Best Bars Near NYC Museums: Pairing Culture with Cocktails
New York City’s world-class museums are treasure troves of art, history, and culture. But what’s a day of exploration without the perfect cocktail to end it? Pairing museum visits with nearby bars offers a seamless way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural and social scenes. Whether you’re marveling at modern art or stepping back in time at a historical exhibit, these curated pairings ensure your day out in NYC is nothing short of extraordinary.
1. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Pair With: The Modern
Location: 9 W 53rd Street, Midtown
MoMA’s unparalleled collection of modern and contemporary art deserves an equally exceptional cocktail experience. Located within the museum, The Modern is a Michelin-starred restaurant with a sleek, sophisticated bar offering artistic drinks that mirror the creativity of the exhibits.
What to Order: The "Modern Martini," a clean and elegant take on the classic.
Why It Works: With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sculpture garden, The Modern feels like an extension of MoMA itself.
2. The American Museum of Natural History
Pair With: Jake’s Dilemma
Location: 430 Amsterdam Avenue, Upper West Side
After exploring the wonders of the natural world, head to Jake’s Dilemma for a casual yet lively vibe. This Upper West Side staple offers creative cocktails, craft beers, and a relaxed setting perfect for unwinding.
What to Order: A "Moscow Mule" with a twist, featuring fresh ginger and lime.
Why It Works: Its approachable ambiance and playful atmosphere balance the museum’s intellectual intrigue.
3. The Whitney Museum of American Art
Pair With: Untitled at The Whitney
Location: 99 Gansevoort Street, Meatpacking District
Nestled in the heart of the Meatpacking District, the Whitney celebrates American art in all its forms. Untitled, the museum’s in-house bar, serves modern cocktails with seasonal ingredients that reflect the dynamic spirit of the Whitney’s exhibits.
What to Order: The "American Paloma," a refreshing mix of tequila, grapefruit, and agave.
Why It Works: The sleek, minimalist design mirrors the Whitney’s contemporary aesthetic.
4. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Pair With: Bemelmans Bar
Location: 35 E 76th Street, Upper East Side
After immersing yourself in the timeless collections at The Met, step into another iconic space: Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle Hotel. This legendary bar features live jazz, old-world charm, and murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, creator of the "Madeline" books.
What to Order: A classic Manhattan, reflecting the bar’s timeless elegance.
Why It Works: Bemelmans Bar offers a sophisticated retreat that complements The Met’s grandeur.
5. The Brooklyn Museum
Pair With: Sweet Science
Location: 135 Graham Avenue, Williamsburg
Known for its diverse exhibits and bold programming, the Brooklyn Museum pairs well with Sweet Science, a Williamsburg hotspot with a hip, welcoming vibe. This bar specializes in inventive cocktails and comfort food.
What to Order: The "Brooklyn Sour," made with whiskey, lemon, and a red wine float.
Why It Works: The creative cocktails and laid-back atmosphere reflect the borough’s eclectic energy.
6. The Tenement Museum
Pair With: Bar Belly
Location: 14 Orchard Street, Lower East Side
The Tenement Museum tells the stories of immigrants who shaped NYC’s history. After your visit, stroll over to Bar Belly, a cozy bar known for its creative cocktails and live music.
What to Order: The "Bees Knees," a Prohibition-era cocktail made with gin, honey, and lemon.
Why It Works: Its vintage vibe and intimate setting echo the historical charm of the museum.
7. The Guggenheim Museum
Pair With: The Wright Bar
Location: 1071 5th Avenue, Upper East Side
Located within the Guggenheim, The Wright Bar is a chic spot for cocktails inspired by the museum’s modernist design. Its sleek lines and artistic presentation make it the ideal complement to Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece.
What to Order: The "Guggenheim Gimlet," a refined blend of gin and lime cordial.
Why It Works: Its aesthetic perfectly matches the museum’s iconic style.
8. The New Museum
Pair With: Sweetbriar’s Bar 27
Location: 127 E 27th Street, Flatiron District
After a visit to The New Museum’s thought-provoking contemporary exhibits, head to Sweetbriar’s Bar 27 for a mixology experience that matches the creativity of the museum. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails and warm ambiance, this bar offers a refreshing escape.
What to Order: The "Smoked Maple Old Fashioned," a bold and innovative take on a classic.
Why It Works: Sweetbriar’s focus on bold flavors and artisanal techniques resonates with the museum’s avant-garde spirit.
Pair Your Passions in NYC
New York City’s museums and bars both celebrate artistry and innovation, making them a perfect pairing for a day of exploration. Whether you’re savoring a Manhattan at Bemelmans after The Met or enjoying a Smoked Maple Old Fashioned at Sweetbriar’s Bar 27, these combinations promise a uniquely NYC experience.
Looking to take your cocktail skills to the next level? Join us for the Art of the Cocktail: Reposado Tequila Class on January 9th, 2025, at Sweetbriar, where you’ll learn to craft exceptional drinks that pair perfectly with any occasion.
Cheers to culture and cocktails!
