Since Dear Kingston closed in September 2023 after just five months in business, midtowners have long eyed the 21 O’Neill St. location, hoping for the return of a similar neighborhood bar concept. On Saturday, Nov. 1, their prayers were answered with the opening of Kestrel Tavern.
The first thing you’ll notice is the vibrant new artwork and a slightly more nightclub vibe, with laid-back lighting, music playing everywhere and communal seating areas. There’s a huge variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages on the menu, and while prices err somewhat on the more expensive side, what’s on offer is of the highest locally sourced quality, and there are more budget-friendly options as well.
The biggest upgrade is also the least tangible, but there’s no doubt that vibes were superb on opening night. Everyone from the owner to the staff was friendly and outgoing, eager to welcome friends and strangers to help build an idyllic nightlife scene in midtown. To that end, their hours of operation are ambitiously late: Monday through Thursday, 3 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Friday, 3 p.m. to 4 a.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The hours alone make Kestrel the most exciting thing to happen to after-hours revelry in midtown this year.
There was a hot dog cart in the humongous outdoor space, with campfires alight (campfires seem to be de rigueur for new establishments in Kingston… cottagecore, some call it, but it does bring people together for warmth). Step out back and you’ll be thrilled by the enormous potential. Staff said they’re considering everything from food pop-ups to music festivals.
With sold-out shows at Tubby’s and UPAC, the new Upstate Films micro-theater, all manner of events at West Kill Supply, the Lace Mill and Tilda’s Kitchen, hundreds of housing units being built and more late-night food and drink options than midtown has seen in forever, Kestrel Tavern has arrived at the perfect place and time to keep the party going into the wee hours.
Join the family! 
