It seems to me that wine bars in New York City are on the rise (to the benefit of us all). I’ve made a habit of catching up with girlfriends over chilled rosés and creamy chardonnays during the warm summer months.
Luckily for me (and you!) there’s no shortage of amazing wine bars in NYC. From easygoing joints offering generous happy hour to “I wish I had a trust fund for the Pinot noir.”
So if you’re looking for charming New York City wine bars, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice. In fact, it’s quite easy to overwhelmed by all the options — fret not, I’m here to help.
In this article I’ve written down the wine bars in NYC I think are worth the stop (based on my personal experience). With that said, let’s jump right in!
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 (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Wine Bars New York City
Buvette
In theory, someone could argue that Buvette is a full-fledged French restaurant, but I think that misses the point. I mean sure, it’s billed as a restaurant, but French restaurants are notorious for small bites, top-notch wine and delicious fare.
And it’s true, Buvette boasts an interesting wine menu that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Aesthetically, stepping into Buvette feels like stepping foot into an authentic Parisian cafe. Which is precisely why this is one of the best wine bars in New York City (in my opinion).
You’ll get ample people-watching opportunities while splitting a bottle of good wine with an even better friend. What more could you ask for?
Corkbuzz
Corkbuzz has a two locations in New York City (Chelsea Market and one near Union Square). The Chelsea Market location has its perks, but the one in Union Square is where you want to be.
Across from the Union Square Green Market, Corkbuzz has direct access to ingredients so fresh they’re the envy of other wine bars in NYC.
Because Corkbuzz relies on the market for produce the menu changes with the seasons and there’s never a shortage of fresh, fun bites to choose from.
But let’s get real, you’re here for the wine. Corkbuzz is well stocked and eager to please. There are over 30 wines by the glass and wine flights available so you have the ability to try a little bit of everything.
There is a “Three Blind Wines” flight available that has become one of my favorite date-nights. You’re served three wines and at the end (with the help of a tasting worksheet) you have to try to guess what they were.
And as if that’s not enough to make you love Corkbuzz, they’re one of the only wine bars in NYC that sell champagne at retail price! This makes it a can’t miss spot when you need a place to celebrate a big occasion.
PSA: Corkbuzz is woman-owned business, founded by Master Sommelier Laura Fiorvanti.
Address: 13 E 13th St, New York, NY & 75 9th Ave, New York, NY(Chelsea Market)
Aldo Sohm Wine Bar
There are few places in midtown I’d rather be than Aldo Sohm Wine Bar. This might be one of the best wine bars New York City has on offer.
Set in an impressively decorated locale, Aldo Sahm Wine Bar has a modern elegance that manages to feel relaxed and inviting. It’s one of the best wine bars in NYC for a date or to bring someone you’re really trying to impress.
There’s over 40 wines available by the glass and over 200 available by the bottle. With each sip you’ll find yourself grateful for the Master Sommelier, Aldo Sohm, the bar’s namesake.
Born in Austria, Sohm has worked in the restaurant industry since he was 19. Sahm has been deemed the Best Sommelier in the Austria and America.
In 2007 he became the Head Sommelier at Le Bernardin (one of New York City’s seven, three-star Michelin Restaurants). All this to say, you’re in good hands at this charming NYC wine bar.
Address: 151 W 51st St, New York, NY
Four Horsemen
Most New York City wine bars offer small bites alongside delectable wine. But sometimes, you just want to go all out and find a wine bar that doubles as a proper restaurant, too. Enter Four Horsemen.
No trail mix in sight, instead expect to find a menu featuring braised leek toast with whipped ricotta, yellowfin tuna and grilled sun shrimp. Heck, Four Horsemen is the only NYC wine bar on this list that boasts a Michelin Star.
With that said, this is one of the hardest wine bars in NYC to get into. Since reservations open 30 days in advance (at 7AM) I suggest setting an alarm for 6:45 and trying to score a table. Otherwise you can always join the waiting list.
The wine list is just as impressive as the food. As you’d expect from a Michelin rated restaurant the prices are steep, but the selection is incredible.
You have the option of both wine by the glass or bottles and they offer natural and orange wines on top of the classic sparkling, reds and whites. For a full glance at the wine list click here.
Address: 295 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY
Vin Sur Vingt
Vin sur Vingt translates to “wine in twenty” and everything about this authentic Parisian wine bar in New York City oozes charm.
Offering an impressive rotating menu of 50 wines by the glass, you’re sure to find something that suits your fancy.
Make sure to have a good friend in tow because the hours slip by when the cold rosé hits the table. The charm and easygoing nature makes this one of the best wine bars in NYC for a girls night.
But bear in mind, this New York City wine bar doesn’t take reservations — operating on a first come, first served basis. Show up early and try to get an outdoor table, especially if visiting in the spring or summer.
Pair your wine with French-inspired appetizers and you’ll be reminiscing about Paris in no time.
Address: 66 W 84th St, New York, NY
Balzem
Of all the delicious Mediterranean restaurants in NYC, Balzem just might be the best. As one of the best wine bars in NYC, Balzem is perfect for a romantic night out thanks to its warm lighting, brick walls and lively atmosphere.
Expect a quaint but lively candlelit dinner, that can be either a quick bite or an hours-long chat. I always find it easy to have great conversations at Balzem, no matter who I’m with (I blame the rosé).
And just because it’s one of the best wine bars in NYC doesn’t mean the food is an afterthought, on the contrary the Mediterranean cuisine is exquisite. I struggle deciding whether to wolf down my meal or savor every bite like it’s my last.
For those who have always wanted to try octopus, try it at Balzem. It may be the best in the city and is my favorite dish at the New York City wine bar. Ask the server for recommendations on wine to pair the dish with and you’ll never want to leave!
Address: 202 Mott St, New York, NY
Stella & Fly
Stella & Fly operates as a cozy cafe during the day, but in the evening transforms into one of the best wine bars in NYC. The neighborhood bar has become a local hot-spot for an after-work drink.
When most folks think of a “wine bar” an image of a relaxing and quiet establishment often come to mind. Stella & Fly is anything but thanks to a loaded schedule full of trivia, open mics and live music.
That’s why Stella & Fly is one of the best wine bars in NYC to enjoy with friends! The high-spirited atmosphere is contagious and nearly addicting, I even printed out their event calendar and put it on my fridge.
And for those of us who are always on the lookout for a good deal Stella & Fly has plenty. Wine Wednesday offers $9 wine all evening, and Cocktail Thursday has $10 drinks. Not to mention they have one of the best happy hours in the Upper East Side.
Address: 1705 1st Ave, New York, NY
The Ten Bells
I first visited The Ten Bells when I developed a curiosity for natural wines. In layman’s terms, natural wine is wine that is made without herbicides or pesticides following traditional wine making practices.
And Ten Bells specializes in the matter, bringing together an assortment of natural wines from all around the world under one roof. The New York City wine bar has two locations, one in Bushwick and one in the Lower East Side.
And although I got off the natural wine train (I still drink it, just not exclusively) I consider The Ten Bells one of the best wine bars in NYC.
The low-lights help you get lost in your own little world where it’s only you, your wine and your company. To put it simply, you’re comfortable. Y
ou can forget you’re at one of the best wine bars in NYC, instead feeling like you’re in your best friend’s living room laughing, gossiping and the like.
And while visiting you can’t forget to get some grub. There’s an impressive tapas menu that makes sharing a breeze and is fairly priced (so order more than one).
If you have the flexibility and love oysters, try to schedule you visit during happy hour (daily until 7PM) to enjoy $1 oysters and $15 wine carafes.
Address: 247 Broome St, New York, NY & 65 Irving Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Amélie Wine Bar & Bistro
Amelie has two locations, a “petite Amelie” in the Upper West Side and the main locale in the Greenwich Village. Regardless of which you visitm rest assured you’re at one of the best wine bars in NYC.
Boasting a Bib Gourmand Michelin rating (which is awarded to good value restaurants) Amelie serves traditional French fare in a casual setting. They’re some of the best wine bars in New York City if you’re looking to eat good and have an easy-going night on the town.
Whether you’re a novice or experienced wine drinker, the flight option allows you to explore and find something that suits your fancy. Just make sure to order the baked cheese, it’s delicious and perfect for splitting between two.
This is one of the best wine bars in NYC for an spots for an impromptu meet-up. Just make sure to show up early — the tables fill fast during the dinner hour.
Local’s Tip: Amelie has one of the best happy hours in the West Village, with the most enticing item on the menu being the wine flight. For only $13 you can sample three wines (or choose one of their pre-selected flights).
Address: 22 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011
Terroir
If I had to describe Terroir in one word it’d be “enthusiastic.”
And I know it’s easier to be enthused while nursing a buzz, but Terroir has this irrefutable liveliness perfect for a relaxed first date that can linger into a lifetime (but no pressure).
For starters, this isn’t one of those dimly-lit, intimate wine bars in NYC. Rather, the place is filled with community tables and energizing music, ideal for making friends.
The wine-list is a literal binder, and if they can’t find something in there then maybe they should just drink beer.
But before you get paralysis by analysis there’s no need to fret, the staff is amazing. During my handful of visits I’ve been welcomed by smiles so big I don’t hesitate asking for help or recommendations, so you shouldn’t either.
The menu has some hearty meals on it so you won’t starve at Terroir. However if you rather keep things simple there are the usual snacks and charcuterie you’ll find at most wine bars in NYC.
Address: 24 Harrison St, New York, NY 10013, United States
Peasant
Most wine bars in NYC are lacking in the way of food. Sure you have charcuterie and small bites, but sometimes mama needs more than just five pistachios. That’s why Peasant is a Godsend.
The Italian joint feels like a cozy Tuscan-villa, and wear your stretchy pants because these guys know how to feast. The pastas, fish, meats, and pastas (yes I know I said pasta twice) are absolutely to die for.
Besides the pasta most plates are cooked in the wood-fired oven that helps give each bite a satisfying crispness and flavor that’s unparalleled. And the wine-list is equally (if not more) impressive.
The list of Italian fine wines include sparkling, reds and whites that range the gamut. Both novice and experienced wine drinkers alike will feel right at home with the selection.
And don’t hesitate asking your server for recommendations of what to pair with your dish! Each plate has a sweet spot and as one of the best wine bars in NYC Peasant knows exactly how to make the most of your meal.
Something to note: Peasant has their restaurant on the main floor and their NYC wine bar downstairs. Their full menus are available regardless of where your sat, but the downstairs feels and looks more like a wine bar. The upstairs has reservations available, but the wine bar is first-come, first served.
Address: 194 Elizabeth St, New York, NY
Rooftop Reds
With all the rooftop bars in New York City catered to party-animals you might be wondering where to go when you just want an easy night. My suggestion is to visit Rooftop Reds in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, one of the best wine bars in NYC.
The nearly 15,000 square foot rooftop is home to 42 planters that have been designed to work in the city (it’s like our own, mini Napa Valley). And unlike other wine bars in NYC that ship in their product, at Rooftop Reds you’re among the same grape vines that helped make the wine in your glass.
There’s fun events that take place at Rooftop Reds like tastings, movie nights, and tours of the winery. There’s a full event page on their website. But of course, if you’re just craving a fresh glass of wine you can visit just because.
But before making your way to Rooftop Reds you’ll need to book a table. The popular New York City wine bar functions on a reservation only basis — so don’t waste a trip to the Navy Yard without one.
And speaking of the Navy Yard, since it is an operational industrial complex you’ll have to head directly to and from Rooftop Reds without wandering or loitering in the yard. Here’s a helpful map and video of the yard, but finding the NYC wine bar is super simple.
Also, Rooftop Reds is on the fifth floor and the only way to access it is via the stairs. There is an elevator but it’s only to be used by folks who need it with the assistance of the staff (you have to notify them ahead of time).
With that said, be prepared for a climb! If you need the motivation just imagine that first sip of rosé kissing your lips at one of the best wine bars in NYC.
Address: 63 Flushing Ave Building 275, Brooklyn, NY
Bibi Wine Bar
Bibi, you beautiful thing you. The NYC wine bar serves a can’t-miss happy hour deal and is one of the best spots in the East Village for a date.
The biggest reason I’m so enamored with Bibi is thanks to the bar’s charm. I’ve spent countless nights chatting with my husband as the sun sets, simply enjoying tasty wine.
As one of the best wine bars in NYC, we frequent Bibi more often than we’d like to admit. For only $8 a glass or $28 a bottle it’s easy to play the “one more drink” game as we sit under the string lights in their outdoor seating.
There isn’t much in the way of food, mostly small bites and charcuterie. My suggestion is to stop by before dinner and allow yourself to loosen up a little bit, which is always easy to do with the East Village happy hour prices.
Address: 211 E 4th St, New York, NY 10009
St. Tropez
If there’s one thing the French know how to do it’s cook unforgettable food, and you know what pairs best with a hearty meal? A bottle of wine. Lucky for us St Tropez happens to be one of the best wine bars in NYC.
After every visit to St. Tropez I just want to walk into the kitchen and personally thank the kitchen staff and their precious hands of gold. You know it’s a good meal when you leave with your belly full and a buzz. ?
In the summer the windows are opened giving St Tropez an open-air vibe, and the sunlight’s warmth radiates into the restaurant. If you’re lucky enough to be sat outside it’s hard not to feel like you’re on vacation. (Yeah, turn your phone off. Your office will still be there in the morning!)
Since St Tropez is one of the best wine bars in NYC you’ll have plenty of bottles to choose from. There’s white and red, as well as champagne for celebrating special occasions. If you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t like wine, leave them at home (just kidding), there is also a small beer menu available.
Address: 194 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Le Dive
If you love New York as much as I do you continuously romanticize mundane things in the city like getting groceries, stopping by a bookstore and drinking on a sunny afternoon.
There are few better wine bars in NYC for those who love to dream than Le Dive. It’s also one of the newest wine bars in NYC, but I have no reservation adding them to this list.
Maybe it’s the vibrant red tables, sun-soaking floor to ceiling windows or the lively young crowd, but this is the type of bar you see the couple having drinks at after the happy ending in a movie.
It’s a French-inspired wine bar that has a small but flavor-loaded menu. Of course the best wine bars in NYC have a wide variety of wine and Le Dive checks that box too.
And if you’re with friends who would rather stay away from NYC wine bars because they prefer cocktails or beer you can still bring them to Le Dive. There is enough to drink here so everyone can leave with a buzz. 😉
Address: 37 Canal St, New York, NY 10002, United States
Ops
For all intents and purposes, wine and pizza shouldn’t go together. Pizza is quick, easy, and often enjoyed on the go. Wine is methodical and calculated and you really have to take your time to pick up subtle hints. But anyone whose had pizza and wine know that it just works like two pieces of a puzzle.
Ops in Bushwick is one of the best wine bars in NYC for those looking to enjoy the combination of the two dinner staples. They serve natural wines and the pizza is fresh, the quality can be savored with each bite and sip.
Reservations are encouraged, but frankly I’ve never needed one. The casual and easygoing vibe make ops one of my favorite date night spot, especially an unplanned one.
At Ops you’ll find red, orange, white, sparkling and chilled red wines. There is really no wrong combination since pizza goes well with everything.
Address: 346 Himrod St, Brooklyn, NY
Best Wine Bars in NYC (Post Summary)
- Vin Sur Vingt
- Balzem
- Stella & Fly
- Corkbuzz
- The Ten Bells
- Amélie Wine Bar & Bistro
- Terroir
- Aldo Sohm Wine Bar
- Peasant
- Rooftop Reds
- Four Horsemen
- Bibi Wine Bar
- St. Tropez
- Le Dive
- Ops
Wine Bars in New York City (Map)
And there you have it folks! My quick round-up of the best wine bars in New York City. I hope you enjoyed the article and it leads you to a great drink. Cheers!
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