From Dive to Deluxe: NYC Bars That Have Transformed Over Time
New York City’s bar scene is constantly evolving, but some transformations stand out more than others. Certain establishments have gone from gritty neighborhood dives to sleek cocktail destinations, proving that reinvention is part of the city’s DNA.
While some bars maintain their old-school charm with a modern twist, others have completely rebranded, swapping sticky floors and dollar beers for artisanal cocktails and polished interiors. Whether it is a historic dive that now serves craft cocktails or a once-overlooked watering hole turned celebrity hotspot, these NYC bars have undergone dramatic makeovers—without losing their soul.
Here is a look at the best bars that have transformed from dive to deluxe, redefining the city’s drinking culture while keeping a nod to their past.
Ray’s – The Modern Upscale Dive
177 Chrystie St, Lower East Side
Ray’s is the perfect example of the modern upscale dive bar—a place that embraces dive-bar aesthetics but delivers high-end hospitality. Co-owned by actor Nicholas Braun, Ray’s feels effortless and nostalgic, but its curated cocktails and chic atmosphere set it apart.
The bar’s eclectic design, featuring a neon Stetson sign, checkered floors, and a vintage jukebox, attracts a mix of locals and celebrities looking for an unpretentious yet elevated drinking experience. Unlike classic dives, Ray’s has thoughtfully crafted cocktails, quality spirits, and a carefully maintained aesthetic, making it the go-to for those who want a casual night out with a touch of luxury.
Signature Drink to Try: A whiskey soda or Miller High Life, the classic dive bar order—but served in a place where you might run into a Hollywood A-lister.
Why It Works:
Maintains the effortless charm of a dive bar while subtly elevating the experience.
Serves simple but well-executed drinks in a cool, relaxed setting.
Attracts an interesting mix of regulars, creatives, and celebrities.
Milady’s – From Gritty Dive to Cocktail Destination
160 Prince St, Soho
Milady’s was once a beloved, no-frills dive bar, known for its cheap drinks and raucous atmosphere. After closing in 2014, the bar was revived and reimagined in 2022, transforming into a sophisticated cocktail lounge that still pays homage to its dive-bar past.
The bar now serves elevated versions of classic drinks in a bright, welcoming space, featuring polished wood, vintage touches, and a menu that balances nostalgia with innovation.
Signature Drink to Try: A refined version of the Dirty Martini, crafted with high-quality spirits and house-made brine.
Why It Works:
Retains elements of its dive-bar history while embracing a modern cocktail culture.
Serves high-end versions of classic drinks, giving a fresh take on familiar favorites.
Balances laid-back energy with sophisticated execution, making it a must-visit for cocktail lovers.
Stonewall Inn – A Historic Evolution
53 Christopher St, Greenwich Village
The Stonewall Inn is not just a bar—it is an LGBTQ+ landmark that has played a major role in history. Originally a gritty, mafia-run bar in the 1960s, it became the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement after the Stonewall Riots of 1969.
Since then, Stonewall has transformed into a beloved and polished institution, welcoming visitors from around the world while still maintaining its grassroots energy and activism. While the drinks are simple, the experience is about the community, history, and celebration.
Signature Drink to Try: A Stonewall Inn IPA, brewed in partnership with Brooklyn Brewery to honor LGBTQ+ history.
Why It Works:
Maintains its historic significance while evolving into a modern LGBTQ+ landmark.
Welcomes a diverse crowd in a space filled with history and pride.
Blends old-school bar charm with a refreshed energy, making it a must-visit NYC spot.
Dive 75 – The Cleaned-Up Dive Bar
101 W 75th St, Upper West Side
With a name like Dive 75, you might expect a no-rules, dimly lit dive bar. Instead, this Upper West Side favorite manages to keep the dive bar name while upgrading the experience. It offers a comfortable, clean space with an impressive scotch selection, craft beer, and wine options—elements rarely found in true dive bars.
Despite these upgrades, Dive 75 still feels like a neighborhood bar, with board games, a relaxed atmosphere, and a mix of locals and visitors. It is the perfect example of how a dive bar can evolve without losing its identity.
Signature Drink to Try: A Scotch neat, paired with free popcorn and a relaxed night of board games.
Why It Works:
Maintains the welcoming, no-fuss atmosphere of a dive bar.
Serves high-quality spirits and drinks, appealing to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.
Keeps things affordable and fun, while offering a more polished experience.
The Rise of the Upscale Dive Bar
The transformation of these bars highlights a broader trend in NYC: the rise of the upscale dive bar. This new category blends the charm and energy of a classic dive with modern hospitality, better cocktails, and a curated aesthetic.
Why Upscale Dive Bars Are Taking Over NYC:
✔ They embrace nostalgia while offering a refined experience.
✔ They serve better-quality drinks without losing the casual vibe.
✔ They attract a mix of crowds—longtime locals and new patrons alike.
✔ They create a space that feels both effortless and intentional.
From gritty neighborhood joints that now serve craft cocktails to revived historic spaces that honor their past, NYC’s bar scene continues to reinvent itself while keeping one foot in tradition.
The Best of Both Worlds
The best bar transformations are the ones that retain the spirit of the past while embracing the present. Whether it is Ray’s maintaining dive-bar energy while serving upscale drinks, Milady’s reviving its old-school name with a modern cocktail menu, or Stonewall Inn honoring its history while evolving into a polished LGBTQ+ destination, these bars prove that evolution doesn’t mean erasing identity—it means elevating it.
For those who love the grit of old-school bars but appreciate quality drinks and service, NYC’s upscale dive bars and transformed institutions offer the best of both worlds.
So next time you are looking for a laid-back night with a touch of luxury, skip the overpriced cocktail lounges and head to one of these bars that have mastered the art of transformation.
