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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in New York

Cocktails and historical sites

Walking through history all day leaves a heavy thirst that only a cocktail can satisfy.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Gatehouses image 1
The Gatehouses image 2
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Historic building with a castle-like interior creates a cozy, intimate vibe where conversation is easy. The space blends rustic charm with candlelit ambiance, offering a unique setting for whiskey enthusiasts and casual hangouts alike.

Unique cocktails feature moonshine and darker spirits with bold flavors. The list includes a good selection of bourbons and well-crafted drinks like the Penicillin.

The space occupies the historic 1896 entrance to the Brooklyn Navy Yard, offering a rustic, warm atmosphere. The building feels steeped in history and creates a unique historical setting.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are in a unique, atmospheric, castle-like space."

"You have to try their whiskey flight; it had so many distinct flavors."

"It's a unique historical space with a warm, rustic charm."

Good to know

1

The tasting room offers flights of their finest spirits.

2

They partner with a food vendor for snacks.

3

The bathrooms are located downstairs via a spiral staircase.

02
Charlotteโ€™s Speakeasy image 1

Hidden behind a bookshelf in an ice cream parlor, the bar recreates a 1920s speakeasy with a secret entrance and vintage style. Live bands play authentic Chicago Blues and classic covers, creating a lively and loud atmosphere. Specialty cocktails like bourbon-based drinks complement the cozy, classy vibe.

Cocktails stand out for their expert craftsmanship and unique flavors. Drinks like Charlotte's Secret offer a refreshing experience, served by attentive staff.

An actual 1920-33 speakeasy with a rich historical background. The owner offers tours showing deep care for its past and unique charming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The live music at this Speakeasy is outrageously good."

"It's a private, hidden gem with an unforgettable atmosphere."

"It's like stepping back in time to the Prohibition era with its historical sites."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner, especially on weekends when live music starts at 7pm.

2

To enter, you need the password from their website.

3

The venue is small and can get overcrowded, so plan accordingly.

03
MAMALI NYC image 1
Wine bar

Small, cozy space with unique decor and preserved historic elements creates a warm, ambient atmosphere. Evening jazz music adds to the relaxed vibe, attracting a neighborhood crowd. Offers a spacious interior that balances comfort with charm.

Cocktails here are great with a standout called the White Lotus. The owner helps pick drinks that match your tastes.

Views include the Stonewall National Monument, a site with deep LGBTQ+ significance. The Hess Triangle stands as a rare piece of protest history over 100 years old. The area holds a living legacy near the Stonewall Inn.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and delicious."

"This spot's historical sites include protest history and LGBTQ+ significance."

"I loved the handcrafted cocktails; they were amazing."

Good to know

1

Mamali specializes in Georgian wine, wine spritzes, and espresso-based beverages.

2

The shop is located atop the southwest corner of the Christopher Street Subway station.

3

Mamali is near the Stonewall Inn, part of the Stonewall National Monument.

04
Widow Jane Distillery image 1

Small distillery space offers a beautiful interior with cozy bar seating and exclusive bourbon tastings. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, drawing a neighborhood crowd interested in craft spirits. Tours provide detailed insight into blending processes and whiskey production.

Creative cocktails feature prominently, with the Decadence cocktail standing out. The bar offers a variety of drinks using Widow Jane's products, paired with truffle popcorn as a notable snack.

Tours include a detailed history presentation and description of the distillery's facility. The site offers insights into the crafting process of whiskey and its historical significance.

People are saying

"The bar next door is fun and offers great cocktails."

"The bartenders here make fabulous, amazing drinks."

"I loved the history and tasting at this historical site."

Good to know

1

The distillery tour lasts one hour and includes three tastings of their whiskey.

2

Reservations are recommended for the distillery tour, especially on weekends.

3

The distillery is closed for private events on certain weekends; check ahead.

05
Great Jones Distilling Co image 1

Copper and brass distillers dominate the stylish interior filled with warm smokey fragrance and loud music. A speakeasy basement hosts private events with magic shows and live music, while the second-floor bar offers a welcoming atmosphere with attentive staff. Wall art featuring a light-up map of NYC speakeasies and a Basquiat installation add unique character to the space.

Cocktails feature delicious flavors and pair well with meals. The Shake Up cocktail class offers a hands-on experience with drinks and distilling.

Tours focus on 18th century farming, Prohibition, and distillery history. Guides share detailed stories about the distillation process and the company's past.

People are saying

"I learned so much about whiskey from our knowledgeable guide."

"The cocktails were thoughtfully crafted and delicious."

"The guides at these historical sites are so knowledgeable and friendly."

Good to know

1

The distillery tour is first come, first served without prior notice.

2

Reservations are recommended for the 'Bourbon & Bites' tour.

3

The Sunday Jazz Brunch features live music and requires a reservation.

06
The Hotel Chelsea image 1

Building showcases beautiful restoration with original architecture and quirky touches preserved. Atmosphere blends quiet, stylish rooms with a creative, inspiring lobby bar known for exceptional cocktails. Long-term residents add an authentic, lived-in vibe to the space.

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

A carefully renovated landmark building offers a strong sense of history that stands out during visits.

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.

07
Fraunces Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Oldest building in Manhattan hosts multiple bars and a restaurant within a spacious, beautifully decorated setting. Atmosphere blends historic charm with live jazz music, creating an engaging and lively vibe. Visitors explore a museum upstairs and enjoy a whiskey bar alongside diverse social spaces.

Cocktails come with a great variety and a mix of modern and classic styles. The knowledgeable bartender serves drinks that match the quality of the beer and whisky selections.

Built in the 1800s, this site serves as a historic landmark and museum showcasing deep roots in American history. It offers a real-life history experience that stands out in the United States.

People are saying

"I loved dining inside American history at this historical site."

"They had a great beer selection with many special beers."

"The cocktails here are exceptional and out of this world."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed to sit in the old tavern room.

2

The happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Live jazz music is available during Saturday brunch.

08
The Campbell image 1

Historic bar with hand-painted ceilings and an iconic setting offers a dark, mysterious atmosphere suited for quiet evenings. Live jazz performances create a lively yet intimate vibe. Proximity to transit and a full-service bar add convenience to the experience.

Cocktails here have a refreshingly clean and crisp profile, especially the Vesper. The bar offers a classic NYC feel with speakeasy vibes and cocktails that consistently exceed expectations.

Original woodwork and Egyptian art deco wallpaper create a rich historical atmosphere. Hand-carved bar, hand-painted 25-foot ceilings, and preserved decor highlight the location's deep historical significance.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are attentive and awesome."

"The cocktails here are elegant and timeless."

"I loved the historic ambiance and stepping back in time."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the small size and tendency to get crowded.

2

The bar tends to get especially crowded on Thursday nights.

3

Expect a 90-minute time limit for tables at the bar.

09
Kings County Distillery image 1

Old guard house with exposed brick and copper stills creates a historic, vintage atmosphere. Cozy bar offers craft cocktails and a relaxed vibe, complemented by a spacious outdoor area with greenery. Resident cats add charm to the working, authentic distillery environment.

Cozy bar at the front serves excellent cocktails with a terrific mix. Drinks come out awesome and well-crafted.

Tours offer a deep dive into bourbon history dating back to the 1600s and the craft of whiskey making. Guides mix US history with whiskey facts, making the historical context engaging and informative.

People are saying

"The tour guides here make the fun activities so enjoyable and funny."

"The whiskey tour with Brendan was fun and educational."

"The cocktails here were fantastic and high quality."

Good to know

1

The distillery tour is available on Sundays at 4pm.

2

The tour concludes with a tasting of four different whiskies.

3

The Valentine's Day special includes a Whiskey Tasting and Chocolate Pairing along with a tour.

10
The Dead Rabbit image 1

Classic Irish pub with innovative cocktails and a bustling atmosphere. Live Irish music and a lively vibe fill the space, especially around the intimate upstairs cocktail bar. Friendly crowds gather for top-tier food and drink, including standout oysters and Irish coffee.

Cocktails here stand out for their fantastic quality and great booze selection. Many consider them among the best in the world.

The space splits into the Taproom and Parlor, each showing different chapters of New York's past. The building dates back to 1828, offering an authentic soulful vibe with a very British style pub atmosphere rich in history.

People are saying

"This bar's Irish coffee is smooth, warm, and perfectly balanced."

"You've got to try their excellent, innovative cocktails."

"This historical pub has an authentic, old-style Irish atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation early to secure a table, especially for brunch on weekends.

2

Expect to spend around $60 to $100 per person for food and drinks.

3

Happy hour on certain days features Guinness for $8.

11
Patent Pending image 1
Cocktail bar

Speakeasy hidden behind a coffee bar offers an industrial minimalist design with Tesla-inspired decor and a scientific aesthetic. Intimate lighting and mesmerizing bartenders create a moody, energetic vibe suited for lively gatherings rather than quiet chats. The cocktail menu features unique, inventive drinks with a strong focus on gin and mezcal.

Creative cocktails feature complex blends like bourbon, mango black tea, pineapple, Szechuan peppercorn, and amaro. The menu offers innovative and well executed drinks in a fun and intimate setting.

History of Nikola Tesla shapes the entire setup with blueprints and historical lessons woven into the menu. The place blends science and modern mixology to create a unique historical experience.

People are saying

"The Speakeasy staff are so attentive and knowledgeable, making you feel cared for."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and delicious."

"The drinks here are creative and expertly crafted, like engineering sketches."

Good to know

1

The cocktail-only option is first-come, first-served.

2

Expect a couple of hours wait on Friday nights.

3

Cocktails cost around $30 each, with some specials available.

12
Birdland Jazz Club image 1

Jazz club offers intimate tables and perfect acoustics with unobstructed stage views from every seat. The atmosphere stays elegant and lively, filled with live jazz performances by skilled musicians. Accessibility includes an elevator for wheelchair users, enhancing the inclusive vibe.

Expertly crafted cocktails like the Maitay and Margarita stand out here. Drinks consistently pair well with the food and complement the good music atmosphere.

An intimate setting rich in jazz history and nostalgia wraps visitors in warmth. The club stands as a world famous landmark in the jazz scene with a deep, incredible history.

People are saying

"I highly recommend this place for the great jazz music."

"It's an intimate setting with a relaxed yet elevated vibe."

"It feels like stepping into a piece of jazz history here."

Good to know

1

Tickets sell out fast on weekends, so it's important to order them early.

2

You must have a reservation before you go, especially on weekend nights.

3

There is a minimum spend of $20 per person at Birdland.

13
Trinity Place restaurant and bar image 1

Dining takes place inside an old bank vault with original vault doors from 1904, creating a cozy, rustic atmosphere. The space features a cave-like wine area and a great bar known for creative cocktails and excellent whiskey. Lighting and layout support both lively gatherings and private dinners.

Creative themed cocktails stand out here. The assortment includes solid food and good dessert alongside the drinks.

Historical charm stands out with its past as a bank vault and well-preserved features. The beautifully maintained cemetery adds depth, showcasing rich history through displayed information.

People are saying

"It's a cool spot inside an old bank vault."

"The duck risotto was spectacular and I loved it."

"You can get excellent food and drinks inside a historic bank vault."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers affordable drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

3

The restaurant has extensive gluten-free options available on the menu.

14
One World Observatory image 1
Observation deck

Observation deck offers 360-degree unobstructed views of the city and surrounding areas. Ultra-fast elevators feature immersive LCD screens showing skyline history, enhancing the ascent experience. Amenities include a sky portal for looking down at streets below and food and drink options at the top floor.

Excellent cocktails come at a price, often requiring extra spending beyond basic tickets. The quality of drinks justifies the additional cost.

High-speed elevators display a time-lapse of New York's skyline history during the ascent. The observatory on the 102nd floor offers spectacular views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Brooklyn Bridge, making it a significant historical monument to visit.

People are saying

"The views from the top are breathtaking and amazing."

"The views from these historical sites are breathtaking and expansive."

"I found the cocktails to be truly excellent."

Good to know

1

Tickets to One World Observatory cost $44 for adults.

2

The Observation Deck entrance is on the West Street side of the building.

3

The entrance to the observatory is through the underground lobby of the One World Trade Center.

15
The Old '76 House image 1
American restaurant

Historic tavern filled with American mementos and military paraphernalia creates a warm, cozy atmosphere rich with history. Live jazz music plays during dinner, adding to the unique vibe. Signature ales and classic American dishes complement the authentic setting.

Cocktails come with great variety and pair well with food. Some drinks impress, but the jumbo shrimp cocktail lacks flavor and freshness.

The space holds rich American history where founding fathers once ate and talked. The atmosphere feels alive with stories, making it easy to imagine figures like George Washington nearby.

People are saying

"The live music here feels like stepping back into history."

"The food and drinks here were fantastic."

"The cocktails here were awesome and made the experience amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the brunch buffet on special occasions.

2

Jazz night happens every Wednesday, featuring local musicians.

3

Live music is scheduled on Mondays, enhancing the dining experience.

16
La Nacional image 1
Spanish restaurant

Spanish restaurant offers a spacious, cozy interior with a vibrant atmosphere fueled by passionate music and lively Spanish-speaking crowds. Outdoor terrace provides a comfortable dining experience with a relaxed vibe. Multiple seating areas include a dimly lit upstairs space that contrasts with the bustling main floor.

Cocktails feature reasonable prices and include options like watermelon mezcal and sangria. Bartenders craft drinks with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.

Walls feature historic wallpapers with old ads and member photos. The spot was once known as Little Spain, reflecting its deep community roots and rich history.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Spanish."

"The cocktails here are beautifully crafted and reasonably priced."

"The food here is amazing, especially the tapas."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.

2

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM with specials.

3

Reservations are important to secure a spot during busy times.

17
Lobby Bar at The Hotel Chelsea image 1

Historic cocktail bar offers old world charm with stunning architecture and intimate lounge spaces. Atmosphere feels cozy and elegant, inviting slow, relaxed evenings. Comfortable seating and a late night kitchen support a laid-back vibe.

The bar offers a very original cocktail menu with exquisite cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders. Comfortable spots like the solarium invite guests to enjoy late night cocktails with attentive service.

Walls hold stories of past notable guests and rich history. The atmosphere feels luxurious and deeply historical.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are smooth, creative, and perfectly balanced."

"These cocktails are silky smooth with complex, balanced flavors."

"You can feel the history and imagine stories within these iconic walls."

Good to know

1

The establishment does not serve cocktails until 2:00 PM.

2

No one can order Mimosas or Bloody Marys before 2:00 PM.

3

The restaurant does not take reservations.

18
Temple Court image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Venue showcases 19th century Manhattan architecture with an intimate, relaxed atmosphere enhanced by live jazz music during brunch. Seating can be close, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped feel. Signature cocktails like Coco's Old Fashioned add to the elegant, swanky vibe.

Expertly crafted cocktails shine in a sophisticated setting. Drinks like Coco's Old Fashioned stand out for their quality and flavor.

Elegant architecture captures the essence of 19th-century Manhattan landmarks. Unique ambience reflects deep historical roots and distinctive design.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the service is impeccable."

"The atrium's breathtaking architecture makes for a dramatic dinner spot."

"You'll love the beautifully restored historical building and its architecture."

Good to know

1

Jazz brunch is available on Sundays from 12-3 PM.

2

During restaurant week, a 3-course dinner is offered for $60.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait for drinks on Saturday nights around 9 PM.

19
Lady Mendl's Tea Salon image 1

Historic brownstone setting features Victorian decor with mismatched china and vintage furnishings creating a Gilded era atmosphere. The mood is elegant and cozy, often quiet on weekdays and suited for formal tea occasions. Guests enjoy a classic high-tea experience with carefully curated ambiance and service.

Cocktails include a variety of options with the Butterfly Effect standing out. Several drinks pair well with a selection of teas.

Located in a historic brownstone, the tea salon offers a strong sense of historic New York ambiance. The setting highlights the building's historic value and creates a unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"The tea salon's decor is thoughtful and charming."

"The historical sites here offer an elegant, charming step back in time."

"You'd never know this gorgeous spot was behind such an unassuming entrance."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for afternoon tea to secure your spot.

2

The five-course high tea includes unlimited tea with each course.

3

The price for the five-course tea service is around $120 per person, including tip.

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