This list of best bars in Chelsea was written by Yana Zaytseva, co-founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps) and a NYC local.
Famous for its art galleries and markets, this deceptively peaceful neighborhood conceals a lively secret – its extraordinary bars. Having indulged in countless evenings immersed in Chelsea’s vibrant nightlife, I couldn’t overlook the memorable hangovers that begged recognition.
So, I’ve put together this post to share the top bars in Chelsea. Whether you’re into cozy cocktail spots for first dates or dance-worthy venues that go late into the night, this list ensures you’ll find a place that suits your style.
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Bars In Chelsea NYC
Table of Contents: Best Chelsea Bars
Table of Contents: Where to Grab Drinks in Chelsa NYC
Bathtub Gin
Website: Bathtub Gin
Address: 132 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Tucked discreetly within a coffee shop, Bathtub Gin exudes the ambiance of a 1920s speakeasy, offering an intimate setting to savor tasty cocktails. Its name pays homage to the prohibition era, where “bathtub gin” was a colloquial term for homemade liquor.
Although the name is usually associated with low-quality, amateur-made alcohol the drinks at the Bathtub Gin are anything but. The mixologists have made Bathtub Gin one of the best cocktail bars in Chelsea. Offering a diverse range of both classic and innovative drinks, Bathtub Gin guarantees a memorable experience. For a standout choice, I highly recommend ordering their inventive “s’mores” twist on the timeless old-fashioned.
Another reason Bathtub Gin is considered one of the top bars in Chelsea is thanks to the lineup of entertainment:
- Sunday: Live burlesque
- Monday: Live Jazz
- Tuesday: Live burlesque
- Wednesday: Live music
- Thursday: Disco night
- Friday: Live DJ
- Saturday: Live DJ
Porchlight
Website: Porchlight
Address: 271 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001
Porchlight is the brainchild of Danny Meyer, the mastermind behind popular establishments like Shake Shack, Gramercy Tavern, and Daily Provisions. Describing itself as a “New York bar with a southern accent,” Porchlight seamlessly fuses the flavors of the south with the vibrancy of the Big Apple. The restaurant’s ambiance mirrors this blend, combining rustic and industrial elements.
While the food menu may be small, it boasts a selection of must-try items, such as the irresistible crispy chicken sliders. However, the real allure lies in the outstanding drinks, solidifying Porchlight’s status as one of Chelsea’s best cocktail bars.
The Chelsea bar constantly innovates, offering exciting options. I recommend ordering the Julep Du Monde, if you’re a fan of vanilla-based drinks. Plus, don’t overlook their standout happy hour, Monday through Saturday (3-7 PM), and all day Sunday, where you can enjoy cocktails for just $11.
Trailer Park Lounge
Website: Trailer Park Lounge
Address: 271 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011
Entering the Trailer Park Lounge feels like stepping into a classic Southern bar. Amidst vintage signs and license plates, the retro yellow and red chairs create a laid-back atmosphere typical of a dive bar. It’s easy to forget you’re in NYC once the drinks kick in.
For margarita enthusiasts, Trailer Park Lounge stands out with its strong and refreshing versions, especially the frozen variety that adds to the Chelsea bar’s down-south charm. Pair your drinks with must-have bar classic food like burgers, wings, and top-notch tater tots—a compelling reason to visit. Plus, nothing complements the innocent buzz like a plate of nachos.
Loulou
Website: Loulou
Address: 176 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Named after owner Mathias Van Leyden’s rescue dog, LOULOU is a French restaurant that’s just as adorable as a puppy. Colorful flowers adorn the outside of the restaurant, stopping folks in their tracks to take pictures. What makes this restaurant stand out (aside from the amazing food) is that the lower level of the bistro is a speakeasy, and just so happens to be one of the best bars in Chelsea.
The drinks are not only innovative and clever, but they’re presented in some of the cutest glasses I’ve ever seen. Just take a look at the menu and you’ll understand the hype behind this bar in Chelsea. I can’t say enough good things about the “world is yours” cocktail (Gin, Sake, creme de peache & edible flowers served in an orb). The drink is so unique, which just proves Loulou is one of the best cocktail bars in Chelsea.
Peter McManus Cafe
Website: Peter McManus Cafe
Address: 152 Seventh Avenue New York, NY 10011
One of the best and most historic bars in Chelsea is Peter McManus Cafe, the longest-running family-owned bar in New York City. A classic Irish pub establishment that’s been around since 1936 serving fantastic food and drinks. Even if you’re not a big beer drinker this historic bar has you covered and is worth the stop.
The Lobby Bar
Website: The Lobby Bar
Address: 226 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011
Located inside The Hotel Chelsea you’ll find The Lobby Bar, one of the best bars in Chelsea. Specializing in craft cocktails and small plates the classy watering hole is perfect for a date you’re trying to impress.
Flawlessly cozy and intimate, the bar is the perfect addition to the iconic Hotel Chelsea. The hotel opened in 1884 and has been a neighborhood staple ever since. You can hear references to the hotel in songs by Bon Jovi and Bob Dylan and even see it in Japanese horror movie released in 2009.
The Lobby Bar is a hidden gem but it won’t be long before word gets out that it’s one of the best bars in Chelsea. I’d take advantage of the fact the bar is still under the radar since it operates on a first-come first-serve basis.
The Tippler
Website: The Tippler
Address: 425 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011
Located in the cellar of Chelsea Market, The Tippler stands out as one of Chelsea’s most captivating bars. Despite its subterranean setting, the rustic charm created by brick and wood is unmatched.
The bar’s construction incorporates history, with reclaimed wood from original High Line Park railroad ties, repurposed antique light fixtures, vintage library decor, and water-tower wood. The cocktails at The Tippler secure its status among Chelsea’s top cocktail bars. For a delightful choice, try the Blue Bayou, described as “a margarita and paloma having a baby.”
While reservations aren’t available at The Tippler, arriving early on weekdays is crucial. Finding the entrance can be a challenge—head to 15th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues and spot the illuminated “entrance open” sign across from Live Nation.
Storehouse
Website: Storehouse
Address: 757 6th Ave, New York, NY 10010
Storehouse is a friendly neighborhood bar that has everything you need for an after-work hangout or casual date night. The joint is known for serving no-frills drinks in a laid-back setting and is one of the best bars in Chelsea.
There isn’t a big menu to choose from, but sometimes all you need is a simple beer and you’re set. It’s also a great spot for groups since ordering is straightforward and quick. There’s plenty of seating so finding a table isn’t an issue, especially on weeknights. It’s one of the best bars in Chelsea for casual sports games since they’re open late and the staff is easygoing.
Crompton Ale House
Website: Crompton Ale House
Address: 159 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001
Crompton Ale House is my go-to sports bar when I don’t want to go to a sports bar. Let me explain, while most sports bars are dingy, cheap, and smell like a frat house, Crompton Ale House is a clean and classy establishment. The Irish pub is one of the best bars in Chelsea, offering a medley of beer, wine, and spirits in a posh setting. The copper accents, granite bar, and bookshelf-lined walls create an air of (casual) sophistication.
But don’t let the classy look fool you, this joint gets just as thunderous as a college bar on game day. During the World Cup, the alehouse was stuffed like a can of sardines with fans coming to cheer on their favorite teams. The food at the Crompton Ale House is also worth noting, which makes it one of the best bars in Chelsea for casual get-togethers. If you need a suggestion I always recommend ordering the fish and chips!
Cooper’s Craft & Cocktails
Website: Cooper’s Craft & Cocktails
Address: 169 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
The skilled mixologists at Cooper’s Craft & Cocktails are dedicated to delivering a memorable drinking experience, ensuring that each cocktail is crafted with precision and attention to detail. Every weekday from 12 to 7 pm this Chelsea bar offers a great happy hour deal that locals and tourists can’t get enough of. Select cocktails and beer are offered for a fraction of the cost — as little as $7.
The deals don’t end at happy hour either, every day brings a new special. Here’s what you can expect:
- Mezcal Mondays
- Taco & Tequila Tuesday
- Old-Fashioned Wednesdays
- Tiny Tini Thursdays
Cooper’s Craft & Cocktails is one of the most convenient bars in Chelsea not only because of the deals but because it’s open so late. Most days the bar is open until 2 AM, so your midnight munchies may have met their match.
Raines Law Room
Website: Raines Law Room
Address: 48 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011
Named after the Raines Law, a New York State liquor tax aimed at reducing alcohol consumption, Raines Law Room has become a neighborhood favorite. The law prohibited selling alcohol on Sundays, except for hotels. To exploit this loophole, saloons started expanding and adding rooms to qualify as a hotel. These became known as Raines Law rooms and paved the way for one of the best cocktail bars in Chelsea.
Low lights and good drinks are just about all you need for a great date night, and Raines Law Room is looking to host. The intimate vibe helps the conversation flow and makes it easy to lose track of time. If you’re looking for an engaging date night, consider taking a cocktail-making class. You’ll get to learn the history and technique necessary to make flavorsome drinks at one of the best bars in Chelsea.
Slate
Website: Slate
Address: 54 W 21st St, New York, NY 10010
Remember how in elementary school there was always something to do during recess? Kickball, the monkey bars, and the swings provided innocent fun. Well, in adulthood, I go to Slate, one of the best bars in Chelsea. The swanky hot spot has pool tables, arcade games, and a 20 ft. slide. You read that right, a slide!
And the 16,000 square feet give ample space for lounge-style seating, so you and your friends can get comfortable. You can always expect entertainment at Slate too, this is one of the best bars in Chelsea at the end of the day.
On Fridays and Saturdays, there is a live DJ, essentially turning the bar into a nightclub (but you’ll need tickets). There are also karaoke nights, comedy shows, and live performances. Keep an eye on the online calendar to stay on top of the schedule, or just visit for kicks and giggles since this is one of the best bars in Chelsea.
Best Chelsea Bars (Post Summary)
- Bathtub Gin
- Raines Law Room
- Cooper’s Craft & Cocktails
- Crompton Ale House
- Storehouse
- The Tippler
- The Lobby Bar
- Peter McManus Cafe
- Loulou
- Slate
- Trailer Park Lounge
- Porchlight
Further Reading for Chelsea
Best Bakeries in Chelsea: 12 Cheerful Chelsea Bakeries
Best Brunch in Chelsea: 15 Fantastic Spots for Brunch in Chelsea NYC
Things to Do in the Neighborhood: 20 Epic Things to Do in Chelsea
Best Coffee in Chelsea: 15 Charming Coffee Shops in Chelsea
Best Happy Hour Spots in Chelsea: 18 Satisfying Happy Hours in Chelsea, New York City
Neighborhoods Near Chelsea Worth Checking Out
Restaurants in Greenwich Village: 12 Charming Restaurants in Greenwich Village
Happy Hour in the West Village: 10+ Wonderful West Village Happy Hour Spots
Coffee Shops in Greenwich Village: 12 Gorgeous Greenwich Village Coffee Shops
Best Bars in the Greenwich Village: 15 Boozy Bars in Greenwich Village
Best Bars in Chelsea NYC (Map)
And there you have it folks, the best bars in Chelsea NYC. Leave a comment down below if you think we missed a spot — we love to hear from you!
Cheers!
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