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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Nolita

Cool bars

A bar that manages to be genuinely interesting without relying on a forced, manufactured vibe.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Milano's Bar image 1
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Old, narrow dive bar with neon lighting and an alternative decor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Jukebox music ranges from heavy metal to jazz, adding to the nostalgic vibe. Small space fills with friendly energy, making it a classic spot for drinkers.

A classic dive bar with a neon mood, cold beer, and great prices. Friendly bartenders and a live jazz duo create a welcoming vibe, plus a great jukebox adds to the atmosphere.

Alternative style decor with cool memorabilia sets a unique vibe. The bar's great music and late hours add to its cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found it to be a perfect, classic NYC dive bar."

"I found this historic dive bar to be exactly what I expected."

"This bar feels like the last piece of old New York."

Good to know

1

The bar opens at 8:15am and closes at 3:15am.

2

Cash is required for all transactions at the bar.

3

The $6 rock & shot combo is available until they run out.

02
Botanica Bar image 1

Underground bar with neon lights and plants creates a moody dive atmosphere. Music plays loud and lively, filling two rooms including a spacious back room with extra seating. Crowd is young and fun, with reasonably priced drinks and plenty of space for groups.

An underground bar with neon lights and plants offers a lively, busy scene around 7pm on Saturdays. Happy hour features $6 well drinks until 7pm, with reasonably priced cocktails and friendly, impeccable service.

An underground bar with a moody dive vibe hosts a cool crowd. The soundtrack features 90s hip hop, adding to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"This place has a killer happy hour, I'll let others in on this gem."

"The bar has cute vibes and affordable drinks."

"The crowd here is really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm with $6 well drinks and $3 Narragansett beers.

2

The bar opens at 5pm and stays open until 2am.

3

No food is available, but you can bring your own.

03
Spring Lounge image 1

Quintessential dive bar with large windows and fake sharks on the walls creates a space full of character. Noisy and cold indoors, it fills up quickly, fostering a crowded, lively vibe where people naturally mingle. Outdoor seating offers a sunny, casual spot for gatherings, contrasting the intense indoor energy.

Generous pours and a relaxed crowd create a cozy drink atmosphere with the right lighting. The bar serves alcohol in the morning and offers an excellent choice of drinks for casual or dive bar vibes.

Dive bar vibes shape a cool atmosphere with lively and cozy energy. Decorations and traditions add to the unique character of the place.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so beautiful and skilled."

"It's a classic dive bar with a laid-back vibe."

"I found the bar to be a cool dive bar with a lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The bar opens at 8am.

2

There is no food at the bar.

3

Customers must pay for two beers in a row to use a card.

04
Mother's Ruin image 1
Cocktail bar

Large space with rustic interior and big wooden tables creates a cozy, comfortable atmosphere. Music shifts from complementing the room to loud and bumping late at night, energizing the vibe. Skilled bartenders craft signature cocktails, and outdoor seating adds to the relaxed setting.

A cocktail bar with a strong personal touch, run like it was built brick by brick. It gets crowded with only one bartender, but the drinks stay delicious and the vibe welcomes all ages.

Fun and cool atmosphere sets the tone. Bartenders and crowd add to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"Sullivan made this bar feel like home and always took care of me."

"The cocktails here are inventive and delicious."

"The vibe here is so cool, with a great crowd."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 40-80 minutes for seating during busy hours.

2

The kitchen stays open late, serving food until closing time.

3

Happy hour is a great time to visit for discounted drinks.

05
Little Rascal image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy Mediterranean restaurant with stained-glass windows and a rustic, chic vibe. Warm, intimate atmosphere with live DJ music and outdoor heated seating. Space feels inviting but can get crowded and noisy as more people arrive.

Small and chill with a vibey cocktail bar atmosphere. The bar serves great wines and offers good food like hummus and cheese plates. Friendly bartenders create a welcoming vibe despite limited seating.

Turkish coffee martini and cool as a cucumber drinks stand out here. The manager is cool to guests, adding to the laid-back vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The atmosphere here is so chill and vibey."

"The bartender was friendly and funny."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Expect small portion sizes for the price.

3

Indoor seating is recommended due to limited outdoor space.

06
The Wooly image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends old-world charm with modern sophistication in a beautiful, chic setting. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant option, while lively music and a top-tier sound system create an engaging atmosphere. The vibe balances cozy and stylish, suitable for romantic evenings or social gatherings.

Bar offers elevated bar food with a friendly, professional, and fun atmosphere. Staff are super nice and attentive, providing quick service at the bar.

Design feels airy and moody while the atmosphere stays casual and fun.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are excellent."

"The atmosphere here feels cool, moody, and fun."

"The bartender Fabricio gave great cocktail recommendations and was super attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends at 6:30 PM.

2

The happy hour menu includes sweet pea dip with pickled veggies and lavash.

3

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner.

07
Balzem image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Tiny Mediterranean restaurant offers romantic decor and live DJ music that fills the space loudly. Seating includes a community table and a cute outdoor patio, creating a vibey and intimate atmosphere. The place feels busy and cozy, best suited for couples rather than groups.

The bar offers fun atmosphere and nice ambiance with music. Bartenders serve well-crafted cocktails and drinks without needing a reservation even late on weekends.

Stylish atmosphere sets a super cool vibe with a touch of cultural richness. The overall feel is consistently fabulous and cool.

People are saying

"I really loved the delicious food here."

"The bar staff here is fantastic and always keeps your glass full."

"The vibe here is super cool, with great music."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Bottomless mimosas are available on weekends for $30 per person.

3

A complimentary drink and flatbread are offered during the anniversary celebration.

08
19 Cleveland image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a tight, crowded space with loud music and high energy that grows rowdier later. Outdoor heated terrace and a secret downstairs speakeasy add unique layers to the experience.

The bar features an amazing setup with space to accommodate guests even when busy. Staff sometimes linger at the bar, and the manager or owner drinks white wine early in the day.

A very cool atmosphere fills the space with a young vibe. The crowd stays consistently cool and beautiful.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, beautifully presented, and full of flavor."

"The atmosphere here is cool and has an Israeli vibe."

"The food here is incredible."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating capacity.

2

Expect a mandatory 20% gratuity added to your bill.

3

The restaurant does not accommodate dietary restrictions well.

09
The Grey Dog image 1
American restaurant

Cozy American restaurant with maximalist decor and eclectic design offers a bustling atmosphere filled with wonderful music. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options, with table service and a pet-friendly environment. The vibe is lively and welcoming, popular among locals and visitors alike.

A funky little bar with a great atmosphere welcomes guests warmly at the door and bar. Margaritas, mules, and bar bites come at incredible prices and the staff treats everyone like long-lost friends.

The spot offers a refreshing cool drink and a vibe that feels genuinely cool and laid-back. The environment stands out as a solid choice when looking for a chill place to eat or relax.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast here to be incredibly delicious."

"I loved the brunch, especially the French toast and mimosas."

"The bar staff were so lovely and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6:30 PM with great deals.

2

Breakfast is served all day, making it a flexible dining option.

3

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long waits.

10
Peasant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a romantic, dimly lit atmosphere with candles and dried flowers creating a cozy, intimate vibe. A downstairs wine bar provides a quiet space for conversation, while the wood-burning smoker adds unique flavor to dishes. Tables sit close together, giving a slightly cramped feel but enhancing the lively energy.

The basement wine bar offers a beautifully decorated space with candlelit ambiance. Service stays friendly and attentive, making it a great spot for intimate dinners or small parties.

Rustic style shapes the vibe here. The setting feels very cool and the overall look stands out as cool.

People are saying

"The rigatoni and carbonara are amazing Italian food."

"I sat at the bar and loved the food."

"The octopus appetizer is succulent and complex."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly suggested for a romantic evening or special occasion.

2

Parking is available right out front on busy nights.

3

Expect to pay around $200 per person, including tip and wine.

11
Pietro Nolita image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with pink decor creates a charming atmosphere filled with good music and photo opportunities. The vibe suits lively gatherings, especially for groups seeking a visually striking setting. Drinks feature well-balanced cocktails including standout lavender and spicy margaritas.

Knowledgeable bartenders craft delicious espresso martinis and other cocktails. Staff quickly seat guests at the bar, creating a welcoming atmosphere in this small, beautiful cocktail bar.

A sexy retro design with a pink vibe gives the spot a chic and cool feel. The area around it also has a nice vibe with many things to explore.

People are saying

"The food here is super delicious and fresh."

"The drinks here are excellent and visually appealing."

"I found the vibe to be cool, chic, and sexy."

Good to know

1

You need to reserve on Resy to get a spot since seating is limited.

2

It is highly suggested to get reservations due to the small size of the restaurant.

3

If your whole party isn't there on time, your indoor dining is cancelled.

12
Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar image 1

Exposed brick and ramen-themed decor create a funky, clean interior with a hidden seating area that fills with phenomenal aromas. Loud music and TVs showing food preparation add to a sports bar vibe while a full bar and outdoor terrace offer diverse seating options. The atmosphere suits both solo diners and families, blending casual energy with unique design.

Happy hour runs daily from 12 to 6 pm with a two-hour open bar for $30. The bar pairs fantastic service with a Japanese pub vibe that blends food and drinks seamlessly.

Big, bold, red exterior with a cool moving ramen bowl and an animated ramen statue grabs attention. Inside, the space feels authentic and inviting with a warm atmosphere and funny posters.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be incredibly flavorful and seasoned well."

"The atmosphere here is really cool, with a vibe that feels authentic."

"The sushi and karaage at the bar are fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 12 PM to 6 PM with a $30 open bar.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant offers a special promo of $8.99 meals and $1 cocktails.

13
Cafรฉ Habana image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small space with cramped indoor seating contrasts with comfortable outdoor dining that offers more room. Latin music fills the air, creating a fun, eclectic atmosphere that feels lively and chaotic. The design blends vintage American diner style with Caribbean and Spanish influences.

Friendly bartenders like Ashley, Ricardo, and Rocket provide phenomenal service with a welcoming atmosphere at the bar.

A simple, cool vibe fills the space with a very cute atmosphere. The inside looks super cool and inviting.

People are saying

"I thought the street corn was delicious."

"Ricardoโ€™s drinks were fresh, perfectly balanced, and full of flavor."

"It's a cool little spot with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with 50% off all cocktails.

2

Reservations are not required, but be prepared to wait for a table.

3

A 20% tip is automatically added for parties of 2 or more.

14
Torrisi image 1
Italian restaurant

Space combines warm tones and vintage greens with high vaulted ceilings for a luxurious dining atmosphere. Music blends soul, jazz, and 70โ€™s R&B, creating a lively yet refined vibe. Cocktails and Italian dishes feature bold, unique flavors that match the elegant setting.

A bistro ambiance sets the scene with a nice bar on one side. Bar service stays friendly and professional, with staff efficient and pleasant even during busy times.

Open kitchen concept creates a cool vibe with a sceney atmosphere. The bar and ambiance add to the overall fancy yet relaxed feel.

People are saying

"The tortellini here is probably the best Iโ€™ve ever had."

"The tortellini here is divine, simply stunning and flawlessly executed."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and has a lively buzz."

Good to know

1

Reservations open 30 days in advance but fill instantly.

2

Getting a reservation is super hard unless you want to wait in line right before they open at 5 PM.

3

If you canโ€™t get a reservation, arrive before 5 PM to wait in line for walk-in seating at the bar.

15
Kimika image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant blends Japanese/Italian fusion with gorgeous interiors and a heated outdoor patio. Atmosphere shifts from intimate and quiet for family dinners to lively and fun for large parties. Bar seating and small event spaces create a versatile, welcoming environment.

The bar area offers a fun atmosphere with a good liquor selection. Service stays excellent whether at the bar or table, and drinks stand out for their quality.

A cool vibe sets the tone with a chill atmosphere that stays quiet enough to enjoy. It feels tucked away yet inviting, blending a laid-back ambiance between busy neighborhoods.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the truffle carbonara."

"The bartender here is so friendly and attentive."

"It's a cool place with a chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

You must provide your phone number for reservations, which may lead to spam.

3

Expect to pay around $200 for two without drinks.

16
Momoya SoHo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Two levels of modern Tiffany blue decor surround windows with city views. Seating feels cramped and close, creating an intimate but sometimes intrusive atmosphere. Sake and cocktails receive strong attention, complementing the sophisticated vibe.

Service at the bar is very nice and attentive. Chefs craft each piece of fish with fresh ingredients and complementary flavors right behind the bar.

A cool vibe fills the space, perfect for enjoying a cool drink while watching people. The atmosphere stays consistently laid-back and inviting.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is amazing and fresh."

"The bartender gave great sake recommendations at the bar."

"I found the vibes here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable due to busy times, especially during Restaurant Week.

2

Happy hour runs from 5-6 PM with discounted drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a special menu during Restaurant Week.

17
La Esquina Brasserie image 1
Mexican restaurant

Entrance through a hidden door in a taco stand leads to a century-old basement with stunning decor and candlelit ambiance. Loud Latin music and a lively downstairs dance floor create an energetic vibe. The place blends bar and restaurant elements, attracting those who enjoy vibrant nightlife and quality tacos.

A hidden Mexico-style bar sits downstairs behind a walk-in cafe door marked "Employees Only," featuring an imposing bar, sofas, and two dining rooms. The bar staff is super helpful and crafts delicious drinks, with a standout mezcal bar and tacos.

An imposing bar and sofas create a super cool speak-easy vibe downstairs. Two dining rooms add to the atmosphere, which feels very cool and lively with good music and a party crowd on Saturdays.

People are saying

"You have to try the chicken tinga tacos; they're the best Mexican food in New York."

"The tacos and tostadas at this Bar were delish."

"I thought the food was delicious and generous."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential to secure a table at the restaurant.

2

The restaurant features live music on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect the music to get very loud around 7:30 pm.

18
Marcellino image 1
Italian restaurant

Giant wood-fired pizza oven behind the bar anchors a space with cozy Italian decor and beautiful outdoor patio views. Fantastic music sets a lively yet pleasant mood, making it ideal for conversation and relaxed dining.

Welcoming bartenders create a friendly vibe and engage in conversations about Italy and food. Quick, tasty margaritas come from skilled bartenders who keep the atmosphere lively.

Calm and cool atmosphere sets the tone here. The staff, including Lautaro and Mr. Tommy, add to the vibe with their easygoing presence. A frozen aperol spritz helps cool down in this relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, is delicious."

"The bar staff here are so welcoming and make amazing drinks."

"It's got a cool, authentic vibe and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The restaurant was busy during the San Cerano festival.

2

The total cost for 2 people was $250.

3

The restaurant automatically charges 18% gratuity even for a party of 2.

19
Rintintin image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small, dense space with a wraparound patio creates a cozy atmosphere and excellent people watching. Dim lighting and pleasant interior design set a hip, multicultural vibe. Outdoor seating includes heating lamps, supporting a comfortable experience even on cooler days.

Friendly staff welcome guests at the bar without reservations. The bar offers a cozy Parisian vibe with a focus on drinks rather than full meals.

A cool vibe fills the space with a mix of many cultures and styles. The spot attracts hip people and offers a view of people walking outside in a trendy part of town.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The cocktails here are delicious and perfectly made."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Brunch costs $50 per person with no alcohol included.

3

A minimum 20% tip is imposed on all bills.

20
Rubirosa image 1
Pizza restaurant

Narrow space with a NYC vibe and tight seating creates an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere. Calm music and great air conditioning balance the energy, making it comfortable despite the crowd. Frequent door traffic can cause temperature shifts, adding to the dynamic environment.

Bar seating fills up quickly but opens up after a short wait, especially on weekdays. Bartenders work quickly and stay attentive, serving late night meals like cheese and honey pizza based on recommendations.

The spot feels very safe and cool to eat at. The bartender is helpful and adds to the vibe.

People are saying

"The pizza here is thin-crust perfection with a flavorful, crispy crust."

"The meatballs at this bar are top notch."

"The vibe here is really cool and cozy."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made 1 or 2 days in advance.

2

The usual wait is 45-60 minutes, not 90+ minutes.

3

You need to be punctual as they mean it when they say you have ten minutes to get there after the text.

21
Estela image 1
Restaurant

Stylish space with tiny tables packed closely together creates a tight, bustling atmosphere. Warm tones and elegant lighting add an intimate vibe, though noise levels run high. Exceptional food and wine selections stand out amid the compact setting.

Service at the bar stands out with a personal touch and outstanding attention. The bar offers a beautiful setting for dinner.

Urban and laidback vibe sets a relaxed atmosphere. Interior design and music add to the cool feel.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters and tartare, was outstanding."

"The bar staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and provide amazing service."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and laidback."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak hours due to popularity.

2

The reservation starts at 11:45, so plan accordingly.

3

Be prepared for a multi-course meal; 6-7 courses for two is common.

22
Thai Diner image 1
Thai restaurant

American diner setting blends with Thai-style decor featuring plants and art, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a cozy, multi-season space that welcomes dogs and service animals. Crowd tends to be cool and lively, with dim lighting and a mix of indoor and outdoor areas.

Seating at the bar offers a casual dining spot for solo visitors. The bar area provides a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy food and drinks.

Vibes feel like a funky fun Polynesian diner. The cool vibe pairs with great food unmatched in Manhattan.

People are saying

"The diner food here is flavorful, comforting, and perfectly executed."

"The decor has a kitschy cool diner vibe that feels very NYC."

"The bar staff is so sweet and welcoming, even during rush hours."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 1.5 hours during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for breakfast to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant serves brunch items daily before 5pm.

23
Wayan image 1
Indonesian restaurant

Indoor and outdoor spaces blend earthy decor with plant-filled design creating a cozy, spacious setting. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back Bali beach club vibes to intimate and trendy, suitable for groups or quiet dining. Cocktails stand out as fab and inventive, complementing a menu that fuses Indonesian and French flavors.

Attentive bar staff craft interesting cocktails while watching over diners at the bar. Seating offers a view into the kitchen, adding a unique element to the bar experience.

Dim lighting creates a very cool atmosphere throughout the space. Sitting at the chef's counter offers a unique view of the kitchen in action. Cocktails bring a fusion twist that matches the vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is beautifully presented and flavorful."

"The lobster noodles at this Bar were incredible."

"The atmosphere here is really cool, especially watching the kitchen."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect long wait times during weekends, particularly for dinner.

3

Prices are considered expensive for the portion sizes offered.

24
Ketchy Shuby image 1
American restaurant

Cozy, chic space with wood paneling and a realistic fake tree creates an earthy, inviting atmosphere. Lounge downstairs offers a Tulum vibe with awesome DJ music that keeps energy lively without overwhelming noise. Crowd enjoys a mix of relaxed dining and vibrant nightlife in a stylish setting.

An exclusive lounge downstairs offers a perfect spot to spend the night. The owner personally checks on tables and invites guests to enjoy drinks in this hottest bar setting.

A basement club with a cool Tulum vibe and natural designs like a tree inside creates a unique atmosphere. The music scene is awesome and warm, making the space feel different from typical city spots.

People are saying

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

"The nightlife here is vibey with great music and a social scene."

"The bar's vibe is so fun with great music."

Good to know

1

The club downstairs has a cover charge of $250 per person.

2

Males must meet a $200 minimum spend requirement.

3

You need a specific ratio of guys to girls to get in.

25
La Pecora Bianca SoHo image 1
Italian restaurant

Corner location with seamless indoor and outdoor seating creates an airy, chic atmosphere. Large sidewalk patio with heated terrace offers comfortable al fresco dining. Wide open dining room with garage door style windows enhances the spacious, relaxed vibe.

Seats at the bar open up quickly, even on busy nights. Solo diners find it easy to get a spot and enjoy the casual bar seating.

A quintessential vibe fills the atmosphere, making it a cool spot for people watching. The location adds to its overall appeal.

People are saying

"I couldn't stop talking about how great the food was."

"The cocktails and homemade pasta here are super good."

"It's a cool spot for people watching with a quintessential vibe."

Good to know

1

The brunch-only menu ends at 1:45 PM on Saturdays.

2

It is a good idea to make reservations because the place is always full.

3

You need to have a reservation for dinner or try your luck at the bar.

26
Lombardi's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizzeria with old-world Italian decor and a bustling yet warm atmosphere. Coal-fired ovens create a crispy, unique crust on pizzas, contributing to a historic dining experience. Seating is limited, often requiring outdoor arrangements with heaters and plexiglass for crowd management.

Seats at the bar offer the best view and get prompt service from friendly staff and the manager during lunchtime.

The place has a cool atmosphere with a hard crust 12-inch pizza and a rich history as America's first pizzeria.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and delicious."

"It's pretty cool to say you've eaten at America's first pizzeria."

"The bar staff were friendly and quick with our drinks."

Good to know

1

Lombardi's is a cash-only establishment.

2

Be prepared to wait unless you come for lunch.

3

Peak hours are typically Friday and Saturday evenings between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

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Nolita, New York

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