In my opinion, the Lower East Side is hands down one of the best neighborhoods in New York City for bars. The sheer variety and quality of bars in this area is unparalleled. You can find everything from cozy speakeasies to lively dive bars to trendy cocktail lounges.
One of my favorite bars in the Lower East Side is Attaboy. This speakeasy-style bar is hidden behind an unmarked door and has a laid-back, intimate atmosphere. The bartenders are incredibly talented and can whip up a custom cocktail based on your preferences. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or a night out with friends.
Another gem in this neighborhood is The Flower Shop. This retro-inspired bar has a fun and vibrant atmosphere, with 70s decor and a fantastic cocktail menu. They also have a great selection of beers on tap and a delicious food menu. It’s a great spot to grab a drink before heading out for a night on the town.
Moving over to the Meatpacking District, you’ll find another hotspot for bars. This neighborhood has a more upscale and trendy vibe, with plenty of rooftop bars and swanky lounges. One standout is The Standard Biergarten, a spacious outdoor beer garden with communal picnic tables and a great selection of German beers. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a cold beer on a warm summer day.
Midtown may not be the first neighborhood that comes to mind when you think of bars, but there are some hidden gems to be found here. One such gem is The Rum House, a cozy and inviting cocktail bar located in the iconic Hotel Edison. They have an extensive selection of rum cocktails, as well as live jazz music on select nights. It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of Midtown and unwind with a tasty drink.
Heading over to Brooklyn, Williamsburg is a neighborhood that is known for its vibrant nightlife scene. The bar scene here is diverse and constantly evolving, with new spots popping up all the time. One standout is The Ides at the Wythe Hotel. This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, along with a great selection of craft cocktails. It can get crowded on weekends, but the views are definitely worth it.
SoHo is another neighborhood worth mentioning when it comes to bars. While it may be better known for its shopping, there are some fantastic bars tucked away in this area. One of my favorites is The Ship, a nautical-themed cocktail bar with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The bartenders here are true artists, creating beautiful and delicious cocktails. It’s a great spot for a date night or a special occasion.
Hell’s Kitchen is another neighborhood that shouldn’t be overlooked when it comes to bars. This area has a more laid-back and friendly vibe, with a mix of dive bars and trendy cocktail spots. One standout is Rudy’s Bar & Grill, a dive bar that has been a neighborhood institution since 1933. They offer cheap drinks, free hot dogs, and a fun and lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and mingle with the locals.
Moving on to Chelsea, you’ll find a mix of upscale cocktail bars and trendy clubs. One standout is Bathtub Gin, a speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a coffee shop facade. The interior is beautifully decorated with a bathtub as the centerpiece, and the cocktail menu is extensive and creative. It’s a fun and unique spot to enjoy a night out with friends.
Lastly, Tribeca may be known for its upscale restaurants, but there are also some great bars to be found in this neighborhood. One standout is Brandy Library, a sophisticated and cozy bar with an extensive selection of over 900 spirits. They also offer tasting flights and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the world of spirits. It’s a great spot for whiskey lovers or anyone looking to expand their palate.
New York City is filled with incredible bars in every neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a cozy speakeasy, a lively dive bar, or a trendy cocktail lounge, you’re bound to find something that suits your taste. So grab some friends and explore the bar scene in these neighborhoods – you won’t be disappointed!