In the city that never sleeps, every corner offers a distinct experience. From rooftop bars overlooking the Manhattan skyline to historic speakeasies, New York is home to unforgettable nightlife destinations. This curated guide features places that combine tradition, innovation, and style in every sip—ideal for those seeking a night out in the city that sets the global standard for gastronomy and mixology. Get ready to discover the most exclusive bars in NYC through their cocktails, views, and atmospheres.
Overstory
Perched on the 64th floor of 70 Pine Street, Overstory is one of New York City’s top bars, offering 360-degree views of the skyline. Designed by chefs James Kent and Harrison Ginsberg, this sleek spot features signature cocktails in a modern, refined setting. With hours extending until midnight and a stylish dress code, Overstory is ideal for an elevated evening in the heart of the Financial District. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially for large groups.
Instagram: @overstory
Dante NYC
Located at 79-81 Macdougal Street, Dante NYC has been crowned one of the best bars in America—earning the title in both 2019 and 2020, and named World’s Best Bar in 2019 by TOTC. With a British-inspired sensibility, Dante pairs timeless elegance with expert mixology.
Sister to the acclaimed Dante West Village and Dante Beverly Hills, this location impresses with its refined setting and flawless cocktail lineup. A must-visit for lovers of classic drinks and elevated dining in the Big Apple.
Instagram: @dantenewyorkcity
Super Bueno
n East Village, this vibrant bar celebrates the fusion of Mexican and American culture through bold, forward-thinking mixology. Open 2 p.m.–2 a.m. on weekends and 4 p.m.–2 a.m. on weekdays, Super Bueno blends gastronomy and cocktails in a chic, energetic space.
Helmed by industry veterans Ignacio “Nacho” Jimenez and Greg Boehm, the menu showcases inventive drinks like huitlacoche-infused margaritas or mole negronis with fat-washed mezcal and traditional Mexican spices. A dynamic and authentic destination, Super Bueno is perfect for those seeking flavor, tradition, and creativity in the heart of NYC.
Instagram: @superbuenonyc
Angel´s Share
Now located at 45 Grove Street in West Village, Angel’s Share is a New York cocktail institution that first opened in 1993. Revered for its refined Japanese-inspired style, the bar has long been a favorite among mixology enthusiasts.
Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m., it maintains a strict no-reservations policy: walk-ins only, no groups larger than four, no lines, and no split parties.
Though it briefly closed in 2022, Angel’s Share has made a triumphant return—its spirit and legacy intact—continuing to deliver authentic, high-quality cocktails in an elegant atmosphere.
Instagram: @angelssharenyc
Clemente Bar & Studio
Found at 11 Madison Avenue, just above the iconic Eleven Madison Park, Clemente Bar & Studio is an intimate haven where mixology meets art. A collaboration between chef Daniel Humm and artist Francesco Clemente, this sophisticated space was designed by Brad Cloepfil and features works by Clemente, vintage furniture curated by Brett Robinson, and lighting by Carsten Höller.
The drink menu—led by Sebastian Tollius—features thoughtfully crafted cocktails with elegant, minimalist presentations and flavor profiles ranging from classic to unexpected. The food menu, inspired by Eleven Madison Park, includes refined small plates and a five-course tasting at the chef’s counter, making Clemente a can’t-miss destination for lovers of style and substance.
Instagram: @theclementebar
Employees Only
A New York legend since 2004, Employees Only is one of the city’s most iconic speakeasies. Located in West Village, it blends mystery with elegance and is known for its award-winning cocktails—like the Ginger Smash and a twisted take on the Manhattan—alongside elevated Eastern European–inspired dishes.
Open daily from 6 p.m. to 4 a.m. (with the kitchen open until 3 a.m.), it also hosts a burlesque night every Sunday. Frequently ranked among the best bars in the world by Tales of the Cocktail and Drinks International, this timeless venue remains a staple of NYC nightlife.
Instagram: @employeesonlyny
Maison Premiere
Since 2011, this Brooklyn gem has stood out as one of NYC’s most acclaimed bars. Maison Premiere was recognized in 2016 with the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program.
Modeled after the historic absinthe cafés and oyster bars of Paris, New Orleans, and New York, Maison Premiere boasts over 30 varieties of oysters and the largest absinthe selection in the U.S. Its centerpiece: a hand-crafted replica of the Olde Absinthe House fountain from New Orleans, anchoring its commitment to tradition and ceremony.
Acclaimed by The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, Maison Premiere blends classic and contemporary, offering exquisite seafood, cocktails, and champagne in an atmosphere filled with history and charm.
Instagram: @maisonpremiere
Katana Kitten
Located in Greenwich Village, Katana Kitten is a Japanese-American bar that reinvents the dive bar experience with elevated craft cocktails and vibrant style. Open weekdays from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and weekends until midnight, the venue features retro movie posters and upbeat music, creating an atmosphere that’s fun, bold, and unmistakably authentic.
Its drinks marry Japanese techniques with fresh ingredients. Signature creations like the Hinoki Martini—with sherry, sake, and Japanese cypress essence—and the Matcha Grasshopper showcase unique flavor profiles. The food menu complements the drinks with standout dishes like Fujimi fried chicken in sweet-and-sour sauce and nori curry fries, making every visit a flavorful cultural journey.
Instagram: @katanakitten_nyc
You’re guaranteed to enjoy NYC’s nightlife at these HOT spots.
Which of these exclusive bars will you start with?
