Beer Authority, perched conveniently across from Port Authority Bus Terminal, offers a surprising sanctuary from the Times Square chaos just blocks away. This multi-level craft beer haven manages to feel both accessible to curious beer novices and satisfying to dedicated hop heads – no small feat in a city where beer bars often cater exclusively to either tourists or aficionados.

The beer selection truly impresses with around 90 constantly rotating taps featuring everything from local NYC breweries to hard-to-find Belgian imports. The knowledgeable bartenders actually listen to your preferences rather than just pushing the highest ABV option or latest hazy IPA. Their flight options let you explore different styles without committing to a full pour, making beer discovery part of the experience.

While you’re not coming here for culinary innovation, the pub fare exceeds expectations with standouts like the beer-battered fish and chips and the pretzel with beer cheese that pairs perfectly with whatever’s in your glass. The rooftop space offers a unique perspective on the surrounding midtown madness – somehow transforming the urban chaos into an entertaining backdrop rather than an intrusion.

Beer Authority strikes that rare balance in NYC – central enough for convenience but with enough substance and character that locals don’t mind meeting friends there. It’s the rare Times Square adjacent spot that doesn’t make New Yorkers roll their eyes when suggested.