Good Food (check) Great Vibe (check) Order Accuracy (check) I've ordered from this hidden gem multiple times. I usually get the jerk fries. They always have my food ready right on time. I love the consistency and will be going back soon. read more

Side Bar - Bar Area - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

We came here with a 6-person group on a Saturday afternoon, intending to grab a quick round between our friend's wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. We walked in at 5:20, and were joined by maybe 1-2 other people sitting at the bar, so we grabbed a booth -- our first mistake. Service was unacceptably slow -- the waitress didn't come over to get our drink orders for at least 20 mins, and then it was another 20 minutes before we got them. With 1-2 other people in the whole establishment? She must've been new because she wasn't even sure if they had beer on draft. When the cocktails did come, they all had exactly the same garnishment, and were overly sweet: definitely not worth the wait or the $15 price tag. Wouldn't recommend this place. read more

Please note: the happy hour listed on their website is incorrect. My friend and I arrived at approximately 4:15 for happy hour and planned on getting food and drinks. We let the bartender know we were there for happy hour and both selected the same cocktail, one made with henny and champagne (perhaps the bad and boujee? I'm blanking on the name). The bartender proceeded to make both drinks before realizing the bar was out of Hennessy and asked to substitute Crown instead, stating they were "pretty much the same." (Of note: half of the cocktails did feature Hennessy in it, so I was very surprised they were entirely out). It was very awkward to be asked about a substitution when the drink was complete sans that and at no point were we asked if we'd prefer something different, so we reluctantly accepted. The bartender inputted our cocktails into the system and said that the cocktail must be excluded from happy hour, as it was not ringing up at the correct price. He then stated happy hour was from 5 pm to 7 pm, which is why the cocktail was ringing up full price. We showed him where it stated on the side bar's own website that happy hour was from "12 pm noon to 7 pm" and he said it must've been a typo on someone's part and that he'd ring his sister (the manager) to confirm that happy hour started at 5 pm and he would not be honouring it. The ambiance was.... fine, but the service and drink quality were so poor that it left an extremely bad taste in my mouth (that wasn't just that cocktail) to pay $15 (after tax) for a subpar cocktail. The only reason we'd been eager to check it out was for the happy hour, but we absolutely will not be returning. If you're looking for a cocktail worthy of that price, go next door to the Vesper for phenomenal food and service. read more

Side Bar - Advertised Happy Hour, as screenshotted at the bar whilst sitting there. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

I have been wanting to come here for a loooong time. I wish I got one of the jerseys chicken wraps cause the bone in the fish one proved painful. The cabbage and jerk chicken in the eggroll was so delicious, full of flavor and a bit of a spicy kick. Their sweet sauce was a great addition. The drinks were flavorful. The staff and other patrons were really friendly. read more

See all

In town visiting, decided the night was too early to end ,ended up at Sidebar, by recommendation. Between the drinks, the amazing food and beyond exceptional staff, I will make sure that this is a must stop place, every visit! read more

Came in for happy hour at 6pm on Friday night, and it was not packed at all which was awesome. There are no "tables" per se, but lots of seating at the bar and then the back is a lounge area with booths--reminded me of a hookah lounge. We took a booth and ordered at the bar, and the staff was super sweet! Our bartender told us that they had a happy hour deal: a jerk chicken and Mac salad dinner with 2 well drinks, all for $10!! I couldn't pass that deal up. I was absolutely starving when I came in after work, so I was really thrilled with this deal. The specialty cocktails were also discounted for happy hour as well. The jerk chicken was really flavorful! It had the perfect amount of sauce--it didn't need too much because it was seasoned to perfection. The mac salad was rich and creamy and went really nicely with the chicken. By the time we left around 9, the bar started filling up, so I imagine the place gets pretty packed at night. Will definitely be back for happy hour! read more

Side Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

Every meal that is prepared is Absolutely Amazing and I have not ever tasted macaroni and cheese so good that I can't get enough of, not ever ! I've also never eaten from anywhere, that everything on the menu is stunning with flavor and fabulous taste ! Please don't ever close down, Side Bar,I love your food! Thank you and I just wish it were more of the portion, for the prices respectfully speaking read more

Found Side Bar after having a bland experience at another place. Side bar saved our Saturday night outing. It was quiet, but early and the energy starting lifting higher after 10pm. Our drinks were on point, and the jerk chicken fries were so flavorful. It's kinda big and can be a neal for 1 person, or shareable with another. We had dinner before we arrived and only ate the fries. We're curious about other dishes. Getting there/finding it is a bit of a chore. Not much parking in the front of it, but plenty of paid parking in the back. In all, it was worth the search/find. Looking forward to returning. read more

Side Bar - Jerk chicken fries - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

This place has a really good vibe with great music always playing. We had lemon drop shots that were made to perfection. I appreciate the friendliness of all of the staff (bartenders and security). Things were a little slow in terms of receiving drinks but we did receive a goodbye shot for the inconvenience which was appreciated. read more

Side Bar - Lemon Drop Shots - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Rochester, New York

New to Rochester and was recommended to this spot for tacos, because it's Tuesday! I did get two fish tacos but also an order of loaded jerk fries. I opted to eat the fries first and have no room right now for the tacos at this moment. When I first opened the box of fries I was casually disappointed because the portioned seemed smaller than what I expected and didn't fill the box all the way. The presentation, the smell, the taste was better than what I had imagined. This dish was amazing and I am NOT disappointed in the least bit. The portion that I thought was too small was actually just enough. I'm fully but not satiated. I didn't even think to take a photo because I dug right in. When I got to the Side Bar, it was 5:30pm and was quiet with only 3 patrons in the restaurant. The waitress, Latifah, greeted me and was very welcoming upon my entrance. I was not happy with the new menu omitting prices and had to keep asking what this or that cost. The place was very nicely put together, very eclectic, and a really good vibe....music was nice and the energy was on point. I'd definitely visit again, I do not drink alcohol but I'm damn sure return for the foodie in me. read more

The first thing that struck me when I entered Sidebar was the incense. The aroma filled the room and hinted at a gloriously, relaxed atmosphere. The space has a nice, open floor plan with a moderately sized bar. A lounge is located around the corner which offers some eclectic booths, a juke box and a flatscreen Artwork abounds featuring several pieces by Mike K. The most striking feature is the rear patio which is as large as the interior and has a firepit and cabana. What a wonderful space to enjoy in the upcoming spring and summer months! Sidebar is no sidekick! This is a wonderful addition to the center city area that caters to buppies, b-boys, baps and bohos. It's also great for the nearby theatre crowd! read more

See all

I'm so happy I decided to order from this establishment. First of all who told y'all it's ok to make food this good and then put it in a box like it's a present, and when someone opens it we get straight back-handed by the delicious smell???? It's criminal! Short ribs=slammin Jerk chicken=somebody momma gettin slapped Mac n cheese=top ten in the sides category for me personally Mac salad=fits well with the meal Jerk sauce=IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN ALL THIS MEANS THE SIDE BAR IS NOT THE SIDE PIECE...ITS THE MAIN SQUEEZE. ***I'll drop pictures when I return for more food, the first batch went to quick**** read more

Ordered the Mac and jerk chicken, mac was okay and chicken was fine but chicken with bbq sauce and no s&p definitely isn't jerk chick. No disrespect would just love to see a real jerk chicken and not grilled chicken with bbq read more

Loving the new addition to the neighborhood! Side Bar is just too cool for school. It's like an R&B, Hip Hop and Reggae version of Lux Lounge. Except they have amazing Jerk Chicken and Mac & Cheese! The atmosphere is very laid back and chill. I've sat at the bar in my past visits and will be checking out the lounge areas in the future. Hopefully we still have a few warm nights left in the season to enjoy the back patio. First off, the food! MY goodness the food is so good. Kinda pricey in comparison to other Caribbean kitchens, but totally worth it! The jerk chicken is divine. I wish they sold that marinade and rub. My taste buds have been spoiled for life. The mac & chese is pretty but perfect for the chicken. The menu probably changes since the items are on a chalkboard behind the bar rather than printed menus. What is actually printed are the cocktail menus at the bar. This is where I complain, specially when there aren't any prices listed. I am not impressed with the "craft cocktails" and think they should go back to the drawing board and train their bartenders thoroughly on how to "craft" them. At $10 a pop, I was expecting more. Instead I got each drink served in a rock glass WITH ICE. If I was ordering a spirit "on the rocks"...sure. But a cocktail? At least pour it in an old fashioned glass. I tried 2 of the Golden Girls Henny martinis and were again served in a rock glass WITH ice. *insert facepalm here* After speaking to a couple of friends, they informed me that in their experiences, only one of the bartenders can make the drinks properly. FOr now, I'll stick to beer. The beers I saw on display were red stripe, the kind, heineken and some genny options. They probably have more, but those are the only ones I remember. Side Bar, please train your bartenders! I love this place too much and want to see you thrive! read more

See all

Their food is wonderful and does not lack in taste. The only problem I have is the portion size does not add up with the prices, I feel it should a little bit more especially when it comes to the sides read more

Great food love it every time I can eat everyday jerk chicken is so delicious omg must try

We went down to this tiny chunk of South Ave to check out a different restaurant and saw a sign for "Side Bar." It was open so we stopped in which was a great decision! Will, the owner, was behind the bar. Side Bar is located in a space that has been a bar on and off forever and the layout is great, it's very open in both the bar and the side room and there is a large open patio space behind. We talked to the owner who has built a lot of the seating and decorations and it is clear that he is thoughtful about sustainability. Local art is hung all over the space and was made using up-cycled wood. Now for the cocktails! We got there during happy hour and enjoyed $7 craft cocktails and $3 well drinks. I started with a French 75, which was made with pink sparkling and was not bad. This was one of several drinks on the mimosa list. The surprise of the night was one of the Golden Girls martinis made with Hennessy. We had the Blanche which was sweet and flavorful and really well balanced. It was also adorable that the owner, who looked pretty young, named his martinis after the Golden Girls. The food (listed as Side Box- hehe) looked very good. They were cooking Jamaican chicken on a grill outside when we checked out the back and it smelled great. I'm not a meat eater, so I can't vouch for taste. I can see a bright future for Side Bar! The owner seems energetic and committed to the success of this place and I wish him the very best! read more

See all

Stopped here with a couple of people. Side Bar is a very cool and laid back lounge style bar. Jeans and sneakers are totally acceptable here as well as heels and skirts. Here you will find a mixed crowd of people, mostly a more mature crowd. The entrance side of the bar is a bit narrow and you can see people from every angle due to the set up. The opposite side of the wall is a bit more spacious and has booth style seating with games. Overall, this is a good place to visit if looking to chill. Be advised that you should avoid parking on the street near the Geva as tickets may be issued by RPD. Park only where permitted because RPD does frequent the area during late hours. Drinks are reasonably priced, but getting the bartenders attention during busy hours can be a bit of a challenge. read more

I really enjoyed a night out at Side Bar while visiting Rochester. Because of scheduling I ended up getting here about an hour or an hour and a half before my cousin was able to meet me so I settled in at the bar. The bartender was incredibly friendly and attentive. The drinks were delicious and fairly strong. Once my cousin came we went to the back area and played a few of the games (Uno and Connect Four). When we were here there was a Brand Ambassador from Belvedere passing out free drink samples which was a very very nice touch. As someone who lives in NYC I feel like the bottle service here is super reasonable. They had Belvedere and Ciroc options. Overall, I think this place is a great addition for places to go out and have a drink in Rochester. I'm really interested in trying the food here. I've heard great things about the jerk chicken; I'll definitely return next time I'm in town. read more

I love this bar. It has a chill atmosphere and great drinks. All their jerk chicken comes from the grill and it is worth the weight. The chicken is so tender and you get a great amount of food for the money that it's worth. I've gone with my boyfriend and group of girls. Both times were great. The music is mostly hip hop, reggae and r&b- a rare find in Rochester. It's a semi small bar but they also have a patio for outside sitting. Looking forward to visit again read more

Don't allow anyone in under the age of 25. Service is wild trash. Drinks are even more trash. The servers pay attention to their friends and over pour. When you actually do get a drink it's worse. Not worth the wait. Not worth the parking headache. read more

I ordered food from here for dinner and, even though it took a while for it to get here (~2 hours), the food was pretty good. The only downside to the food is that it's all incredibly sweet, even the Mac and cheese. There's so much sugar in all of the foods, my mouth was dying for something savory. Next time I'll try going in person and seeing if it's any different. read more

Their chef is grade A++. I came here because friends were headed there and it's a really awesome place. I've tried a lot of Caribbean/Jamaican food and the Jerk chicken here was the best I've had. The house-made sauces were incredible. The Mac salad was unreal!! The loaded jerk fries were so darn good. Prices are great too... Try their food- I'll recommend to anyone. read more

Came here with a few friends due to the great yelp reviews and this being a new bar in town that we haven't yet visited. As soon as we walked in, someone at the door asked us to T-spread our arms so they could run a metal detector across our bodies. Weird. Very weird. I've literally never been in another bar that did that. Then we stepped into the bar. There were a few patrons in the bar, but it was dead silent inside. The bartender didn't even acknowledge us. The entire situation was eerie and creepy. Needless to say, we turned around and walked right back out. Seriously unsure how this bar ever got the reviews listed here. read more

I decided I wanted to stop on in to Side Bar after reading all the positive reviews on Yelp. My boyfriend and I stopped in a little after 9pm on Thursday. There was about 6 people or so and two bartenders. We sat down and was taken care of right away. I tried a fruity drink called Beachside I believe and it was very good. The prices for the drinks are great, for a mixed drink, 2 rum and cokes, a shot of henny with a Genesee beer (a Henny and a Genny) and a Heineken, we paid $26!! The music was rap/hip hop. The bar itself was cute and a not too big but a good amount of space. They had some games. Boyfriend and I played connect 4 the big version. And we had a good night there before we headed to the clubs. We'll be back again on a Saturday night and def going to try out their food next! read more

After grabbing a drink at Vesper, my husband and I ventured into Side Bar. The cocktails were delicious and the staff was friendly. Music was good and they had a large Connect 4 game which I haven't played in ages which kept us there for a couple rounds. As we were leaving around 10ish, a DJ was setting up and the place was starting to fill up. Looked like it ends up being a lively bar! read more

Never had anything but good experiences here. Food is amazing. I recommend the jerk chicken box with macaroni and cheese, the loaded fries, and plantains when they have them. read more

Mac and cheese is bomb even on their bad days. I crave their jerk and Mac way too often.

First time visiting and I love it!!! Funky decor, excellent playlist and tasty, cute cocktails! Definitely coming back...this just might be my summer spot! Add a fish or veg option to the light fare menu and you'll never get rid of me read more

Just ordered 2 Jerk chicken salad.And amazed at how much great it was. You just earned a loyal customers. See you soon

Great spot! Jerk chicken and mac and cheese was fantastic. I'm not a drinker, but there's definitely a great variety of drinks for all. Great ambiance as well. read more

love this place, visited twice. But as of recently Phone number doesn't even work, I saw they posted on Instagram and Tried to go once again closed no open sign and there were blinds on windows. I'm sad that it's happen 3/4 Times I've came and was craving jerk chicken tacos and couldn't even get food because it says you're open and you're not then I call an no pick up. read more

This bar needs to figure out what's it's hours are and then stick with it. Internet says they open at 4. Arrived at 4:15 this afternoon to find a sign in the window that says they open at 5. Really wanted to check it out so went back to work and came back at 5:05. Door still locked and lights off. Not creating fans with that. read more