A Single’s Guide to Valentine’s Day in NYC: Cocktails, Events & Where to Celebrate
Valentine’s Day in New York City isn’t just for couples—it’s a celebration for everyone, including the city’s vibrant, dynamic, and independent singles. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, indulge in a luxurious solo night out, or just enjoy some of the best cocktails NYC has to offer, there are plenty of ways to make February 14th one to remember.
From exclusive singles parties to cocktail bars that embrace the solo experience, here’s the ultimate guide to celebrating Valentine’s Day as a single in NYC.
Where to Mingle: The Best Valentine’s Day Singles Events in NYC
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to dress up, grab a cocktail, and meet like-minded New Yorkers at some of the city’s best singles parties and mixers.
1. NYC’s Biggest Valentine’s Day Singles Party
📍 Taj Lounge | February 14, 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM
This massive singles party attracts a stylish, social crowd from their 20s to 50s for a night of cocktails, dancing, and mingling in one of NYC’s most iconic lounges.
Best Cocktail to Order Here: A French 75—because nothing says “single and sophisticated” like Champagne, gin, and lemon served in a flute.
More Info & Tickets: Eventbrite
2. The Love Train: NYC’s Most Unusual Blind Date Experience
📍 Starts at a Secret Subway Stop | February 14, 7:00 PM
For a truly unique Valentine’s experience, join The Love Train, a one-of-a-kind blind dating adventure on the NYC subway. Hosted by social connector Tiffany Baira, this ride is all about fun, unexpected encounters, and maybe even a meet-cute underground.
Best Cocktail to Have After: A Manhattan—strong, smooth, and classic, just like a real New Yorker.
More Info & Tickets: New York Post
3. 40s & Over Valentine’s Day Singles Party
📍 American Whiskey, Chelsea | February 14, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
For singles 40 and over, this event offers a more relaxed but elegant atmosphere with cocktails, appetizers, and easygoing socializing. No blaring music, just great conversation and well-crafted drinks.
Best Cocktail to Order Here: An Old Fashioned—timeless, sophisticated, and always in style.
More Info & Tickets: Meetup
Where to Sip: NYC’s Best Cocktail Bars for Singles on Valentine’s Day
If you’re skipping the singles events and just want a great drink at a great bar, these cocktail spots are perfect for going solo or sparking conversation with fellow singles.
1. Dante (West Village) – The Ultimate Classic Cocktail Bar
📍 79-81 MacDougal St, West Village
Repeatedly ranked one of the world’s best bars, Dante is perfect for sipping a perfectly crafted Negroni or Martini while enjoying a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Best Cocktail to Order: A Dante Martini—gin, vermouth, almond distillate, and olive oil for a silky, nutty twist on the classic.
2. Martiny’s (Flatiron) – An Intimate Japanese-Inspired Cocktail Haven
📍 121 E 17th St, Flatiron
This small but stunning Japanese-inspired cocktail bar is perfect for a solo night out. The bartenders take meticulous care in crafting each drink, making it an ideal place to slow down and savor the moment.
Best Cocktail to Order: A Shiso Martini—gin, umami vermouth, and a touch of shiso leaf for an herbal, aromatic experience.
3. Bemelmans Bar (Upper East Side) – A Legendary Spot for a Sophisticated Night Out
📍 35 E 76th St, Upper East Side
If you’re in the mood for a high-society solo Valentine’s, head to Bemelmans Bar inside The Carlyle Hotel, where you’ll find live jazz, deep leather booths, and some of NYC’s best Martinis.
Best Cocktail to Order: A classic dry Martini—because when in doubt, keep it elegant.
For a Different Kind of Valentine’s: Unique NYC Experiences for Singles
1. Candlelight Concert: Valentine’s Special
📍 Church of the Heavenly Rest | February 14, 7:00 PM & 9:00 PM
For a more romantic, introspective night, enjoy a stunning candlelit concert featuring live classical music. No forced socializing, just you, a beautiful setting, and a drink afterward.
Best Cocktail to Have After: A Champagne cocktail—because you don’t need a date to pop some bubbly.
More Info
2. Zero-Proof Valentine’s at Hekate (East Village)
📍 167 Avenue B, East Village
For those skipping alcohol this year, Hekate is NYC’s first fully non-alcoholic cocktail bar, offering botanical-infused, spirit-free drinks in a cozy, candlelit setting.
Best Mocktail to Try: The Lucid Dream Spritz—orange blossom, adaptogenic herbs, and non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
Valentine’s Day in NYC is for Everyone
Whether you’re embracing the single life, looking to meet someone new, or just want a good cocktail, NYC has plenty of ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day—no romance required.
For those who want to host their own Valentine’s Day mixology experience, Art of the Cocktail offers:
✔ Private cocktail-making classes for groups & singles mixers
✔ Custom Valentine’s Day cocktail menus for events
✔ Zero-proof and luxury mixology experiences
Because whether you're toasting to love, friendship, or self-indulgence, one thing’s for sure—a well-made cocktail is always the perfect Valentine.
