Few cities in the world tell a better story over a drink than New York. Just ask 10 New Yorkers to name their favorite bar, and you’re likely to hear at least as many answers. That’s because, on any given night, a thousand versions of New York are unfolding at once: artsy types are listening to a jazz trio in Bed-Stuy, while, across the river, a crowd of twenty-somethings spills onto the sidewalk outside a Manhattan nightclub. Just down the street are couples enjoying date night at a wine bar, debating between a skin contact bottle and a pinot. In Chelsea, ice cold martinis are being shaken for an eager group of girlfriends, while Japanese whisky cocktails are poured over hand-chipped ice in Greenpoint. It’s a city where a million people could be having entirely different nights, but still feel the same connective electric hum.
With so many options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, albeit in the best possible way. That’s why we scoured the city to find its most exciting destination for drinks right now. These are the best bars in New York City.
Read our complete New York City travel guide here, which includes:
How we choose the best bars in New York City
Every bar on this list has been selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by a local contributor who has visited that business. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable options, and weigh stand-out drinks, dishes, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials. We update this list as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve. Additional reporting by Devra Ferst.
