The 35 Best Bars in Midtown Manhattan Right Now
Which bar in Midtown is the best?
Are you looking for the best bars in Midtown Manhattan? Then you’ve come to the right place – because I’ll show you the hottest speakeasy bars, pubs, wine bars and small venues where New Yorkers hang out. The choice of bars in Midtown is huge – so there’s bound to be something for you!
To help you quickly and easily see which spot is near you, you can find all of Midtown’s bars on an interactive map. And if you love rooftop bars as much as I do, check out the best rooftops in Midtown.
By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides!
My Favorite Bars in Midtown Manhattan
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01
Ardesia Wine Bar
Wine Bars in Hell's KitchenOur Highlight
Ardesia Wine Bar is one of my favorite spots in Hells Kitchen: not only do you have a great selection of wines (aha), but also a stylish ambiance and really good food at the same time. Be sure to try the Garlic Shrimp Skewers and the Mozzarella & Bacon Sandwich!
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02
Connolly's Pub & Restaurant
Bar in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
The bar Connolly’s Pub and Restaurant is an Irish pub like it is in the book and is for me one of the best pubs in New York. A huge, rustic bar, lots of colourful taps and tons of good whiskey immediately attract attention. The kitchen is also excellent. The burgers are a blast!
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03
Dear Irving on Hudson
Bar in Hell's KitchenOur Highlight
The bar Dear Irving on Hudson is a real insider tip. Located very close to Times Square, you can look down on Manhattan’s “urban canyons” from here and be relatively undisturbed. The bar is small and cozy and not yet as crowded as many others in the neighborhood. The cocktail menu is not that big, but the cocktails are really good.
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04
Electric Lemon
Rooftop Bar in Hudson YardsOur Highlight
On the 24th floor of the Equinox Hotel in the Hudson Yards you will find the rooftop bar Electric Lemon – I myself have been here several times and am thrilled every time. The atmosphere here is very special and the view over the Hudson River at sunset is amazing.
The first area of the Electric Lemon Rooftop Bar consists of several lounge furniture and tables, then you will immediately notice the stylish outdoor bar and glass fireplace (and the view of The Vessel), which really comes into its own in the evening. Add to that a huge wire sculpture and a water basin – really nice!
The larger area with lots of comfy lounge chairs is the part where you probably spend the most time. Especially if you’ve been out on the High Line, the Electric Lemon Rooftop Bar is a really nice spot to relax. They make you pay for it, too: Cocktails cost $19.
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05
Equinox Hotel
Hotels & Accommodations in Hudson YardsOur Highlight
5 Stars | The Equinox Hotel at Hudson Yards is one of the newest and most trendy hotels in New York, and we were lucky enough to stay there for two days. The highlight (apart from the hotel itself) is the rooftop bar and lounge overlooking the Hudson River. Spectacular.
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06
King Cole Bar
Bar in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
The St. Regis Hotel’s refurbished King Cole Bar, originally established in 1932, continues to preserve a hint of vintage New York. This notable venue, once graced by the presence of Salvador Dalí, Marilyn Monroe, and John Lennon, maintains its iconic allure. This bar in the St. Regis Hotel is where the Bloody Mary cocktail was allegedly introduced to America.
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07
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
230 Fifth is arguably the most famous rooftop bar in New York City. It is well known for its stunning views of the Empire State Building great cocktails and large outside seating area. Whether in summer or winter, the 230 Fifth is always a good idea. The sunset is always enchanting and in the winter cuddled under blankets and heated mushrooms has also something to sit.
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08
American Whiskey
Bar in Chelsea
In the Chelsea district of New York you can find the American Whiskey Bar. Unlike other sports bars, this bar offers not one, but three floors where you can have a good time. The main bar is especially popular, with leather and oak wood furnishings. The 36 flat screen TVs are perfect for watching the next basketball game. Perfect for all sports fans.
In the American Whiskey there are over 100 different types of whiskey! So there is something for every whiskey fan here.
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09
BAR 54 Rooftop
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
One of the most popular rooftop bars in Times Square is Bar 54, located on the roof of the Hyatt Times Square Hotel New York, on the 54th floor (hence the name), where you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city. The Bar 54 is also a lounge, so you can go there even if the weather is not so good.
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10
Bar Cima
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
Bar Cima, located on the rooftop of the Grayson Hotel, offers an intimate lounge experience with elevated cocktails and stunning views of New York City. The interior, designed by Dutch East Design, features polished Mexican luxury with jewel-toned velvet seating, custom stone tables, and an antique mirrored ceiling.
The bar highlights an extensive mezcal and tequila collection, while the north terrace boasts beautiful decor and breathtaking city views.
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11
Bathtub Gin
Bar in Chelsea
A great bar with a great selection of cocktails and gins. On the menu you will find small dishes like crispy calamari, grilled chicken or burrata.
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12
Bill's Bar and Burger
Burger Spot in Midtown Manhattan
This bar is one of the places that are one of our little highlights in NYC. As the name suggests, you can get tasty burgers and excellent beer here. The list of beers that are drafted or bottled is as long as the list of burgers. And all this at a fair price.
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13
Bounce Sporting Club
Bar in Flatiron District
Anyone looking for a more swanky spot to watch March Madness in NYC should check out the Bounce Sporting Club. Located on W 21st Street, this venue is home to 30 HD flatscreen TVs and a 4,000-square-feet lounge area. So, if you’re looking for a larger place to watch the games during the pandemic, consider this spacious sports bar that offers creative cocktails and pub foods with a twist.
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14
Cantina Rooftop
Rooftop Bar in Hell's Kitchen
In the Cantina Rooftop Bar you feel like in the Caribbean, surrounded by tropical plants you eat delicious guacamole and drink very well made cocktails with classical Mexican music. Besides tequila in every variation, there is a large selection of other delicious drinks: Try the Cantina Margarita.
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15
Cibar
Bar in Midtown Manhattan
The Cibar close to Union Square is one of those hidden little bars that do not really look like anything from the outside. However, if you are inside and want to have one of their delicious drinks (I’m not a rum lover, but on the bartender’s recommendation I tried the “Hedo Rick“. Crazy!) you know what I mean! The Cibar is really a nice bar in New York!
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16
Connolly's Pub & Restaurant
Bar in Midtown Manhattan
The bar Connolly’s Pub and Restaurant is an Irish pub like it is in the book and is for me one of the best pubs in New York. A huge, rustic bar, lots of colourful taps and tons of good whiskey immediately attract attention. The kitchen is also excellent. The burgers are a blast!
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17
Connolly's Pub & Restaurant
Bar in Midtown Manhattan
The bar Connolly’s Pub and Restaurant is an Irish pub like it is in the book and is for me one of the best pubs in New York. A huge, rustic bar, lots of colourful taps and tons of good whiskey immediately attract attention. The kitchen is also excellent. The burgers are a blast!
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18
Cornerstone Tavern
Bar in Midtown Manhattan
In Midtown East, you’ll find the Cornerstone Tavern, which is a well-known local spot for Kansas fans who will no doubt fill the place up to watch the Jayhawks. It’s been rumored that Xan Garcia, the owner, wants to place some big screens outside, but she first needs to ensure that the city is on board with that plan. If their newest plan doesn’t come to fruition, you can expect the same service from years past, including deals on seven-pint beer towers and the fan-favorite onion dip with Old Bay chips.
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19
Daintree
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
Courtesy of Alexandro LoayzaDaintree Rooftop Bar, perched atop Hotel Hendricks in Midtown Manhattan, offers a unique blend of Australian and New York City vibes. The bar features a lush, jungle-inspired decor that provides a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Guests can enjoy a variety of inventive cocktails and delicious small bites while taking in breathtaking views of the Empire State Building and the surrounding skyline. With its vibrant atmosphere and striking design, Daintree Rooftop Bar is a standout spot for both locals and visitors looking to experience Midtown’s nightlife.
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20
Darling Rooftop
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
Indulge in a taste of paradise at Darling Rooftop, a hidden garden oasis on the 47th floor above Central Park. With its uniquely crafted cocktails and enchanting ambiance, it’s the only rooftop lounge overlooking the park. Designed in collaboration with Bond Hospitality, Darling Rooftop offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, making it the perfect spot for an intimate gathering with friends. Experience this one-of-a-kind rooftop lounge and get ready to be charmed by its whimsical charm and picturesque setting.
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21
Dear Irving
Bar in Gramercy
Dear Irving on Hudson is an absolute secret in the city located on the 40th & 41st floor inside the Aliz Hotel. In the middle of Times Square, this bar pairs the glimpse of the city lights and skyline views with the best cocktails in town.
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22
Fitzgerald's Pub
Irish Restaurant in Gramercy
Fitzgerald’s pub is one of the most popular Irish pubs in NYC and is known for having a great atmosphere to watch sports, listen to music or have a pint with friends. The menu features all of your favorite pub foods like wings, burgers and fries. But, if you’re looking for something different, they also offer a great selection of salads and sandwiches. Also, don’t forget to try their famous fish and chips!
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23
Gabby O'Hara's
Irish Restaurant in Midtown Manhattan
Gabby O’Haras is a classic Irish Restaurant and pub located in the heart of Times Square. This spot is a favorite for tourists and locals alike, as it offers a little bit of everything – from Irish food to live music and even karaoke! The menu features all Irish classics like shepherd’s pie, boxty, bangers, and mash. Plus, they have a great selection of beers on tap – perfect for washing down your meal! Make sure to try the beef stew as they’re famous for it!
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24
Gallow Green Rooftop Garden
Rooftop Bar in Chelsea
Gallow Green is a unique rooftop bar located above McKittrick Hotel. What makes it so special is its quaint and green atmosphere. The whole bar is overgrown with foliage and certainly does its name justice: It looks like a garden! Not to be forgotten are the delicious drinks that are served there. It’s even listed in our Rooftop Bar Guide as one of the 43 Best Rooftop Bars in New York.
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25
Haven Rooftop & Restaurant
Rooftop Bar in Theatre District
In the heart of the Theatre District on Times Square you will find the Haven Rooftop & Restaurant. It is on the 10th floor of the Sanctuary Hotel at 47th Street between 6th and 7th Avenue and offers you a sensational perspective. Although it is in Times Square, it is surprisingly quiet. I love the mix of “being in the middle of the city” and “still having peace and quiet” – and that’s exactly what you can expect there.
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26
Igloo Bar at 230 Fifth Rooftop
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
To me having a drink at one of the rooftop bars in NYC is high on my list of fun activities in nyc in the winter. It’s amazing how rooftop bars are still a great place to go even though it’s cold out. At 230 5th Ave, they have rooftop igloos where you can stay warm while enjoying the breathtaking city views.
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27
J. Bespoke
Bar in Midtown Manhattan
While there are plenty of cheap sports bars to choose from, J. Bespoke offers a more sophisticated atmosphere for watching the big game. Its gorgeous lighting, plush seating, and relaxed atmosphere make it a top pick for those looking for a high-class experience.
J. Bespoke also has amazing LED flat screens for tracking game footage, an incredible beer selection, and one of the most high-class sports bar menus in Manhattan. Be sure to try the karaage fried chicken and truffle fries – they’re sure to be a hit with any football fan. So if you’re looking for a sophisticated and stylish place to watch the Super Bowl in NYC, J. Bespoke is a great choice.
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28
Jack Doyle's
Bar in Garment District
We went to Jack Doyle’s before the New York Knicks game, because it is only two blocks from Madison Square Garden (and three blocks from the Empire State Building). If you are looking for a wonderful, normal pub with great burgers and nice people, there is hardly a way around them!
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29
Keybar
Bar in Gramercy
Here you can enjoy a 2-for-1 offer of a special kind: buy a drink during the happy hour and receive a voucher for an equivalent drink as a gift. You don’t have to redeem this voucher immediately, but whenever you want, as long as the expiry date has not passed.
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30
Le Bain Rooftop Bar
Rooftop Bar in Chelsea
Le Bain Rooftop Bar ranks high among the best clubs and rooftop bars in NYC. A good cocktail will cost you around 12 dollars and entry is free, meaning that prices are not as outlandish as in some other popular NYC nightclubs. Defintiely worth a visit, especially if you are looking for an awesome view over Manhattan!
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31
Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Rooftop Bar in Garment District
The Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge is located on the 18th floor of the Moxy Times Square Hotel and offers magnificent views over the city. The entrance hall resembles a gallery, with a few whimsical animal figures in naughty positions. The style of the small indoor lounge is urban-industrial, while the two outdoor areas have an almost contrasting design: If you like to enjoy the view of the Empire State Building, you should have a drink on the elegantly designed east side. If you prefer something fancier, head to the western area of the bar, as it features rotating seating, reminiscent of an antique carousel.
On the menu there are not only great cocktails, but also some tasty snacks. You can even have brunch at the Magic Hour. Fun Fact: for a limited time, you can get the biggest croissant in Manhattan for brunch!
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32
Molly's Pub
Bar in Gramercy
Only three blocks from Madison Square Park towards the East Village you will find Molly’s Pub, which is one of our absolute favourites. We have been fans of this pub for a long time, we have been coming here regularly since our first visits to New York. It is super-authentic and radiates everything you would expect from a real Irish Pub (including sawdust on the floor!).
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33
Monarch Rooftop
Rooftop Bar in Midtown Manhattan
I have a great rooftop bar for you: the Monarch Rooftop Lounge. It is not only beautifully designed, consists of one of the most beautiful lounges in town and an outdoor area, but also offers you a sensational view of the Empire State Building. So if you are looking for a spot where good food, fair prices (!) and relaxed music come together, then the Monarch Rooftop Lounge should be on your myNY list.
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34
Mulligan's Pub
Irish Restaurant in Murray Hill
Located in the heart of Murray Hill, only a few steps away from Grand Central Station is Mulligans Authentic Irish pub. This is one of the best places in NYC to enjoy a pint of Guinness and some traditional Irish comfort food. The menu features all of your favorite dishes like shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, and more. Don’t forget to try their famous Mulligan burger, which comes topped with bacon and cheddar cheese. So, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a place to watch the game, Mulligans Pub is the perfect spot!
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35
Mustang Harry's
Bar in Chelsea
If you’re in search of a classic sports bar experience while watching the Super Bowl in New York City, Mustang Harry’s might be the perfect spot for you. This no-frills bar is known for its great big-screen TVs and classic bar food, including hot dogs.
It’s a great place for large groups and has a lively atmosphere filled with die-hard sports fans. In addition to fantastic beers, Mustang Harry’s is a top pick for watching the Super Bowl in NYC, making a great place to catch all the action and enjoy all the traditional elements of the big game.
The Best Bars in Midtown Manhattan on the map
A map with all Midtown Manhattan can be found here – just click on “FULL MAP” if you want to see more. You can click on each restaurant on the map to find out everything you need to know
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