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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown, New Haven

Cocktail spots

A cocktail menu that offers real variety instead of just the same three drinks you can find everywhere else.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Firehouse 12 image 1
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Recording studio

Recording studio and jazz venue blend with a speakeasy bar for a secretive vibe. Creative cocktails offer unique flavors with smooth service. Intimate space delivers top-notch live music and cozy, colorful comfort.

Creative cocktails stand out with unique flavors and thoughtful mixes. Service complements the drinks well, creating a smooth experience.

People are saying

"The bar has a dark, moody vibe, like a secret place."

"I loved the creative and tasty cocktails here."

"It's a beautiful, intimate venue for serious jazz."

Good to know

1

They charge a $20 cover for entry.

2

There is ample seating available for larger groups.

3

The venue hosts a performance series for serious jazz listeners.

02
Ordinary image 1
Cocktail bar

Speakeasy-style bar offers intimate atmosphere with a cozy fireplace and hidden entrance. Friendly crowd enjoys artisanal cocktails featuring single barrel spirits and specialty drinks. Service is exceptional, making it perfect for a chill, relaxed night.

Well-crafted cocktails shine in a setting that blends modern and historical speakeasy vibes. Staff serve single barrel spirits and specialty drinks with exceptional service in a chill atmosphere.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are really well-crafted and yummy."

"I loved the cool speakeasy vibe and its hidden mystery."

"You have to try the warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies."

Good to know

1

Reservations and long waits are no longer necessary.

2

Metered street parking is available right outside for convenience.

3

Happy hour specials run daily with great deals on drinks.

03
It's Thai Time Restaurant image 1

Cozy space with bright decor and enchanting music blends classical and soft rock for a peaceful vibe. Cocktails shine, especially the vegan Merlot with its soft texture. Artistic plates add charm, making it great for families and quiet meals.

Cocktails here are consistently excellent and delectable. The vegan Merlot stands out for its super-soft texture.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and perfectly spiced."

"The shrimp curry and drunken noodles were delicious."

"The cocktails here were excellent and up to the mark."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available until 7pm; arrive early to take advantage.

2

The restaurant offers customizable options for vegetarians, removing egg and fish sauces.

3

Portion sizes are generous, suitable for leftovers.

04
Siena Ristorante New Haven image 1

Italian bistro offers an intimate dining room and a lively rooftop area. Guests enjoy classic and creative dishes in a cozy, dimly lit setting. Cocktails are unique and tasty with 5-star presentation and seasonal options, including a notable detox cocktail.

Unique and tasty cocktails come with 5-star presentation. Seasonal options appear regularly, including a notable detox cocktail. The drinks offer a fun experience.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes here are excellent, especially the spicy rigatoni."

"The cocktails were unique, tasty, and presented beautifully."

"The staff here is so kind and attentive, making it a great spot for dates."

Good to know

1

On Mondays, they have 50% off all wine bottles.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

3

Valet parking is not available; use nearby garages instead.

05
The Owl Shop image 1
Cigar shop

Old-school cigar lounge offers leather chairs and wood panel walls for a classy feel. Cocktails are expertly crafted by staff like Amanda, perfectly paired with cigars. Live jazz music adds to the relaxed vibe in a well-ventilated space.

Cocktails come with a good selection and are often paired with quality cigars. Staff like Amanda craft mean cocktails that complement the relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"I appreciated the great selection of cigars."

"The bar's atmosphere here is unbelievably great."

"I enjoyed the excellent cocktails and quality cigars here."

Good to know

1

The Owl Shop is the only public venue in Connecticut where smoking is allowed.

2

Jazz night happens every Thursday, featuring live music.

3

Whiskey tastings occur on Thursdays; reservations are recommended.

06
Elm City Social image 1
New American restaurant

Medium-sized bar features a rooftop tiki bar and dog-friendly outdoor space with a lively crowd and loud music. Cocktails impress with unique flavors and funky mixes. The rubber duck theme adds local charm and a relaxed, artsy vibe.

Cocktails here stand out for their unique flavors and funky combinations. The bar offers a lively vibe with consistently great drinks.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and top notch."

"The cocktails were amazing, each with its own unique flavor."

"It's a cool spot with a lively, inviting atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties and weekends.

2

Expect a two-hour wait if arriving during peak hours.

3

Validated parking is available with a restaurant receipt.

07
Anchor Spa image 1
Cocktail bar

Vibrant Caribbean vibes and colorful decor create a warm, inviting space. Cocktails shine with unique fruits like kiwi and lavender, featuring creative blends like Honey I Dew. Energy stays lively, mixing formal and informal moods for a fun night out.

Cocktails feature unique fruits like honey dew, kiwi, blackberry, and lavender. Signature drinks include Ti Time, Color Purple, and Honey I Dew, all crafted with skill and creativity.

People are saying

"I considered this the best bar in New Haven."

"The food here is great, especially the saltfish fritters."

"The cocktails here are creative and beautifully crafted."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 5-7 PM, with affordable options.

2

The menu features a variety of Caribbean cuisine, but some items may not be available.

3

Expect a trendy atmosphere, suitable for socializing but not for a quiet evening.

08
South Bay Mediterranean Kitchen image 1

Modern, clean space with charming decor and a relaxed vibe. Great cocktails flow consistently, matching the fun atmosphere. Jazz music adds to the cozy, classy feel, perfect for casual lunches or relaxed dinners.

Great cocktails flow consistently, matching the spot's good vibes and fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the melt-in-your-mouth steak."

"The service at these dinner spots is friendly and attentive."

"The cocktails here are great and the vibes are good."

Good to know

1

The $25 lunch deal offers great value for a full meal.

2

Happy hour runs on Fridays with special drink prices.

3

The restaurant validates parking tickets for the garage across the street.

09
Secrets image 1

Nightclub offers two rooms with distinct vibes and a sleek design. Top DJs spin eclectic music, keeping energy electric and lively. Bartenders craft creative cocktails fast, impressing with quality and variety.

Bartenders serve creative, delicious cocktails quickly. The drinks stand out for their top-notch quality and variety.

People are saying

"The nightclub security here is professional and always makes you feel safe."

"The DJ played a perfect mix that kept everyone dancing."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid long lines as the club gets packed quickly.

2

Secrets has two rooms with different DJs, offering a variety of music.

3

Entry fees can vary, so check ahead before arriving.

10
Atelier Florian image 1
Seafood restaurant

French bistro style shines with white marble comptoir and burgundy banquettes creating cozy vibes. Live jazz fuels a lively brunch atmosphere. Cocktails impress, especially the Kraken, though service varies. Outdoor seating adds casual elegance for seafood lovers.

Cocktails feature delicious mixed drinks with the Kraken standing out. The elegant bar setting complements the experience, though service can be inconsistent.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the moules frites."

"The service during Brunch was friendly and attentive."

"I found the cocktails to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with great deals.

2

Social hour offers two-dollar Blue Points and one-dollar oysters after 9:30 PM.

3

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

11
Noa by September in Bangkok image 1

Sleek bar space features a massive Buddha statue and outdoor seating for a modern vibe. Craft cocktails like the mango mojito impress with complex flavors. Upbeat DJ music fuels lively nights, while Tom Yum and mango sticky rice highlight the Thai menu.

Craft cocktails showcase visual flair and complex flavors. The mango mojito stands out as a particularly memorable drink.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"I had the best Thai food I've ever tasted here."

"The cocktails are crafted with passion and skill, a delightful journey of flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials include $1 wings and great drink deals.

2

The restaurant turns into a club after the kitchen closes on weekends.

3

On weekends after 9pm, the music is loud and lively.

12
Old Heidelberg image 1

Historic cigar bar offers vintage atmosphere with etched tables and comfy seats. Enjoy great cocktails like Mike's gin creation, though drinks run over $13. Wide board game selection and free popcorn create a chill environment perfect for relaxed socializing.

Great cocktails include a standout gin cocktail crafted by Mike. Drinks cost over $13 but are consistently on point with friendly service.

People are saying

"I had one of the best gin cocktails Iโ€™ve ever had."

"The bartenders here make you feel right at home."

"I considered it the best pub."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens on Mondays at 7pm.

2

Expect a smoky environment as it is a smoking bar.

3

Drinks are relatively expensive, averaging over $13 for cocktails.

13
Barcade image 1

Compact bar buzzes with retro arcade games and a standout Halloween pinball. Loud mix of 80s, 90s, and modern rock sets a chill vibe. Craft beer and unique cocktails like green tea shots pair perfectly with casual gaming.

An insane selection of craft beer pairs with great cocktails including unique options like a green tea shot. Drinks complement the casual vibe where you can enjoy video games.

People are saying

"I loved their great beer selection and tasty snacks."

"I found the burgers here to be amazing and outstanding."

"I enjoyed their cool cocktails and surprisingly great beer selection."

Good to know

1

Games cost between 1 and 4 tokens each, equivalent to $0.25-$0.75.

2

Barcade offers a diverse selection of vintage games, including pinball and classic arcade titles.

3

Food prices are reasonable, making it a good deal for a casual meal.

14
116 Crown image 1
Restaurant

Dining room and bar offer a classy setting with a lively vibe that shifts from calm to energetic. Cocktails vary from premium mixes to some basic, overpriced options. Back patio adds a cute outdoor space perfect for a relaxed break.

Cocktails range from premium mixes crafted by an expert team to some that feel basic and overpriced. The menu shows a mix of great and lacking complexity options.

People are saying

"I was surprised to find one of the best meals of my life here."

"The bar's thoughtful flavors and elegant presentation were excellent."

"The cocktails here are amazing, with thoughtful flavors and elegant presentation."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Thursdays features half-off appetizers.

2

Expect to pay around $60 per person for a meal with drinks.

3

Parking is available but can be limited in the area.

15
Harvest Wine Bar & Restaurant image 1

Outdoor dining features a secluded terrace with shaded seating. Inside, enjoy a trendy vibe with jazz and live music. Cocktails offer consistent quality and pair well with great food, enhancing the lively atmosphere.

Cocktails show consistent quality with a solid selection that adds to the overall experience. Drinks lean toward the mid-range in taste, but they pair well with the great food offered.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really yummy and delicious."

"The service here is top-notch for Date Spots."

"I enjoyed the great food and cocktails here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially on busy nights.

2

Happy Hour drinks are only discounted at the bar, not in the main dining area.

3

The restaurant has cleanliness issues, particularly in the bathrooms.

16
Chacra- pisco bar Peruvian Cuisine image 1

Outdoor garden with a fire pit sets a tropical, peaceful mood. Cocktail-savvy bartender crafts balanced drinks like virgin Mojitos and Moscow Mules. Intimate layout and lively music create a cultural atmosphere perfect for dinner dates or celebrations.

Beautifully done cocktails come from a cocktail-savvy bartender who balances flavors well. Drinks like virgin Mojitos and Moscow Mules stand out for their perfect balance and authentic taste.

People are saying

"The beef heart and empanadas make for amazing dinner spots."

"I thought the ceviche was delicious, maybe the best I ever tasted."

"The cocktails here are beautifully done and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

3

The menu features a limited selection of traditional Peruvian dishes.

17
Heirloom image 1
American restaurant

Spacious restaurant offers an elegant, tranquil atmosphere with soft lighting perfect for intimate chats. Creative craft cocktails like the mezcal in a crystal skull highlight quality and detail. Discreet TVs show sports without breaking the calm vibe.

Craft cocktails come in an extensive menu with creative mixes and a variety of flavors. Drinks like the mezcal cocktail in the crystal skull and the Ronin show attention to detail and quality.

People are saying

"The brunch here is delicious, fresh, and satisfying."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was excellent and attentive."

"I enjoyed the well-constructed cocktails here."

Good to know

1

Parking in New Haven is limited, making it challenging to find a spot.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times like New Year's Eve.

3

Expect long wait times for food, sometimes over an hour.

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