Looking for the best bars on the Upper East Side? You're in the right place. This curated list highlights the top spots for cocktails, ambiance, and unforgettable nights out. From chic lounges to classic pubs, we've got your guide to the best bars Upper East Side Manhattan has to offer. Let's raise a glass to your next favorite spot!
From intimate speakeasies to rooftop lounges with skyline views, this curated list spans every vibe and budget. Expect insider tips on signature cocktails, ideal visit times, and the crowds to avoid. Bookmark this guide now—your next unforgettable night starts here.
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1. Avoca
⭐ 4.8/5 (1,750 reviews)
Warm golden lighting spills over polished wood tables, where the hum of lively conversation blends with the clink of artisanal cocktails. Avoca’s intimate yet buzzing atmosphere draws Upper East Side locals and visitors alike, offering a refined escape with its craft beer selection, small-batch spirits, and a menu of elevated bar bites. The backdrop of soft jazz and the occasional laughter from...
Address: 1678 1st Ave New York, NY 10128
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2. The Penrose Bar
⭐ 4.4/5 (2,386 reviews)
A legendary Upper East Side haunt, The Penrose Bar blends old-world charm with modern sophistication. Its rich history dates back decades, offering an unmatched atmosphere where dark wood, vintage decor, and soft jazz create an inviting vibe. Known for craft cocktails and an extensive whiskey selection, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The dim lighting and plush seating make it...
Address: 1590 2nd Ave New York, NY 10028
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3. The Jeffrey Craft Beer & Bites
⭐ 4.6/5 (1,659 reviews)
Warm amber lighting glows over polished wood tables as the rich aroma of craft beer and sizzling bites fills the air. At this Upper East Side hotspot, every sip of locally brewed IPAs and stouts feels like a celebration, paired with artisanal small plates that burst with flavor. The hum of lively conversation blends with indie tunes, creating an effortlessly cool vibe where regulars and newcomers...
Address: 311 E 60th St New York, NY 10022
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4. Jones Wood Foundry
⭐ 4.3/5 (1,120 reviews)
A historic Upper East Side bar with a vintage industrial vibe, Jones Wood Foundry stands out for its house-made craft beers brewed on-site. The rustic brick walls and warm lighting create an inviting atmosphere, while the seasonal menu features elevated pub fare like crispy duck confit and truffle fries. Perfect for beer lovers and foodies alike, this spot blends old-school charm with modern flavors.
Address: 401 E 76th St New York, NY 10021
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5. The Pony Bar
⭐ 4.5/5 (798 reviews)
Horse lovers and craft beer enthusiasts flock to this Upper East Side hotspot, where a rustic-chic vibe meets an impressive selection of local brews. The Pony Bar’s cozy wooden interiors and equine-themed decor draw a lively crowd of young professionals and beer connoisseurs. Regulars rave about the rotating taps, featuring rare finds and seasonal favorites, paired with hearty bar bites. Whether...
Address: 1444 1st Ave New York, NY 10021
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6. Bondurants
⭐ 4.6/5 (624 reviews)
A beloved Upper East Side haunt, Bondurants delivers classic cocktails with a modern twist. Regulars rave about the smoky Old Fashioned and crisp gin martinis, served in an elegant, dimly lit lounge. The handcrafted small plates—like truffle fries and charcuterie—pair perfectly with their curated whiskey selection. Live jazz nights add to the sophisticated vibe, making it a top pick for...
Address: 303 E 85th St New York, NY 10028
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7. Bemelmans Bar
⭐ 4.3/5 (823 reviews)
**Bemelmans Bar** exudes old-world glamour with its golden murals, live piano melodies, and velvet-lined booths. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails in this iconic Upper East Side lounge, where the ambiance blends sophistication with timeless charm. A favorite for intimate evenings and refined nightcaps.
Address: 35 E 76th St New York, NY 10021
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8. Stella & Fly
⭐ 4.8/5 (407 reviews)
**Stella & Fly** delivers a refined yet relaxed Upper East Side bar experience, where expert mixologists craft artisanal cocktails with precision and flair. The attentive staff curates a warm, inviting atmosphere, blending classic elegance with modern charm. Sip on handcrafted libations, from smoky mezcal margaritas to velvety espresso martinis, while savoring small plates of locally sourced...
Address: 1705 1st Ave New York, NY 10128
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9. Ryan's Daughter
⭐ 4.6/5 (386 reviews)
A refined Upper East Side bar where craft cocktails meet old-world charm. Expert mixologists shake up signature drinks with house-infused spirits, while the dimly lit, leather-bound lounge hums with live jazz. The curated whiskey selection and artisanal bar bites—like truffle popcorn and smoked salmon crostini—elevate every visit. A favorite among locals for its intimate vibe and unmatched...
Address: 350 E 85th St New York, NY 10028
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10. The Auction House
⭐ 4.2/5 (341 reviews)
Sip on a velvety 1920s-style gin fizz at The Auction House, where vintage crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over dark wood and leather banquettes. This Upper East Side bar blends Prohibition-era charm with modern mixology, offering rare bourbons, handcrafted cocktails, and live jazz nights. The intimate backroom lounge, lined with antique bookshelves, feels like a private speakeasy—perfect for...
Address: 300 E 89th St New York, NY 10128