Whether you’re trying to spark a flame, or perhaps put one out, NYC has more-or-less a gazillion spots filled with like-minded individuals that are (whether they know it or not) waiting for you to join them at the bar and order a drink. Even if you already have a significant other, some of these spots are more than capable of serving you well (depends on what kind of fun you’re looking to get in to).
Below you will find 6 aesthetically pleasing, NYC watering holes curated for singles, lovers and everything in between. Just remember to tip $1 per standard drink, $2 for a craft cocktail and $3+ for any type of advice that saves your night from jumping down a dark and unforgiving rabbit hole.
1. Rose Bar (The Gramercy Park Hotel)
Coordinates? 2 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10010
Type of joint? Date spot.
For real? Rose Bar is a dark and sexy hotel bar with date night written all over it. Cozy up next to the fireplace or flirt mid-pool game. You’re bound to gain some points with this venue.
Photo courtesy of Alexandria Murphy.
2. Aria Wine Bar
Coordinates? 117 Perry St, New York, NY 10014
Type of joint? Date spot.
For real? Cozy, casual West Village wine bar with delicious shared plates. Date night gold. Aria has a great dim ambiance and is always lively.
Photo courtesy of Alexandria Murphy.
3. The Garret East
Coordinates? 206 Ave A, New York, NY 10009
Type of joint? Looking for love.
For real? Men and women flock to The Garret East for crafted cocktails and a chill living room setting. Comfort and alcohol mix well don’t ya think? Owner Gavin Moseley said it best, “I think if you make a place that women feel comfortable in, it’s going to do well.”
Photo: Christina Emilie | @christinaemiliephoto
4. Happiest Hour
Coordinates? 121 W 10th St, New York, NY 10010
Type of joint? Looking for love.
For real? Happiest Hour is a great post work spot to grab a cocktail and mingle in the hopes of meeting someone of the opposite sex. Signature drinks let the customer decide the spirit and they also offer small bites in case you want to keep the conversation going.
Photo courtesy of Alexandria Murphy.
5. Spring Lounge
Coordinates? 48 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Type of joint? Looking for leave love.
For real? Spring lounge has been a classic neighborhood dive bar since the 1920s. Come day or night, you will always have a good time drinking with your friends.
Photo courtesy of Alexandria Murphy.
6. The Rusty Knot
Coordinates? 425 West St, New York, NY 10014
Type of joint? Looking to leave love.
For real? Drink a few ‘Rusty Knot’ frozen drinks and you will forget about the L word. This place is the tiki bar with a pool table, juke box and hot sauce tecate beer.
Photo courtesy of Alexandria Murphy.
Intro: Whalebone
Guide + Photos: Alexandria Murphy
