25 best bars in Upper East Side New York City
Bars in Upper East Side provide a sophisticated and upscale atmosphere, making them a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With a variety of options ranging from cozy, neighborhood bars to chic lounges, there's something for everyone. These bars are known for their excellent selection of cocktails, craft beers, and fine wines. Whether you're looking to watch the game, enjoy live music, or simply relax with friends, the bars in Upper East Side are sure to impress.
- 1. The Pony Bar
- 2. The Penrose
- 3. Bemelmans Bar
- 4. Brandy's Piano Bar
- 5. Jones Wood Foundry
- 6. Bondurants
- 7. 2nd Floor Bar & Essen
- 8. The Sefton
- 9. Melody’s Piano Bar
- 10. Caledonia Bar
- 11. Five Mile Stone
- 12. Club Macanudo
- 13. Ethyl's Alcohol & Food
- 14. Keys & Heels
- 15. Ryan's Daughter
- 16. The Five Lamps
- 17. Stella & Fly
- 18. Bar Pleiades
- 19. JG Melon
- 20. Festival Cafe
- 21. The Milton
- 22. Third Avenue Ale House
- 23. The Hunterian
- 24. Doc Watson's
- 25. Serena's Wine Bar
1. The Pony Bar
Horse-themed with equestrian decor
The Pony Bar's upper east side location is a welcoming spot for anyone in the area or for those looking for a new place to try. It boasts a wide selection of craft beers and a knowledgeable, friendly staff. Although the reviewer has not visited the original Pony Bar, they can attest to the quality of the second location.
The new Pony Bar is spacious and features unique decor, repurposing growler jars as overhead lamps in the bar area. While the reviewer cannot compare it to the original, they can vouch for the second location's spaciousness and the innovative lighting.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
2. The Penrose
Specialty cocktails and craft beers
The Penrose is a popular bar located on the Upper East Side of New York City. Known for its creative cocktails and delicious bar food, it is a favorite spot for many. The service is typically friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive atmosphere of the establishment.
If you're looking for a great bar in NYC, The Penrose is definitely worth checking out. With a lively ambiance and high-quality drinks, it's easy to see why it's a go-to spot for many. The bar's excellence is further evidenced by the glowing recommendations from satisfied patrons.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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3. Bemelmans Bar
Hand-painted murals by Ludwig Bemelmans
The bar is a beautiful location, particularly for fans of the Madeline series. The drinks, while pricey, are high-quality and enjoyable. One of the most striking features of the bar is the series of murals painted by Ludwig Bemelmans, which depict scenes from his Madeline stories. These murals are a delightful addition to the bar's atmosphere.
The bar is widely regarded as one of the best in New York, known for its excellent service and memorable decor. The walls are adorned with Bemelmans' Madeline murals, which add a unique touch to the establishment. The service is friendly and efficient, making for an overall positive experience. I definitely plan to visit again in the future.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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4. Brandy's Piano Bar
Expert piano performances in a cozy setting
Brandy's Piano Bar is a well-known establishment in New York City that provides a classic atmosphere for patrons. The bar features nightly performances from talented piano players such as JD and Elliott, who play old classics for the enjoyment of the guests. It is important to note that Brandy's Piano Bar values a listening environment over conversation, so patrons are encouraged to enjoy the music and refrain from excessive talking.
Located on East 84th Street, Brandy's Piano Bar is a lively and intimate spot that attracts many visitors in New York City. The bar's unique feature is its live piano music, which distinguishes it from other bars in the area. With talented performers taking the stage each night, Brandy's Piano Bar offers a memorable experience that combines great music with a friendly atmosphere. However, guests should be mindful of the management's preference for a listening environment and be respectful of the performers and other patrons by keeping conversations at a reasonable volume.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
5. Jones Wood Foundry
Extensive beer list and cocktails
Jones Wood Foundry is a pub and restaurant on the Upper East Side that aims to make patrons feel at home. Every detail is designed with this goal in mind, from the expansive bar to the communal table overlooking a secret courtyard garden. Whether you're stopping in for a quick drink or staying for a casual snack and conversation, you're sure to feel welcome.
The bar at Jones Wood Foundry is particularly inviting, with plenty of space to settle in for a drink. If you prefer, you can opt for a seat at the communal table, which offers a view of the restaurant's secret courtyard garden. This is the perfect spot to enjoy a casual snack and conversation, surrounded by the warm and welcoming atmosphere that Jones Wood Foundry is known for.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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6. Bondurants
Spacious patio and extensive bourbon collection
The place has a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, fitting for a bar. It's an ideal spot to relax and rest after a long day of walking around. The ambiance is warm and cozy, making it easy to unwind.
This establishment has a charming bar-like atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind. It offers a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of walking around. The comfortable and relaxed ambiance of the place is perfect for those looking to recharge and escape the crowded streets.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
7. 2nd Floor Bar & Essen
Rooftop bar with city views
The 2nd Floor Bar & Essen is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar situated above the 2nd Ave Deli, at 1442 1st Avenue. It has a separate entrance on East 75th Street, between 1st and York Avenues. This bar offers a unique twist on classic Jewish Deli favorites, providing patrons with a distinctive and enjoyable dining experience.
The 2nd Floor Bar & Essen's menu features an array of creative cocktails and reimagined Jewish Deli dishes, all served in a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The bar's skilled mixologists create an assortment of flavorful drinks, combining traditional and contemporary ingredients to craft beverages that complement the bar's unique cuisine. The relaxed and inviting ambiance of the 2nd Floor Bar & Essen makes it an ideal spot for both special occasions and casual nights out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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8. The Sefton
Excellent service, extensive wine list, fresh seafood flown in daily
Sefton is a bar located in New York City that is known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional staff. The bartenders are attentive and skilled, providing quick and friendly service to all customers. The waitstaff is also highly regarded for their helpfulness and dedication to ensuring that every visitor has a positive experience.
In addition to its outstanding service, Sefton is also known for its prime location. The bar is situated in an area that is easily accessible and convenient for customers to reach. Whether visiting for a casual drink or a night out with friends, Sefton provides a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for all. The staff's friendly and attentive service only adds to the bar's positive reputation, making it a top destination for anyone seeking a great bar experience in NYC.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
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9. Melody’s Piano Bar
Exclusive live music experience
Melody’s has an upscale and sophisticated ambiance, evoking a bougie and socialite atmosphere. The decor complements this theme, creating a high-end and luxurious setting. The cocktails served are delicious and well-crafted, adding to the overall upscale experience. Although the live band music is a nice touch, some may find it lacking. The dessert menu features a tasty chocolate option, but the portion size may be disappointingly small.
Melody’s can be seen as a private clubhouse for the wealthy, as many of its patrons arrive in formal attire. Despite the absence of an official dress code, the atmosphere is one of opulence and success. Deals worth millions are quietly negotiated while patrons enjoy top-notch cocktails and elegant music. The well-spaced tables contribute to the feeling of exclusivity and luxury, making Melody’s a premier destination for those seeking a lavish experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
10. Caledonia Bar
Wide selection of top-shelf whiskeys
Caledonia Bar is an excellent spot for a relaxed and low-key atmosphere, perfect for after-work drinks. The bar stands out with its great selection of whiskeys and whiskys, providing a wide range of options for connoisseurs. Prices are very reasonable, making it an even more attractive destination for a night out with friends.
The Caledonia Bar offers a fantastic selection of whiskeys and whiskys, catering specifically to whisky drinkers at reasonable prices. Additionally, they serve Guinness for only $6. If you're a fan of whisky or simply looking for a great pub to recommend to your friends, look no further than Caledonia Bar. Its laid-back and friendly environment is perfect for a casual night out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
11. Five Mile Stone
Live music on weekends, authentic Italian dishes
Five Mile Stone is an overachieving Irish pub with a cozy and old-timey atmosphere. The establishment features two floors and stylish wallpaper, giving it the feel of a house where the original furniture and appliances have been replaced with bars and tables. On the upper East Side, Five Mile Stone boasts a large menu, numerous televisions for sports viewing, and ample space for groups.
As a pub, Five Mile Stone offers a wide-ranging menu and amenities for sports enthusiasts. Its two-story layout provides a comfortable and spacious environment, complete with wallpaper that adds a touch of elegance. The pub is a popular destination for watching sports, with numerous televisions located throughout the establishment. Additionally, Five Mile Stone can easily accommodate large groups, making it an ideal location for social gatherings and events.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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12. Club Macanudo
Exclusive Membership, Rare Cigar Selection
The Olde Pink House in Savannah, Georgia offers a fantastic dining experience if you can tolerate cigar smoke. The establishment is known for its great atmosphere, but it can get quite smokey and raucous as the evening progresses. It is recommended to arrive early and take advantage of the bar's good service and knowledgeable bartenders before the crowd sets in. The Old Fashion drinks were decent, but be aware that you may be charged for more rounds than you actually consumed.
As for the food, it was outstanding. The Shrimp Cocktail featured huge shrimp, while the Grilled Filet was perfectly cooked. The meal was accompanied by a glass of Bordeaux Castera, which complemented the dish well. For dessert, a glass of Fonseca Tawny Port was a satisfying end to the meal. The food is on the pricey side, but it is well worth it for a memorable dining experience. Just be prepared for the potential cigar smoke and high energy atmosphere.
TOPICS
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Personal Celebrations
13. Ethyl's Alcohol & Food
Extensive liquor selection and knowledgeable bartenders
Stepping into Ethyl's Alcohol & Food is like being transported to a different era, with a strong vintage and nostalgic atmosphere. The disco ball and big TV screens playing classic movies create a delightful ambiance. Additionally, live dancers often perform, contributing to the fun and energetic atmosphere.
At Ethyl's, the vintage and nostalgic feel is prevalent throughout the establishment. The disco ball and screens playing old movies are charming additions. Guests can also enjoy live dance performances, which further enhances the lively and entertaining atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
14. Keys & Heels
Live music and piano bar
Keys & Heels is a unique speakeasy located on the Upper East Side, disguised as a locksmith and shoe repair shop. The atmosphere is cozy and never too crowded, making it a great spot to enjoy cocktails. Its classy and elegant ambiance is often praised, and the music and cocktails are particular highlights.
The music and cocktails are two standout features of Keys & Heels. The speakeasy offers a great selection of cocktails, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The music, which varies depending on the night, adds to the overall ambiance and creates a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Overall, Keys & Heels is a top choice for those seeking a sophisticated drinking experience on the Upper East Side.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
15. Ryan's Daughter
Warm and welcoming atmosphere
The Upper East Side's best bar is a traditional Irish establishment, featuring sports on televisions and an excellent beer and whiskey list. The bar offers a private room for functions, which is designed to resemble a cozy living room, equipped with leather chairs, a fireplace, and bay windows.
This neighborhood bar is highly welcoming and often filled with regulars. The knowledgeable bartenders serve free chips, and there is a pool table and basketball shoot available in the back for patrons' enjoyment.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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16. The Five Lamps
Warm and friendly atmosphere, authentic Irish cuisine
The bar is known for its friendly and energetic atmosphere, attracting a lively crowd. It offers a variety of delicious and creatively crafted cocktails that are sure to satisfy anyone's taste. On Tuesdays, they feature a popular Taco Tuesday promotion with $2 tacos, making it an even more appealing destination.
Aside from the drinks, the bar also boasts a menu full of delectable offerings, with the buffalo chicken flatbread being a standout recommendation. The staff is known for being amiable and attentive, although during busy hours, there might be some delay in service due to high volume. Overall, it's a great local spot for a night out, with delicious food and drinks that are definitely worth the wait.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
17. Stella & Fly
Seasonal Italian cuisine, handmade pasta, and craft cocktails
Stella & Fly is a welcoming establishment with a focus on friendly and accommodating service. The staff are known for their great personalities and for making excellent drinks at reasonable prices during happy hour, which lasts until 8 PM. Despite its appealing features, there are currently no reviews available for Stella & Fly, making it an opportunity for anyone to be the first to write a review and share their experience.
In summary, Stella & Fly offers a friendly and accommodating environment with a great selection of drinks at reasonable prices during happy hour. Its lack of reviews presents a chance for anyone to be the first to share their experience and provide feedback on this establishment.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
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18. Bar Pleiades
Exquisite culinary experience, polished service, cozy atmosphere
Cafe Boulud offers a superb bar scene, providing a great option for more than just drinking cocktails. The full Cafe Boulud menu is available at the bar, which is ideal for solo diners. The food served at Cafe Boulud is consistently excellent, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
Bar Pleiades features well-crafted, balanced drinks and attentive servers. The atmosphere is relaxed, yet social, allowing for easy conversations and interaction with others at the bar. It's neither too loud nor too quiet, allowing patrons to enjoy their own space while still being part of the lively bar scene.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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19. JG Melon
Famous for no-frills burgers since 1972
The dark wood bar is a lively spot, with a steady stream of drinks being served. It's a popular destination, so arriving early is recommended to avoid long lines and wait times. On a Tuesday evening, the place was particularly busy, filled with locals and visitors alike.
The food, service, and atmosphere at this establishment were all exceptional. The energetic vibe and inviting decor made us, as British visitors, feel welcome and right at home. The high-quality offerings and hospitality provided contributed to an enjoyable and memorable experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
20. Festival Cafe
Live music, local art displays, unique decor
The food at this establishment is consistently described as delicious and well-prepared. The use of quality ingredients and a focus on seasonal and local dishes ensures that every meal is fresh and flavorful.
The service is another highlight of this dining experience. The staff is praised for their friendly and attentive demeanor, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all guests. Their fantastic customer service contributes to an enjoyable and memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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21. The Milton
Live music, extensive wine list, award-winning cuisine
The bar in question boasts a welcoming ambiance, attracting patrons with its promise of authentic British fare. The cocktails served here are a true standout, carefully crafted by skilled bartenders who take pride in their work. This spot is not to be missed for those looking to expand their culinary and cocktail horizons.
Moving on to the atmosphere, the bar offers a fun and laid-back environment, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The bartenders are attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring that each drink is crafted with care and served with a smile. However, it's worth noting that the drinks here do come with a higher price tag, reflecting their quality and strength.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian Options
22. Third Avenue Ale House
Extensive beer selection
I am a big fan of beer and I get excited when I find a new bar with a great selection of brews. I was thrilled when I heard that the Third Avenue Ale House was opening in the old Brother Jimmy's location in the UES/Yorkville area. This area has seen an increase in quality businesses, including bars, restaurants, gastropubs, and cocktail lounges, following the opening of the Second Ave subway.
The addition of the Third Avenue Ale House is a welcome one for the neighborhood. The area had been lacking in quality nightlife options, but that is changing with the influx of new businesses. The Third Avenue Ale House offers a terrific selection of beers, making it the perfect spot for beer lovers like me. It's great to see the UES/Yorkville area becoming a destination for quality businesses and nightlife options.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
23. The Hunterian
Historic building with diverse and ever-changing displays
The Hunterian is a bar that offers a wide selection of beverages, including good whiskey, craft beer, and gin. One notable aspect of the bar is its great tonic. The bartenders are known for their fantastic service, making the bar experience even more enjoyable. On Thursdays, patrons can enjoy a fun Karaoke night.
This cozy hole-in-the-wall bar, The Hunterian, is a must-visit for beer and whiskey enthusiasts. The bar boasts a great selection of beers and whiskey that are sure to satisfy. The knowledgeable bartenders provide excellent service, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the bar. Apart from the great drinks and service, the bar also offers fun Karaoke nights on Thursdays.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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24. Doc Watson's
Intimate live music venue and restaurant
This establishment, located on the Upper East Side, is known for its delicious burgers and shepherd's pie, making it a classic bar and boozy brunch spot for locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a perfect mix of class and charm. The bar serves several beers on tap and offers a variety of whiskeys, adding to its authentic Irish ambiance.
As a quintessential neighborhood Irish pub, this bar prides itself on great bar food, an extensive drinks menu, and exceptional service. The lady who served the guests did so with a smile, adding to the overall positive experience. The pub's inviting atmosphere, combined with its quality offerings, make it a standout spot for those looking to enjoy good food and drinks in a friendly and welcoming environment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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25. Serena's Wine Bar
Wide selection of wines, knowledgeable staff
Serena's Wine Bar is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil and comfortable retreat away from the bustle of the city. Upon arriving, guests are warmly welcomed with a smile, creating a friendly and inviting ambiance. The bar is particularly noteworthy, with a knowledgeable bartender who is happy to recommend wines and cocktails to suit every taste. The rose and pasta dishes come highly recommended and do not disappoint.
The wine bar provides a relaxed, cafe-style atmosphere with a menu offering lighter bites and a moderate wine list. Although service may sometimes be slow, the staff is courteous and focused on ensuring guests have a positive experience. Visitors can look forward to a pleasant evening of good conversation with friends over a dirty martini and flatbread, but should be aware of the higher prices. Overall, Serena's Wine Bar offers a delightful and memorable experience for anyone looking for a cozy getaway.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife