New York City is a mecca of nightlife and entertainment. With some of the best nightlife venues in the nation, one major aspect of the nocturnal fun found in the city are its bars. But if you know New York like we do, then one of the hardest decisions that anyone looking for a good time can have is where to go. There are literally hundreds of bars all over this city to choose from, but luckily for you, we’ve narrowed down the list to a few of our favorite bars in New York City.
Best Bar in NYC:
Brass Monkey
55 Little West 12th Street
New York, NY 10010
It’s not that often that you find a decent and reasonably priced beer selection in the Meatpacking District—home of glitz and be-seen scene. Therefore, the dim space of Brass Monkey becomes a salvation to many thirsty locals, as well as one of the best bars in NYC. It might look like your run-of-the-mill watering hole, but Brass Monkey is an undercover NYC hotspot that happens to feature some 75 brands of imported beer. In case you grew hungry while chugging endless pints, the menu features a selection of above-the-ordinary bar snacks focusing on grilled meat bites.
Best Bar in NYC:
McSorley’s
15 East 7th Street
New York, NY 10003
Established in 1854, and still holding strong as one of the best bars in NYC, McSorely’s has become East Villages’ landmark. Allegedly trod by Abraham Lincoln and John Lennon, this quaint, cash-only alehouse attracts patrons from all five boroughs and tourists from all around the States with its history-saturated allure. The bar looks its age, but is far from falling apart, and the same goes for the mosaic of old-school cash register, framed photos and all sorts of decorative elements that hinge upon every square inch of the wall. Besides, nothing brings back memories of the past debaucheries better than scratches and marks left by generations of beer-animals on the counter top.
Best Bar in NYC:
The Anchor Bar
310 Spring Street
New York, NY 10013
It should not come as a surprise that The Anchor Bar on Spring Street stands strong on our list as one of the best bars in New York, especially considering its long-standing reputation as great bar for a solid night out. The music is always on point, the bar is not too big and not to small, the crowd is eclectic, and the doormen are nice (which really makes a difference, belileve it or not). If you haven't had a chance to check out this spot, take your time... it doesn't seem to be going anywhere.
Best Bar in NYC:
The Otheroom
143 Perry Street
New York, NY 10014
Many people consider The Otheroom the most romantic bar west of Union Square, and once you enter its dim interior, you’ll know why. The exposed brick walls and tiny, flickering candles might not be an ultra-original solution, but they invariably work their magic. The décor is hyped-up by works of local artists—including eerie pseudo-African masks ornamenting the walls. Couples lingering on the cozy couches will find a treat of a menu with 60 beer brands and an interesting wine list. When you combine all these attributes, then you understand why its made our list as one of the best bars in NYC.
Best Bar in NYC:
Sweet Afton
30-39 34th Street
Astoria, NY 11103
If you're looking for the best bar in Astoria, then Sweet Afton is your spot. The vibe ranges from mellow on weeknights to a little bit more rowdy on the weekends, but you'll never see frat boys barfing from too many jaeger bombs at this local haunt. Brick walls, cozy booths and dim candlelight set the vibe of this Astoria Bar with mellow, rarely-heard-in-a-bar tunes that fit perfectly with this spot (Pink Floyd, Old Crow Medicine Show, Arcade Fire, etc). The drinks, like the spicy cherry margarita, are also delicious and unique and if you like pickles then you'll enjoy the hot homemade pickle martini or the fried pickles which are some of the best we've ever had.
Best Bar in NYC:
Union Hall
702 Union Street
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Although surrounded by nooks for reading and thousands of tattered hardbacks, Union Hall is not a place where you'll be curling up with a classic. Rather, you'll likely be playing a game of bocce ball, jamming to a band in the downstairs venue, or enjoying a drink and a laugh in the company of a few good friends. This Park Slope bar has earned a lot of street cred as of late, both for bringing in some great live acts and for providing a unique place to spend a night out, without dealing with the boisterous Manhattan crowds.
Best Bar in NYC:
The Back Room
102 Norfolk Street
New York, NY 10002
Tucked away behind the façade of the “Lower East Side Toy Company,” this speakeasy based on the Prohibition era feels like a setting ripped straight from Jane Eyre, with a tinge of Alice In Wonderland. Perhaps the Alice reference is sparked by the high-backed velvet chairs, the teacups in which drinks are served, or the storybook bookshelf that opens to a secret (and VIP-secured) back room; but whatever it is, we like it. Chandeliers and velvet paisley wallpaper give off a rich vibe, so put up your pinky when you’re sipping your booze and don’t forget to tip your hat... and your waitress. The gaping fireplace keeps this venue warm, while the ipod playlist (substituted for a flashy DJ) keep it cool.