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Early Terrible

4.2 (114 reviews)

Early Terrible Photos

EARLY TERRIBLE ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Casual
Moderate noise
Dogs allowed
Outdoor seating

Recommended Reviews - Early Terrible

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Reviews With Photos

Outside
Skye P.

Treehousey disco witch vibe cocktail bar just east of Tinker street. No food, but the mud club next door has food on weekends (apparently). The inside and outside are different worlds, both great. Outside in the late afternoon felt like a place out of the shire, the inside felt like a forest witchy disco funk club. The bartenders were knowledgeable and fun and made us a mocktail/non-alcoholic cocktail despite not having one on the menu (I'm sober, partner is not). It was great and they were excited to try it out which is always a good feeling too. Would absolutely go back!

Stephanie C.

Fun atmosphere, great drinks, decent prices, friendly & helpful bartenders. What more can you ask for. Stopped in after dinner on our visit to the area and our group had a great time bopping around inside near the bar and outside in the various nooks and crannies, like the swings. It felt like a speakeasy/tiki bar set in a treehouse or pirate ship.

Night Flow: (Lychee Martini/Maker's)
Mercedes C.

If your idea of climbing up into a treehouse will most likely bring to mind a stretch of nostalgia of your childhood years, then Early Terrible on Mill Hill Rd in Woodstock might be for you. The design gives off 'treehouse' vibes- but don't worry- you seriously aren't climbing one. The large outdoor gravel area looks like you're in a forest. There are pergolas adorned with tree branches, lots of seating tucked away- even for a crisp Sunday night, sitting outside was cozy. Since we just grabbed some bites a door down, coming here to wrap up our weekend was in order. You'll notice the small u-shaped bar, the 2 large sofas, more seating by the wall and their disco ball. Don't be concerned about booking- there's no such thing, just come as you are, grab a seat if you can indoors or find slate, a wooden bench or chair to sit on outside. The menu is strictly on cocktails- but, there's a nice tapas selection. I was jiving to 80s pop- but speak up when you're ordering inside, because the music is louuuud- for the small space. Their Lychee Martini called me and hubs had the Maker's on the rocks. Great lychee taste on mine but for the $18 price tag, I expected strength. Service from the young gals making drinks was nice- just wished they had a better hand. I'd return because the energy is fun- but I'd also speak up on cocktail strength. Early T. might be the ideal off-the-grid and adult fairytale hideaway.

Mezcal Penicillin & Smoke Signals ($19)
Ameya B.

On a relatively cold Saturday afternoon, we decided to checkout Early Terrible for their specialty cocktails. Their setup is very unique and the place has major wintery vibes! Lots of outdoor seating with fireplace in and around seating - enough to keep you warm enough as you enjoy their spirit forward cocktails. We ordered the Mezcal Penicillin ($17) and Smoke Signals ($19) both mezcal based cocktails which were prepared by, one of the most stunning and attractive bartenders / cocktail mixers. They do tend to get busy, so your cocktails do take a while to get ready, but the pretty looking ladies keep you occupied at the bar! Cocktails though are absolutely amazing and have a serious punch and flavor to it. We spent close to two hours at this location and there was enough for our toddler to be occupied with as well, including three swings at the entrance of this establishment. Highly recommended and will definitely visit again!

Brianna D.

Amazing cocktails, music, decor, vibes, service, and location! Perfect place to go after dinner. Great house music on Saturday nights.

salmon crostini
Kevin L.

This was one of the few bookmarks I'd prioritized visiting during our recent vacation to Vermont and Woodstock. Three entirely independent coworkers had suggested Early Terrible when I mentioned I was taking a road trip up north. It's clear that word's gotten out about this den of debauchery. Having recently seen the touring production of Moulin Rouge, I especially appreciated sipping on my perfectly executed mezcal penicillin while gazing at the casual outdoor disco ball through the heat haze of the fire pit we'd parked ourselves next to. Between the Euro-pop music pumping through the sound system, the soothing gingery spice of my cocktail, and the mild eye-watering smoke rising from the blaze, I could have very well been in Bohemian Paris. Our drinks were superb -- easily on par with many of the most vaunted cocktail lounges in the city. We also sampled the salmon crostini, because the croquettes we wanted were sadly unavailable. They don't come cheap, but the portion is very substantial; one order is enough to serve as an entrée for one or a generous snack for two. I was also pleasantly impressed and surprised at the diversity of clientele. We showed up around 630pm on a Thursday evening and I observed representation across many ethnicities, genders, ages, and sexualities (ahem, that would be us). There were families toting both elders and stroller-bound babies, someone had an extremely shaggy dog in tow, a few couples (again, of varying ages), and an entire Asian household arrived as we were leaving. It was certainly the most vibrant cast of characters we'd encountered since leaving Manhattan. As J was closing out our tab, I wandered outside for fresh air. A few steps away from the door, I unexpectedly encountered a warm glow. It turns out that heat lamps were camouflaged among the tree branches adorning the deck seating; I hadn't even noticed them from afar, because they blended in so well to the decor. That's even more enticement to bundle up and return later on in the fall for the steamy Halloween festivities! This is definitely one stop I wouldn't want to miss when passing through the area. I'd be surprised if there's anything quite like Early Terrible within a fifty mile radius. After all, it's not everyday one gets served luscious libations by a vegan pole dancer while enjoying a campfire at sunset.

Erin C.

What a vibe! A must-visit when in Woodstock. You can hang out during the day, and at night they serve wood-oven pizza til a certain time along with other items on the menu. Absolutely love the decor of the trees intertwined in the structure of the bar making it feel like you're in the scene of Hobbitland in New Zealand somewhere. There is bar seating as well as little nooks and crannies and two big couches. The outdoor seating is plentiful and is so nice to lounge on a nice day. We only ordered some glasses of wine and enjoyed people-watching while we waited for our dinner reservation to start. Would go back again after-dinner to see what it's like - I'm assuming lively as it was when we left before 8pm.

Simon P.

A very vibrant bar that gives the vibe of Woodstock without reservation. The inside is a more dimmed setting with a large bar area. I was there during a fall day and decided to just have a beer in the outdoors area. Great music and good selection of beers!

Jessica H.

This place is the perfect vibe!! We sat outside the whole time at two different table set ups. There was a open fire ring near us, music and delicious cocktails. We were able to order a delicious brick oven pizza from The Mud Club next door and sit to eat it. There were so many options for sitting. There is so much to look at. We will definitely be back.

Beautiful atmosphere
Jerrod B.

We were exposed to Early Terrible via a TikTok recommendation. When we arrived, we weren't sure we were at the right location. Many people were outside in little nooks and casual seating. There was a bar outside serving beer and wine, and a full service bar indoors. Inside the atmosphere was dark, sultry, and inviting. The bartenders did a great job engaging with the patrons and the drinks were divine. Try the Hog Race with black truffle infused Hendricks Gin, it's delicious!

Marietta C.

If you're looking for a chill place to have an awesome drink (or probably two) in the coolest spot in Woodstock, Early Terrible is where it's at! Community, people, rustic, artsy, fireplaces and furry friends. This is what Early Terrible is all about. With the purchase of an alcoholic beverage and a food item, you can grab a seat during the day or night at one of their many outdoor fires. Perfect spot to social distance and hang out. If you come with friends or are looking to have a good time and meet new friends this place is great. The vibes are everything and I'm absolutely obsessed with their outdoor space. Just wow. All the Woodstock feels. Great spot. Great drinks. Great people.

Awesome patio
Joi B.

Spoiler Alert: this business does NOT live up to its name. Not a single terrible thing about it. Early? I suppose they open early enough for a bar (day drinking is def a thing in Woodstock). I love how Early Terrible is tucked back there from the main street like a precious secret. In fact we walked by a couple times over the past year and didn't realize a bar was back there until just recently. Picture a "campus of cool," where a beautifully landscaped area separates the bar, Early Terrible from a treehouse that houses The Mud Club, a coffeehouse. We had our first cocktail in a bar here this past Saturday... since March, you know, right before the stuff hit the fan. I absolutely love the ambiance, which totally reminds me of a refined Pandora - the World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom (minus the otherworldly creatures, of course). And that's a huge compliment because that is one of the most brilliant things I've ever seen. Indoors is cave-like, but it opens to a wrap-around deck/patio area. There is also a back area with tables and umbrellas. We ordered up two drinks (felt almost foreign to be doing this, gotta say!) a mojito and mezcal mule, expertly mixed by a really nice bartender and sat outside. There is a very limited food menu, but no vegan options, sadly. Prices may give some pause, about $15 bucks a pop. That's OK, though as I look at this place as something out of the ordinary, the perfect place to stop for a drink and to feel like you're in some kind of fantasyland. You might expect to see some kind of nymph peeking out around the corner, not gonna lie. I imagine the nighttime vibe is just as, if not more, magical.

Beer Taps
J. Alexis C.

What a whimsical and magical place! The hubby and I went for some drinks and felt like we walked into a fantastical place. The outside was definitely the place to be where you could sit around a fire pit at night or hang out in unique sitting areas. The bar had a spooky witchy vibe and the most unique bar tap I've ever seen. Their drink menu was imaginative and they also offered some food which we didn't try because we had just come from dinner. Service was ok. The bartenders were fun to watch when making drinks but weren't overly friendly but allowed us to keep to ourselves. The inside area was warm and inviting and looked like someone's basement house with leather couches, lamps and low lighting. Very very cool!

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2 years ago

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2 years ago

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1 year ago

They are closed - I really wish we were able to get a chance to visit before the closure . The place looks lovely .

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2 years ago

Lovely ambiance. Great hidden place to escape for a cocktail and a bite to eat. A new favorite.

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2 years ago

Cocktails were great and the show put in by the bartenders even better I'd love to go back.

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4 years ago

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Ask the Community - Early Terrible

Small Talk

Small Talk

4.5
(19 reviews)
0.2 mi

The best bar in Woodstock…read more I wish I could be a first time patron at small talk again, to relive the excitement I felt when I realized this would be my new favorite bar. I moved from Chicago and was looking for a new place to go get drinks after work. Tried many places until someone mentioned small talk to me. I tried the last word cocktail and it's been my go-to every single time I visit. We have tried the ciders, the flights, the food, cocktails and even asked for off-menu suggestions for shots and drinks and these mixologists get it right every single time. It doesn't matter who's behind that bar, is an all star crew, everyone's so nice, knowledgeable and quick. Shoutout to all of you. The place can get packed, but people move fast, with some patience you will be seated within 30 minutes. The lights are dimmed for more intimacy and with some luck you can go upstairs and see an art exposition on your way to the bathroom. If you want a place to decompress, hang out with friends, meet interesting people and make great memories, just become a regular at small talk :)

Excellent bar in Woodstock, NY. It's a cozy spot that seems to be visited by locals and tourists…read morealike. The server was extremely knowledgeable, and I had a green bean cocktail I never would've imagined would taste that good. They have a small food menu as well, but I didn't get a chance to try that as we were headed to dinner right after.

Photos
Mac and Cheese, yes please!
Mac and Cheese, yes please!
Old fashioned
Old fashioned
Mood

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Mood
Colony

Colony

4.2
(58 reviews)
0.2 mi
$$

I can't review the food, only the venue, staff and drinks and I thought they were all excellent…read more Went to see the amazing Club d'Elf show recently. It was a Thursday so maybe things weren't as busy as normal but we showed up a little early and the back biergarten was open so we got some drinks as it was a nice spring afternoon. The bartender was very friendly and when we attempted to bring our drinks around front she let us know that we had to finish them first. The Venue itself reminded me a bit of the nearby Levon Helm studios in that it's an open space with a balcony overlooking everything and seating and standing room on the base floor. One thing I loved about this show is the sound was great. We sat stage left but the PA was subtly piping the DJ and guitar parts from stage right. It wasn't a huge crowd but people were having a good time with some standing room in front of the bar dancing etc. The bartenders were super attentive and responsive during the performance. I have been to Bearsville, Levon Helm and now Colony and I really feel lucky to have such intimate performance spaces somewhat locally. All of the staff were super friendly. Will be back for sure!

We went for valentines Cupid night and had a great time. The venue itself is very atmospheric and…read moreladies of the night made it even more memorable. Bar was overflowed and took a long time to save everyone, I think no one expected the crowd of that size. Kitchen worked smoothly and food was bar quality but decent. We had a lot of fun and definitely will be back. I took away one star because of the luck of seating. Not enough tables or bar space or any kind of seating for everyone. Only about 50 people who got there at the opening had a chance to get a seat. Others like us lucked out and had to figure out how to eat without a table .

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Club d'Elf
Club d'Elf
Colony
Fun spot!!!

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Fun spot!!!
Sharkie's

Sharkie's

4.7
(136 reviews)
0.2 mi
$$

Cool Meatball Restaurant and store right on Tinker St. It's a combination of restaurant and store…read more The seating and kitchen is on the left side of the store and the store is on the right. I chose take out so I placed my order and then went shopping next door. They had bar seating and tables and one bigger table for larger parties. It's not a huge restaurant. The meatballs are good here. You can get them as a sandwich, with pastas or just meatballs alone. They also have vegan version as well. The store is pretty good. Frozen stuff including their meatballs and lots of other stuff. Hot sauce, chips and more.

really cute spot with so much potential!…read more great service! we sat right at the counter. the house beer was 2 options, and altho i wouldnt order this again, it wasn't bad and the label was cute. i grabbed the sundied tomatoe and chickpea meat(less)balls. i really wanted to like these, but unfortunately they were less than par. they would not stay together, they were too mooshy and fell apart. hopefully they can work on a better biding agent. the flavor was okay. there was plenty of sauce. unfortunately they dont give you bread for the excess sauce. we ordered the bread for the side and i think this was a $6 charge. i guess they figure u can just order the sandwich, but i ordered the bread because there was just so much sauce involved in the meatballs. my date got the regular meatballs and he was pleased. happy to see theres another option for me to try on the menu - the chicken meatballs. would give this place another shot while in town to try them.

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Inside
Inside
Sharkie's
Sharkie's

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Shelter

Shelter

3.9
(33 reviews)
0.1 mi

We were invited by friends to come check out the Shelter at Woodstock…read more First off, when you're driving here, GPS has you turn into a driveway where there's a clothing store. Keep going...we were wondering if we were in the wrong place but the place is in the back! The vibes are warm, rustic, hunting cabin type with wood tables, wood stacked decoratively on the walls and antler type light fixtures. We sat at a table by the wood-fired oven and we loved it. That smoky wood fireplace smell We started with drinks, the guys ordered IPAs on tap...I went for the hot cider with a dash of bourbon. I found it light on the booze but I find that true most places. For an app, we shared a slice of toast topped with burrata. The thing was bigger than I thought. It was good. We decided to all order one of the specials, the short rib dinner with polenta and broccolini. Good Lord was it good. Huge short rib, delicious and tender, with a yummy Malbec Demi-glaze that was delicious. The rib sits on a big portion of polenta --seriously the best I've ever eaten. The broccolini was nice. I can see why they were running out of that dish for the night. Hubby ordered a mousse dessert that he enjoyed. I was too full to eat anymore. Our waiter was amazing with great recommendations and friendly as anything. I definitely recommend!!!!

We had a great time trying out Shelter In Woodstock for the first time while traveling the Hudson…read moreValley. Cozy cabin feel with friendly service by all the staff. I enjoyed the Argentine flare to menu options. We enjoyed some empanadas and a burger!

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Welcome
Welcome
Chocolate, Elevated: (Chocolate Mousse/Strawberries/Orange Zest Whipped Crm)
Chocolate, Elevated: (Chocolate Mousse/Strawberries/Orange Zest Whipped Crm)
Refreshing: (Blackberry Mocktail)

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Refreshing: (Blackberry Mocktail)

Early Terrible - bars - Updated July 2026

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