Best Bars and Clubs in the New York City Area

The New York City bar scene is in shambles due to COVID-19. But you can’t keep a good bar down, and that goes doubly so in NYC. Clubs and bars alike have partially reopened offering outdoor eating, unique cocktails, and best of all, brunch!

It’s not the New York City bar scene we’re used to, but it’s certainly worth exploring. And better yet you can have some new places to check out when places fully reopen. Here are the best bars NYC and clubs post-pandemic.

Best Bars NYC: House of Yes

Open for outdoor activity! Friends, falafel, and fabulous cocktails (oh my!!) Thursday-Sunday from 5 pm to late.

If you’re in your 20’s, or early 30’s for that matter, then you’ll find that Brooklyn is the place to be. It wasn’t always this way, but in recent years Brooklyn has opened some of the best bars and clubs in the entire city. And one of the few leading the club scene is the House of Yes.

Located on 2 Wyckoff Ave, the House of Yes tries to give people, specifically those younger, a place where they can feel free to express themselves. Whether that be with the clothes you wear or the dance moves you pull off.

“[This is a] Temple of expression dedicated to connection, creativity and celebrating life,” as stated on their site. They continue to say, “We believe in the creative energy of every person who enters this space.”

Extroverts are sure to have a blast, but House of Yes nurtures an environment to make everyone feel comfortable. And if you like to dance then look no further because House of Yes shells out some of the best DJs in New York.

They’re also home to an array of special events from death-defying circus performers to nights reserved to specific themes or genres. If you’re looking for that judgment-free space or club that shakes up the tired-formula then look no further.

Best Bars NYC: 230 Fifth

Open for takeout and brunch! Monday-Sunday from 4 pm to 12 am (brunch is on weekends)

Aptly located on 230 Fifth Ave in the Flatiron District, 230 Fifth features New York’s largest rooftop garden. While you’ll also find an indoor Penthouse Lounge, its rooftop is the main draw and offers jaw-dropping views of the entire city.

The bar and restaurant open at 2 pm, but the atmosphere feels a bit more touristy until the later hours of the night. Don’t let that deter you, though, from coming early as 230 Fifth is apparently one of the best places to view a New York City sunset.

Young crowds, trendy music, and somewhat reasonably priced drinks — what’s not to love?

Not to mention that its rooftop bar is open 365 days of the year, even when that dreaded cold weather approaches. Don’t feel obligated to bring five extra coats in the winter because they have top-of-the-line outdoor heaters and complimentary blankets.

The Standard, High Line

Outdoor dining is back on The Summer Plaza with the hotel re-opening on September 8th.

If you’re planning on staying in the city for more than a couple days check out The Standard, High Line. Located in one of Manhattan’s hottest areas, “The Meatpacking District,” The Standard Hotel will ensure you have more than a few unforgettable nights.

Two rooftop clubs and bars with breathtaking views of Manhattan, lively dance floors, and brand new pools and hot tubs. It also features some of the best and most creative drinks in the city. The Standard is one of those places that tries to sell you an experience first and foremost.

Unfortunately, that experience that you’re buying is going to be leaning towards the expensive side. But with it’s near 5-star review on Google and TripAdvisor many customers agree that the lofty price tag is well worth it.

Best Bars NYC: Bembe

Open 8:30 pm to 4 am according to their website

Quite possibly one of my favorite clubs in Brooklyn, or the entire city for that matter. Located on 81 S 6th St, Bembe feels more like a shadowy, smoky dream rather than a club. You’ll find interesting people night after night and stellar music that rivals European house.

Some of the best DJs from not just the city, but around the world show up to Bembe to put on a show you’ll never quite forget. 

They’re hosting social-distance get-togethers that help ease the stress of this crazy world we’re living in.