This list of bars in the Upper East Side was written by Yana Zaytseva, co-founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps).
The Upper East Side (UES) may be synonymous with wealth, but you don’t need a hefty bank account to enjoy it. Visiting a UES bar can make you feel like a trust-fund baby without breaking the bank. In an expensive city like New York, spending over $20 on a cocktail can sting, so I’m here to steer you clear of mediocre drinks.
After exploring the neighborhood for years, I’ve found the best bars on the Upper East Side that offer value for your money. Think of me as your sacrificial liver, navigating the UES drinking scene so you don’t have to spend like a millionaire.
All I ask is that you don’t let my years of “research” go to waste and put this list to good use. But enough about me, why don’t we get into the best bars in the Upper East Side?
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 Upper East Side
Table of Contents: Upper East Side Bars
Table of Contents: UES Bars
Bemelmans Bar
Website: Bemelmans Bar
Address: 35 E 76th St, New York, NY 10021
When it comes to iconic bars in the Upper East Side, Bemelmans Bar usually graces the top of the list. Found in the classy Carlyle Hotel, this UES bar is best known for the alluring murals that adorn the walls. The murals were hand-painted by none other than the beloved illustrator behind the famous Madeline books, Ludwig Bemelmans (for whom the bar is named).
The beautiful murals were commissioned in the 1940s and depict Central Park in all four seasons. Peel your eyes away from the handsome walls and you’ll notice the pianist serenading patrons. Allow your eyes to wander and watch generous pours of perfectly executed drinks make their way from one table to the next.
In a lot of ways, Bemelmans Bar is exactly what an Upper East Side bar should be. The staff are dressed to impress, the bar is dimly lit and the aged leather banquettes offer an air of sophistication and class. It’s the only place to celebrate a special occasion.
The Penrose
Website: The Penrose
Address: 1590 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Surprisingly, The Penrose is not only one of the best bars in the Upper East Side but also a top brunch spot. The delicious food and cozy rustic vibe create an ideal setting for a romantic date. The bright and welcoming atmosphere during brunch pairs well with a breakfast cocktail from the bar.
For those visiting during regular bar hours, The Penrose stands out as one of the best cocktail bars in the Upper East Side, offering a diverse drink selection. The unique dirty-pickle martini is a noteworthy choice, showcasing the bar’s creativity and flavor profiles.
You should know that The Penrose is strictly 21+ after 8PM and reservations are only available for parties of 5 or more.
The Stumble Inn
Website: The Stumble Inn
Address:1454 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10021
If you’re looking for one of the best sports bars in the Upper East Side to get loud and have fun, The Stumble Inn fits the bill. The joint has music booming just about every day of the week so it’s a great place to bring a rowdy group of friends.
There are beer pong tables and TVs plastered all over the walls providing generous entertainment. You can easily lose track of time enjoying your company and taking advantage of the drink specials.
Melody’s Piano Bar
Website: Melody’s Piano Bar
Address: 1020 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021
Melody’s Piano Bar, a charming 1940s-themed date spot with live music, showcases an elegant vibe with black and white tiles, Versace jungle wallpaper, and leather booths. Nightly performances on piano or by a small band contribute to its reputation as one of the Upper East Side’s top bars.
There’s a $20 cover charge per table after 8 PM, supporting the musicians—consider staying longer or bringing a friend to split the cost. The menu features a selection of shaken, stirred, and fun cocktails; try the Milky Way for a delightful choice. Melody’s is gaining popularity, so arrive early as reservations aren’t accepted.
Five Mile Stone
Website: Five Mile Stone
Address: 1640 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Five Mile Stone, with its New Orleans-style exterior, stands out in the Upper East Side. The two-story bar, reminiscent of the French Quarter, boasts a balcony bustling with locals in the summer. Renowned for beer enthusiasts, it offers 24 rotating craft brews on tap, including international options.
Whiskey lovers will appreciate the selection of 90 different whiskeys in a laid-back atmosphere without snobbish vibes. Beyond its impressive drinks, the diverse menu features everything from chicken shawarma to classic burgers, making Five Mile Stone a top bar in the UES for dining.
Stella & Fly
Instagram: Stella & Fly
Address: 1705 1st Ave, New York, NY 10128
Stella & Fly, a cozy cafe by day, transforms into a top wine bar in the Upper East Side at night, drawing locals for after-work drinks. Far from the stereotypical quiet wine bar, it hosts lively events like trivia, open mics, and live music.
For deal seekers, Wine Wednesday offers $9 wine, Cocktail Thursday has $10 drinks, and happy hour runs from 3-8 PM Monday through Friday. With irresistible deals, Stella & Fly has solidified its place as one of the best wine bars in the UES.
Bondurants
Website: Bondurants
Address: 303 E 85th St, New York, NY 10028
Bondurants, a standout bar in the Upper East Side, offers a rustic and homey vibe with brick walls and wooden features, creating simple charm. Despite a lively atmosphere, attentive service and delicious food make every visit feel exclusive.
Its versatility shines, accommodating both casual hangouts and easygoing date nights. The UES bar is not just about drinks; the standout tater tots and wings add to its reputation as one of the best spots in the area.
Serena’s Wine Bar
Website: Serena’s Wine Bar
Address: 1268 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065
Wine at Serena’s Wine Bar on the Upper East Side is simply delightful, especially on sunny afternoons. With an extensive wine list catering to every taste, it’s easy to find something you’ll love. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
If hunger strikes, Serena’s kitchen offers delicious flatbreads and pasta that rival any local restaurant. For lighter bites, indulge in their charcuterie meats and cheeses. The relaxed atmosphere makes leaving one of the best wine bars in the UES quite challenging.
Festival Cafe
Website: Festival Cafe
Address: 1155 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10065
Festival Cafe has given the farm-to-table movement a twist, instead opting to go farm-to-bar. As one of the best cocktail bars in the Upper East Side, every drink is crafted using natural, responsibly sourced ingredients.
The bar even takes it a step further by publishing a list of the farms and businesses they work with, which adds an admirable level of transparency. It’s easy to enjoy a drink that you know was made using clean ingredients.
The same high-quality standard translates to the food too. Both the drink and food menus rotate frequently to utilize ingredients that are in season, so popping into this UES bar after a while is always a treat.
The Bar Room
Website: The Bar Room
Address: 117 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022
The Bar Room in the Upper East Side is like a scene from a movie, with checkered floor tiles and chandeliers creating a perfect setting. It’s undoubtedly one of the finest bars in the UES, blurring the lines between bar and restaurant seamlessly.
Expertly crafted classics like martinis and mojitos await a sophisticated dinner experience. Notably, their crispy duck wings are a must-try, irresistibly smothered in soy glaze. The Bar Room’s solid happy hour, from 3-6 PM daily, offers sangria, wine, and more for just $10, making it one of the best bars in the Upper East Side for a deal.
The Five Lamps
Website: The Five Lamps
Address: 1586 York Ave, New York, NY 10028
Offering a homey atmosphere to watch a game, unwind, or catch up with friends, it becomes easy to lose track of time at The Five Lamps. With plenty of seating and friendly waitstaff, it feels like hanging out with roommates.
This UES bar is also a go-to for deals, featuring $2 tacos and $6 margaritas on Taco Tuesday (after 4 PM) and a burger with a beer for just $20 on Wednesdays. If you enjoy trivia, don’t miss out on the NYC Trivia League every Thursday at 7:30 PM for some friendly neighborhood competition and the chance to win prizes.
The Sefton
Website: The Sefton
Address: 1373 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021
The Sefton, a standout Irish pub, is among the best bars on the Upper East Side, popular for its generous pours of Guinness. While they offer cocktails and wine, it’s the perfect spot for a simple brew. The friendly bartenders elevate the experience, making it worth a visit even if the drinks aren’t great. Sitting at the bar ensures pleasant small talk and the full Irish pub experience.
Enjoy a generous happy hour from 11 AM to 7 PM with $5 domestic bottles and $9 margaritas. The charming decor adds to the appeal of this neighborhood joint, making reservations is encouraged for one of the best bars on the Upper East Side.
Something to know: The Sefton is named after a horse that was seriously injured in the Hyde Park Bombings in London. The horse remarkably regained its health and became a symbol of defiance against terrorism, even winning Horse of the Year in 1982.
Doc Watson’s
Website: Doc Watson’s
Address: 1490 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10075
For over 25 years, Doc Watson’s has reigned as one of the best bars in the Upper East Side, embodying the quintessential Irish pub experience with quality brews and a laid-back vibe. Equipped with darts, Jenga, and sports on multiple TVs, it’s a perfect spot for casual entertainment. Soccer enthusiasts will find it especially appealing for European games like the Champions League and Europa League.
For outdoor lovers, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot in the cozy backyard beer garden. Surprisingly, Doc Watson’s is also a top brunch spot on the Upper East Side, offering a steal of a deal at $23 for a brunch dish and two drinks.
Auction House
Website: Auction House
Address: 300 E 89th St, New York, NY 10128
For an intimate date night, Auction House is the go-to bar on the Upper East Side. With its posh red velvet drapes, marble fireplace, and candle-lit tables, it’s a charming venue. The lounge-style seating allows for cozy conversations while enjoying drinks, and Auction House is known for being one of the best cocktail bars in the UES.
While the cocktails may not be super innovative, they are simple and delicious, embracing the classics. Note that it’s 25 and older on Fridays and Saturdays and no real fur is allowed. If you’re under 25, visit any other day of the week and leave the mink coat at home.
Third Avenue Ale House
Website: Third Avenue Ale House
Address: 1644 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10128
With 30 draft beers and over 40 bottles, Third Avenue Ale House is a beer lover’s haven. The knowledgeable staff is open to beer discussions, making it easy to discover new favorites. Offering a variety of traditional bar food, their old-school nachos with chicken tinga are a satisfying choice, perfect for sharing with a friend.
This Upper East Side bar also features enticing specials, including a $20 burger and beer deal on Mondays, and a taco, side, and cocktail combo for $20 on Taco Tuesday. Happy hour, running until 6 PM daily, offers $2 off standard drafts, well-drinks, and select wines. For dog parents, Third Avenue Ale House is pet-friendly in outdoor seating areas, making it a top choice among the best bars in the Upper East Side.
Best Bars in the Upper East Side (Post Summary)
- Bemelmans Bar
- The Penrose
- Third Avenue Ale House
- Doc Watson’s
- The Sefton
- The Five Lamps
- The Bar Room
- Festival Cafe
- Serena’s Wine Bar
- Bondurants
- Stella & Fly
- The Auction House
- Five Mile Stone
- Melody’s piano bar
- Keys & Heels
Further Reading for the Upper East Side
Best Things to Do on the Upper East Side: 15+ Great Things to Do in the Upper East Side
Where to Eat on the UES: 15 Epic Restaurants in the Upper East Side
Best Brunch UES: 15 Flavorful Brunch Spots in the Upper East Side
Where to Score a Deal on the UES: 12 Epic Happy Hour Spots on the Upper East Side
Best Bagels UES: 12 Tasty Upper East Side Bagels
More Great NYC Restaurants
Restaurants in Greenwich Village: 12 Charming Restaurants in Greenwich Village
Affordable Michelin Star Restaurants: 10 Amazingly (Affordable) Michelin Star Restaurants in NYC (Worth The Price!)
Iconic Restaurants in NYC: 10 Iconic New York City Restaurants Every Local Needs to Try
Restaurants Near Central Park: The 20 Best Restaurants Near Central Park
Best Weather Appropriate Restaurants: 15 Cozy Restaurants with Heated Outdoor Dining in New York City (For Even the Coldest of Days!)
Best Upper East Side Bars (Map)
And there you have it my friends, the best cocktail bars in the Upper East Side.
Cheers!
DD says
Please also visit and review this new bar “Somebody’s Darling” at 1664 1st Ave New York, New York. It’s been an INCREDIBLE addition to the UES!
Angela Del Vecchio says
thank you for this, it is very helpful.