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Cocktails for reading in Chelsea

A cocktail in hand and a book open is the only way to spend an evening alone. It is about finding a quiet corner to get lost in a story.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
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The Hotel Chelsea image 1
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Building blends original architecture with a quiet atmosphere perfect for reading. Two cocktail bars serve inventive classics in a glamorous lobby. Long-term residents add an authentic, lived-in vibe that inspires creativity.

Two great cocktail bars offer inventive twists on classics. The lobby bar creates a glamorous, welcoming atmosphere with outstanding cocktails and a beautiful surrounding.

People are saying

"It's like staying in an art museum, full of history."

"The Hotel's art and craftsmanship are exceptional."

"The cocktails here are inventive and beautifully made."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers a daily free wine happy hour for guests.

2

Breakfast is not included in the stay, so plan accordingly.

3

The bar operates on a first come, first serve basis for all guests.

02
The Moore image 1

Rooftop terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Empire State Building and a calm oasis above the city. Rooms feel cozy and modern, with a quiet, intimate atmosphere ideal for rest. The hotel blends clean, well-designed spaces with a pleasant, quiet neighborhood setting.

The rooftop bar offers immaculate vibes and refreshing cocktails like the One Night Stand. Another spot serves delicious cocktails but the rooftop bar lacks any soft drinks, cocktails, or mocktails.

People are saying

"The hotel rooms are tiny, but beautifully appointed."

"The rooftop terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views."

"It's so quiet, you barely hear street noise or other guests."

Good to know

1

The hotel is clean and offers a hassle-free stay.

2

The hotel is just a 3-minute walk to the subway.

3

There is no parking available or partnership with a nearby lot.

03
Starbucks Reserve Roastery New York image 1

Massive space combines coffee roasting, bakery, and alcohol bar with impressive interior design. Atmosphere feels crowded and loud, mixing casual chatter with the hum of activity. Visitors find a unique blend of retail, art, and tasting areas that sets it apart from typical coffee shops.

A coffee bar and cocktail bar coexist, offering espresso martini options and craft cocktails with coffee. Specialty drinks include the Espresso Martini Flight and Cold Brew Spiced Rum Cocktail.

Quiet, cozy spaces invite reading and working with coffee. The basement cafe offers a quiet atmosphere and a clean bathroom. A fireplace spot adds warmth for book lovers.

People are saying

"It's a full coffee experience with impressive copper roasting equipment."

"The cocktails here were fun and delicious."

"It's a quiet, cozy reading spot to relax and sip coffee."

Good to know

1

The guided tour of the Roastery starts at 8am; sign up online to secure a spot.

2

You can shadow a coffee roaster on specific days for a unique experience.

3

Attend cocktail classes to learn how to make the perfect espresso martini.

04
Motto by Hilton New York City Chelsea image 1

Floor-to-ceiling windows offer spectacular city views and modern room designs. Quiet atmosphere contrasts with typical city noise, while a stylish bar with 1970s vibes provides a lively evening spot. Free bike rentals and a friendly staff add to the urban experience.

A busy bar serves great cocktails alongside traditional drinks and non-alcoholic options. The lobby offers a comfortable spot to enjoy these beverages.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is excellent and right in the city center."

"The city skyline views from the upper floors are outstanding."

"You have to try the cocktails; the bartenders craft them superbly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great value drinks at the bar.

2

The outdoor Plaza hosts jazz music on beautiful May evenings.

3

The hotel charges a daily destination fee of $30.

05
Chelsea Savoy Hotel image 1

Hotel offers spacious, clean rooms with a historic, dated decor and slow elevators. Lobby bar features old school bartenders and inventive cocktails, creating a lively atmosphere. Street noise can be loud at night, but the location provides quick access to city transit.

Old school bartenders craft inventive cocktails that come at a pricey tag. Drinks often get taken away before finishing.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is so friendly and helpful."

"The rooms here are comfortable and kept very clean."

"It's surprisingly quiet for being so close to everything."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served every morning from 8 to 10 am.

2

The hotel offers muffins, bagels, coffee, tea, and chocolate milk for breakfast at no additional cost.

3

After 7 PM is the prime time to visit the bar for drinks and small bites.

06
INNSiDE by Meliรก New York NOMAD image 1

Modern hotel offers stunning city views and a quiet, relaxed atmosphere despite its urban setting. Common areas feel trendy and clean, with a Rose Garden providing a unique outdoor spot. Rooms balance comfort and simplicity, suited for both business and leisure stays.

The bartender crafts great cocktails with skill. The on-site restaurant offers a nice spot to enjoy drinks alongside meals.

People are saying

"The hotel staff are incredibly attentive and helpful."

"The location is great, with a lovely view from the upper floors."

"The rooms were so quiet, it was really nice."

Good to know

1

Thereโ€™s easy access from airports via Taxi/Uber/Lyft, and commuter trains go right into Penn Station.

2

The location is superb and everything is within walking distance.

3

In the evenings, there is music and cocktails.

07
Hyatt House New York/Chelsea image 1

Hotel offers spacious rooms with quiet comfort and spectacular city views including the Empire State Building from balconies and a rooftop terrace. Atmosphere feels friendly despite occasional noise from nearby construction and weekend neighbors. Rooftop space provides a standout spot for admiring the skyline.

People are saying

"The rooftop view is amazing, especially for sunrises and sunsets."

"The location is great, close to subway stations and everything."

"I enjoyed the breakfast buffet every morning; it was truly wonderful."

Good to know

1

Breakfast requires early arrival: 7 a.m. on weekends and 6:30 a.m. on weekdays.

2

Check-in is at 3 p.m.

3

There is a subway station just one block away from the location.

08
Sandbar Rooftop image 1

Rooftop lounge with a retractable roof offers breathtaking city views, including the Empire State Building. Atmosphere stays vibrant and relaxed, blending music and open-air seating. Features like roasting marshmallows at tables and swings add unique charm.

Cocktails feature breakwater cocktail and old fashioned as standouts. Drinks come at a pricy but good quality level.

People are saying

"The nice view of the Empire State Building from the rooftop is amazing."

"I found the cocktails to be excellent and creative."

"This relaxing spot has incredible skyline views of NYC."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to enter; walk-ins are not accepted.

2

After 8 PM, the venue is strictly 21+.

3

The establishment closes at 11:30 PM.

09
Hyatt Place New York / Chelsea image 1

High-rise hotel offers breathtaking skyline views including the Empire State Building and Financial District. Rooms are modern and clean with basic amenities and access to a rooftop terrace. Elevator service is often slow and lobby areas can feel crowded and chaotic.

A bar on the second floor offers a terrace to enjoy drinks. Bartenders like Bryan, Antonio, and Julian serve affordable cocktails with good energy and local stories.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is ideal, right in the heart of the city."

"The city views from the upper floors are outstanding."

"The cocktails here are tasty and the bartender makes the experience fun."

Good to know

1

Breakfast opens from 6-9 AM during weekdays and until 10 AM on weekends.

2

Get to the breakfast room early because it gets very crowded.

3

It is recommended to avoid breakfast during peak times (7:00/8:30).

10
Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel image 1

Hotel combines spacious, well-designed rooms with stunning panoramic views from high floors. Rooftop nightclub creates loud, vibrant energy that affects noise levels and elevator wait times. Bar on the 38th floor offers live jazz music and a lively atmosphere.

Cocktails at the lobby bar come with a price tag over $20 outside happy hour. Drinks are very good but lean toward the expensive side. A $30 credit can make the cost feel more worthwhile.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff were fantastic and went above and beyond."

"The city views from the rooms and pool deck are great."

"The beds were so comfortable, I fell asleep right away."

Good to know

1

The rooftop bar opens to the public at 4 PM, with a cover charge afterward.

2

Happy hour runs every evening, offering a $30 credit for drinks.

3

The restaurant is closed between 11 AM and 3 PM, despite advertised hours.

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Chelsea, New York

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