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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the UES

Cocktail bars

You want a bar that treats the craft of a cocktail as its primary function.

Based on 493 Opinions
+490
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Updated June 2026
01
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Cocktail bar

Speakeasy-style cocktail bar with dim lighting and Prohibition-era decor creates a mysterious atmosphere. Music blends nostalgic 70s tunes with lively energy, often featuring a skilled DJ. Space feels intimate but tight on busy nights, offering a unique vibe distinct from typical nightlife spots.

A cocktail bar with a cool vibe and a memorable name. It sits conveniently next to dining spots, making it easy to continue the evening with drinks.

Expertly crafted cocktails showcase mixology craftsmanship with a creative twist on strong drinks. The menu offers original and spicy options served with a smile in a buzzing ambiance.

People are saying

"These cocktails are amazing, truly a masterpiece."

"The DJ's music selection was perfection and set the exact vibe."

"The cocktails here are fun, creative, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights.

2

Dress code requires collared shirts for men in the upper area.

3

Tables are released every Tuesday for upcoming events.

02
Nightly's image 1
American restaurant

Restaurant combines downtown chic decor with a 60's cocktail lounge vibe and sexy dim lighting. Atmosphere is loud and lively, perfect for dates or gatherings with friends. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option to the energetic indoor space.

Atmosphere channels a 60's cocktail lounge with a modern twist. Bar seating suits solo visitors, dates, or groups, supporting long, relaxed nights with consistent quality.

Cocktails feature a tastiest gin mix with pineapple and cinnamon. The vibe channels a 60's cocktail lounge with a modern twist, making the drinks experience stand out.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and memorable."

"Our server Joel was amazing and gave great cocktail recommendations."

"The bar staff here are great and super professional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because it gets packed.

2

The bar operates on a first come, first serve basis.

3

The restaurant charges $11 for mashed potatoes.

03
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Irish pub

Irish pub with authentic New York vibe and plenty of TVs for sports viewing. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and cozy to lively and fun, attracting a friendly crowd. Offers super cold Guinness and allows bringing your own food.

A lively pub with an authentic New York atmosphere offers good food and beverages alongside a funny, local vibe.

Drinks come out perfect and affordable, especially the rail cocktails. Specialty options include bloody Marys and mocha peppermint martinis with a fruity twist.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and funny."

"This spot has great cocktails, a real highlight of my trip."

"Frank, the bartender, was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The bar does not serve food, but you can bring your own in.

2

Drinks are under $10 each, which is really good for NYC.

3

During football season, the bar has a big Seahawks crowd.

04
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Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean flavors meet a sexy atmosphere with live jazz energizing the space. The onyx bar shines late with personable staff and live shows. Signature drinks like the Abbie cocktail make brunch and nights out special.

Personable staff create a welcoming vibe and keep the bar open late for events. The onyx bar area adds a sleek touch, while talented performers provide live entertainment during dinner and shows.

Signature cocktails shine here, especially the Abbie cocktail which stands out. Levent crafts fabulous cocktails and mixed shots, making it a solid spot for bottomless brunch with great drink options.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean dinner spots here have fresh, well-balanced flavors."

"The cocktails here are delicious and the bartenders are friendly."

"The bartenders here make the best Old Fashioned and give great recommendations."

Good to know

1

Live music is available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great deals.

3

Brunch is served until 4 PM on weekends.

05
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Italian restaurant

Old-world Italian decor creates a cozy, upbeat atmosphere with great music and a quiet, covered patio reminiscent of Tuscany. The space suits conversations and dates, offering both bar seating and private outdoor cabanas. It fills with energy when crowded but maintains a warm, inviting vibe.

An open bar offers a variety of cocktails, mocktails, beer, and wine. The bar stays busy but service remains smooth, and seating at the bar is available even during peak times.

Bartenders craft fantastic cocktails with a variety that includes mocktails, beer, and wine. Drinks pair well with appetizers and flatbread, making the bar a popular spot.

People are saying

"I thought the truffle gnocchi was to die for."

"The bar staff was so attentive and helpful with planning our event."

"I loved the cocktails; they were excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Martini Monday offers $4 martinis with the purchase of a main dish.

3

Happy hour runs all day, providing great deals on drinks.

06
Emmy Squared Pizza: Upper East Side image 1

Urban chic space with an outdoor terrace offers a fresh vibe and artisanal pizza that stands out. Atmosphere tends to be loud, making conversation challenging during busy times. Group dinners fit well with long tables and reservation options.

Staff at the bar offer friendly service and good conversation. John makes a notable Aperol spritz, and Juri recommends the gluten free crust for a crispier pizza.

Whiskey-based and gin cocktails stand out among the fun mixed drinks available. The selection includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, served in a spacious setting.

People are saying

"Our server Cesar was so attentive and asked about allergies."

"I thought the cocktails were amazing and enjoyable."

"The bar staff, especially Juri and John, provided excellent service."

Good to know

1

The pizza place stops taking orders at 8:30 PM.

2

Make a reservation to avoid a wait, especially for parties of 4 or more.

3

You will experience a one-hour wait at this place during peak times.

07
The Mark Bar image 1

Small, elegant bar with a chic, laid-back vibe and stylish decor. Space feels cozy but limited, attracting a mix of upscale socialites and casual visitors. Atmosphere balances luxury with relaxed comfort, making it a quiet spot to enjoy well-crafted drinks.

A stylish little hideaway with a laid back ambiance and unique drinks. The bar features a beautiful outdoor patio, comfy seating, and excellent service with friendly bartenders.

Cocktails come with a high price tag but deliver good flavor. The atmosphere suits a quiet spot for a quick drink, though some find the sweetness level too much.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are fantastic and provide great service."

"I found the cocktails to be delicious and superb."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay $64 for prosecco and $32 for a paloma.

2

The bar is great for drinks before or after a night out.

3

The place is suitable for meetings or casual drinks with friends.

08
Hoexter's image 1
New American restaurant

Warm, cozy rooms with wildlife murals create a Hollywood glam vibe. Bar area offers a cozy ambiance with seating inside and outside. Cocktails impress with delicious flavors despite higher prices, making it a great spot for special occasions.

Bar area features a cozy ambiance with wildlife murals on the walls and seating at the bar and sidewalk tables. The layout includes a dining room past the maitreโ€™d stand, creating a relaxed vibe similar to the Polo Bar.

Cocktails stand out as a highlight with a mix of delicious flavors. Some drinks come at a higher price, but the quality matches the taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the smashburger."

"The cocktails here are inventive and delicious."

"The dirty martinis at the bar were worth the wait."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

2

There is a $3.00 extra charge for olives in the Martini.

3

You need to order a full dinner to have drinks at a seated table in the bar area.

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Upper East Side, New York

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