Published 13th Jul. 2023
Reading time
Where to drink in the city that never sleeps? You’re spoilt for choice. New York is a metropolitan maze of watering holes, from the uber chic to the decidedly less so dives. Today, we’ll be focusing on the former, so get ready to channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw as we take a spin around the best cocktail bars in New York. Whether you’re into a Manhattan or you’re partial to a Daiquiri, here’s where you can find your tipple of choice on your next USA holiday.
1
With Latin routes, Leyenda envelopes you in warmth the moment you step inside. With its red tiles and arched wooden windows this bar might be a world away from the colonial charm of Mexico, but it’ll take you there anyway. The menu delivers Latin and Caribbean spirits so expect lashings of rum, tequila and a huge collection of mezcal, and the Tia Mia is to die for.
2
Sip a whiskey cocktail in the same spot as legends like Patti Smith at Dante. A Greenwich Village mainstay, the century-old café was opened in 1915, and while ownership might have changed hands, the faded grandeur has stuck around. Sit in the retro-style booths and sample the petite menu of craft cocktails and small plates. Date night? Nailed it.
3
Don’t be put off by the name. The Dead Rabbit is bizarrely named after a gang, but we’ll let the bartender dish up the back story there. This lively haunt on the lower East Side is super popular thanks to its Irish Coffee cocktail. The first floor, The Taproom, is a typical Irish pub complete with loud live music and Guinness on tap, so it’s perfect if you’re missing the cosy spots of home. Upstairs is a much more polished affair, aptly named The Parlour. Head here for live piano music and a classic Old Fashioned.
4
Porchlight delivers a taste of the south in the Big Apple. At this Chelsea-based bar, everything from the decor to the menu to the bar staff exudes southern charm, so it’s a great spot if you’re discovering NYC solo. Take a seat at the bar and dig into hearty dishes like Texas smoked chilli while you enjoy a tipple and a chat. Drinks wise, we recommend the New York Sour – it might not be southern, but it’s more than sip-able. Happy hour can be rowdy so if you’d prefer to skip the crowds, head there a little later (or earlier… it’s five o’clock somewhere, right?).
5
Over in the East Village, Mace serves up uber cool metropolitan vibes that’ll make your social feeds happy. Hip hop blasts from the stereo and the menu is brimming with expertly-crafted drinks. Cocktail culture is big here (hence why it made our list of the best cocktail bars in New York) so expect all of the usuals – and some not so usual – on the menu, as well as bohemian-inspired botanical decor. Grab a seat by the window for a spot of people watching while you sip.
6
Another stop on the tour of the Lower East Side is Attaboy. Once home to Milk & Honey, set up by the late great bartender Sasha Petraske (if you love NYC and you love cocktails, look him up), this space has serious speakeasy vibes, so you’ll feel like you’re getting a slice of the city not every tourist does. It’s worth noting that it’s menu free, so it’s a good chance to talk shop with the bartenders while they mix you a bespoke drink.
7
What do we love about Saint Tuesday? For a start, everything. The industrial-chic decor, the live gypsy jazz, the cushy booths – and that’s before we get onto the cocktails. Yes, the menu is smaller than you’d find elsewhere but the drinks are divine – we recommend the Frank Atlantic, it’s made with elderflower liquor so it’s sweet, floral and refreshing. The only downside to Saint Tuesday is that it can be a little hard to find (we think it adds to the mystery), it’s based in the cellar of Tribeca’s Walker Hotel and is accessed by the staircase on Cortlandt Alley. Trust us, it’s worth taking a wrong turn or two.
8
Founded by Sasha Petraske (we mentioned him earlier), 67 Orange Street is a must-drop-by for any cocktail aficionado. With low ceilings and soft lighting, there’s a moody – in a good way – vibe the second you walk in. The menu is stacked with titles that honour the prohibition period from Margaritas to Sazeracs and mixing them becomes an art form. If they don’t tickle your fancy, ask for the bartender’s choice; you won’t be disappointed.
9
The Raines Law was passed in 1896 and prohibited the sale of alcohol on Sundays at all premises, bar hotels. To get around this, some watering holes got sneaky and opened a single bedroom in the building as a loophole. Today, you might be able to drink your cocktails freely, but The Raines Law Room brings a cosy prohibition atmosphere with velvet chairs and mood lighting. The menu changes seasonally and often uses exclusive spirits made in small batches.
10
A neon light in a sea of speakeasy vibes, Elsa is instantly recognisable with its bold, lit-up exterior. If you’re wanting a fresh setting and a lively atmosphere, this has to make your list of the best cocktail bars in New York. The tasteful Art Deco décor is fun, with plenty of bold colours, and the bar snacks are equally Instagram-able – charcuterie board, we’re talking about you. Plus, the cocktails have been given playful names which makes ordering a laugh – ask for the My Old So-and-So without smiling, we dare you.
From New York to California and all the states in between, our team knows the USA's hotspots incredibly well. What we really excel at, though, is the under-the-radar regions, thanks to our in-depth experience and the hand-picked guides we work with on the ground. Whether you’re travelling as a family or à deux, road trips are the ultimate way to explore the USA, and we're brimming with suggestions to improve journeys, from scenic route options to photogenic stop-off points (all based on our own experiences, of course). And if that's not enough, you'll have our in-country Concierge team on hand at all times for extra help and advice.
ENQUIRE NOWPractical advice and inspiration for your next trip
When it comes to postcard-perfect beaches, the USA has them in bucket-(and spade)-load. From California’s colourful coast and Florida’s buzzing beaches
4th August 2025 - USA Beaches & Islands
Americans know a thing or two about wide, open spaces, and our USA specialist, Dave, discovered what all the fuss was about during his research trip to the Rockies and the American West.
15th July 2025 - USA Travel Tips
With its dramatic landscapes, explosive geysers and wonderful wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of our favourite places in the USA. Spread across
30th June 2025 - USA Travel Tips
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
