15 best bars in Schenectady New York
Schenectady, NY, is a vibrant city with a lively bar scene. Whether you're a local or a visitor, you'll find a variety of bars in Schenectady NY that cater to different tastes and preferences. From cozy dive bars to upscale cocktail lounges, there's something for everyone in this charming city. Come and explore the unique bars in Schenectady NY and experience the city's hospitality and lively atmosphere.
- 1. 20 North Broadway Tavern
- 2. Backstage Pub
- 3. Jay St. Pub
- 4. Hunter's on Jay
- 5. Maloney's Pub
- 6. Wolff's Biergarten
- 7. Mc Arthurs Pub
- 8. 151 Bar and Restaurant
- 9. Katie O'Byrnes Restaurant
- 10. Vibez Bar and Lounge, LLC.
- 11. Clinton’s Ditch bar and grill
- 12. Rookies Sports Bar & Grill
- 13. Union Inn
- 14. Centre Street Public House and Beer Garden
- 15. Exit Bar & Lounge, Inc.
1. 20 North Broadway Tavern
Known for the best wings in Schenectady!

Nestled on 20 North Broadway, a local dive bar charms patrons with an impressive selection of draft beers and wine. However, it's the mouthwatering wings that truly set this establishment apart. With a perfect balance of crispness and sauce, these wings have earned a reputation as the finest in Schenectady.
The inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a well-loved neighborhood spot that's been around for decades, is matched by exceptional service. Despite the buzz of a busy evening, the team, including the delightful Jen, attend to customers with genuine warmth, ensuring everyone feels like a cherished regular.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
2. Backstage Pub
Perfect pre-show spot with craft beers and hearty mains.

The New Decor at this establishment provides a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for patrons. The attention to detail in the design creates a warm and inviting ambience, making it an ideal spot for various occasions.
Terry, the new owner and bartender, offers exceptional service that enhances the overall experience. His friendly and attentive demeanor ensures that every guest feels valued and well taken care of. Chef Washington's culinary skills are also worth mentioning, as his delicious food is a standout feature. Her unique and flavorful dishes are a perfect complement to the setting, making it a great place to celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy a night out.
During happy hour, this establishment truly shines. With a great selection of craft beers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The reasonable prices and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular spot for friends to gather and unwind after a long day. Overall, the excellent service, delicious food, and top-notch selection of craft beers make this establishment a must-visit destination.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
3. Jay St. Pub
A great neighborhood spot in the Electric City.

Jay St. Pub is well-known for its high-quality draft beer. The pub's location in the heart of the city makes it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Once there, patrons can enjoy the welcoming and inviting atmosphere.
This establishment is a must-visit for anyone in the Electric City. Jay St. Pub offers a wide variety of spirits and an excellent selection of local craft beer on tap. If you're looking to try something new, the pub's green tea shots come highly recommended. With its great selection and friendly ambiance, Jay St. Pub is a standout bar in downtown Schenectady.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
4. Hunter's on Jay
Great beer selection and excellent bar food.

Hunter's on Jay is a cozy and unassuming bar that offers a fantastic selection of craft beers and delicious food. The extensive draft beer list, prominently displayed with the help of an Untappd beer app, is sure to impress even the most discerning of beer enthusiasts. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always available to provide recommendations and ensure that every guest has a top-notch experience.
The food at Hunter's on Jay is not to be missed. From classic bar fare to more adventurous options, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The menu features a variety of mouth-watering dishes, all made from high-quality ingredients and prepared with care. The attentive staff, dedicated to providing excellent service, ensure that every visit to Hunter's on Jay is a memorable one. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite hangout or a traveler seeking a unique dining experience, Hunter's on Jay is a must-visit destination.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
5. Maloney's Pub
Perfect spot to unwind or catch up with friends.

Maloney's Pub, situated on State Street in Schenectady, New York, is a snug and inviting bar. It has gained a reputation for its convivial atmosphere and an impressive range of drinks. After a long day or for a social gathering with friends over a refreshing beer or cocktail, Maloney's Pub is the ideal location.
The experience at Maloney’s Pub is nothing short of impressive. The atmosphere is warm, and the staff is attentive right from the entrance. The level of service is commendable, and the pub's eclectic clientele adds to the lively ambiance, with a jukebox adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Whether it's a quiet drink or a animated evening with companions, Maloney’s Pub offers top-tier service and a night to remember. It is highly recommended for anyone looking for a good time.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
6. Wolff's Biergarten
Authentic German biergarten with live soccer matches.

The establishment offers a wide selection of big beers, ensuring there's something for everyone. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are a standout feature of the bar, providing excellent service to guests. Large televisions are situated throughout the space, making it an ideal spot to watch sports events. The seating options include both the bar and bench-style seating, providing flexibility depending on your preference. During nice weather, the bar offers outdoor seating, adding to its appeal.
During a recent visit, the bar was mostly empty, providing a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Despite the limited crowd, the spacious bar had ample seating with a mix of barstools and bench-style seating. The decor is reminiscent of a biergarten or a college bar, contributing to the welcoming ambiance. The beer selection is extensive and lives up to expectations, with prices that are fair and reasonable. For instance, a half-liter of Duvel cost $8, providing good value for the quality of beer. Overall, the bar offers an enjoyable and satisfying experience for beer enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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7. Mc Arthurs Pub

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
8. 151 Bar and Restaurant
Friendly service with delightful 'Happy Hour' specials

151 Firestone, once a beloved establishment known for its inviting atmosphere, appears to have fallen from grace in recent times. While the pizza remains a standout, other menu items, particularly the sandwiches, have become lackluster and disappointing in terms of both taste and value. It's unfortunate that the serving staff also seem to be undertrained, which has resulted in a noticeable decline in service quality.
The bar staff at 151 Firestone seem more inclined towards socializing among themselves rather than attending to patrons. There was a delay of 40 minutes before the food arrived, leaving one to wonder if the order had been forgotten or overlooked. This level of service is simply not up to par, and if not addressed promptly, could lead to a decline in customer satisfaction and loyalty. It is crucial that the establishment places a greater emphasis on customer care, or risk facing a decline in business.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
9. Katie O'Byrnes Restaurant
A taste of Ireland on the Boulevard.

A charming Irish pub exudes a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The menu features simple yet satisfying Irish pub fare that is sure to delight. The fish and chips are a standout option, perfectly cooked with a crispy exterior and tender, flaky fish on the inside. The portion is generous, making it a great value for the price.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Italian Cuisine
- Dinner
10. Vibez Bar and Lounge, LLC.
Specializing in Caribbean cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere.

The vibrant atmosphere of the bar, filled with lively music and a bustling crowd, creates an exhilarating ambiance that is sure to elevate one's mood. The trendy decor and upbeat energy of the place are perfect for socializing and letting loose after a long day.
Brandon, the bartender, is especially commendable for his friendly and attentive service. His welcoming demeanor and expertise in mixology make him a standout in the industry. The bar's atmosphere, coupled with Brandon's excellent service, truly exceeds expectations.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Vegan Options
- Hidden Gems
11. Clinton’s Ditch bar and grill
A place for every mood and occasion.

Clinton’s Ditch bar and grill is known for its hearty portions and delectable food offerings, all at reasonable prices. The diverse menu includes options such as their signature ditch fries and classic chicken parmigiana. The attentive staff ensures top-notch service, making this a desirable destination for any meal.
Ideal for social gatherings, Clinton’s Ditch boasts an impressive draught beer selection and a menu filled with delicious pub and comfort foods. The quality of the dishes is consistently high, with every item sampled providing a satisfying experience. This cozy establishment caters to a variety of tastes, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit spot.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
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12. Rookies Sports Bar & Grill
Great food, great drinks, great times!

This establishment offers an exceptional dining experience with a menu that features delicious and expertly prepared dishes. The flavors are well-balanced, and the presentation is visually appealing. The restaurant offers a wide selection of beer, all kept at the perfect temperature. Whether you prefer a domestic or imported brew, there is something for everyone.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with service that is both attentive and unobtrusive. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and is happy to offer recommendations. They create a welcoming environment that makes diners feel at home. The interior is well-maintained and clean, adding to the overall positive experience. The establishment's commitment to providing high-quality food and service is evident, earning it a well-deserved 5-star rating.
On the other hand, another establishment is described as cool by a 5-star reviewer. This could imply that the place has a unique, laid-back, and relaxed vibe that customers appreciate. It may have an interesting decor, capturing the attention of patrons and providing a memorable experience. Additionally, the establishment may offer a great selection of drinks and a friendly and welcoming staff, which contributes to its cool factor. The 5-star rating suggests that the establishment has met or exceeded the reviewer's expectations and created a positive experience worth sharing with others.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
13. Union Inn
Great drinks and fresh, delicious food.

The Union Inn offers a welcoming and lively atmosphere, perfect for both drinks and lunch. Upon our visits, we found the bartenders to be highly skilled in creating a range of drinks. Their expertise and friendly demeanor contribute to the overall positive vibe of the establishment.
During our lunch visit, we were impressed by the knowledgeable staff and their ability to recommend dishes that catered to our preferences. The cool and relaxed atmosphere made for an enjoyable dining experience. We would definitely recommend The Union Inn for anyone looking for a great place to enjoy drinks and a meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
14. Centre Street Public House and Beer Garden
Unique indoor and outdoor venues with live music.

The selection of beers at this pub is truly impressive, providing a strong incentive for guests to visit. The food offered is typical pub fare, satisfying but not exceptional. On Tuesdays, the venue comes alive with a popular trivia night, which offers a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
At Centre Street, a wide range of drinks are available, with a particular focus on quality craft beer, draft beer, and wine. In the evenings, live music can be enjoyed, providing a vibrant and enjoyable ambiance. The staff at this establishment are commendable, consistently maintaining a positive attitude and working tirelessly to ensure guests have a delightful experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- American Cuisine
15. Exit Bar & Lounge, Inc.

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegan Options
- Hidden Gems