▷ The 40 Best Bars in Midtown Manhattan Right Now [2022 UPDATE] (2023)

01

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!

02

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!

03

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.

04

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.

05

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.

06

There’s only one burger on the menu, and it’s got it. Super tasty fries, fantastic meat and all this with a great view down to the bar. To get into the NoMad Bar you have to sneak behind a curtain as you cross through the restaurant dining room. So it’s almost a speakeasy bar that made it on our list of the most beautiful bars in NYC.

07

A very small rooftop bar very close to Bryant Park with a nice view of the Empire State Building is the Refinery Rooftop from the Refinery Hotel. This two-story rooftop bar in Midtown isn’t particularly large, but it certainly has its appeal due to the combination of location and quality of the cocktails.

08

The Dawson is a bar in Midtown Manhattan, which is very stylishly decorated and serves first-class cocktails. It is located not far from 5th Avenue, Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center, so it is very easy to get there.

09

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.

10

In the Tribeca or Chelsea areas of NYC, you’ll find American Whiskey locations. Unlike other sports bars you’ve ever visited, this venue allows guests to slug whiskey inside of a three-story booze lodge. Fans love the main bar, which is leather and oak accented, and the mounted bison heads and 36 flatscreen TVs. Just be sure to bring your A-game because this place offers one to two-ounce shots of over 100 different types of domestic whiskey. Basketball fans will enjoy their NCAA specials, so don’t forget to inquire about those!

11

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.

12

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.

13

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.

14

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.

15

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.

16

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!

17

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!

18

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!

19

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.

20

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.

21

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!

22

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!

23

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.

24

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.

25

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!

26

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!

27

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!).

28

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.

29

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!

30

You can choose your favourite from over 300 whiskeys. The barkeepers know their way around sensationally well and can mix really good cocktails with them. Beer lovers will not be left out either: over 125 beers are on the menu.

31

Ophelia is one of the newest additions to the local bar scene in Midtown East. The beautiful bar in NYC comes with 360-degree views of the East River and Manhattan skyline. Here we were sceptical at first, because after the new opening a huge PR wave started. Everyone was talking about how great and good Ophelia is. Even though we were in NYC at that exact time, we wanted to wait for the first wave of euphoria and so we were there only recently. The Ophelia is on our best list because they surprised us positively: great drinks, a very nice and harmonious interior and a wonderful view. A tiny little area is even open like a rooftop bar – what more could you want?

32

Even though we like it clean and neat when it comes to interior design, Oscar Wilde is a must and had to make its appearance on our list of the most beautiful bars in NYC. Even if I felt overstimulated after 2 hours of being there: the place is definitely worth a visit!

33

This pub was recommended to us by some locals when we asked about the best pub in the neighborhood. Just north of the Theatre District, you’ll find friendly staff, a great selection of beers, and the best fish and chips you’ve ever had in a pub! Simply a wonderful place to relax and have a beer!

34

Here, you drink Guinness on tap. Do not even ask for a bottled beer. It’s pretty rustic but absolutely Irish. Every St. Patrick’s Day here is considered a great time.

The Paddy Reilly’s is a delightful, cozy Irish pub, with live music on most nights. You will love it being here because the atmosphere is very welcoming and relaxing.

35

Above the observation deck Edge, in addition to the restaurant, there is an elegant and very stylish bar, which not only prepares first-class cocktails and drinks, but the view is also sensational.

36

Especially in the evening a visit to the Rooftopbar is a highlight: the lights of the city shine, the many cars on 5th Avenue are in constant motion and you enjoy the silence in airy heights and you have spectacular views of two of the most famous sights of the Big Apple: the probably most famous shopping mile of the world “5th Avenue” and the green lung of Manhattan – Central Park.

37

Bright red on the outside, Irish on the inside! Also Scallywag’s definitely belongs on our best list. It’s a classic pub as it is written in the book: nice and friendly bartenders, a good selection of beers and great bar food – and all this at a fair price. Not for nothing is it firmly in the hands of the locals!

38

On the roof of the EATALY you can not only drink home-brewed beer, but also eat wonderfully. It is – not surprisingly – typically Italian and on a high level: there are sandwiches with Portobello mushrooms and Taleggio cheese, antipasti and many other delicious things.

39

Due to its great location you can look almost 50 kilometres (!) in good weather – in several directions: north, west and south. By the way, the SixtyFive Bar and Rooftop-Lounge is NOT open on weekends! Attention: there is a dress code: Jeans & Jacket are ok, Sneakers and Basecaps are not.

40

One of the hippest lounges in New York is located at over 120 meters (400 feet) on the roof of the Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Times Square. The name says it all: from here you can enjoy a sensational view of just about anything you want, from Times Square to Hudson to the Empire. Thanks to the 360 degree view!

41

The Skyline Rooftop on top of the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York hotel is one of the few rooftop bars in Hell’s Kitchen. It’s just one block from Macy’s and two blocks from Hudson Yards, and the view from here is really special!

42

If you’re looking for a rooftop bar with a fantastic view of the Empire State Building, you should not only think of the 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar but also of the Bar Spyglass. You will find it on the 2nd floor of the Archer Hotel in Midtown and it is also perfect for cold days (autumn & winter!) because it has a great indoor area.

43

Tap Haus 33 is a gastropub that’s located in Midtown and that has more than 40 beers on tap. During March Madness, catch your favorite team on one of the numerous big screens while chowing down on foods and sipping drinks that are half price!

44

American restaurant and a really good cocktail bar at the same time – that’s exactly what Tara Rose is! There is a good selection of burgers, sandwiches and salads. I can recommend the Greek Fries with mint and feta and the Steak & Potatoes. Just awesome!

My tip: go to happy hour at Tara Rose – always Monday to Thursday from 1pm to 7pm.

45

Tavern29 is a pub whose roof has been converted into an American beer garden. Here you will surely find something you like: Choose from beer, wine, scotch, whiskey or canapés. By the way, Tavern 29 also offers two Happy Hours!

46

This small bar inside Grand Central Station just got newly renovated and is one of the hidden secrets of the Grand Central Station.

47

With relaxed live jazz you can choose from a very extensive whiskey repertoire (600 varieties!). What we hadn’t seen before is their program “Bottle Keep”. If you like a whiskey, you can buy the bottle and have it stored – of course labelled – to enjoy your bottle of whiskey again next time.

48

The Heights is a rooftop bar in Midtown in the immediate vicinity of the Empire State Building. The highlight? A glass floor that lets you look down 90 degrees!

49

The Landmark Tavern is a historic NYC pub that first opened in 1868. This Irish pub was once a favorite of many famous writers, actors, and politicians, at one time even serving as a speakeasy. The current owner has kept the original charm of the building while also adding some of his own touches, like the large mahogany bar and stained glass windows. Make sure to stop in and enjoy its historic charm with local favorites like the chicken rollatelli.

50

The Long Room is a mix of a club atmosphere featuring elements of the classic Irish pub. With a large selection of imported and craft beers on tap, as well as an extensive whisky menu, this bar is perfect for those who want to experience a bit of everything. The food menu includes Irish staples like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips, as well as American favorites like burgers and pizza. Plus, they have live music every night. Make sure to try the Bavarian Uber Pretzel and the Skillet Roasted Chicken when you visit!

51

The Lookup is one of the newest rooftop bars in Midtown and a real insider tip! It is wonderfully uncomplicated, not so crowded yet and you have a great view of the Empire State Building.

52

In front of the wooden facade of the Irish Pub’s The Perfect Pint hangs an oversized three-dimensional mockup of a filled pint. In the multi-storey pub you will find brick walls, bar stools partly made from old beer barrels and 40 draught beers. Perfect to enjoy the really good food. The Perfect Pint is available twice in Midtown, the East Side location even has a rooftop bar.

53

The pub has everything that a real Irish pub should have: a great long bar, sports broadcasts, a good selection of Irish whiskeys and delicious burgers. In short: a sensational bar.

54

When it comes to the best rooftop bars in NYC, The Press Lounge is a place you have to visit to enjoy a drink. On top of the Ink48 Hotel, this gorgeous bar offers stunning views of Manhattan and the Hudson River.

55

You think the rooftop bar season is over in late autumn and winter? Not in New York! With the rooftop bar “The Skylark” in the Garment District you can enjoy fresh air and great views of the New York City canyons even in the cold season.

56

The classic New York cocktail bar is located at Chelsea Market. Here you can get very innovative drinks – try the Monkey Business with whiskey, walnut and banana. For the small hunger there are sandwiches and salads.

57

Twins Irish Pub is a dark-wooded, cozy Irish pub that is one of the best in NYC. The menu features all of your classic Irish favorites, as well as some unique dishes like Guinness Braised Short Ribs and Corned Beef Hash. If you’re looking for a great happy hour spot, this is the place for you! Grab one of their famous pork sandwiches and a beer to enjoy your afternoon or evening.

58

On the 30th floor of the Kimberly Hotel you will find the rooftop bar and lounge “Upstairs at the Kimberly Hotel”. Located in midtown, you have a spectacular view of one of the most beautiful buildings in New York: the Chrysler Building. Not all rooftop bars offer a limitless panoramic view, but the “Upstairs” can offer it.

59

Versa NYC is a Rooftop Bar and Restaurant located inside The Renaissance Hotel in Midtown NYC and provides beautiful views of the city and the Empire State Building. The outdoor portion of the bar is relatively small compared to other rooftop bars, but it is quite intimate. If you’re a small group of 2 -4 people, this could be a great place to relax and enjoy the weather.