Harlem is home to Nectar, a wonderfully sublime and sexy wine bar tucked away into the edifice of a new apartment building on Frederick Douglas Boulevard  at the corner of 121st Street. By day it is a clean and open, almost reminiscent of gallery space, clearly visible from the street. But after sunset it takes on the austerity of speakeasy, with its’ tiny foyer which is shades its entrance from the beauty behind it.  Two steps in, your eyes will take notice of the dark stone concrete floor beneath your feet before traveling upward, drawn to the white light emanating from the rectangular bar and held suspended slightly above it by its muted gray walls. Unwillingly you continue to delight in the aesthetics, white barstools, chairs and tables, dramatic, sweeping white sailcloth panels that grace both wall and ceiling along with few ebony wood baffles suspended from the ceiling. Quickly you might even think you’re in a cozy, swank sound studio. Not a wine bar. And not a wine bar in Harlem. It’s only after you see the back wall rack of wines, which are visible from the street, do you remember why you’re there. Your pupils should be fully dilated now and you’re glad you’ve come before sitting down and before indulging in your first pour.

Conveniently located a few short blocks from 125th Street and open Monday through Sunday from 4pm to 1am, Nectar is the child of proprietors Jai Jai Greenfield and Eric Woods who also own Harlem Vintage, the wine shop next door that preceded Nectar’s existence as a growing Harlem staple. The bartenders’ knowledge is up to speed with the establishment’s broad and eclectic offering of wines and beer. Neither shy nor standoffish, the staff is willing and able to aid you in your selections. Conventional is another word you can scratch off their list. I’m no neophyte to this place, but during a recent visit on a chilly fall evening, the manager introduced me to my first ever, beer cocktail, a concoction of Lineman’s Lambic Frambroise (this writer’s current favorite Belgian beer), pineapple juice and champagne.

And the food? Nectar has a little bit for everyone keeping focus on what is poured and not cooked. The food menu is arranged in four easy categories and is considerate of Vegans: artisanal cheeses, charcuterie (salted and cured, economical meats), nibbles such as olives, dates, duck and pistachio pate, and paninis for those in need of a little more than a pairing for the palette with their wine or beer of choice.

Here’s where existing side by side with your older brother is a plus. If, while patronizing Nectar, you come across something new or a favorite you must take home for further enjoyment, you’ll only have to go as far as next door to Harlem Vintage to buy a bottle or a case of it.

Pricing ranges from reasonable to respectable and is still considerably lower than most establishments south of Harlem.  With an ambiance that oozes smooth and cool you’ll never have to out talk the music playing overhead while imbibing with friends or the one you love. Although when it’s crowded you may have to speak to be heard over everyone else speaking as it can get lively when the house is full on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Most impressive is the diversity of the patrons. Whether you’re a neighborhood regular, hail from the outer boroughs or greater New York are, or are simply a tourist passing through, all are welcome here. Don’t be surprised if you get drawn into a great conversation with strangers at the bar and find yourself not wanting to leave.

The nectar of Harlem just happens to flow from a place called Nectar. It’s Harlem’s wine bar destination.

Nectar Wine Bar
2235 8th Ave
New York, NY 10027-6175
(212) 961-9622
www.nectarwinenyc.com