Best Bars in New York

McSorley's is a Cooper Union landmark that first opened its doors around the Civil War. It is one of the former operating bars in the city. McSorley's serves two unique beers, McSorley's Lager and McSorley's Cream Stock Ale, and they are served two mugs at a time. Inside, you'll find sawdust on the floor and historic bric-à-brac alongside photos and news clippings. The menu is decent, with delectable appetizers like hearty cheese plates. Just be sure to keep the pub's centuries-old motto in mind: "Be Good or Be Gone!"

Clover Club may look like an ordinary bar from the exterior, but once inside, patrons are transported back in time to an era of free-flowing drinks and live jazz. Celebrated mixologist Julie Reiner leads a team of experienced bartenders in creating classic mixes, shareable punches, and inventive cocktails. Let a plate of inspired pub fare like braised pork and grits complement a refreshing cocktail like a rhubarb spritz. There's no end to the hospitality at the Clover Club, so come get cozy on a leather sofa by the Victorian fireplace and let this premier establishment do the rest.

Established in 1892 and surviving the Prohibition Era, the Old Town Bar has been serving locals and tourists alike for over a century. Upon entering the bar, patrons are transported back in time with elements such as old booths, tin ceilings, frosted glass, beveled mirrors, and a mahogany bar that add to the charm. And the menu here features everyone's favorites, including burgers, fries, sandwiches, and salads. Not just that, but the bar also boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, making it a favorite spot for happy hour and after-work drinks.

The Campbell Apartment, a bar and cocktail lounge that is second to none, is located in Grand Central Terminal. A perfect combination of sophistication and grandeur, this place has lush original touches like leaded glass windows, classy interiors that would take you back to the 1920s, and a fireplace that creates a warm and cozy environment. If you are looking for a classic cocktail night with cheese plates while experiencing luxury and comfort altogether, then head straight to the Campbell Apartment to have a crazy night in New York. In addition to its reputation as a first-class drinking destination, the Campbell Apartment also served as a venue for private events and special occasions. The elegance of the space, combined with its historical significance, made it a sought-after location for weddings, corporate functions, and other celebrations.

You know you've arrived at Rudy's Bar & Grill when you see the giant ceramic pig standing outside. This legendary dive bar, open since 1933, offers a laid-back atmosphere. The decor is a quirky mix of vintage signage, sports memorabilia, and taxidermy animals, giving the space a uniquely eclectic charm. Despite its popularity, Rudy's maintains its gritty and unpretentious vibe, making it a favorite of locals and tourists alike. If you're hungry, they offer tasty hot dogs and other American comfort food to go along with your beer.

Penrose is a laid-back bar with a friendly ambiance that will immediately put you at ease. Located in the Upper East Side neighborhood, this quaint little place features exposed-brick walls, reclaimed wooden furnishing, bright lights, and antique touches. A lovely place for brunch, lunch, or dinners for groups or couples, favorite orders among patrons includes the Penrose Burger, Sizzling Steak Fajitas, and Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad. Classic and specialty cocktails, beers, and wines perfectly complement the food served at this charming place.

With a whooping 60 draft beers on tap, Greenwood Park is a large beer garden that is housed in a former mechanic shop and gas station. Located in the Park Slope neighborhood of Brooklyn, this watering hole is crammed with locals throughout the evening. A hip crowd and rustic ambiance make for a great atmosphere to hang out on weekends. Family-friendly until evening, this bar is also known for its great service and food menu. Drop by to taste their eclectic beer selection and pub bites.

Dante is a charming cafe in Greenwich Village in New York. Located in one of the busiest neighborhoods of the city, this little gem was once an iconic landmark cafe and has seen the likes of celebrities from different walks of life. Today, this revamped cafe is a reflection of new meets old, with a fresh new menu and dining space and at the same time the walls adorning old photographs of celebrities who visited this place. Popular even today among locals, this place is flocked by hungry diners waiting to gorge on classic Italian dishes which are served here with the utmost attention to presentation. Visit the restaurant for reminiscing the cafes good old days and some delectable Italian dishes.

This Brooklyn institution that was once a pool supply shop is now converted into a kitschy neighborhood bar. Blue booths, tin walls and rustic wooden furnishings give this place an old-time charm. If the pub gets too crowded, just saunter out into the patio area and enjoy the relaxed party atmosphere. DJs spin some catchy tunes while you sip on innovative drinks concocted by the imaginative bartenders. You can also catch on live performances and other events here. This place also has a photo booth for you to click a few pictures and take home some memories.

The Union Hall is a former warehouse that has been transformed into a chic nightclub, restaurant, bar and concert venue. Garden seating, a fireplace and two bocce courts give this place a whole new effect. The stylish interiors bring to mind a bygone era and create an intimate space to sip on craft brews and share upscale pub plates. Brunch is offered on the weekends as well as a bar menu served daily. Union Hall is a popular event venue and hosts live shows from concerts to comedy and even science night! The roster of talent is always changing, so there's always something new to discover here.

Marie's Crisis Cafe has been in existence since the 1850s. It was rechristened Marie's Crisis after the "Crisis Papers" by Thomas Paine. Nowadays, every night the public joins the regulars or performers that sing show-tunes with the piano and creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Beer and cocktails are served here, but watch out for the beautiful mirror work that depicts the scenes of the French and American Revolutions placed on the wall near the bar, whose origins remain unknown to this day.

PDT, which stands for Please Don't Tell, is a "secret" bar on St. Mark's Place. A call from a phone booth in Crif Dogs (the adjacent restaurant) is the only way to get in. Once accepted, a secret door opens up in the phone booth, leading to PDT. It's not much of a secret anymore though, because the club is hugely popular. Once inside, you'll find a crowded bar area steeped in darkness. The inventive cocktail selection is superb and a major draw. If you're hungry you can also order from the Crif Dogs food menu, which gets delivered to the club via a small pass. The friendly staff will give you great recommendations and ensure that you get the best deal.