Traditional bars will already offer classic cocktails like an old-fashioned, a manhattan, or a martini. For this guide to our favorite (and some of the best NYC cocktail bars) in NYC, we focused on a few different criteria: spaces that feel great to be in, offer creative cocktail choices, and serve delicious food in addition to their drinks.
All of the spaces featured in this guide are available on the inKind app, where you can earn 20% back when you pay for your meal using the app.
Opened by proprietor Ravi DeRossi and bartender Sother Teague in 2011, Amor y Amargo is America's first bitters tasting room. Nearly a decade later, they're still one-of-a-kind. They have helped usher in a resurgence of interest in bitters, as well as other manner of botanically-accented Italian amari and fortified wine. Over the years, the original Amor y Amargo has been nominated and awarded some of the industry's highest honors--including being ranked consistently among the world's best bars.
Our Cocktail Recommendation
The Old Fashioned: Old Overholt, Cane Syrup, and Angostura. You can't go wrong with a classic, and at a staple cocktail bar such as Amor y Amargo, we recommend starting with an iconic aperitif.
Public Records is a music-driven restaurant, performance, and community space built within the historic former ASPCA Headquarters in Brooklyn, NY. The building itself includes a live room known as The Sound Room, bar & restaurant, cafe & record shop, and outdoor garden. It is entirely vegan, minimal waste, and champions diverse programming across various art practices.
Our Cocktail Recommendation
Negroni Bianco: Bombay sapphire fords gin, Ilegal mezcal, Cocchi americano, and Contratto bianco. Public Records is a unique, multi-faceted space much like this cocktail with its mixture of mezcal and herbed white wine.
Hotel Chantelle is a chic and vibrant venue known for its stylish rooftop bar and lively atmosphere. Located in the Lower East Side, it offers a blend of upscale comfort and a trendy social scene. The rooftop provides stunning views of the city skyline, making it a popular spot for cocktails and dining.
With a menu featuring a mix of American classics and internationally inspired dishes, along with a variety of creative drinks, Hotel Chantelle is a go-to destination for a memorable night out in NYC.
Our Cocktail Recommendation
Hotel Chantelle offers a variety of craft cocktails and drink packages for larger parties to enjoy. We recommend trying one of their pitchers such as the Pineapple Express or Passion Fruit Mojito.
Pebble Bar
Located on floors 2 - 4 of a townhouse at Rockefeller Center, Pebble Bar is an elevated space for intimate cocktails with friends, family, and coworkers. You'll love them for their walk-in cocktail bar on the 2nd floor, or their delicious small bites (like a classic shrimp cocktail or lobster roll) housed on the 3rd floor.
Pebble Bar's historic location combined with great city views makes this a great spot to snap the perfect Instagram photo. If the views and atmosphere don't impress you, you'll surely be wowed by their bright and energetic cocktail list–all picture-perfect.
Our Cocktail Recommendation
The Wallflower: Doble Diamante Tequila, St. Germain, Bianco Vermouth, Verjus & Grapefruit Bitters. Sometimes you just want to take in a space: marvel at its history and sense of place. A spot like Pebble Bar invites you to let your inner wallflower out a bit while you soak up the quintessential NYC ambiance surrounding you.
Ella Funt, nestled in NYC’s East Village, is a trendy and eclectic restaurant that combines a casual vibe with a sophisticated menu. Known for their creative approach to French cuisine, Ella Funt offers a range of dishes that blend classic flavors with modern twists. The vibrant décor and exciting atmosphere make it a popular spot for any occasion.
With their inventive cocktails and dynamic menu, Ella Funt provides a distinctive dining experience in one of NYC’s most energetic neighborhoods.
Our Cocktail Recommendation
Some popular cocktails worth giving a try are the Apassionado Verde or Ella Banana Bobana for a sweeter treat!