KEY2 Pick
Cocktail Bar • $$$
Employees Only
A psychic-sign speakeasy in the West Village that helped define the modern craft-cocktail revival.
Best for: Date Night / Late Night
Best bars in New York
Cocktail rooms, rooftops and unmarked doors — where to start a night and where to end one.
KEY2 Pick
Irish Pub, Cocktail Bar • $$$
The Dead Rabbit
A three-floor Financial District pub with an award-winning cocktail list and a punch-heavy taproom downstairs.
Best for: After Work / Group Outing
Speakeasy • $$$
Please Don't Tell (PDT)
Enter through a vintage phone booth inside Crif Dogs for one of the East Village's original hidden bars.
Best for: Date Night / Novelty
Questions, answered
What are the best bars in New York?+
The KEY2 editors' top picks for bars in New York are Employees Only, The Dead Rabbit. Every listing in this guide is individually vetted, with hours, prices and booking links.
What are the best bars in New York for a special occasion?+
For a splurge, the KEY2 guide recommends Employees Only, The Dead Rabbit, Attaboy, Dante NYC. Reserve ahead — the booking link is on each listing.
Do I need to book bars in New York in advance?+
The most popular bars in New York fill up days or weeks ahead. Every KEY2 listing includes a direct reservation or booking link where one is available.
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