Small Business Spotlight: Fresh Salt

By: Heather Ducharme

Small businesses are an integral part of the Lower Manhattan community. In anticipation of Small Business Saturday (Nov 24), we’re introducing you to a local Lower Manhattan business on our new Instagram TV series “Small Business Spotlight” (check it out on mobile) and on our blog every week.  

If you’re a night owl who spends time in Lower Manhattan you already know Fresh Salt – the neighborhood staple that serves up delicious cocktails until 4AM most nights. Located at 146 Beekman St., Fresh Salt commands some of the most-positive and lengthiest Yelp reviews in the neighborhood and has been the go-to spot for Lower Manhattanites for 14 years running.

In addition to a kitchen that stays open until midnight, Fresh Salt has amassed many of its die-hard fans by hosting one of the city’s best Happy Hours.  Everyday from 4-8p (yes 4 happy hours!), patrons can score $6 wines, $5 well drinks, $5 drafts (all craft beers) and discounts on house cocktails.

Special cocktails returning to their menu this fall will include “The Beekman”, consisting of bourbon, elderflower, fresh lime and a dash of bitters; a spiked eggnog with fresh whipped cream; and hot-mulled apple cider with bourbon that’s served up in a vintage pyrex-mug.   

Bar owner slash pyrex enthusiast Sara Williams reflects on how the Seaport and Lower Manhattan have transformed since she first opened the doors over a decade ago and notes that her very first regulars were workers from the Fulton Fish Market for whom the bar held extended Happy Hours from 8-10a.

When asked how the bar got its name, Sara explains that it’s an homage to the building, and in turn, the neighborhood’s history. The facade of 146 Beekman features a faded advertisement for the 1885 smokehouse that once resided in the same building. The ad reads, “Fresh, Salt, and Smoked Fish.”  “It’s surprisingly difficult to name a bar actually. I had an easier time naming my child.” recalls Sara.

Hear more from Sara about Fresh Salt in our latest spotlight.  And, check out how the Small Business Spotlight series sleuthed around The Mysterious Bookshop last week.

Up next week, Martin Busch Jewelers will dazzle us with their diamonds.