Best Cocktail Bars in NYC for 2025
New York City is home to some of the world’s finest cocktail bars, blending innovation, artistry, and atmosphere into unforgettable experiences. As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s vibrant mixology scene. Whether you’re looking for a glamorous rooftop escape, a cozy speakeasy, or a cutting-edge craft cocktail bar, NYC offers something for every taste.
Here’s an updated guide to the best cocktail bars in NYC for 2025, including standout spots like Sweetbriar’s Bar 27 and Roof at Park South.
1. Bar 27 at Sweetbriar
Location: 127 E 27th Street, Flatiron District
Nestled inside the acclaimed Sweetbriar restaurant, Bar 27 offers a sophisticated yet approachable cocktail experience. This gem in the Flatiron District is known for its warm ambiance and expertly crafted drinks. The mixologists at Bar 27 use premium spirits and seasonal ingredients to create bold, unforgettable cocktails that perfectly complement Sweetbriar’s wood-fired cuisine.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in 2025:
Signature drinks like the Smoked Maple Old Fashioned reflect the bar’s innovative approach to classic recipes.
Its location within Sweetbriar makes it ideal for a pre-dinner cocktail or an elegant nightcap.
2. Roof at Park South
Location: 125 E 27th Street, Midtown South (Reopening Spring 2025)
A rooftop bar with a view, Roof at Park South is slated to reopen this spring, promising an unforgettable mix of atmosphere and drinks. Known for its panoramic views of Manhattan’s skyline and creative cocktails, this elevated space is perfect for everything from after-work gatherings to special celebrations.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in 2025:
Expertly crafted cocktails inspired by the seasons.
A chic, open-air setting that combines NYC energy with a touch of serenity.
3. Death & Co.
Location: 433 E 6th Street, East Village
A pioneer of the modern cocktail movement, Death & Co. continues to be a go-to for inventive drinks and an intimate vibe. Its menu offers a mix of classics and seasonal creations, each crafted with precision and care.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in 2025:
A reputation for setting industry standards.
Bartenders who are as skilled as they are passionate about mixology.
4. Dante
Location: 79-81 MacDougal Street, Greenwich Village
A Greenwich Village institution, Dante is renowned for its iconic Negronis and Italian-inspired cocktails. Its sleek yet welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in 2025:
Award-winning cocktails like the Garibaldi, known for its simplicity and elegance.
A perfect spot for a daytime aperitivo or an evening drink.
5. Attaboy
Location: 134 Eldridge Street, Lower East Side
Hidden behind an unmarked door on the Lower East Side, Attaboy offers a personalized cocktail experience like no other. There’s no menu—bartenders create drinks tailored to your tastes, making each visit unique.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in 2025:
Its bespoke approach to cocktails ensures an unforgettable experience.
A speakeasy vibe that adds to the mystique.
6. The Campbell
Location: Grand Central Terminal, Midtown East
Step into history at The Campbell, a restored 1920s office turned cocktail bar inside Grand Central Terminal. Its grand decor and timeless drinks make it a standout for both locals and tourists.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in 2025:
A nostalgic ambiance that’s perfect for a glamorous evening out.
Classic cocktails executed with finesse.
7. Overstory
Location: 70 Pine Street, Financial District
Perched high above the Financial District, Overstory combines stunning views with top-tier cocktails. The sleek, modern design and expertly crafted drinks make it one of NYC’s most exclusive rooftop bars.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in 2025:
A rotating menu of creative cocktails that push the boundaries of flavor.
Floor-to-ceiling windows offering unparalleled vistas of the city.
8. Clover Club
Location: 210 Smith Street, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
A Brooklyn staple, Clover Club is known for its vintage-inspired drinks and cozy, elegant setting. With a menu that pays homage to the golden age of cocktails, it’s a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in 2025:
A relaxed atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
Signature drinks like the Clover Club, which set the standard for balanced, flavorful cocktails.
Explore NYC’s Cocktail Scene in 2025
From the chic elegance of Sweetbriar’s Bar 27 to the sky-high allure of Roof at Park South, NYC’s cocktail bars continue to set the standard for innovation and artistry. Whether you’re a seasoned mixology enthusiast or just beginning your cocktail journey, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you in the city that never sleeps.
Join us this January at Sweetbriar for the Art of the Cocktail: Reposado Tequila Class to learn the secrets behind bold, seasonal cocktails. Then, raise a glass to discovering NYC’s finest bars in 2025. Cheers!
