Ready for the happiest of hours while in NYC? If so then you need to check out this epic guide to the best happy hour NYC has to offer.
Because as a 30+ year NYC local, I personally know that happy hour is a great way to save tons of money on foods and drinks when hanging out in one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Plus, happy hour deals can be insanely awesome since you can sometimes score awesome craft cocktails for like $5.00 each.
Yeah, talk about a rad happy hour New York City deal since cocktails can cost upwards of $20.00 each.
But, let’s be honest. Not all happy hours are super happy since the food and drinks can be lame to the extreme if you don’t hit up the right places.
So, stop wondering where the best happy hour in NYC is and start using my expert guide to drink and eat like a local in this amazing city.
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Best Happy Hour NYC – Midtown Mahattan
1. Château 49
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax with a few friends at the end of the day then Chateau 49 is the perfect place for you.
See, this French eatery is as sophisticated as you might imagine, but the warm welcome, charming decor, and friendly neighborhood vibe make it ideal for happy hour.
And the excellent happy hour offers include $6 beers, a range of wines at $7, and even Prosecco at just $9 a glass.
Plus, these epic deals are available at both the bar and tables. So, you might be tempted by Chateau 49’s menu of French classics and charcuterie platters while you’re here.
Address: 924 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10022
Hours: Daily from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Price: Drinks between $6.00 and $9.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 train to 51st Street and walk from there.
2. Valerie
Valerie has the perfect midtown Manhattan happy hour that is complimented by retro-inspired decor and high-quality American eats.
After all, the vintage accessories, colorful booth seating, and low lighting create a sophisticated but comfortable space, ideal for cocktails at the end of a long day.
But, the bar fills up quickly for happy hour at Valerie, so reservations are a must. It’s also best to arrive early if so that you can have some peace while enjoying the best happy hour in NYC.
Once inside, though, you can order a beer for $7, wines for $9, and a select range of classic cocktails for $11. And their $1 oyster offer can’t be beat!
Address: 45 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
Hours: Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Price: $11.00 for classic cocktails.
How to Get There: Take the B/D/F/M to Bryant Park and walk from there.
3. John Doe
Sometimes you just really want to chill and relax while enjoying the best happy hour NYC has to offer.
Well, Joe Doe will allow you to do just this since it’s a relaxed pub serving small plates with a New American twist on classic dishes.
They also have a range of craft beers, and original cocktails that happy hour enthusiasts will love too.
And while the atmosphere is laid back, it gets busy. So, reservations are recommended.
However, the great offers on their happy hour menu include beers and wines for $5.00-$6.00 and select cocktails for $11.00.
You can also get deliciously fresh dollar oysters at John Doe all day, every day, which is a happy hour deal that’s hard to beat!
Address: 253 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016
Hours: Daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm
Price: Beers and wines are $5.00 – $6.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the N/Q/R/W to 28th Street and walk from there.
Best Happy Hour NYC – Lower Manhattan
4. Jane Restaurant
Jane Restaurant lies on the border of SoHo and Greenwich Village. Therefore, it perfectly combines an easygoing atmosphere with elevated food and drinks.
Now, this casual space serves American meat and seafood classics that make that a popular NYC brunch spot on the weekend.
Now, the happy hour specials at Jane include $4.00 draft beers, which are probably one of the best happy hour deals in New York.
However, you can also get a glass of wine for $7.00 and draft negroni for $9.00. And while Jane Restaurant is a large venue, it’s also very popular. Therefore, it’s best to make a reservation.
Address: 100 W Houston St, New York, NY 10012
Hours: Daily from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Price: $4.00 beers and $9.00 Negronis.
5. Loreley Beer Garden
The menu at Loreley Beer Garden features a delicious range of traditional German food that includes everything from bratwurst to schnitzel.
They also serve elevated bar food, German beers, and a range of wines and cocktails.
See, Loreley is designed to resemble a ‘Brauhaus’ in Cologne, Germany. Therefore, they have plenty of seating space indoors and the largest heated outdoor beer garden on the Lower East Side.
Additionally, happy hour deals here include great offers on steins and pitchers of beer, and bottles of wine.
This, together with the lively atmosphere and over-the-top decor, makes Loreley Beer Garden perfect for a fun night out with a large group of friends.
Address: 7 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002
Hours: Monday and Tuesday until 10:00 pm, Wednesday/Thursday until 7:00 pm; Friday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and Sunday from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Price: Varies
How to Get There: Take the J to Bowery or the B/D to Grand Street and walk from there.
6. The Gray Mare
Does a laid-back pub serving American bar plates and great drinks sound like your idea of the perfect happy hour?
If so then NYC has a wide variety of venues for you to choose from. But, the Grey Mare is something special since it offers all of that and more.
After all, The Grey Mare is a fantastic neighborhood bar that offers patrons a friendly welcome.
Plus, the rustic decor and friendly service makes it the perfect place for a relaxed drink at the end of the day or if you’re looking to start a great night out
And, as an added bonus, happy hour deals include a great range of beers for $6, wines for $8, and a delicious classic cocktails for just $10.
ou can also snack on a small range of $6 appetizers that are perfect for sharing as you enjoy the best happy hour NYC has to offer.
Address: 61 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
Hours: Monday through Friday from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Price: $10.00 for cocktails.
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 to Bleecker Street and walk from there.
7. Mermaid Inn
This is the perfect New York happy hour spot if you love oysters. After all, The Mermaid Inn is an American seafood brasserie that gives you the feeling of bring on a mini-vacation Cape Cod.
And that feeling is pretty dang magical since you’re actually in the heart of Chelsea.
Now, their daily happy hour special includes tempting appetizers like fish tacos and fried calamari, draft beers for $6, and a selection of wines and cocktails for $10.
But, the star of this stylish New York happy hour spot is their fantastic fresh oysters that cost just $1.50 each. And that makes this place the best happy hour in Greenwich Village too.
Address: 227 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States
Hours: Daily from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm.
Price: $1.50 per oyster and $6.00 for a beer.
How to Get There: Take the C/E train to 23rd Street and walk from there.
8. Mister Paradise
Mister Paradise is the best happy hour NYC has to offer where you walk in and the whole place just has this cool vibe about it.
So, the atmosphere is fantastic, and it gets busy really quickly. But, there’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and even a private ‘red room’ for groups of up to 15.
Now, the focus here is on creative cocktails, with a menu full of craft drinks with imaginative names.
Plus, locals rave about the delicious house burger and say that Mister Paradise has some of the best oysters in New York City.
Additionally, happy hour at Mister Paradise features beers from $5.00 each and cocktails for $9.00, which is fantastic value for happy hour in NYC.
Address: 105 1st Ave., New York, NY 10009
Hours: Tuesday through Friday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Price: $9.00 each for cocktails
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 to Astor Place and walk from there.
9. Villanelle
Villanelle is a modern restaurant with an elegant, old-world atmosphere. They also serve New American cuisine that’s based on farmer’s market products.
Therefore, the relaxing vibe and attentive service make it a great place to unwind at the end of a busy day.
Now, the happy hour deals at Villanelle include beers and wines for $6-8 and a varying menu of imaginative cocktails for an incredible $9 each.
And while Villanelle is a fairly small restaurant, walk-ins are welcome. So, it’s perfect if you have last-minute plans to check out the best happy hour NYC has to offer.
Address: 15 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
Price: Cocktails start at $9.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6/L train to Union Square and walk from there.
10. Tara Rose
When it comes to cool places for happy hour, New York locals know that Tara Rose is one of the best happy hours in NYC.
After all, this super cool place has It has creative cocktails, delicious American fare, and excellent service that all make for a fantastic happy hour spot.
Plus, the floral decor and sicks tunes add to the fun ambiance and vibe of this place. But, if you’d prefer a more intimate venue, there’s also a private speakeasy too.
And then there are the happy hour offers which include draft beer, house wine, and select cocktails for $8 or under, plus a happy hour appetizer deal.
Address: 384 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016
Hours: Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm and all night Thursdays but drinks only.
Price: Cocktails are $8.00 and under.
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 train to 28th Street and walk from there.
11. Bella Union
Bella Union is an upscale American saloon and restaurant that is spread out across three floors, serving delicious food and drink in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Plus, the wings are fantastic, the burgers are excellent, and the portion sizes are generous.
Now, happy hour at Bella Union includes daily deals on wine and beer. Plus, there’s a range of happy hour specials that include $10 burgers on Wednesdays and $5 espresso martinis all day on Tuesdays.
Just be aware that Bella Union is a popular New York happy hour spot. But, if it gets too crowded, you can always head up to their rooftop terrace for fresh air and a great view of the Empire State Building!
Address: 411 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016
Hours: Monday throgh Friday from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm and all day Sunday.
Price: $5.00 cocktails
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 to 28th Street and walk from there.
12. Groove
With a name like Groove, you’d expect this to be a fun spot for happy hour in New York City.
And you’d be absolutely right since house bands and visiting artists supply a diverse mix of live funk, R&B, and soul music that creates an amazing atmosphere.
Now, to add to the ambiance, the live performances take place right in front of you. So, you’re really close to the action.
And the small, but varied, food menu is perfectly paired with exceptional drinks that will make your evening even better.
Plus, there are wicked awesome happy hour offers at Groove that include beers, wines, and shots for $6.00, frozen or regular cocktails for $10.00, and a small range of tasty bar snacks.
Address: 125 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Hours: Open daily from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Price: Cocktails start at $10.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the A/B/C/D/E to Washington Square and walk from there.
13. Fresh Salt
Since it first opened in 2004, Fresh Salt has been supplying tasty lunches and craft ales to both locals and visitors alike.
So, happy hour deals at Fresh Salt include beers and wines for between $6-8 each and daily happy hour specials.
Their regular menu also has some tasty bar snacks and small plates that go well with any happy-hour drinks you might be enjoying.
So, Fresh Salt is a friendly, down-to-earth venue that feels like a neighborhood bar. Therefore, it’s a popular place for happy hour.
So, be sure to call ahead to reserve a table if you’re going with a large group.
Address: 146 Beekman St, New York, NY 10038
Hours: From 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm daily.
Price: Beer and wine for $6.00-$8.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the 2/3 train to Fulton Street and walk from there.
14. A10 Kitchen
Good food, great drinks, and stellar ambiance. Yup, A10 Kitchen has everything you could want in a New York happy hour spot.
After all, this is a laid-back place that serves a wide range of burgers, sandwiches, and plates accompanied by beers, wines, and classic/contemporary cocktails.
In particuliar, the A10 Happy Hour menu features beers and wines that start at just $5.00 each. There are also a selection of cocktails, and discounted pitchers that are perfect if you’re enjoying happy hour with friends.
Plus, there are some delicious snacks available to accompany your happy hour drinks, which surely makes A10 Kitchen one of the best happy hours in NYC.
Address: 162 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009 917-261-6888
Hours: Tuesday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Saturday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and Sunday from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Price: Drinks start at $5.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the L train to 1st Avenue and walk from there.
Best Happy Hour NYC – Upper Manhattan
15. David Burke Tavern
David Burke Tavern is a high-end option for happy hour in New York City that featuires stunning surroundings, excellent service, and a tempting happy hour menu.
So, celebrity chef David Burke has created an elegant restaurant which puts a contemporary spin on classic American fare.
This place is also located in a stately Upper East Side townhouse, so the decor includes a solarium and red leather booths.
And then there is the food, which is a feast for both the eyes and tastebuds.
That’s why you need to stop by and enjoy happy hour specials that include half-price beers, select wines for $9, and delicious happy hour foods like lobster dumplings or hipster fries (topped with bacon, shishito, and parmesan).
Address: 135 E 62nd St, New York, NY 10065
Hours: Daily from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
Price: Beers are half price and wines are $9.00 a glass.
How to Get There: Take the N/Q/R/F train to 63rd Street station and walk from there.
16. Lido
Customers flock to Lido for their bottomless-mimosa brunch. But, it’s also an excellent spot for an epic NYC happy hour too.
So, head on over to their Harlem location since this charming Italian eatery welcomes you with soft lighting and friendly service.
Yeah, it feels almost as if you’ve been invited to an Italian friend’s home for Sunday dinner.
Now, the happy hour menu at Lido includes a wide array of beers, wines, and liquors for $5-7.
Additionally, there’s a tempting selection of small bites that make Lido worth a visit for a laid-back NYC happy hour.
Address: 2168 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10026
Hours: Monday through Friday from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm.
Price: Drinks are between $5.00 and $7.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the A/B/C train to 116th Street and walk from there.
17. The Pony Bar
If you’re looking for the best happy hours on Manhattan’s Upper East Side then you really need to visit the Pony Bar.
After all, this iconic tavern was the first NYC bar to exclusively stock American-brewed beers on tap, and now it’s one of the mainstays of the NYC happy hour scene.
Plus, the food and drinks here are all excellent, with hearty pub fare and a rotating selection of American draft microbrews.
In fact, it’s the perfect place to meet with friends, catch some sports on TV, enjoy incredible double-fried wings, and soak up the friendly atmosphere.
And then there are the amazing happy hour deals which include draft beers, well drinks, and glasses of wine for $7.00. Plus, on Mondays, you can dig into their tacos for just $2.00 each.
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Address: 1444 1st Ave., New York, NY 10021
Hours: Monday all night and Tuesday through Friday from 4:20 pm to 6:20 pm.
Price: $7.00 for drinks.
How to Get There: Take the N/Q/R to 72nd Street and walk from there.
18. Tasca
Tasca is a lively and welcoming restaurant on the Upper West Side that serves fantastic Spanish and Caribbean cuisines amidst sophisticated surroundings.
Additionally, candlelight gives the space a cozy vibe and the friendly staff is happy to help you out with recommendations when it comes to the menu.
You’ll also love that everything on the happy hour menu at Tasca is $9, from the wines to the beers to the cocktails. Heck, even a delicious range of tapas and charcuterie are available for $9.
So, if you’re getting together for an Upper West Side happy hour then Tasca is sure to be a great start to your evening!
Address: 505 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024
Hours: Monday through Friday from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm and at the bar only.
Price: $9.00
How to Get There: Take the A/B/C train to 86th Street and walk from there.
Best Happy Hour NYC – Queens
19. Zeus Kitchen
Zeus Kitchen is a cool spot with a casual vibe, friendly staff, and great food.
In fact, the restaurant is named after a Greek god and the mythology theme continues throughout the small but enticing food menu.
So, the menu here features burgers, wings, and sandwiches, with the house specialty being the Zeus Burger which is renowned for being delicious.
You’ll also love that the service here is friendly. So, Zeus Kitchen is an ideal place to meet up with friends for a drink and a bite to eat.
It’s also a great NYC happy hour spot, with select beers for $5, a $6 margarita, and a 4-beer flight for $14.
Address: 27-24 21st St, Queens, NY 11102
Hours: Offered Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Price: Margaritas start at $6.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the N/W to Astoria Boulevard and walk from there.
Best Happy Hour NYC – Brooklyn
20. Mad Tropical
Mad Tropical is a definite contender for the funkiest happy hour New York has to offer.
Because this plant-filled, neon-colored warehouse is home to a nightclub that spins some of the best disco, funk, and soul tunes around.
Yeah, just imagine 70’s/80’s dance culture but with a modern twist. The friendly bartenders at Mad Tropical also really know their stuff.
So, you can expect to see some creative drinks on the menu as well as beers, prosecco, and a range of yummy Latin-inspired snacks.
Additionally, happy hour drinks are great value and start at $5.00 for a beer or $6.00 – $8.00 for a cocktail. You you can get two tacos for $6.00 as well.
Address: 236 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY 11237
Hours: Daily from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm and all night
Price: Drinks are between $5.00 and $8.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the L train to DeKalb Avenue and walk from there.
Best Happy Hour NYC FAQ
What Time is Happy Hour in NYC?
While it varies from place to place, happy hour in NYC is typically from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on weekdays.
Is Happy Hour Legal in NYC?
Yes, happy hour is legal in NYC and is a great way to save money on food and drinks while visiting the city.
Which are the Happy Hours?
Tradtionally happy hour is held on weekdays from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
What is Happy Hour in the USA?
Happy hour in the USA is a time when bars and restaurants offer deep discounts on food and drinks to attract customers on days that would otherwise be quite slow.
As a result, happy hour has become a great way to hang out with friends and unwind after work since they are usually offered on weekdays between 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm.
Map of the Best Happy Hour NYC
Additional NYC Resources You’ll Love
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best happy hour NYC has to offer.
Tell me, did your pick for the best happy New York City has make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.
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