The Best Bars in Manhattan
Manhattan’s nightlife isn’t just a scene; it’s an experience steeped in history, culture, and innovation. The city’s bar culture dates back to the early 19th century, when taverns and public houses became social hubs for New Yorkers seeking connection, conversation, and a stiff drink. The first true bar, as we know it, likely emerged around the early 1800s, coinciding with the influx of European immigrants who brought with them their rich traditions of social drinking.
In the late 19th century, saloons thrived across the city, serving workers who built Manhattan into the metropolis it is today. Prohibition (1920-1933) marked a significant turning point, giving rise to hidden speakeasies where patrons could indulge in clandestine cocktails. Even when the law banned alcohol, New York’s ingenuity shone through. From unmarked doors to secret passwords, this era defined New York’s love for innovation in bar culture.
Today, Manhattan’s bars pay homage to this storied past while pushing the boundaries of modern mixology. From historic alehouses to sleek, contemporary cocktail lounges and speakeasies that echo Prohibition days, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to sip classic cocktails in sophisticated surroundings or crave something out-of-the-ordinary, these 10 bars offer an unforgettable taste of NYC nightlife. Here’s where you should go on your next visit:
Attaboy – one of the best bars in Manhattan
One of the best bars in Manhattan, tucked away in the Lower East Side, Attaboy is as unassuming as it gets. You won’t find a sign out front—just a metal door with a buzzer. Once inside, you’re met with bartenders who skip the menu and ask about your taste preferences. The result? A bespoke cocktail experience that feels like your drink was made with you in mind. It’s intimate, it’s mysterious, and it’s quintessentially New York.
The Dead Rabbit – one of the best bars in Manhattan
Head down to the Financial District, and you’ll stumble upon The Dead Rabbit. Part Irish pub, part cocktail haven, it’s a three-story delight that has earned accolades as one of the world’s best bars. Downstairs, you’ll find a lively taproom, while the upstairs parlour serves up cocktails that blend classic and modern flavours. Don’t miss their legendary Irish coffee—a true NYC experience, which helps it make our list of best bars in Manhattan.
https://thedeadrabbit.com/location/new-york/
Dante
Dante has been a Greenwich Village fixture since 1915, and its reputation for impeccable cocktails is well deserved. One of the best bars in Manhattan, this award-winning bar celebrates its Italian roots with a superb Negroni menu and aperitivo-style drinks that transport you to the streets of Florence. The atmosphere? Cosy, warm, and buzzing with both locals and visitors.
Please Don’t Tell (PDT)
For those craving a speakeasy experience, Please Don’t Tell (PDT) in the East Village is a must. Accessible through a phone booth inside Crif Dogs, this bar epitomises the hidden gem vibe. Once inside, you’re treated to a dimly lit space and inventive cocktails served by expert bartenders. The exclusivity adds a special touch, making it feel like a well-kept New York secret.
Bemelmans Bar
Fancy a touch of sophistication? Bemelmans Bar in the iconic Carlyle Hotel on the Upper East Side is where you’ll find it. Named after Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the Madeline books, the bar is adorned with his whimsical murals. The live piano music, dimly lit room, and classic cocktails make it an enchanting retreat from Manhattan’s frenzy.
https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/the-carlyle-new-york/dining/bemelmans-bar
The Campbell
If history and hidden gems are your thing, The Campbell at Grand Central Terminal is a must-visit. Originally a 1920s office space, it has been transformed into an opulent lounge with a stone fireplace and vintage details. Sip a classic Manhattan in this time capsule of a bar and feel the nostalgia seep in.
https://www.thecampbellnyc.com/
McSorley’s Old Ale House
No list would be complete without a mention of McSorley’s Old Ale House. Established in 1854, it’s New York’s oldest continuously operated bar. McSorley’s is all about simplicity—two drink choices, light or dark ale, and sawdust-strewn floors that tell tales of the thousands who’ve walked them. History buffs and beer enthusiasts, this one’s for you.
The Rum House
Right near Times Square, The Rum House manages to steer clear of touristy cliches. This cosy bar is known for its extensive selection of rums and lively jazz performances. With its warm, dimly lit atmosphere and relaxed vibe, it’s perfect for winding down after a day exploring the city’s landmarks.
https://www.therumhousenyc.com/
Overstory
Looking for a drink with a view? Overstory is perched on the 64th floor of a building in the Financial District and serves up sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. With cocktails that are as carefully crafted as the interiors, this high-end bar is where you go to elevate your night—literally. Make sure to reserve a spot; the view is as coveted as the drinks.
https://www.overstory-nyc.com/
Katana Kitten
Rounding out the list is Katana Kitten, a bar that infuses Japanese flair with the best of NYC’s cocktail culture. Situated in the West Village, it’s playful, vibrant, and offers an array of unique drinks. The bartenders here aren’t afraid to experiment, which means you’re likely to try something new every time you visit. One of the best bars in Manhattan, this is the place for adventurous drinkers looking for a memorable experience.
The best bars in Manhattan! That’s a wrap!
Whether you’re in the mood for bespoke cocktails in a hidden speakeasy or sipping a rum old-fashioned with live jazz in the background, Manhattan’s bar scene is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Each bar brings its own unique flavour to the city’s nightlife, blending history, culture, and innovation in a way that only New York can.
But there’s more to the best bars in Manhattan than just great drinks and stylish interiors. They offer a chance to connect with locals, who are as much a part of the city’s character as the landmarks themselves. Pull up a stool at McSorley’s and you might find yourself trading stories with a lifelong New Yorker, or chat with regulars at Dante and get insider tips on the best hidden spots in the Village. Manhattan’s bar scene isn’t just about the drinks; it’s about the people who make the city come alive after dark.
So, put on your walking shoes, make a list of the best bars in Manhattan, and toast to unforgettable nights in the city that never sleeps. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation, share a laugh, or swap travel stories. Who knows? You might leave with not only fond memories but also new friends who’ve shared in your Manhattan adventure.
Cheers to the perfect night out in New York City—where the cocktails are as bold as the locals, and every sip is a story waiting to be told.
Getting around to the best bars in Manhattan
Getting around Manhattan is easy with its extensive public transport network. The subway runs 24/7 and is your best bet for hopping from one neighbourhood to another, while yellow cabs and ride-hailing apps are always an option if you prefer direct routes. If you’re staying in Midtown, you’ll be centrally located for most of the bars on this list. The Upper East Side, West Village, and Financial District also make excellent bases, each offering their own slice of New York charm.
For accommodation, consider boutique hotels like The Marlton Hotel in Greenwich Village or The Ludlow Hotel on the Lower East Side for that intimate, local feel. For those looking for luxury, The Carlyle on the Upper East Side or The Standard, High Line in the Meatpacking District are iconic choices that put you right in the heart of the action. Whether you’re looking for chic and modern or classic and historic, there’s a place to rest your head after a night of exploring Manhattan’s bar scene.
