---

Finding the perfect spot to enjoy a drink in New York City can feel like an adventure, especially for those who appreciate quality, refinement, and an atmosphere that elevates the experience. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, showcasing only the finest establishments where you can enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine, or a craft beer in a setting that aligns with your tastes. We’ve carefully selected venues that offer not just exceptional drinks, but also the kind of ambiance and service that make an evening out truly special. Whether it’s a rooftop bar with stunning views, an intimate speakeasy with a touch of mystery, or a chic lounge where you can unwind in style, each recommendation promises an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

By exploring our curated list, you’ll be able to confidently choose from the best that New York City has to offer. These are places where the details matter, from the quality of the ingredients in your drink to the elegance of the surroundings. Whether you’re planning a night out or simply looking for a place to relax after a day of exploring, this section of our website ensures that you’ll find a venue that meets your expectations and enhances your experience in the city.

Our Favorite Bars

The Dead Rabbit

Located in the Financial District, The Dead Rabbit is an award-winning irish pub and cocktail bar known for its combination of old-world charm and modern mixology. The bar is divided into three levels: a ground-floor taproom offering a lively pub atmosphere, an upstairs parlor with an extensive cocktail menu, and a third-floor event space. The cocktail menu features a mix of classic and innovative drinks, with a focus on fine spirits and fresh ingredients. The Dead Rabbit’s unique atmosphere and exceptional cocktails have earned it numerous accolades, including the title of World’s Best Bar.

The Campbell

Situated in Grand Central Terminal, The Campbell is a historic cocktail lounge housed in what was once the private office of 1920s financier John W. Campbell. The space has been meticulously restored, retaining its original architectural details, including a stone fireplace, ornate woodwork, and a stunning leaded glass window. The Campbell offers a sophisticated setting for enjoying classic cocktails, fine wines, and small plates. The ambiance, steeped in history, makes it a perfect spot for a stylish night out.

Bemelmans Bar

Located in The Carlyle Hotel on the Upper East Side, Bemelmans Bar is a legendary cocktail lounge known for its elegant ambiance and live piano music. The bar is named after Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the “Madeline” children’s books, who painted the whimsical murals that adorn the walls. Bemelmans Bar is famous for its expertly crafted classic cocktails, such as the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan, as well as its signature martinis. The bar’s timeless charm and refined atmosphere make it a favorite among New York’s elite.

Dear Irving

Dear Irving, located in the Flatiron District, is a stylish cocktail lounge inspired by the glamorous eras of the past. The bar is divided into several rooms, each designed to reflect a different historical period, from the opulence of the Gilded Age to the chic sophistication of the 1960s. The cocktail menu features a mix of classic and modern drinks, all expertly crafted with premium spirits and fresh ingredients. The attention to detail in both the decor and the cocktails makes Dear Irving a truly unique and memorable experience.

Employees Only

Employees Only, situated in the West Village, is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for its top-notch mixology and exclusive vibe. The bar is tucked behind an unassuming facade, and once inside, guests are treated to an elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere. The cocktail menu features a mix of classic and original creations, with an emphasis on quality and craftsmanship. Employees Only also offers a late-night food menu, making it a popular spot for industry insiders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Saint Tuesday

Tucked away in a historic Tribeca basement, Saint Tuesday is a hidden gem with an old-world speakeasy charm. This intimate bar offers a warm, candlelit ambiance, with exposed brick walls and vintage décor that transport you to a bygone era. The cocktail menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring expertly crafted drinks that balance classic and contemporary flavors. Whether you’re enjoying a night out with friends or a cozy date, Saint Tuesday’s laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a memorable evening in New York City.

O’Nieal’s

This is where we first met! Located in the heart of Soho, O’Nieals is a classic New York City bar that offers a welcoming atmosphere. Housed in a historic building with rich wooden accents, tin ceilings, and vintage lighting, O’Nieals has a cozy, old-school charm that makes it a favorite among locals. The bar features a well-rounded drink menu, including a selection of craft cocktails, beers, and wines, as well as a menu of hearty American fare. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual drink after work or gathering with friends for a night out, O’Nieals provides a setting that’s perfect for any occasion.

Dante

A Greenwich Village institution, Dante has been serving up Italian-inspired cocktails and cuisine since 1915. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails, Dante seamlessly blends tradition with modern flair. The bar is famous for its Negronis, offering a variety of innovative twists on the classic drink, alongside a menu of seasonal cocktails and aperitifs. With its chic, European-style café vibe and award-winning bar program, Dante is the ideal place to enjoy a leisurely drink or a lively evening with friends, capturing the essence of New York’s cocktail culture.

Refinery Rooftop

Located above the Refinery Hotel in Midtown, Refinery Rooftop is one of New York City’s most sought-after rooftop destinations. Offering stunning views of the Empire State Building and the Manhattan skyline, this chic and stylish bar is the perfect spot for both casual gatherings and special occasions. The space combines industrial elegance with a warm, inviting atmosphere, featuring exposed brick walls, cozy seating areas, and a retractable glass roof that allows for year-round enjoyment. The menu boasts an impressive selection of craft cocktails, fine wines, and local beers, complemented by a variety of delicious small plates and shareable dishes. Whether you’re sipping on a signature cocktail at sunset or enjoying a leisurely brunch with friends, Refinery Rooftop delivers an unforgettable New York City experience with a view.

The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel

Located in the Lower East Side, The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel offers a trendy, upscale setting with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. The rooftop features a stylish, modern design with comfortable seating and ambient lighting, creating a lively atmosphere. The cocktail menu offers a variety of signature drinks made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The Roof is known for its vibrant scene, making it a popular destination for those looking to enjoy a night out with spectacular views.

Manhatta

Perched on the 60th floor of a downtown skyscraper, Manhatta offers a stunning panorama of New York City’s skyline, providing an unparalleled dining and drinking experience. This elegant restaurant and bar combines sophisticated ambiance with exceptional hospitality, creating a welcoming atmosphere high above the bustling streets. The menu features refined American cuisine crafted with seasonal ingredients, alongside an impressive selection of wines and expertly mixed cocktails. Manhatta’s breathtaking views and exceptional service make for a truly memorable experience.

Mr. Purple

Located atop the Hotel Indigo in the Lower East Side, Mr. Purple is a vibrant rooftop bar that captures the artistic and eclectic spirit of downtown Manhattan. The space boasts both indoor and outdoor areas, featuring modern industrial décor, spacious terraces, and even a rooftop pool, all offering spectacular views of the city skyline. The menu includes a creative selection of craft cocktails, locally sourced beers, and a variety of small plates and shareable dishes that cater to diverse tastes. With its lively atmosphere and stunning vistas, Mr. Purple is the perfect spot for a fun night out, weekend brunch, or sunset drinks.

Nubelez

Situated on the 50th floor of The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad, Nubeluz is a sleek and sophisticated rooftop lounge conceptualized by renowned chef José Andrés. The name, combining the Spanish words for “cloud” and “light,” reflects the bar’s luminous atmosphere and sky-high setting, offering 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline. Nubeluz features an inventive cocktail menu that blends classic and contemporary flavors, alongside a curated selection of fine wines and champagnes. Complementing the drinks are an array of gourmet small plates and tapas, making it an ideal destination for elegant evenings, intimate gatherings, or celebratory toasts above the city’s twinkling lights.

Dear Irving on Hudson

Dear Irving on Hudson, located atop the Aliz Hotel in Midtown, is an upscale rooftop bar with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and Hudson River. The bar is designed with a vintage, glamorous aesthetic, featuring plush seating and intricate decor. The cocktail menu is crafted by expert mixologists and offers a mix of classic and innovative drinks. Dear Irving on Hudson’s combination of elegant design, sophisticated ambiance, and breathtaking views makes it a top choice for a romantic night out or a special occasion.

Darling

Perched atop the Park Lane Hotel on Central Park South, Darling is a chic and glamorous rooftop bar that offers breathtaking views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. The space exudes an elegant, yet playful vibe with its lush décor, vibrant floral accents, and cozy seating areas. The cocktail menu is as stylish as the setting, featuring inventive drinks that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail under the night sky or enjoying a lively evening with friends, Darling provides a sophisticated escape in the heart of New York City.

The Ready Rooftop Bar

Located on the rooftop of the Moxy East Village, The Ready Rooftop Bar is a laid-back, urban oasis with a quirky and fun atmosphere. The space is designed to feel like a backyard party, complete with string lights, colorful murals, and comfortable seating areas. The menu features a mix of creative cocktails, frozen drinks, and a selection of casual bites that are perfect for sharing. With its upbeat vibe, playful décor, and panoramic views of the East Village, The Ready is an ideal spot for casual drinks, weekend hangouts, or a spontaneous night out.

King Cole Bar at The St. Regis New York

Located in The St. Regis New York, the King Cole Bar is one of the city’s most iconic hotel bars, known as the birthplace of the Bloody Mary. The bar exudes old-world elegance with its dark wood paneling, leather seating, and the famous Maxfield Parrish mural, “Old King Cole,” which adds to the sophisticated ambiance. The cocktail menu includes classic drinks with a refined touch, and the service is impeccable, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of New York history and luxury.

Bar Room at The Beekman

Nestled within the stunning atrium of The Beekman Hotel, The Bar Room is a refined and atmospheric spot that exudes timeless elegance. The space is dominated by soaring nine-story Victorian-era architecture, with plush velvet seating and rich, dark wood accents that create an inviting, luxurious ambiance. The cocktail menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring classic and contemporary drinks crafted with precision. Whether you’re enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail or a late-night drink, The Bar Room offers a sophisticated retreat in one of New York City’s most architecturally captivating settings.

Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel

Bemelmans Bar, located in The Carlyle on the Upper East Side, is a legendary hotel bar known for its timeless charm and sophisticated ambiance. The bar is named after Ludwig Bemelmans, the illustrator of the “Madeline” children’s books, who painted the whimsical murals that adorn the walls. Live piano music adds to the elegant atmosphere, and the cocktail menu features expertly crafted classics like the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned. Bemelmans Bar is a favorite among New York’s elite and offers a quintessentially New York experience.

Lobby Bar at The Hotel Chelsea

Steeped in history and creativity, The Lobby Bar at Hotel Chelsea is a stylish and eclectic space that pays homage to the hotel’s storied past as a haven for artists, writers, and musicians. The bar’s design blends vintage charm with modern touches, featuring original artwork, cozy seating areas, and an inviting atmosphere that encourages lingering. The drink menu offers a mix of classic cocktails and inventive new creations, along with a selection of wines and craft beers. With its rich history and unique character, The Lobby Bar is the perfect spot to soak in the bohemian spirit of Chelsea while enjoying a well-crafted drink.

The Bar at Baccarat Hotel

The Bar at Baccarat Hotel, located in Midtown, offers a glamorous and opulent setting for enjoying cocktails. The bar is designed with Baccarat crystal chandeliers, plush velvet seating, and mirrored walls, creating a luxurious ambiance. The cocktail menu is equally elegant, featuring a selection of signature drinks made with top-shelf spirits and presented with a touch of flair. The Bar at Baccarat Hotel is an ideal spot for a special occasion or a sophisticated night out in New York.

The Bowery Lobby Bar

Located within the Bowery Hotel, The Bowery Lobby Bar is an intimate and stylish retreat with old-world charm and understated luxury. Dim lighting, vintage furnishings, and cozy fireplaces create a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a classic European salon. The menu features expertly crafted cocktails, a curated selection of wines, and a variety of small plates perfect for a relaxed evening. Whether you’re nestled in a leather armchair or enjoying the ambiance of the outdoor terrace, The Bowery Lobby Bar provides a sophisticated and tranquil escape from the bustling city outside.

The Crosby Bar

Set within the vibrant Crosby Street Hotel in SoHo, The Crosby Bar is a bright and contemporary space that blends eclectic design with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. The bar is known for its colorful décor, large windows that flood the space with natural light, and its charming outdoor garden. The menu offers a range of creative cocktails, artisanal spirits, and an extensive list of wines, as well as a selection of modern British and American dishes. The Crosby Bar offers a chic and comfortable setting that reflects the unique energy of SoHo.

PDT (Please Don’t Tell)

Located in the East Village, PDT is one of the most famous speakeasies in New York City. Accessed through a vintage phone booth inside Crif Dogs hot dog shop, this hidden gem offers a cozy, dimly lit space with leather booths and an impressive cocktail menu. The drinks are crafted by some of the city’s top mixologists, often featuring unique and innovative ingredients. PDT’s combination of playful entrance, intimate atmosphere, and top-tier cocktails make it a must-visit speakeasy.

Employees Only

Employees Only, situated in the West Village, is a speakeasy-style bar known for its exceptional mixology and exclusive vibe. The entrance is marked by a psychic’s neon sign, leading to a sophisticated, Art Deco-inspired space with a warm, inviting ambiance. The cocktail menu offers a mix of classic and original creations, all made with precision and flair. Employees Only also features a late-night food menu, making it a popular spot for industry insiders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Angel’s Share

Angel’s Share, hidden behind an unmarked door inside the East Village’s Village Yokocho restaurant, is a serene and elegant speakeasy known for its refined cocktails and Japanese-inspired decor. The bar offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets, with a menu that includes both classic drinks and creative concoctions. The intimate setting, coupled with the meticulous attention to detail in every drink, makes Angel’s Share a standout in the city’s speakeasy scene.

Bathtub Gin

Bathtub Gin, located in Chelsea, offers a vintage, Prohibition-era vibe with its hidden entrance through a coffee shop facade. Once inside, guests are greeted by a cozy, dimly lit space with a full-size copper bathtub as a centerpiece. The bar offers a wide range of gin-based cocktails, along with other expertly crafted drinks. Bathtub Gin also hosts live music and burlesque performances, adding to the speakeasy’s lively and eclectic atmosphere.

Raines Law Room

Raines Law Room, with locations in both the Flatiron District and Chelsea, is a sophisticated speakeasy that exudes old-world charm. The entrance is discreet, and once inside, guests are treated to an elegant, dimly lit space with plush seating and a quiet, intimate ambiance. The cocktail menu focuses on classic drinks with a modern twist, all made with premium ingredients. The Flatiron location also offers a private garden space, making it a perfect spot for a romantic evening.

The Back Room

The Back Room, located on the Lower East Side, is one of the few speakeasies in New York City that actually operated during Prohibition. The bar is hidden behind a nondescript gate, and guests must walk down an alley and through a secret entrance to access the space. The decor features vintage furniture, velvet curtains, and classic cocktails served in teacups—a nod to the bar’s Prohibition-era roots. The Back Room’s authentic history and unique atmosphere make it a must-visit for speakeasy enthusiasts.

Apothéke

Apothéke, located in Chinatown, offers a unique speakeasy experience with its apothecary-themed decor and innovative cocktail menu. The bar is hidden behind an unmarked door, adding to its secretive allure. Inside, guests are treated to a dimly lit space with plush seating and an extensive menu of cocktails, each designed to evoke different moods and sensations. The bartenders at Apothéke are known for their creativity, often using house-made tinctures, syrups, and infusions to craft one-of-a-kind drinks.

Attaboy

Attaboy, located on the Lower East Side, is a modern speakeasy that focuses on personalized cocktail experiences. The bar has no menu; instead, the bartenders create custom drinks based on each guest’s preferences. The entrance is discreet, marked only by a metal door with no sign, and the interior is cozy and intimate, with a minimalist design. Attaboy’s emphasis on bespoke cocktails and its relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere make it a favorite among cocktail connoisseurs.

Little Branch

Little Branch, located in the West Village, is a subterranean speakeasy known for its expertly crafted cocktails and intimate, jazz-infused atmosphere. The entrance is marked by a simple metal door, and the interior features low ceilings, dim lighting, and live jazz performances that add to the speakeasy’s vintage charm. The cocktail menu offers a mix of classics and creative drinks, all made with care and precision. Little Branch’s combination of great music, cozy ambiance, and top-notch drinks make it a hidden gem in the city’s nightlife scene.

The Garret

The Garret, hidden above a Five Guys burger joint in the West Village, is a trendy speakeasy with a relaxed yet stylish vibe. The entrance is unmarked, and guests must walk through the restaurant and up a hidden staircase to access the bar. Once inside, the space is airy and inviting, with exposed brick walls, vintage furniture, and a well-curated cocktail menu. The Garret offers a mix of classic drinks and house specialties, all served in a laid-back, welcoming environment.