Best Bars in New York [2023]

New York City is known for its bustling nightlife and diverse bar scene. From hidden speakeasies to rooftop bars, the city has something to offer for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best bars in New York, from classic establishments to trendy hotspots. Whether you’re looking for a classic cocktail or an innovative drink, these bars are sure to impress. So, grab a friend and get ready to explore the best bars that New York has to offer.

Katherine

Address: 41 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: 646 864-0111
Details: Bar

Katherine is a hidden gem in New York City that offers exceptional food, cocktails, and a cozy ambiance that is perfect for a date or a night out with friends. The staff is friendly, warm, and accommodating, with bartenders who are knowledgeable about the cocktails and helpful in pairing them with the food. The open bar is beautiful, and the food is amazing, especially the pinzas, which are like elevated pizzas.

The cocktails at Katherine are special, delicious, and aesthetically beautiful, with unique flavors like the Marigold and AM Apple Dew. The food is above and beyond with amazing dishes like the creamy goat cheese, wild mushrooms, and baby arugula pinza and the seafood linguini. The salads are super fresh and gorgeous, and the pasta is to die for, especially the Carbonara. The staff is professional, and the hospitality is 100% from the moment you walk in.

Overall, Katherine is an excellent place with good food, drinks, and affordable prices, making it a great spot for both casual drinks and special occasions. The atmosphere is cute and cool, and the staff is friendly and accommodating, with Evie being particularly welcoming and giving great recommendations from the menu. Whether you’re looking for a place for a work event or a night out with friends, Katherine is a hidden gem that’s worth discovering.

Sean’s Bar And Kitchen

Address: 42 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036
Phone: +1 (212) 764-9090
Details: $$, Bar & grill

Sean’s Bar and Kitchen is a great spot to stop and rest while visiting Top of the Rock or after a tour of Rockefeller Center. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with a great selection of beers and accommodating staff. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, with beautiful Irish accents, and are always ready to recommend the perfect drink to pair with the food.

The food at Sean’s is amazing, with dishes like hot wings, chicken sandwich, spinach and artichoke dip, and the Kitchen Sink, which is served in a giant appetizer dish. The Jam Burger is delicious, and the chicken pesto panini is hands-down the best. The wait staff is friendly and courteous, making sure that every guest is satisfied with their meal and drink.

Sean’s Bar and Kitchen is a gem with happy hour all day every day and a great choice for watching sports on TV. The prices are a bargain for New York, and there is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating available. The staff is so pleasant, and the atmosphere is fun, with plenty of entertainment on the TVs. Whether you’re looking for a quick pint or a family gathering, Sean’s Bar and Kitchen is the perfect spot to enjoy great food, drinks, and friendly service.

Dutch Fred’s

Address: 307 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036
Phone: +1 (646) 918-6923
Details: $$, Cocktail bar

Dutch Fred’s is a must-visit place in New York for good drinks, food, and lovely atmosphere. The staff is happy, helpful, and attentive, making sure that every guest feels welcome and satisfied. The bartenders are knowledgeable and creative, serving up an extensive cocktail menu, good craft beer selection, and solid wine list.

The food at Dutch Fred’s is excellent, with a wide range of small plates, appetizers, and light bites to choose from. The bang bang shrimp, potato croquettes, and lamb sliders are highlights and all shareable. The gluten-free food is also offered, making it an ideal spot for those with dietary restrictions. The service is excellent, with friendly servers offering suggestions on menu items, making guests feel comfortable and at home.

Dutch Fred’s has a cool NY vibe with a beautiful bar and a nice local feel. The location is perfect for the theater district, making it a great spot for a pre-theater meal or drinks. The bottomless drink option is well worth it if you plan to have at least two cocktails, and the brunch menu had something for everyone. The music is great, adding to the lively atmosphere, and the outdoor dining “pods” in front of the restaurant with individual seating areas and heat are a great idea. Overall, Dutch Fred’s is a fantastic spot for a good drink, yummy food, and a great time.

St. Cloud Rooftop

Address: 6 Times Sq 17th Floor, New York, NY 10036
Phone: +1 (212) 204-4980
Details: Bar

St. Cloud Rooftop is a beautiful and relaxing place located at the top of the Knickerbocker hotel, offering breathtaking views of the city. The staff is friendly, polite, and always ready to help, making guests feel special and attended to. The rooftop has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing in the open air after a long day in NYC.

The food and drinks at St. Cloud Rooftop are delicious, with an extensive cocktail menu, small plates, and light bites to choose from. The service is exceptional, with waiters coming around every few minutes and making sure that guests have everything they need. The location is ideal for after-office drinks or catching up with friends, and the rooftop offers a rare smoking area in NYC.

The staff at St. Cloud Rooftop is outstanding, making guests feel at ease and creating a memorable experience. The private area is exceptional, with different packages to suit every need, and the staff is quick to respond to emails and always on hand for any questions. Overall, the rooftop offers an amazing atmosphere, staff, views, and food, making it a must-visit spot in NYC.

Crompton Ale House

Address: 159 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: +1 (212) 658-0089
Details: $$, Irish restaurant

Crompton Ale House is a pub-like restaurant with a great selection of American fare and ales. The staff is friendly, professional, and always ready to offer suggestions. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

The food at Crompton Ale House is outstanding, with the burgers being a standout dish. The fries are also delicious, and there is a nice variety of appetizers and flatbreads to choose from. The drinks, including craft beer on tap and $7 wine at happy hour, are also excellent.

The service at Crompton Ale House is prompt, attentive, and always with a smile. The owner is Irish, but the restaurant is not your traditional Irish pub. The atmosphere is lively, with sports on TV and music in the background. The bartenders are friendly and professional, making customers feel welcome and at ease.

Overall, Crompton Ale House is a fantastic bar for great food and drinks. It is centrally located and has a charming bartender with an Irish brogue. The atmosphere is perfect for meeting friends after work or just hanging out. The prices are reasonable, and the service is excellent. Customers can enjoy a great selection of beers and ales, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere.

the Junction

Address: 329 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016
Phone: +1 (212) 682-7700
Details: $$, Sports bar

The Junction is a cozy and friendly pub located in Midtown East that offers an excellent selection of draft and bottled beers and delicious food. The burgers, wings, and fish & chips are standout dishes, and the veggie burger is a must-try. The atmosphere is chill, with a good vibe and great playlist, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy quality eats and drinks.

The staff at The Junction is friendly, welcoming, and attentive. They work hard to create a homely place with a friendly atmosphere. The owners and waitresses, like Rachel and Diana, go above and beyond to ensure customers have a great experience. The pub is filled with locals, which is always a good sign, and there are Monday trivia quizzes for those who want to join in the fun.

The Junction is reasonably priced compared to other bars in the city, and the happy hour specials are a great deal. The bar is nicely decorated for different occasions, like Halloween and Christmas, and it comes alive in the evenings. Whether customers are looking for a place to have a couple of beers and burgers or a welcoming retreat after a long day of sightseeing, The Junction is the perfect spot to be.

Overall, The Junction is a fantastic neighborhood bar with great food, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere. It is definitely worth a visit, whether customers are staying in Murray Hill or just passing by. The owners and staff work hard to make it a homely place where customers can relax and enjoy quality eats and drinks.

Boulton & Watt

Address: 5 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
Phone: +1 (646) 490-6004
Details: $$, American restaurant

Boulton & Watt is a unique and stylish restaurant and bar located in the Lower East Side of New York City. The atmosphere is informal, rustic, and steampunk-inspired, with interesting decorations like the Rube Goldberg-inspired ceiling fans. The menu features interesting variations of traditional fare, and the food is excellent, with standout dishes like the French onion soup, avocado toast, and bone marrow short rib eggs benedict. The cocktails are also top-notch, with the Roxburgh Siege being a particular standout.

The staff at Boulton & Watt are friendly and knowledgeable, and they work hard to ensure that customers have a great experience. They are accommodating and attentive, and they offer good recommendations on both food and drink. The pricing is reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great spot for sharing plates and casual dining. The atmosphere can get noisy, but that adds to the overall vibe of the place.

Boulton & Watt is a great spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it’s also a good place to catch a game on the flat screen TVs. The bar has a great beer selection, and the cocktails are expertly crafted. The wait staff is professional and polite, and they go out of their way to make customers feel at home. Overall, Boulton & Watt is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique dining experience in the Lower East Side.

Scruffy Duffys

Address: 639 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Phone: +1 (212) 649-4675
Details: Bar

Scruffy Duffys is a popular bar located in Hell’s Kitchen, New York City. The bar is known for its great location, very clean interior, and friendly staff. The atmosphere is relaxed, intimate, and friendly, making it a favorite bar among locals and tourists alike. The menu is diverse, with a great selection of beer, delicious wings, buffalo cauliflower, and personal pizzas.

The bar has 12 large TVs, a dartboard, and the perfect volume of soft rock music. The bathrooms are also impressive and very clean. The staff is accommodating and welcoming, making customers feel right at home. The bartenders are knowledgeable and serve great drinks and food, with Eric receiving special praise. The nachos are a generous size and quite good, and the pizzas are a fine accompaniment to a drink or two.

On Thursdays, Scruffy Duffys hosts Singo night, a madcap mix of bingo and singalong, which is such good fun. The bar moves up a notch on this night, making it a great place to join up with friends and enjoy the atmosphere. The prices are also reasonable, with the option to get 21% off for any women that order food or drink on Wednesdays for Wage Gap Wednesdays. Scruffy Duffys is a must-visit bar in NYC, with great food, drinks, and service that make it the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

Rumours Pub

Address: 933 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Phone: +1 (212) 757-2373
Details: $$, Irish restaurant

Rumours Pub is a cozy and friendly bar located in New York City. The atmosphere is welcoming and not too loud, with attentive and chatty staff. The bar serves a variety of menu options, including excellent homemade burgers, delicious fish and chips, and a veggie wrap with unique ingredients such as asparagus, onions, and squash. The onion rings are also great and come in a large portion.

The bar has a unique vibe and is a great place to watch sports, with attentive bartenders who make customers feel at home, even if they are traveling alone. The bar staff are friendly and do not overcharge customers like other bars in the area. The prices are reasonable, with a pint of Stella costing around $9-$10 and a burger costing $10-$15. The bar is also conveniently located, making it a perfect little find for those walking back to midtown from Central Park West.

Rumours Pub is a great spot to stop for lunch or dinner, with excellent food, drink, and service. The bartender, Damian, is very friendly and accommodating, making sure customers are able to finish watching their games on the bar’s TVs even if their wifi is acting up. The bar is a favorite among locals and tourists, with Amy and Pete from Bristol preferring it to any other bar in the city. Overall, Rumours Pub is a must-visit for anyone looking for a cozy and friendly bar with great food and drink options.

Juniper Bar

Address: 237 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
Phone: +1 (212) 967-2511
Details: $$, American restaurant

Juniper Bar is a lively and cozy restaurant located in Manhattan, with a great selection of food, drinks, and happy hour specials. The staff are friendly and accommodating, with a great selection of wine and beer for happy hour specials. The lobster club is a standout dish, cooked to order, and one of the best the reviewers have ever had. The mac and cheese and fries are also cooked to perfection, and the friendly manager, Amena, stops by twice to make sure everything is prepared to the customers’ liking.

The atmosphere is cozy and quiet for a NYC restaurant, making it a perfect spot to relax before a concert or event at Madison Square Garden. The ambiance is gorgeous and comfortable, with a fun vibe and great bartenders. The restaurant is conveniently located near MSG, making it a great place to stop before a concert or game. The portion sizes are large for the money, and all of the entrees and appetizers are delicious, including the steak tacos, cheese steak spring rolls, and Mediterranean salad.

Overall, Juniper Bar is a great spot to stop for dinner or drinks, with excellent food, friendly staff, and a fun atmosphere. The restaurant is a great alternative to the usual burger and chips menu found in Times Square, with a good selection of menu options. The staff are accommodating and helpful, with Luna receiving a big shout out for making the reviewers’ New Year’s Day more interesting. Whether stopping in for a quick drink or a full meal, Juniper Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking for a cozy and friendly restaurant in Manhattan.

St. James Gate

Phone: +1 (212) 362-6202
Details: $$ – $$$, Irish, Bar, Pub

St. James Gate is an Irish pub located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, with a warm and friendly atmosphere and great food selection. The staff are friendly and welcoming, making customers feel at home, and the owner, Paul, takes a personal interest in both regulars and tourists. The food is a delicious selection of comfort food, including the shepherd’s pie, meatloaf, fajitas, chicken pot pie, fish and chips, and mac and cheese.

The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a neighborhood vibe that makes it a popular spot for people-watching. The pub has a great selection of beers and drinks, including Irish coffee and Guinness, and the prices are very competitive for NYC. The sidewalk tables are great for warm weather and watching the world go by. The ambiance is similar to what you would find in Dublin or Galway, with an old-style charm that transports customers to a pub in Ireland.

Overall, St. James Gate is a real gem in the Upper West Side, with a great selection of food and drinks, friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere. It is a perfect spot for a quick drink or a bite to eat, with a genuine neighborhood vibe that makes customers feel right at home. Whether stopping in for a corned beef sandwich after the St. Patrick’s Day parade or ordering burgers and fries on the July 4th weekend, St. James Gate is a must-visit for anyone looking for a warm and inviting Irish pub in Manhattan.

The Tailor Public House

Address: 505 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Phone: +1 (646) 949-4900
Details: $$, Bar

The Tailor Public House is a great pub in the city with a cool atmosphere, friendly staff, and a wide variety of drinks and food options. The pub is very popular, with many customers returning multiple times during their stay in New York City. The staff are attentive and engaging, making customers feel at home and forming connections that make them want to return.

The food is exceptional, with many choices on the menu and reasonable prices compared to other places in the city. The hot steak sandwiches are a particular highlight, and the drinks selection is also great, including Budweiser draught and Blue Moon. The bar itself is lovely and welcoming, with a warm and friendly atmosphere that makes it a great place to sit and have a drink or enjoy some food.

The Tailor Public House is a gem in the city, with friendly staff, great food and drinks, and a cozy atmosphere. Whether stopping in for a beer after a show or enjoying a steak sandwich with friends, this pub is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great bar experience in New York City. Customers are sure to feel welcomed and at ease thanks to the warm and attentive staff, and will likely return again and again during their stay in the city.

Hale and Hearty Soup

Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
Phone: +1 (212) 265-2117
Details: $$, Soup shop

Hale and Hearty Soup is a classic New York-style restaurant with a large selection of unique and tasty soups, create your own salads, and accompanying sandwiches. The soups are made from scratch and seasoned to perfection, with many different kinds to choose from, both mundane and exotic. They offer free samples to help customers decide on their perfect choice. The service is quick and efficient, and the prices are very reasonable.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with limited seating available due to the restaurant’s popularity for take-out. However, customers are welcome to grab a table and watch the skaters at Rockefeller Center. The staff are friendly and professional, and the shop is always clean and immaculate. The restaurant also has an app to help customers find their nearest location.

The food is excellent, with fresh and tasty soup, salads, and sandwiches. Customers can create their own salads and have the option to order half a sandwich or wrap. The chicken satay with noodles is a great dish, with a lovely flavor sauce and topped with peanuts. The jambalaya soup is so thick and tasty that it is more of a stew. The cream of corn chowder is delicious and comes with fresh bread or crackers. Hale and Hearty Soup’s reputation is well-deserved, and customers would happily go there again for a quick and satisfying meal.

Arts and Crafts Beer Parlor

Address: 26 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011
Phone: +1 (646) 678-5263
Details: $$, Bar

Arts and Crafts Beer Parlor is a lovely bar with a great ambience and a superb range of high-end beers to tickle the taste buds. The staff are knowledgeable, attentive, and passionate about their products, offering excellent service. The bar features an art gallery, which adds to the convivial atmosphere, and the music is cool and not overly loud.

The bar has a great selection of beers and wines, including many local favorites and non-alcoholic options. The staff are happy to assist and advise customers in choosing from their vast selection of craft brews. The bar also offers some basic but tasty food options, such as Texas BBQ flatbread and pretzels, but customers may wish they had wings on their menu.

The environment is warm and laid back, making it a great place to enjoy some beers with friends or a loved one. The bar is not overcrowded, and customers can enjoy a decent beer and a great vibe without too much noise or distraction. Arts and Crafts Beer Parlor is highly recommended for beer lovers looking for a great selection of high-quality beers, knowledgeable staff, and a convivial atmosphere.

Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar

Address: 102 North End Ave, New York, NY 10282
Phone: +1 (212) 945-0100
Details: $$$, Restaurant

Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar, located on the top floor of the Conrad New York Downtown, offers a beautiful view of the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty. The rooftop bar has a relaxed and cool atmosphere, making it a great spot to enjoy a drink after a long day. The staff are friendly and attentive, providing excellent service to customers.

The specialty cocktails are delicious and visually appealing, such as the wine with an alcohol-flavored popsicle, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the bar. The bar also serves classic martinis and other exotic drinks that are worth tasting. The music adds to the stylish and moody atmosphere of the bar, making it a great place to take photos and enjoy the view.

Although the bar can get crowded, it is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a rooftop bar with a beautiful view in Battery Park. Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar is a small but cozy rooftop bar, with limited seating of around 75 people, and it is highly recommended to arrive early or be prepared to stand at the bar. Overall, Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar is a great choice for anyone looking for a relaxing, stylish, and fun atmosphere, with good drinks, and a breathtaking view of the city.

Belle Reve

Address: 305 Church St, New York, NY 10013
Phone: +1 (212) 680-0101
Details: $$, Bar

Belle Reve is a small corner bar and restaurant located in TriBeCa, New York. The restaurant has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal or drink with friends. The staff are attentive and fast, providing excellent service to customers.

The menu is diverse, with great burgers, fish tacos, and vegetarian options that are more than just a mushroom in a bun. The unique drink menu adds to the eclectic style of the restaurant, drawing customers in to check out the food. The live music played during the day and at night adds to the great atmosphere of the place.

The decor of the restaurant is funky and unusual, with vintage wallpaper in the bathroom that adds a bit of naughtiness to the vibe. The Belle Reve is a gem, with a great selection of beer on tap, reasonably priced drinks, and a solid food menu. The restaurant has a casual and laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot to chill out and enjoy a drink or quick bite to eat.

Overall, Belle Reve is a great choice for anyone looking for a small but cozy bar and restaurant in TriBeCa. The food is of excellent quality, the service is fast and friendly, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Whether you are looking for a place to have a casual lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends, Belle Reve is definitely worth a visit.

Hellcat Annie’s Tap Room

Address: 637 10th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Phone: +1 (212) 586-2707
Details: $$, Bar

Hellcat Annie’s Tap Room is a cozy and welcoming bar located in Hell’s Kitchen, New York. The bar has a great range of craft beers and spirits, with an impressive selection of beers on tap. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, offering beer samples and recommendations to customers.

The food is great too, with tasty burgers, cheese and bacon fries, and mozzarella sticks that are nice and tasty. The pulled pork sandwich and the wings are also worth a try. The atmosphere is relaxed and cozy, making it a great spot to meet up with friends for drinks or a celebratory meal.

Overall, Hellcat Annie’s Tap Room is a great bar that offers an authentic pub experience in the heart of the city. The bar has a great selection of beers, friendly and quick service, and a cozy atmosphere that makes it a top notch establishment. Whether you are looking for a quick drink or a bite to eat, Hellcat Annie’s Tap Room is definitely worth a visit.

Kurant

Address: 1091 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022
Phone: +1 (646) 370-6928
Details: $$, Restaurant

Kurant is a charming and cozy wine bar located on 2nd Avenue between 57th and 58th streets in Manhattan. The brick-walled space offers a lovely and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for happy hour drinks, a romantic dinner, or catching up with friends. The staff is super attentive, friendly, and welcoming, making you feel like royalty.

The wine selection is great, with an impressive variety of wines by the bottle and a very good selection of wines by the glass. The cocktails are also interesting and delicious, with the margarita piquante being a crowd favorite. The food is delicious too, with a menu that includes cheeses, charcuterie, American entrees, and a variety of pizzas and pasta dishes. The short ribs are a must-try, and the octopus is the best some reviewers have had. The portions are massive, and the prices are reasonable.

The atmosphere at Kurant is fantastic, with a nice musical ambiance that is different every evening. The space is nicely decorated, and the vibe is perfect, especially if you like 80s music. The appetizers are fresh and served well, and the plates of cold cuts and cheeses can easily make a meal. Kurant has become a favorite local wine bar for many, with some returning multiple times for the excellent wine, delicious food, friendly staff, and great ambiance.

From the iconic bars that have been around for decades to the newer, trendy spots, New York City has a bar scene that is second to none. No matter what your taste, there is a bar in this city that will cater to it. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to check out some of these amazing bars and experience the best of what New York has to offer. Cheers!