Nubeluz stands out as one of the best rooftop bar restaurants in NYC, thanks to its sky-high views and innovative cocktails. Perched atop the Ritz-Carlton, this swanky lounge from chef José Andrés blends mixology with opulent design—think plush jewel-toned seating and mirrored tables. Expect a well-dressed crowd, polished service, and signature drinks like the Salt Air Margarita topped with a cloud of sea-salted foam, plus expertly prepared classics and sophisticated spirit-free cocktails.

Ophelia delivers a polished experience with innovative cocktails and stylish decor. A favorite for locals and tourists alike, it’s one of the best rooftop bars in NYC for a sophisticated night out. The drink menu includes creative twists on classics, all served in a refined ambiance that’s ideal for date nights or celebrations. Sip on cocktails like a Caribbean take on an old fashioned paired with an elegant snack menu, including surf-and-turf deviled eggs with steak tartare and caviar.

NYC’s oldest bar, Fraunces Tavern blends historic ambiance with warm hospitality. Head to the cozy whiskey bar to sip pours and flights from a deep domestic and international list. If whiskey isn’t your thing, choose from an impressive selection of limited-edition and craft beers, including several non-alcoholic brews. Either way, you’ll want to dig into pub favorites like oysters, wings, and the Tavern’s famed burger.

Bar Contra is the place to go for cocktails that take center stage in a cozy dining room with natural elements and a minimalist design. This cocktail bar blends global inspiration with seasonal flair, serving up signature drinks like the salty-sweet Saltair, which comes with a tiny beer, and the gingery Firefly Mule, as well as low-ABV drinks. Pair them all with fancy bar snacks like the mushroom tartlet and chicken wings.

One of the best cocktail bars in NYC, BONDST presents an elegant Japanese dining and drinking experience. This stylish destination combines sophisticated ambiance with seasonal Japanese fare and a top-notch list of sake, wines, and cocktails. Pair a glass of sake or a cocktail like a lychee martini with a deep menu of nigiri, sushi rolls, and luxe dishes like Wagyu skirt steak.

Open since 1913, Grand Central Oyster Bar is a NYC institution located inside the iconic Grand Central Terminal. The lively bar scene and historic ambiance—think vaulted ceilings and terracotta tiles—make it a must-visit destination for stellar seafood and cocktails. Sit at a checker cloth-dressed table or grab a stool at the bar counter for raw oysters and massive seafood platters, plus ice-cold passion fruit mules served with a lime garnish that make Grand Central one of the best bars in NYC.

Harlem Tavern captures the spirit of the neighborhood with its warm atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted menu of American favorites. The bar has a great selection of cocktails, craft beers, and premium spirits, expertly paired with crowd-pleasing pub fare. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Harlem Tavern is a fun, lively spot for comfort food and drinks.

The Roaring Twenties come alive at The Tusk Bar, Evelyn Hotel’s glam salon named one of Esquire’s best bars in America in 2024. Barman Tristan Brunel leads the stellar beverage program, which includes whimsical takes on the classics—think a mezcal-based twist on the bloody Mary and mini martinis served with oyster sidecars. With a raw bar and menu of seafood-forward snacks like scallop crudo, fresh oysters, and shrimp cocktail, this is one of NYC’s best bars for top-notch food.

Step into Bar Kabawa, where Caribbean warmth and rum-soaked daiquiris meet laid-back island vibes. Crafted by chef Paul Carmichael and Momofuku, this intimate daiquiri and wine bar has a standout drink menu with showstoppers like the innovative Martini Kabawa made with gin or vodka and coconut water. Whether you’re settling in for lively conversations or grazing through the compact menu of raw bar snacks and Caribbean-style patties, Bar Kabawa delivers spirited energy and fun night.

Swing by Demo for inventive wine bar dining in a sleek, intimate layout with a front walk-in bar and a cozy chef’s counter. The chic space has an effortlessly cool vibe, while the European menu has seen standout dishes like fluke meunière with fried capers and duck ragu. The seasonal dishes pair beautifully with the low-intervention wine list or a glass from the curated carafe selection.