If you’ve been meaning to stop by Schiller’s Liquor Bar before it closes, this week is your last chance. Keith McNally’s Lower East Side bistro serves its last meal on Sunday night, Aug. 13.
The McNally family was offered a new lease at 131 Rivington St., but decided against sticking it out due to a steep rent increase. The closure was announced in May, giving loyal customers plenty of time to say their goodbyes.
McNally tangled with Community Board 3 and some members of the local community when he opened the bar/restaurant in 2003. While the feeling was not unanimous, his friendly staff won over most of the neighborhood (us included) with a determination to always treat locals like VIPs. When you pulled up a bar stool at Schiller’s, you felt right at home. The bartender might not have known your name, but he knew exactly what you liked to drink.
We spent some time at the bar Saturday night. Some items are starting to disappear from the menu, but it doesn’t really matter. Schiller’s was never about the food anyway. As noted on the restaurant’s Instagram feed, the 7-day countdown has begun.
