So you're looking for the best bars in New York — and honestly, who isn’t? NYC has this way of making even a regular night out feel like something special. Whether you're chasing skyline views, inventive cocktails, or just a place to unwind after a long day, New York City has a bar for that. From hidden speakeasies tucked into alleyways to rooftop lounges with skyline views that’ll make you forget your worries — the city’s bar scene is as diverse as it gets.

You know how it is — sometimes you want a beer at a dive bar where the jukebox still plays old-school tunes, other times you’re after a perfectly stirred martini in a swanky lounge. The good news is, you don’t have to choose. The best bars in New York offer a little bit of everything, and then some.

And here’s the thing: New York’s bar scene is constantly changing. New spots open up, old favorites evolve, and every year, the city surprises us with something fresh. So if you're curious about where to drink in 2025, you’re in the right place.

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Table of Contents

• Hidden Gems: Speakeasies and Secret Bars
• Rooftop Hotspots with Skyline Views
• Cocktail Bars That Know Their Stuff
• Local Favorites That Keep People Coming Back
• Where to Go for Every Kind of Night
• Frequently Asked Questions

Hidden Gems: Speakeasies and Secret Bars

Let’s talk about the kind of bars you don’t just stumble into. You know, the ones that feel like they’re part of a movie set — dim lighting, velvet booths, and a bartender who might just know your name by the end of the night. New York has no shortage of these kinds of spots. Some of the best bars in New York are actually hidden behind unmarked doors, inside old phone booths, or down alleyways you’d never think to walk down.

One of those places is Attaboy, where there’s no menu — just a few questions about what you like in a drink, and then you sit back and let the pros do their thing. It’s like having a personal bartender who really knows their stuff. And if that’s not your vibe, check out PDT (Please Don’t Tell), where you walk through a phone booth in a hot dog joint to get to the bar. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and honestly, it’s kind of the whole point of going out in New York, right?

If you're into the whole secret bar experience, you’ll find more than a few options across the city. Some require a password, some have secret knocks, and others just have a vibe that makes you feel like you're in on the secret. Either way, it’s a night out you won’t forget.

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Rooftop Hotspots with Skyline Views

When the weather’s nice — or even when it’s not — there’s something about sipping a drink while looking out over the city skyline. Rooftop bars in New York are kind of a big deal. And for good reason. Some of the best bars in New York are up high, where the views are endless and the drinks are just as good as the ambiance.

One of the top spots right now is 230 Fifth, a rooftop bar that’s basically a summer party all year round. There are cabanas, skyline views, and drinks that come with a little extra flair. Then there's Westlight, over in Brooklyn, which has a more refined, elegant feel. The cocktails are on point, and the view of Manhattan from across the river? Pretty much unbeatable.

If you're looking for something a little more low-key, check out Bar SixtyFive at the Rainbow Room. It’s got that classic New York charm, and the drinks are as fancy as the setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself to a little luxury, rooftop bars in NYC are the way to go.

Cocktail Bars That Know Their Stuff

Let’s get one thing straight: if you want a good cocktail, New York is the place to be. Some of the best bars in New York are run by people who treat mixology like an art form. These aren’t just drinks — they’re experiences. You’ll find bars that specialize in everything from classic martinis to wild, experimental concoctions that you won’t find anywhere else.

One of those spots is Dead Rabbit, which has been consistently ranked among the best bars in the world. The cocktails are creative, the staff is super knowledgeable, and the atmosphere? Totally unique. It's got this old-school Irish vibe, but with a modern twist that makes it feel like something new every time you go.

Then there’s Employees Only, which is part speakeasy, part cocktail lab, and part party. It’s a bit more lively than some of the other spots, but that’s kind of the whole point. You’ll find people dancing, bartenders shaking up drinks like they’re in a show, and a general sense that you’re in for a good time.

If you’re into craft cocktails, you’ll find no shortage of options here. From small, intimate lounges to buzzy spots that feel like a party, New York has a cocktail bar for every kind of drinker.

Local Favorites That Keep People Coming Back

So you're not necessarily looking for the trendiest spot in town — you just want a good drink in a place that feels like home. Well, guess what? Some of the best bars in New York are the ones that locals swear by. These are the places that might not always make the “best of” lists, but they’re the ones people keep coming back to, week after week.

Places like McSorley’s Old Ale House, which has been around since 1854 and still serves up two kinds of beer: light and dark. It’s old-school, it’s got history, and it’s the kind of place where you can sit and chat with strangers like they’re old friends. Or check out The White Horse Tavern in the West Village, a cozy pub where the drinks are good and the regulars make you feel like part of the family.

These kinds of bars are the heartbeat of the city. They’re where people come to unwind, catch up with friends, and enjoy a drink without all the fuss. And honestly, sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

Where to Go for Every Kind of Night

The thing about New York is, it’s big. Like, really big. And so is its bar scene. Whether you're in the mood for a quiet drink after work or a night out that ends with dancing on tables, there’s a bar for that. Here are a few more spots worth checking out:

• Superbueno – If you’re into Latin-inspired cocktails and a lively atmosphere, this is the place for you.
• Bemelmans Bar – Located at The Carlyle, this bar is elegant, timeless, and perfect for a more upscale night out.
• Attaboy – Already mentioned, but worth repeating. No menu, just great drinks and great vibes.
• Le Bateau Ivre – A French-inspired bar with cozy vibes and a great selection of wines and cocktails.

And if you're not sure where to start, here’s a tip: just walk around. Some of the best bars in New York are the ones you discover by accident. A glowing sign, a crowd spilling out onto the sidewalk, a bartender shaking up something that smells amazing — sometimes the best nights are the ones you didn’t plan.

If you want to dive a little deeper, you can also read our insider’s guide to the best bars in New York for even more suggestions and tips.

Oh, and if you’re looking for something specific, like the best beer gardens or the top lounges in the city, there’s plenty to explore. New York’s bar scene is constantly changing, so there’s always something new to try. And that’s kind of the whole point of living here, right?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best cocktail bars in New York right now?

Some of the top cocktail bars include Dead Rabbit, Employees Only, and Superbueno. Each offers a unique experience — from expertly crafted drinks to lively atmospheres that keep people coming back.

Where can I find rooftop bars with skyline views?

230 Fifth, Westlight, and Bar SixtyFive are some of the best rooftop bars in NYC. These spots offer stunning views and drinks that match the vibe.

Are there any hidden speakeasies in New York?

Absolutely. Places like Attaboy, PDT, and Le Bateau Ivre are just a few of the hidden gems you can explore. Some require a password, others just a sense of adventure — but all are worth the effort.

If you're curious about more options, you can also check out the latest rankings of the best bars in New York for up-to-date recommendations.