Updated at: 10-06-2023 - By: John Lau

Welcome to the bustling nightlife of Midtown Manhattan, where you’ll find an array of captivating bars for every taste and preference. From elegant rooftop lounges to cozy pubs brimming with charm, our list of the 13 best bars in Midtown NYC offers something for everyone.

Dive into a world of expertly crafted cocktailsdelectable winessavory bites, and unforgettable experiences that define New York City’s vibrant bar scene.

Top 13 Bars In Midtown, NYC

Ophelia Lounge NYC

Ophelia Lounge NYC

As a lover of luxury bar experiences and unique bar designs, I simply must tell you about Ophelia Lounge NYC. Located atop the historic Beekman Tower in Midtown East, this gem truly deserves its spot among the best bars in Midtown NYC.

Stepping into Ophelia Lounge feels like entering an enchanting world with its gorgeous crystal lights and stunning 360° greenhouse terrace overlooking Manhattan. The artisanal cocktail menu boasts delectable creations that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Another delightful aspect of Ophelia Lounge is their commitment to live entertainment; they often host live music events featuring DJs that add an extra layer of excitement to your night out.

Dear Irving On Hudson

If you’re seeking a sophisticated bar experience in Midtown Manhattan, look no further than Dear Irving on Hudson. As one of the best bars in Midtown, NYC, and among the best hotel bars in the city, this upscale spot is sure to impress.

As I sipped my expertly crafted cocktail gazing out over Midtown Manhattan, I couldn’t help but marvel at how perfectly Dear Irving on Hudson balances an air of luxury with impeccable service and a low-key atmosphere.

The classy staff made me feel right at home while providing attentive assistance without any pretension or fuss. If you’re into nightlife hotspots that combine sophistication with incredible vistas of the cityscape below, then make sure to check out their rooftop bar menu – featuring unique concoctions that perfectly complement those breathtaking views.

Connolly’s

Connolly's

As a lover of classic pubs, I can’t help but rave about Connolly’s as one of the best bars in Midtown NYC. This historical Irish pub has several locations throughout Midtown Manhattan and is an absolute gem among the drinking spots in the city.

What truly sets Connolly’s apart from other bars are its great happy hour dealsextensive craft beer selection, and traditional Irish atmosphere that makes every visit memorable.

During my time there, I’ve enjoyed evenings filled with laughter and shared stories with both locals and tourists alike, creating cherished memories that always bring me back for more.

Ardesia Wine Bar

Ardesia Wine Bar is a top-rated bar located in Hell’s Kitchen, NYC, and is among the best  bars that you can find in Midtown. The place offers an intimate, relaxing atmosphere perfect for enjoying a drink or having a casual meal with friends after work.

If you’re looking for the perfect food and wine pairing, Ardesia Wine Bar will not disappoint as they offer delicious small plates and tapas to complement their exquisite wine collection.

This cozy spot also caters to dinners who enjoy dining at family-owned restaurants such as Le Bernardin; Ardesia Wine Bar is part of the restaurant group and shares its high standards for quality food and service.

The Campbell

The Campbell

As someone who enjoys a good cocktail, I can confidently say that “The Campbell” is one of the best bars in Midtown, NYCTucked away in the basement of Grand Central Terminal, this hidden gem has a rich history and stunning decor that transports you back to another era.

In addition to its beautiful interiors, “The Campbell” offers upscale cocktails that are expertly crafted by talented mixologists. Their drink menu features classic cocktails with unique twists and inventive creations that will delight even the most discerning palate.

Rudy’s Bar & Grill

Rudy’s Bar & Grill is a classic dive bar located in Midtown Manhattan that has been serving up cheap drinks and free hot dogs to its patrons since 1933.

It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering an affordable break from the hustle and bustle of the city. This landmark location offers a casual atmosphere where you can unwind with friends over some cold beers without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re stopping by after work or visiting as part of your New York City adventures, Rudy’s Bar & Grill is sure to provide a memorable experience. The conveniently located local bar near Hudson Yards and Times Square offers reasonable prices that won’t leave a dent in your wallet while providing visitors with endless charm.

Bar 54

Bar 54 is a sky-high cocktail lounge located in Midtown, NYC and was named one of the best bars in the area. As someone who struggles with alcoholism, I appreciate that they have great mocktail options for those looking to abstain.

The atmosphere is cool and trendy with dim lighting and upbeat music playing throughout the night. What really sets Bar 54 apart from other bars in Midtown are its stunning views of the city skyline from its rooftop location.

The Pool Lounge

The Pool Lounge

As someone who loves to indulge in a cocktail or two, The Pool Lounge is one of my favorite spots in Midtown, NYC. Located on the mezzanine level of Park Avenue’s Seagram Building, this swanky bar offers a glitzy atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to another world.

The cocktails here are poolside-inspired and pack quite a punch – I highly recommend trying their Negroni Sbagliato.

What sets The Pool Lounge apart from other bars in Midtown is its location within the Seagram Building and the fact that it’s part of Major Food Group’s overhaul of the iconic space.

It’s clear they put thought into every detail – from the velvet chairs to the strands of lights draped across the ceiling, creating an intimate setting perfect for date night or catching up with friends over drinks.

Aldo Sohm Wine Bar

As someone who enjoys drinking, I have to say that Aldo Sohm Wine Bar is one of my favorite spots in Midtown, NYC. This wine bar has a sophisticated atmosphere and offers an extensive list of wines by the glass or bottle.

Aldo Sohm Wine Bar is named after its owner and one of the top sommeliers in New York City. As someone with such expertise in wine, you can trust that you’ll be served with exceptional quality drinks when you visit this spot.

The Aviary

The Aviary is one of the best bars in Midtown, NYC, known for its innovative cocktail creations and molecular mixology techniques. As an avid drinker looking for a unique drinking experience, I was blown away by the upscale ambiance and high-end service provided at The Aviary.

Their menu features craft cocktails made with vintage spirits and ingredients that are not traditionally found in drinks such as celery juice or black truffle oil. They also have a speakeasy tucked away below the bar which serves classically inspired cocktails in a more intimate setting.

As someone who enjoys experimenting with different types of beverages, The Aviary offers a cocktail culture like no other.

Empellón (Midtown)

Empellón (Midtown)

Empellón is a restaurant located in Midtown Manhattan, which offers an upscale and trendy atmosphere. Being one of Alex Stupak’s three restaurants, it is considered to be the newest and fanciest of the restaurants.

The cocktail selection at Empellón features creative cocktails that are not only delicious but also visually stunning. Additionally, they offer happy hour specials during weekdays from 5 pm -7 pm featuring discounted drinks and food items.

As a foodie paradise, their menu showcases traditional Mexican dishes infused with modern techniques along with an extensive wine list featuring unique wines from around the world.

Raines Law Room At The William

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind speakeasy-style bar in Midtown Manhattan, then the Raines Law Room at The William is definitely worth a visit. Tucked away behind a secret entrance on East 39th Street, this cozy and opulent lounge atmosphere is perfect for those seeking quality cocktails and an intimate ambiance.

As prohibition-era cocktails are their specialty, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you sip on classic drinks such as the Old Fashioned or Sazerac.

The Rum House

One of the premier bars in Midtown, NYC is The Rum House, located near Times Square. As someone who struggles with alcoholism, I can attest that this hidden gem is worth checking out.

This cocktail bar has a distinct downtown vibe and boasts expert bartenders skilled in mixology. Their specialty lies in rum drinks, which are simply divine.

Music adds to the ambiance and takes one back to an era when classic style was all the rage. Owned by a group with several restaurants and discotheques under their umbrella, The Rum House can accommodate large groups of up to 1,000 people while maintaining an intimate feel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Midtown, NYC is home to some of the best bars and pubs in the city. From rooftop bars with stunning views to cozy lounge bars, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for craft beers or expertly crafted cocktails, Midtown has it all. Don’t miss out on the top-rated Ophelia Lounge NYC or the classic Irish pub vibe at Connolly’s.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, check out one of the many theme bars scattered throughout Manhattan.