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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Cool bars in Downtown

You want a drink that feels like it belongs in the city center without the forced atmosphere of a tourist trap.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Turner's Bar image 1
Turner's Bar image 2
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Bar offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with a chill neighborhood vibe and stylish, clean feel. Games like billiards and a Polaroid photo activity add to the relaxed energy. A taco window connects to a neighboring spot, blending food and drink seamlessly.

Dive bar with a chill, neighborhood vibe and friendly staff. Cocktails stand out, and a side window lets you order tacos without leaving the bar.

A cool vibe defines the atmosphere here, blending a unique style with a fun environment. Prices stay reasonable, adding to the overall appeal.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are really well made and reasonably priced."

"This bar has a chill, inviting neighborhood vibe."

"The vibe here is really cool."

Good to know

1

Turner's Bar closes at midnight, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There is no bathroom inside the bar; plan ahead for restroom needs.

3

You can order tacos from Julieta's through a convenient window at Turner's.

02
Sundry and Vice image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar inside an old Coca Cola Factory turned boutique hotel offers an intimate, dark and cozy setting with book-themed drink menus. The atmosphere stays relaxed and fun, balancing a fancy yet chill vibe. Tables accommodate both small and large groups comfortably.

Dark, cozy decor creates a fancy, vintage hotel bar vibe. Cocktails and conversation fit well in this lounge setting. Service can be slow, with drinks taking over 20 minutes even when the bar is not crowded.

A cool vibe sets the tone here. It works well as a spot for cocktails with a relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought it was a cool place to stop for cocktails."

"The drinks here are always excellent and well made."

"I thought it was a cool spot with a fun vibe."

Good to know

1

Special drink menus feature book-themed cocktails for a unique experience.

2

The Indy Book and Sip event happens weekly, offering a fun atmosphere.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long waits.

03
The Hangar image 1

Industrial space with roomy, clean facilities hosts lively crowds drawn to live music and DJ sets. Energy stays high with interactive games like golf simulators and a pedal bar that encourages group fun. Cocktails and wood-fired pizzas add to the upbeat, social vibe.

Pedal bar rides include two bar stops and offer a lively group experience. Staff greet guests, explain the layout, and highlight food, games, and restrooms for convenience.

A lively atmosphere with entertaining activities and a cool ambiance makes this spot stand out. Playing games and listening to your own music over speakers adds to the fun vibe.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the fun activities feel so welcoming and attentive."

"This mobile bar is a blast for day drinking and creating good vibes."

"The staff here is so friendly and fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating availability.

2

Parking can be expensive and limited, so consider ridesharing options.

3

The HandleBar tour includes two drink tickets and unlimited buffet food.

04
PIEDRA MEXICAN STEAKHOUSE image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican steakhouse with gorgeous decor and a nearly European club-like ambiance. Live DJ plays fusion music, creating a vibrant and upbeat energy. The atmosphere combines beauty with an energetic vibe that stands out among similar places.

Beautiful bar atmosphere sets the mood. Armando works behind the bar providing great service and full menu access even when tables are full.

Vibe feels super cool and fits well with a downtown setting. Atmosphere stands out as really cool for a restaurant.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and filling."

"Armando at the bar made everyone feel welcome and made great drinks."

"The food here is excellent and freshly prepared and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and holidays.

2

Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Water is charged to the meal, so clarify before ordering.

05
Nowhere Special image 1

Basement speakeasy with nostalgic dรฉcor and cozy seating creates a quiet, inviting atmosphere. The vibe stays cool and easy, suitable for intimate gatherings or casual nights out. Strong bourbon and creative cocktails add to the immersive experience.

Cocktails are on point with precise flavors. Bartenders like Jake offer friendly, skilled service and share knowledge easily.

A hidden away speakeasy with a cool and easy vibe. Staff provide attentive care from the moment you arrive.

People are saying

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

"It's a cool hidden speakeasy with a welcoming vibe."

"The bar's cocktails are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Prices for handcrafted cocktails start at $4, making them affordable.

2

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 8pm on Sundays through Thursdays.

3

They have gender-neutral restrooms available for all guests.

06
Tappers Arcade Bar image 1

Vintage arcade games and well-maintained pinball machines surround a spacious bar area with custom wooden tables. The atmosphere blends 90s arcade nostalgia with a low-key, friendly vibe suitable for groups or dates. Games are mostly free to play, creating a casual and engaging environment.

An arcade bar with a nostalgic atmosphere and vintage arcade games like Galaga and Frogger. The space feels open and clean, making it easy to enjoy the games without feeling crowded.

Arcade vibe brings a nostalgic feel. Screens show movies, adding to the atmosphere. The spot feels genuinely cool throughout.

People are saying

"The arcades here are packed with well-loved, retro games."

"The arcade games at this bar are a lot of fun."

"I found the arcade vibe here to be really cool and nostalgic."

Good to know

1

Pinball machines are half priced on Mondays.

2

Pinball games cost $1 each.

3

Tappers Arcade Bar is 21+ and does not allow kids.

07
The Garage Food Hall image 1

Old warehouse space transformed into a historic food hall with a museum feel and revitalized industrial design. Atmosphere is lively and chaotic, filled with live music, pinball machines, and multiple bars offering tastings and mixed drinks. Crowds gather for a family-friendly vibe and diverse activities like sim racing, creating a bustling social hub.

Multiple bars operate in a large hall, including a distillery bar with Indiana-made bourbon tastings. Options include a beer bar, a wine bar, and a mixed drink bar alongside a gaming center bar.

Offers a cool atmosphere with an interesting concept and several unique restaurants. Provides a great vibe with lots of good drink and dessert options.

People are saying

"It's a cool spot with great vibes."

"This lunch spot has so many varieties of food to choose from."

"I found so many food options, including bars."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Garage Food Hall is difficult, especially on weekends.

2

The Garage Food Hall closes at 10 pm.

3

It is best to grab a table first before ordering food.

08
St. Joseph Brewery image 1

Brewpub inside a converted Catholic church features high ceilings and beautiful architecture that create a unique atmosphere. The space feels open and lively, with music mixing decades of hip-hop and R&B. Outdoor seating includes a pet-friendly patio with games like cornhole.

Seats at the bar come quickly since it is not too crowded. The pub burger with beer cheese and battered fries pairs well with the drinks here.

Sitting in an old church sanctuary with beer vats along the back wall creates a really cool atmosphere filled with awesome people.

People are saying

"The food here is 10/10, cooked to perfection."

"I thought the atmosphere and vibe here were really cool."

"The pub burger with beer cheese and fries was delicious."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Sunday brunch is a popular time to visit, so expect larger crowds.

3

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

09
Pins Mechanical Co. image 1

Spacious bar with multiple floors and three bars offers a lively atmosphere filled with pinball machines and duck pin bowling. Outdoor areas feature fire pits and string lighting, creating a cozy mood despite the loud and crowded environment. The venue attracts a mix of guests, including families during the day and adults after 9 PM.

Lounge spaces accommodate groups with helpful staff guiding bar minimums and options. Bars serve good drinks with excellent service, plus games add a fun twist to the experience.

A bowling alley and good drinks create a lively vibe. The staff add to the cool atmosphere in a beautiful setting.

People are saying

"It's a super fun place with tons of games like bowling and pinball."

"This bar has tons of fun games like pinball and duckpin bowling."

"It's a cool place with a fun, lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Bowling is free after 8pm on Mondays.

2

Reservations for private events require a $400 minimum and can start at 7:30 pm.

3

Minors are not allowed after 9 PM.

10
Sun King Brewery image 1

Spacious brewery with an industrial look and colorful art near the entrance offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including a patio. Games like pinball and board games create a lively, fun atmosphere with splendid music. Food options include a small vendor with notable nachos and tacos.

A huge bar with lots of seating creates a spacious atmosphere. Staff like Max, Rachel, and Savannah serve drinks quickly and remember regular orders.

Atmosphere feels laid-back and inviting. The brewery offers a unique vibe that stands out.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is huge and delicious."

"The guides here make the tours so fun and engaging!"

"The bar staff here is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

2

The brewery offers a growler discount on Fridays for take-home beers.

3

Family-friendly atmosphere allows kids and babies inside the brewery.

11
Chilly Water Brewing Company image 1

Brewery with an outdoor patio and live music creates a laid back atmosphere where locals gather. Walls feature music-themed murals and records, adding character without overwhelming decor. The vibe stays chill and welcoming, blending good beer with a casual neighborhood feel.

Comfortable seating with bar stools lines the space. Bartender focuses on regulars while others wait, creating a laid-back vibe on a Friday night.

Beautiful setting with cool vibes and amazing beers. Located in a cool neighborhood near shops and hangout spots.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is amazing, with brews made in-house."

"The bar staff seemed friendly, but Steve wasn't helpful with my allergy."

"The beers here are amazing and the vibes are cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early during peak hours.

2

The kitchen closes shortly after the bar opens, so plan your food order accordingly.

3

The brewery offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan menu options.

12
Parlor Public House image 1

Coffee shop combines live jazz music with beautiful indoor and outdoor seating, including private quiet rooms for meetings. Atmosphere feels cool and inviting, perfect for both groups and individuals. Space stands out with unique decor and a vibe that supports relaxed conversation and socializing.

A blend of coffee lounge and cocktail bar creates a cozy, upscale vibe with a botanical garden feel. Drinks like espresso martinis come with table service, and live music adds to the atmosphere.

An oasis of plants creates a cool and comfy atmosphere with plenty of seating. The vibe feels relaxed and fun, filled with cool people.

People are saying

"The coffee here has a really fun and cozy atmosphere."

"The bar's decor felt tropical with plants and purple flowers."

"The vibe here is cool and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Parlor Public House has live music on Thursdays and Fridays.

2

They have a half-priced wine night on Wednesdays.

3

No laptops allowed after 7 PM on Wednesdays.

13
Living Room Theaters image 1

Small, intimate movie theater with comfortable reclining seats and great surround sound delivers a fun and sophisticated atmosphere. Food and drinks, including a bar inside, enhance the experience with table service available during movies.

A wonderful bar offers a big glass window with a view and serves a variety of food and alcoholic beverages. Drinks from the bar can be brought inside the theater, and the staff is very helpful.

A truly cool venue with a vibe that fits well for a date night or casual movie outing. The staff adds to the experience with their cool attitude.

People are saying

"The food here is really good, tasty, and fulfilling."

"The seats here are comfortable recliners."

"It's a really cool and fun spot for a date night."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated if you park in the lot across the street.

2

All movies are 45% off on Tuesdays and Mondays.

3

On Mondays and Tuesdays, tickets are half price at $7.50.

14
BlankUS Luxury Lounge image 1

Upscale lounge offers live jazz music and classic decor with an upstairs bar and stage. Atmosphere is loud but exciting, filled with music and an intimate seating area. Guests enjoy soulful food and cocktails while watching live performances.

A full bar serves a variety of drinks in an intimate seating area. The lounge offers a classy atmosphere with live band performances and great food.

Music sound system and televisions create an all-around cool vibe. The venue features cool vibes and esthetics that stand out during lunch outings.

People are saying

"I found the food to be excellent."

"The bar service was excellent, with friendly bartenders making great drinks."

"The staff here are wonderful, patient, and helpful."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 door fee for entry, which may not be communicated in advance.

2

Free parking is available, but spaces may be limited.

3

The kitchen closes earlier than the lounge, so plan accordingly.

15
Iaria's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with old-school family charm and walls covered in quaint memorabilia creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Full bar area offers a 50's vibe that blends classic and hip styles. Loud and lively, it feels like a small-town gathering spot.

Bar area feels like a trip back to the 50's with an old school Italian ambiance. Drinks are excellent and seating at the bar is easy without reservations. Chatting with Dom adds to the classic feel.

Nostalgic atmosphere creates a cool vibe that feels rare today. The place keeps a classic charm alive, making it stand out as genuinely cool.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and better than any chain."

"The food here is delicious and the portions are big."

"It's cool to see such an old-fashioned, family Italian restaurant still around."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get full quickly.

2

Expect a wait of over 40 minutes if you arrive without a reservation.

3

Dinner service can take over two hours from reservation to dessert.

16
Metazoa Brewing Company image 1

Brewery combines industrial style with pet-friendly features, including an enclosed dog park and outdoor patio seating. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming, often filled with dogs and live music. Beer selection is generally well-regarded, complementing the casual, animal-themed environment.

A line of people with their dogs forms near the bar, creating a busy atmosphere. The bar itself is often unclean.

Metal troughs filled with water keep dogs cool and refreshed on hot days. The overall atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"This beer spot is so dog-friendly, our Stella was welcomed."

"It's so cool how dog-friendly this place is, they even have a dog park."

"You won't believe how many dogs are at the bar here."

Good to know

1

Metazoa Brewing Company is dog-friendly, welcoming pets in both indoor and outdoor areas.

2

The brewery is 21+ only; no children or babies allowed.

3

Visitors should bring their own food or snacks as the brewery does not serve food.

17
Milktooth image 1
Restaurant

Open-air seating with close tables creates a lively, very loud atmosphere often compared to a nightclub. Decor blends funky, eclectic styles with a Dutch influence, attracting a cheerful crowd. Outdoor patio welcomes dogs, adding to the casual, energetic vibe.

Sitting at the bar offers chances to chat with chefs and catch kitchen gossip. Drinks served at the coffee bar look aesthetically pretty and taste very good.

An open air seating area sets a cool vibe alongside an eclectic brunch menu. A DJ adds to the hipster atmosphere while the service matches the overall cool environment.

People are saying

"You have to try their Dutch baby pancakes for brunch; they're amazing."

"The food here is fresh and made to order."

"The vibe here is so cool, especially with the open air seating."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Expect a standard wait time of at least 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

The menu changes every two weeks, offering seasonal dishes.

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