Discovering the Coolest Bars in Greenwich Village: A Local’s Guide
Greenwich Village, a historic neighborhood in Lower Manhattan, is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, bohemian history, and, importantly, its eclectic array of bars. From cozy dive bars steeped in history to sophisticated cocktail lounges, the Village offers something for every taste. This guide explores some of the coolest bars in Greenwich Village, providing insights into their ambiance, drink selections, and unique appeal.
For those seeking a memorable night out, understanding the diverse bar scene of Greenwich Village is essential. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you navigate the neighborhood’s best watering holes and discover your new favorite spot. We’ll delve into establishments known for their live music, expertly crafted cocktails, extensive beer selections, and intimate atmospheres. Let’s dive into the cool bars in Greenwich Village.
Iconic Greenwich Village Bars
Several bars in Greenwich Village have achieved legendary status, becoming synonymous with the neighborhood’s artistic and cultural heritage. These establishments often boast a rich history and a loyal following.
The Bitter End
The Bitter End, located on Bleecker Street, is New York City’s oldest rock and roll club. Since opening its doors in 1961, it has hosted countless legendary musicians, including Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and Stevie Wonder. Today, The Bitter End continues to showcase emerging talent and established acts, offering a diverse lineup of live music performances. The historic ambiance and intimate setting make it a must-visit for music lovers seeking cool bars in Greenwich Village.
Minetta Tavern
Minetta Tavern, a Greenwich Village institution since 1937, exudes old-world charm and sophistication. This landmark restaurant and bar is known for its classic cocktails, upscale American cuisine, and intimate atmosphere. The dimly lit interior, adorned with vintage photographs and artwork, creates a nostalgic and inviting ambiance. Minetta Tavern is a popular destination for those seeking a refined and memorable drinking experience among the coolest bars in Greenwich Village. Reservations are highly recommended.
White Horse Tavern
The White Horse Tavern, another historic Greenwich Village establishment, is famous for being a favorite haunt of literary figures like Dylan Thomas, Norman Mailer, and Jack Kerouac. This iconic bar has a long and storied history, and its walls are adorned with photographs and memorabilia that pay homage to its literary past. The White Horse Tavern offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits, as well as a menu of classic pub fare. It’s a great spot to soak up the neighborhood’s bohemian atmosphere and enjoy a drink in a truly historic setting. Many consider it one of the cool bars in Greenwich Village due to its history alone.
Modern Cocktail Havens
In addition to its historic bars, Greenwich Village also boasts a thriving cocktail scene, with numerous establishments dedicated to crafting innovative and expertly made drinks.
Employees Only
Employees Only is a stylish cocktail bar that offers a sophisticated and lively atmosphere. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails and late-night dining menu, this bar attracts a discerning clientele. The bartenders at Employees Only are skilled mixologists who take pride in their craft, creating both classic and original cocktails with fresh ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. The dimly lit interior and Art Deco décor create a chic and inviting ambiance, making it a popular destination for those seeking cool bars in Greenwich Village with a touch of glamour.
The Garret
The Garret is a hidden gem located above a Five Guys burger joint. This speakeasy-style bar offers a cozy and intimate setting, with a focus on expertly crafted cocktails. The bartenders at The Garret are passionate about their craft and are dedicated to creating unique and flavorful drinks. The menu features a variety of classic and contemporary cocktails, as well as a selection of small plates. Finding this hidden spot is part of the fun, making it one of the most unique and cool bars in Greenwich Village.
Analogue
Analogue offers a more relaxed and intimate vibe with an impressive whiskey selection. Their cocktails are innovative, and the ambiance is perfect for conversation. This spot is often overlooked, but it’s a fantastic addition to the list of cool bars in Greenwich Village. They also offer a curated selection of beers and wines.
Dive Bars with Character
For those seeking a more casual and unpretentious drinking experience, Greenwich Village offers a number of dive bars with plenty of character.
The Grasshopper
The Grasshopper is a no-frills dive bar that has been serving up cheap drinks and good times for decades. This neighborhood institution is known for its friendly atmosphere, jukebox, and unpretentious vibe. The Grasshopper is a popular spot for locals and students alike, offering a welcome respite from the more upscale bars in the area. If you’re looking for a laid-back and authentic Greenwich Village experience, The Grasshopper is a must-visit. It’s definitely one of the cool bars in Greenwich Village, if you appreciate a good dive.
MacDougal Street Ale House
Located on the bustling MacDougal Street, this ale house offers a wide selection of beers on tap and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot to people-watch and enjoy a casual drink with friends. The MacDougal Street Ale House captures the energy of the Village, making it one of the more vibrant and cool bars in Greenwich Village.
Bars with Live Music
Greenwich Village has a long and rich history of live music, and several bars in the neighborhood continue to showcase talented musicians.
55 Bar
55 Bar is a legendary jazz club that has been hosting live music performances for over three decades. This intimate and dimly lit venue is known for its high-quality musicians and its unpretentious atmosphere. 55 Bar is a must-visit for jazz lovers seeking an authentic and immersive musical experience. It is undeniably one of the cool bars in Greenwich Village for jazz aficionados.
The Red Lion
The Red Lion is a lively bar that features live music every night of the week. This popular spot attracts a diverse crowd and offers a wide range of musical genres, from rock and blues to folk and country. The Red Lion is a great place to discover new talent and enjoy a night of live entertainment. It’s another reason why Greenwich Village is known for its cool bars.
Rooftop Bars
While not as prevalent as other types of bars in the Village, there are some rooftop options that offer stunning views.
Roof at Park South
While technically not *in* Greenwich Village (it’s on the border), Roof at Park South offers incredible views of the surrounding area, including a glimpse of the Village. Their cocktails are well-crafted, and the atmosphere is chic and upscale. Consider it a nearby option if you’re looking for a rooftop experience and have already explored the cool bars in Greenwich Village.
Tips for Exploring the Greenwich Village Bar Scene
- Plan Ahead: Greenwich Village bars can get crowded, especially on weekends. Consider making reservations, particularly for popular spots like Minetta Tavern and Employees Only.
- Explore Different Neighborhoods: While this guide focuses on Greenwich Village, the surrounding neighborhoods, such as the West Village and the East Village, also offer a wide variety of bars and restaurants. [See also: Best Cocktail Bars in the East Village]
- Take Advantage of Happy Hour: Many Greenwich Village bars offer happy hour specials, providing a great opportunity to sample different drinks and save money.
- Be Prepared to Walk: Greenwich Village is a walkable neighborhood, so be prepared to explore on foot. This will allow you to discover hidden gems and stumble upon new favorite spots.
- Respect the Neighborhood: Greenwich Village is a residential neighborhood, so be mindful of noise levels and respect the residents who live there.
Conclusion
Greenwich Village offers a diverse and vibrant bar scene, with something to suit every taste and preference. From historic institutions like The Bitter End and Minetta Tavern to modern cocktail havens like Employees Only and The Garret, the neighborhood is home to some of the coolest bars in Greenwich Village. By exploring the neighborhood’s various establishments and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can discover your new favorite spot and experience the unique charm and character of Greenwich Village. So, grab a friend, put on your walking shoes, and embark on a journey to discover the cool bars in Greenwich Village. Cheers!
