar that also offers a nice wine selection, making it a flexible spot for different tastes. Here, you’ll probably enjoy some tastings of local brews or wines, giving you a taste of the area’s vibrant beverage scene. The reviews emphasize the bar’s good selection, and some guests appreciated the relaxed vibe as the tour wraps up. This last leg usually takes around 30 minutes, leaving you with time to socialize or continue exploring on your own.

Food and Drink: What’s Included?

You won’t go hungry or thirsty during this tour. At two of the stops, you’ll be treated to delicious burgers and chicken sandwiches, all sourced from local eateries. One review mentions “a burger and chicken sandwich,” and many appreciate the quality of the food, noting that it’s “tasty” and satisfying. Drinks include cold beers and wine, chosen to complement the food and keep the mood lively.

The value here is clear—at $65, you’re getting a handful of well-curated tastings, a couple of drinks, and stories that make each stop special. While some reviews note that the tour itself is somewhat shorter and less exhaustive than a full pub crawl, the focus on quality and local flavor makes it worthwhile. One guest summed it up as “worth it,” especially highlighting the host’s knowledge and friendliness.

The Guide: What Sets It Apart

The reviews consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and personality. One guest described the host as “very engaging,” sharing love for good food and drinks, and weaving humor into the tour. Another review highlights the guide’s storytelling about McSorley’s, making history come alive. It’s this personal touch that elevates what could be a simple bar crawl into a memorable experience.

The group size is capped at 12, which means you’ll get more attention, better interaction, and a cozy vibe. This intimacy helps everyone feel involved and encourages conversations among fellow travelers, making it a good choice for solo visitors who want new friends or small groups seeking a relaxed outing.

How It Compares to Other Experiences

Compared to other NYC tours, this experience keeps things casual and approachable. It’s not about rushing through landmarks but savoring local flavors, stories, and atmosphere. It’s a good alternative if you want to avoid the typical tourist traps and instead experience the authentic East Village scene. While some guests felt it could be a bit more extensive, most agree that the combination of history, food, and drinks hits the right balance for a quick, enjoyable outing.

Price & Value

At $65 per person, this tour offers a good bang for your buck. You get multiple tastings, drinks, and stories, all within a couple of hours. Given the personalized approach and the historic, local spots visited, it feels like honest value—especially if you’re interested in a mix of history, casual drinking, and bites.

Some reviews note that it’s not a full-fledged pub crawl, so if you’re looking for a late-night drinking spree, you’ll want to add on more stops afterward. But for a laid-back, immersive experience that’s manageable in time and cost, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, history buffs, and those who enjoy small-group outings. It’s particularly good if you want to explore the East Village’s hidden gems without the hassle of planning visits to multiple bars yourself. It’s also great for solo travelers who want some company and local stories, or couples looking for a relaxed, fun evening.

If you’re after a whirlwind night or a deep dive into multiple neighborhoods, you might find this tour a little light. But if your goal is to enjoy quality bites, interesting stories, and local drinks in a friendly setting, you’ll probably find a lot to like.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but satisfying experience.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get to visit three bars and two dining spots, with food and drinks included—namely burgers, chicken sandwiches, beers, and wine.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers enjoying the company and stories, and the small group size helps foster a friendly atmosphere.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 12, which keeps things intimate and engaging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly mentioned, it’s generally geared towards adults interested in drinks and food, so it’s probably not ideal for children.

In the end, the Beers, Burgers and Buns Experience offers a laid-back, engaging way to see a slice of NYC that many visitors overlook. You’re not just drinking; you’re walking through history, tasting local flavors, and chatting with a guide who genuinely loves the neighborhood. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of East Village’s authentic spirit without the fuss, making it a memorable addition to any NYC itinerary.