There are plenty of reasons to visit a cocktail bar in New York City. Maybe youโre looking for a place to impress a date or business client. Maybe you want to try something new and adventurous from a master mixologist. Or perhaps youโre just looking for a good, stiff drink.
Whatever your reason, youโll find no shortage of options when it comes to cocktail bars in NYC. But with so many choices, it can be tough to know where to start. Thatโs why weโve put together this handy guide to the best cocktail bars in the Big Apple. So pull up a stool and get ready to sip on some of the best cocktails in the city. Cheers!
Creative Cocktails in NYC
Thyme Bar
Cocktails are great, but theyโre even better when paired with fantastic foods. Thyme Bar offers an eclectic selection of dinner opยญtions from various cuisines like the โForest Arancini,โ the โBerkshire Pork Belly Slidยญers,โ and the soba noodles. Suppose youโre in the mood for a more extensive meal. Try the tastยญing menu that allows you to build your dinยญing experience (diners will enjoy an Amuseยญbouche along with their choice of a Le Jardin cocktail. an item from the food menu. a Floยญriography Cocktail, and a dessert). The cocktails here are some of the prettiest youโll find in New York City, with showstoppers like The Flower Bomb, the Trumpet of Death, The Noir and Primrose & Rye, to name just a few.

Bemelmanโs Bar
Bemelmans Bar is a chic and elegant spot located in the The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel,ย in New York City. The bar features stunning murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the beloved Madeline childrenโs books, and draws in celebrities and high-profile individuals with its extensive drink menu. Select nights even feature live entertainment, including a pianist starting at 5:30 p.m. and a jazz trio later on in the evening. Classic Bemelmanโs libations include the โEarthaโ and โMadelineโs Vesper,โ while signature concoctions include โLudwigโs Bunny Negroni,โ and mocktails options include โMiss Clavel.โ There is a cover charge for these live performances, with prices varying depending on the artist.

Ophelia Lounge
Ophelia Lounge is a glamorous rooftop cocktail lounge located on the 26th floor of a historic building. In addition to its Art Deco design and stunning views of the East River, Ophelia boasts a unique history as a 1920โs women-only club and hotel. The cocktail menu features creative interpretations of classic cocktails from the era, adding to the loungeโs upscale and nostalgic atmosphere. The lounge features high ceilings with cathedral windows overlooking the East River and jewel-toned blue walls that create an elegant atmosphere. Besides the fantastic cocktails and plush interior, you can’t beat the view.
