The Perfect Pre-Game: NYC’s Best Bars Near Madison Square Garden & Barclays Center
There’s nothing like the buzz of heading to a concert, basketball game, or big event at Madison Square Garden or Barclays Center. But before the main event, the perfect way to set the tone for the night is with a great pre-game spot. Whether you are looking for a lively Irish pub, a sleek cocktail bar, or a laid-back craft beer joint, NYC has plenty of options to kick off your evening right.
From classic sports bars filled with die-hard fans to upscale lounges for a refined start to the night, here are the best places to grab a drink before heading to MSG or Barclays Center.
Best Bars Near Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden sits in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, surrounded by a mix of classic bars, lively Irish pubs, and trendy cocktail lounges. Whether you are catching a Knicks or Rangers game, seeing a concert, or attending a marquee event, these spots offer the best pre-game drinks within walking distance of the arena.
1. Rock & Reilly’s – A Rooftop Irish Bar with Energy
📍 218 W 35th St, Midtown
This sprawling Irish bar and rooftop is perfect for groups looking for an energetic start to the night. With 40+ beers on tap, strong cocktails, and a laid-back yet stylish vibe, Rock & Reilly’s is an ideal stop for anyone looking to pregame in a lively setting.
Best Drink to Try: A Guinness & Jameson combo or a classic Old Fashioned.
2. Stout NYC – The Go-To for Sports Fans
📍 133 W 33rd St, Midtown
Located right near MSG, Stout NYC is a massive Irish pub known for its great beer selection and rowdy, sports-loving crowd. It is a top pick for fans heading to a Rangers or Knicks game, offering plenty of space to enjoy a pint and some pre-game excitement.
Best Drink to Try: A local craft IPA or a classic pint of Guinness.
3. The Flying Puck – A Hockey Lover’s Haven
📍 364 7th Ave, Midtown
For die-hard sports fans, The Flying Puck is the closest thing to a sports bar inside MSG itself. Covered in hockey memorabilia, this bar is a favorite for Rangers fans pre-gaming before the game. Expect cheap drinks, solid bar food, and a no-frills atmosphere perfect for game day.
Best Drink to Try: A cold beer and a whiskey shot, classic game-day style.
4. The Pennsy – Quick Drinks & Bites for On-the-Go Fans
📍 2 Pennsylvania Plaza, Midtown
If you need a quick drink before heading into the Garden, The Pennsy is a convenient food hall with a large bar and plenty of drink options. Perfect for those looking for fast service, quality drinks, and a casual atmosphere.
Best Drink to Try: A Moscow Mule or a classic Margarita.
5. Haymaker Bar & Kitchen – Great Beer Selection & Relaxed Vibe
📍 252 W 29th St, Midtown
For craft beer lovers, Haymaker offers one of the best selections near MSG. It is a little more low-key than some of the sports bars nearby, making it a great option if you want a relaxed pre-game atmosphere with excellent drinks.
Best Drink to Try: A seasonal craft beer on tap or a well-balanced whiskey sour.
Best Bars Near Barclays Center
Barclays Center, located in Brooklyn’s Prospect Heights neighborhood, is surrounded by some of the best bars in the borough. Whether you are heading to a Brooklyn Nets game, a concert, or a boxing match, there are plenty of great places to grab a drink before the event.
1. McMahon’s Public House – A Classic Irish Pub
📍 39 5th Ave, Brooklyn
For a laid-back pre-game experience, McMahon’s offers affordable drinks, plenty of TVs, and a welcoming Irish pub vibe. The crowd is a mix of Nets fans, concertgoers, and locals looking for a casual drink before heading to Barclays.
Best Drink to Try: A Jameson & Ginger Ale or a Brooklyn Lager.
2. Black Forest Brooklyn – A German Beer Haven
📍 733 Fulton St, Brooklyn
If you are in the mood for beer and bratwurst before the game, Black Forest Brooklyn offers a great selection of German brews and hearty snacks. With plenty of outdoor seating, it is an excellent warm-weather pre-game spot.
Best Drink to Try: A Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier or a classic German Pilsner.
3. Sharlene’s – A Cozy Neighborhood Bar with Strong Drinks
📍 353 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn
For those who prefer a relaxed, no-fuss bar with strong drinks and a welcoming vibe, Sharlene’s is a top pick. This cash-only dive serves great cocktails and strong pours, making it perfect for a quick, stiff drink before the event.
Best Drink to Try: A classic Negroni or a double whiskey on the rocks.
4. Weather Up – An Elevated Pre-Game Spot
📍 589 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn
For cocktail lovers looking for something more refined, Weather Up is one of the best cocktail bars near Barclays Center. It is a little quieter than the sports bars nearby, making it a great spot for a pre-show date night or a sophisticated drink before a big event.
Best Drink to Try: A well-crafted French 75 or a mezcal-infused Paloma.
5. Charm Bar & Restaurant – Caribbean Vibes & Great Cocktails
📍 448 Dean St, Brooklyn
For something a little different, Charm Bar offers Caribbean-inspired cocktails, great music, and a lively crowd. It is one of the best places to grab a rum-based drink and soak in the energy before a Barclays Center event.
Best Drink to Try: A Dark & Stormy or a freshly made Rum Punch.
The Ultimate Pre-Game Strategy
No matter which venue you are heading to, a great pre-game experience can set the tone for the night. Here’s how to make the most of your pre-game drinks:
✔ Arrive early – The best bars fill up fast, especially on game and concert nights.
✔ Go for a bar with fast service – You don’t want to miss the opening act because your drink took too long.
✔ Pace yourself – You want to enjoy the event, not be carried out before it starts.
✔ Know your route – Pick a bar within walking distance of the venue to avoid scrambling for a last-minute ride.
Final Thoughts: Where to Pre-Game for the Perfect NYC Night Out
The area around Madison Square Garden and Barclays Center is packed with incredible pre-game bars, whether you are looking for a sports bar to hype up before the game, a cocktail lounge for a sophisticated start, or a laid-back pub for casual drinks.
Wherever you go, the perfect pre-game bar sets the stage for an unforgettable night—so choose your spot, grab a drink, and get ready for an amazing event.
