The Best Bars in NYC’s Upper West Side (2024)
Exploring New York City’s Upper West Side reveals a vibrant bar scene that caters to every taste, from cozy wine bars to lively sports pubs. Here’s a curated list of the best bars in the area, each with its unique appeal.
Key Takeaway Table
| Bar Name | Specialty | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| The Owl’s Tail | Top-notch cocktails | Intimate, like a living room |
| Prohibition | Live music, house cocktails | Inspired by the speakeasy era |
| Blondies | Buffalo wings, sports viewing | Packed sports bar |
| Caledonia Bar | Extensive whiskey selection | Calm pub vibe |
| The Hamilton | American whiskey, snacks | 18th-century tavern decor |
| George Keeley | Obscure beers | Normal pub with sports viewing |
| Bodega 88 | Latin-inspired bar foods | Cozy, with booth TVs |
| The Dead Poet | Draft and canned beers | Solid neighborhood bar |
| Dive 75 | Big groups | Casual |
| Da Capo | Inventive cocktails | Lively with outdoor seating |
| Vin Sur Vingt | French wines | Parisian charm |
| Thyme & Tonic | Vegan and gluten-free menu | Vibrant, inviting |
| e’s Bar | Over 200 board games | Easygoing get-togethers |
| Bodega 88 | Sports viewing, Latin dishes | Smaller venue with big screens |
| The Empire Rooftop & Lounge | Rooftop view, cocktails | Scenic and stylish |
| The Heights Bar & Grill | Frozen margaritas | Tex-Mex bar |
| The Mermaid Inn | Oysters, happy hour | Popular for oysters and wine |
The Owl’s Tail
An intimate cocktail bar that feels more like a downtown find, The Owl’s Tail is perfect for dates or small gatherings. Its cozy atmosphere, complemented by a selection of small plates like meat, cheese, and oysters, makes it a prime spot for those looking for top-notch cocktails in a comfortable setting. Find more at The Owl’s Tail Website.
Prohibition
Inspired by the era of flappers and speakeasies, Prohibition offers live music every night in a spacious setting, making it ideal for everything from first dates to solo drinks. House cocktails and sidewalk tables offer a diverse experience. More information can be found at Prohibition Website.
Blondies
Blondies is the Upper West Side’s go-to sports bar, known for its exceptional buffalo wings and vibrant atmosphere during game nights. It’s a favorite for big groups and sports enthusiasts looking for quality food in a lively setting. Visit Blondies Sports for more.
Caledonia Bar
A whiskey lover’s haven, Caledonia Bar boasts an enormous selection of scotch, Irish, and American whiskey. Its pub-like vibe provides a calm atmosphere for dates or casual drinks, making it unique on the Upper West Side. Find details at Caledonia Bar Website.
The Hamilton
Focusing on American whiskey, The Hamilton features a decor reminiscent of an 18th-century tavern. It’s a quaint bar offering a serene environment for a date or a quiet cocktail after work. More at The Hamilton UWS Website.
George Keeley
For those seeking obscure beers and a pub atmosphere, George Keeley stands out with its extensive selection of hard-to-find drafts. It’s an ideal spot for beer enthusiasts and sports fans alike. Check out George Keeley Website for the beer list.
Bodega 88
This sports bar offers a lively ambiance with Latin-inspired dishes, making it a standout choice for watching games. Its unique booth TVs and affordable happy hour deals are perfect for groups or solo visits. Explore more at Bodega 88 Website.
The Dead Poet
An inviting neighborhood bar with a literary twist, The Dead Poet serves a wide selection of beers and book-inspired cocktails in a cozy setting. It’s ideal for casual drinks and sports viewing. Visit The Dead Poet Website for a unique bar experience.
Dive 75
Known for its casual vibe and suitability for big groups, Dive 75 offers a range of drinks and a playful atmosphere with games and themed nights. More information can be found on their site.
Da Capo
Da Capo stands out for its inventive cocktails and vibrant atmosphere, complete with outdoor seating and DJ sets. It’s a gem in the Upper West Side for those seeking lively nights out. For details, visit Da Capo’s Website.
Vin Sur Vingt
An authentic Parisian wine bar, Vin Sur Vingt offers a vast selection of wines by the glass and French appetizers, perfect for a relaxed evening or a gathering with friends. Check out Vin sur Vingt Website for their wine list.
Thyme & Tonic
Offering a predominantly vegan and gluten-free menu, Thyme & Tonic attracts with its pink outdoor seating and a welcoming vibe. It’s a spot for health-conscious diners and cocktail lovers. Discover more at Thyme & Tonic Website.
e’s Bar
With over 200 board games and a wide selection of drinks and bar food, e’s Bar is a go-to for relaxed, fun nights out in the Upper West Side. Learn more on e’s Bar.
The Empire Rooftop & Lounge
Boasting scenic views and a stylish setting, The Empire Rooftop & Lounge is perfect for upscale drinks and gatherings. Details available at The Empire Rooftop Website.
The Heights Bar & Grill
This Tex-Mex bar is renowned for its frozen margaritas and happy hour deals, offering a casual place to unwind. More information can be foundon their site.
The Mermaid Inn
Known for its happy hour specials and fresh oysters, The Mermaid Inn is a favorite for casual dining and drinks, offering a warm ambiance perfect for any occasion. For a delightful seafood experience, visit The Mermaid Inn Website.
Each of these bars on New York City’s Upper West Side offers a unique experience, from cozy wine bars and lively sports pubs to upscale cocktail lounges and quaint whiskey spots. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a quiet drink, a lively atmosphere to watch the game, or a romantic spot for a date night, the Upper West Side has a diverse selection of bars to choose from.
