NYC's Best Happy Hours [Updated 2025]

Get ready to raise a glass to some of the finest happy hours this city has to offer! After sipping, savoring, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere at 12 top locations, I can confidently say that these spots are not just about cheap drinks—they're all about the experience.

I’ve navigated the lively streets of Manhattan, the trendy corners of Brooklyn, and the hidden gems in Queens, all in the name of research (and fun, of course). Whether you're unwinding after a long day or kicking off a night out, I’ve got the inside scoop on where to find the best deals and the most unforgettable vibes. Let's dive into the delightful world of NYC happy hours together!

Bar Belly

Highlights
Amazing vibe and live music
Fresh oysters for $12
Great deals on drinks
Lively and bustling crowd
Excellent service

Bar Belly is nothing short of a hidden gem in NYC, and it truly shines during happy hour. Upon entering, I was immediately greeted by the lively atmosphere, enhanced by the energy of live music that set the perfect backdrop for a delightful evening. The crowd was vibrant, buzzing with laughter and conversation, creating an inviting ambiance that made me want to linger.

One standout highlight was their fresh oysters available for just $12. They were plump, briny, and tasted like a mini vacation on a half shell! Paired with their impressive beverage options, I found myself indulging in cocktails that were both creative and refreshing, all at incredibly fair prices.

What really impressed me was the service; the staff was not only attentive but also genuinely friendly, adding to the overall charming experience. Bar Belly is more than just another happy hour spot; it’s a place where enjoyment and camaraderie thrive. If you're on the hunt for a fantastic happy hour in NYC, Bar Belly should undoubtedly be on your list. You'll find that the delightful combination of good vibes and great deals makes it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day!

You might also want to check out the best happy hour in Harlem.

The Rum House

Nestled in the heart of Times Square, The Rum House is a delightful escape from the city's chaos. Its intimate vibe and exquisite rum selection set the perfect backdrop for unwinding after a long day. During happy hour, I savored expertly crafted cocktails, featuring exotic flavors that danced on my palate. The live jazz adds a charming touch, making each visit feel like a special event. With affordable prices and a warm ambiance, The Rum House has quickly become one of my favorite spots for a post-work rendezvous. For anyone seeking a mix of nostalgia and luxury, this is a must-visit!

You might also want to check out the best happy hour in Manhattan Beach.

The Wayland

Nestled in the heart of the East Village, The Wayland offers a delightful happy hour that’s hard to beat! From 5 to 7 PM, you can indulge in craft cocktails for just $7, featuring seasonal ingredients that burst with flavor. Their wine selection is both affordable and thoughtfully curated, perfect for sipping alongside their delicious bar bites. The rustic decor creates a cozy atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a long day. Whether you're enjoying a refreshing The Wayland Spritz or mingling with friends, this spot guarantees a memorable experience that will have you coming back for more!

You might also want to check out the best happy hour in Queens.

Oscar Wilde

At Oscar Wilde, the atmosphere is as vibrant as the cocktails they serve. This whimsical Irish pub offers a charming twist on the traditional happy hour, with $7 craft cocktails and a delightful selection of $5 beers. The stunning decor, inspired by the playwright himself, creates an inviting backdrop for an evening with friends. While I savored their signature gin and tonic, I couldn’t resist the delectable spicy chicken sliders on the menu. With happy hour running until 7 PM and a lively crowd, it’s a perfect spot to unwind after a long day. A true gem in the heart of NYC!

You might also want to check out the best happy hour in Long Island.

Porchlight

Porchlight is a vibrant gem nestled in the heart of NYC that truly elevates the happy hour experience. With its southern-inspired charm and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. The signature cocktails are not only inventive but also delightfully affordable during happy hour, with specials that make indulging guilt-free. I was particularly enchanted by the house-made pickles that perfectly complemented the drinks. The friendly staff exudes warmth, making you feel right at home. If you’re hunting for a place that offers both great drinks and a lively vibe, Porchlight should be at the top of your list!

You might also want to check out the best happy hour in Long Island City.

Tara Rose

Tara Rose is a delightful gem tucked away in the heart of the city that knows how to kick off the evening just right. During happy hour, the vibe is infectious, and the seasonal cocktails are a playful twist on classics. I found myself enchanted by their $5 wines and $7 craft beers—perfect for sipping while mingling with friends. The cozy ambiance, adorned with vibrant decor, invites lively conversation, making it easy to linger. Get ready for a fun-filled experience where you’ll leave with a smile and maybe even a new favorite drink. Cheers to that!

You might also want to check out the best sports bars in NYC.

Milady's

Milady's is a hidden gem that perfectly captures the charm of a classic NYC bar. With its warm ambiance and friendly staff, happy hour feels like a cozy gathering with friends. I indulged in their $5 beers and $7 cocktails—each sip was a delightful journey. The upbeat vibe combined with delicious $6 snacks made it easy to lose track of time. This spot blends nostalgia with modern flair, making it a must-visit. Whether you're winding down after work or starting a night out, Milady’s is a remarkable choice for enjoying well-crafted drinks in a welcoming atmosphere. Cheers to that!

You might also want to check out the best sports bars in Brooklyn.

A10 Kitchen

At A10 Kitchen, I discovered a delightful happy hour that perfectly marries indulgence and value. With $5 wines and $7 craft beers, it's tough not to feel giddy with excitement! The ambiance is cozy yet vibrant, inviting patrons to unwind after a long day. Their mouthwatering small plates, like crispy artichokes and savory meatballs, elevate the experience, ensuring your taste buds dance with joy. What truly won me over were the friendly staff, eager to make recommendations. For a charming escape with great deals, A10 Kitchen is a must-visit for any happy hour enthusiast! 🍷✨

You might also want to check out the best sports bars in Queens.

VALERIE

Nestled in the heart of the Lower East Side, VALERIE offers a delightful escape for happy hour enthusiasts. Their craft cocktails, like the spicy margarita, kick off the festivities with a punch, while $5 beers keep the vibe relaxed and vibrant. The cozy ambiance, adorned with twinkling lights, invites you to linger longer. My favorite part? The mouthwatering small plates that pair perfectly with your drink — think crispy calamari and savory sliders! As the sun sets, the energy picks up, making it an ideal spot to unwind with friends. Cheers to a memorable evening! Don't miss this gem.

You might also want to check out the best sports bars in NYC.

Haswell Green's

Nestled in the heart of the bustling Theater District, Haswell Green's is a delightful escape for happy hour enthusiasts. The vibrant atmosphere sets the perfect backdrop for unwinding after a long day. With $5 beers and $6 cocktails that pack a flavorful punch, my taste buds were definitely pleased! Their signature “Green's Mule” is a must-try, blending refreshing notes with a spicy kick. Plus, the friendly staff and cozy setting make it hard not to linger a little longer than intended. If you’re on the hunt for a lively spot to sip and savor, make sure Haswell Green's is on your list!

You might also want to check out the best wine bars in NYC.

Dante West Village

Dante West Village is a charming gem that transforms your typical happy hour into an unforgettable soirée. Their iconic cocktails steal the show, especially during the delightful 4-6 PM window. I indulged in their signature Negroni—a perfect balance of bitterness and zest that dances on the palate. The ambiance is a delightful blend of cozy and sophisticated, making it an ideal spot for unwinding with friends. Pair your drinks with their tantalizing bites, like the crisped arancini, and you’ll understand why this venue is a favorite. Cheers to the happy vibes at Dante! 🍹✨

You might also want to check out the best bars in Brooklyn.

169 Bar

I recently swung by 169 Bar, a hidden gem in the heart of the Lower East Side, and what a delight it was! The décor is a charming blend of vintage and quirky, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites you to linger. During happy hour, their $5 cocktails are dangerously delicious, with a tropical twist that dances on your palate. Pair that with $2 tacos, and you’ve got yourself a mini feast! The vibrant crowd adds to the electric energy, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day. 169 Bar is definitely a must-visit for happy hour aficionados!

You might also want to check out the best clubs in Brooklyn.