Where to drink in the West Village, there is something for everything whether you are looking for a low key spot for a date and cocktails, a dive bar to watch sports, or maybe you just want to drink. Below you will find our guide to drinking your way through the West Village.
Employees Only
The ultimate cocktail haven, Employees Only is the place to be for serious drinks. The bartenders are so dedicated to their craft, they even get EO tattoos. But don’t expect a stuffy, sterile spot – Employees Only also have great energy, a fun crowd and delicious food for inebriated snacking. 510 Hudson St., 212-242-3021
Decoy at RedFarm
Everyone loves RedFarm for their soup dumplings and Katz’s spring rolls. But we go for the cocktails at lower level addition, Decoy, where they serve generous portions of Peking duck and delicious drinks, to boot. Try the Dry Summer – a riff on the Vesper, with Tito’s vodka and Hendrick’s gin – or the duck fat-washed whiskey drink, Sitting Down for Dinner. 529 1/2 Hudson St., 212-792-9700
The Spotted Pig
Any trip to the West Village should include a stop at this culinary destination. And after you have polished off the burger (because it’s impossible to come here and not get one) wash it all down with a cocktail at the bar. Try the second floor, where there is always a good crowd and a fun buzz. 314 West 11th St., 212-620-0393
Wilfie + Nell
Looking for a night of good old fun and lots of drinks with friends? This is your spot. A no-frills hangout with plenty of tables and bar space, plus plenty of drink choices and beer on tap, the place can get pretty crowded so go early and stake out your area. 228 West 4th St., 212-242-2990
Bar Sardine
A cocktail bar from the owners of West Village eateries including Fedora, Joseph Leonard and Jeffrey’s Grocery, this place is ideal for a fun date night or catching up with friends over drinks. Snag a seat by the window for optimal people watching and settle in for a night of low-key quaffing. 183 West 10th St., 646-360-3705
Village Tavern
Sometimes you just want to get drunk in a dark bar while watching Sunday football. This is that bar. A low-key dive nestled among the multimillion dollar townhomes, this neighborhood favorite is everything you want in a local watering hole. Bonus: the PGA Golf Challenge video game. 46 Bedford St., 212-741-1935
Anfora
From the same team behind nearby dell’anima, this wine bar has never let us down. There is a solid list of approachable varietals but a full bar for those looking for something a bit stronger. Don’t miss the grilled cheese – it’s divine. 34 8th Ave., 212-518-2722
Johnny’s Bar
We almost hate to tell people about this spot, it’s that awesome. Seriously, there may not be a better bar anywhere in NYC. This place is as basic and divey as it gets, and is a top choice for late night adult beverages. It’s as small and narrow as a subway car, but somehow never feels too packed (but maybe that’s just because the Shot of the Day makes everything better). If you haven’t experienced this place yet, go now. 90 Greenwich Ave., 212-741-5279
Wallflower
If you are looking for an intimate place in the West Village for cocktails then Wallflower is a must. Xavier Herit, formerly head bartender at Daniel, creates cocktails that rivals any cocktail bar in New York City with eight specialty cocktails that change with the season, there is something for everyone. The venue only has 45 seats and is the spot in the West Village that you go to for an early/first date or to lay low. 235 W. 12th St. New York, NY 10014. (646) 682-9842
Honorable Mentions
- Upholstery Store Wine & Kitchen
- Rusty Knot
- Corner Bistro
- Barbuto
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