Balzem: A Rustic Nolita Mediterranean Wine Bar With a Daily Happy Hour
Balzem runs a daily happy hour (3–6pm, except Saturday) of Mediterranean wines, imported beers, mezze and $1 oysters, in a cozy, rustic room on the corner of Mott and Spring in Nolita.
Opened in 2014 by owner-chef Balahan Bobus, it pours roughly 40 Greek, Turkish and European wines alongside Greek-and-Turkish home cooking. The honest read: it’s a warm date-night and group spot; the official site lists the HH schedule but not prices, so confirm.
The Happy Hour
Happy hour is daily 3–6pm except Saturday: Mediterranean wines, imported beers (Efes), mezze and $1 oysters. Exact prices aren’t on the official site — listings cite around $5–6 wines/beers/mezzes (some older sources say a 5–7pm window), so confirm at the bar. Pair it with the wine-braised-then-grilled octopus or the zucchini pancakes.
The Room
A narrow, atmospheric room with a 12-foot beamed ceiling, exposed brick, vintage mirrors and reclaimed-pine communal tables and bar, on the corner of Mott and Spring near the Spring St 6. Buzzy with music Thu–Sat, calmer at weekday lunch. Crowd: date-night and groups.
Who Balzem Is For
| Occasion | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mediterranean wine | ~40 Greek, Turkish and European pours. |
| $1 oysters | Part of the daily happy hour. |
| Mezze + wine | Octopus, zucchini pancakes, manti dumplings. |
| Date night | A rustic, candlelit Nolita corner. |
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Balzem FAQ
Does Balzem have a happy hour?
Yes — daily 3–6pm, except Saturday: Mediterranean wines, beers, mezze and $1 oysters (confirm prices at the bar).
Where is Balzem?
202 Mott St at Spring in Nolita, near the Spring St 6.
What food is good here?
Greek and Turkish mezze — grilled octopus, zucchini pancakes, and manti.
Is it good for groups?
Yes — communal reclaimed-pine tables and a lively weekend vibe.
Happy hour times and deals last verified June 2026. Details can change — confirm with Balzem before visiting for a specific deal.