Some New York bars are better suited for winter drinking than others. Find out where you can seek refuge from the chilly temps with good beer and cocktails.
When the barometer starts dropping, you might be tempted to stay in your apartment, but you’d be missing out. There are winter activities to enjoy, shops to raid and, of course, a multitude of drinkeries waiting to welcome you. Scroll through our list of the best New York bars for cold weather, including several spots in the best NYC neighborhoods. Middle Branch Good for: chill, cocktails
Mixology trailblazer Sasha Petraske expands his influence to Midtown with this spin-off of West Village boite Little Branch. Delicate lighting fixtures illuminate embossed wallpaper and exposed brick in the two-floor space, where bartenders craft cocktails with a chemist’s precision. Request a drink with your preferred spirit or flavor profile (sour, sweet, refreshing and so on) and let them work their magic, or simply make a selection from the extensive bar menu. There’s plenty to choose from, including riffs on classic quaffs such as an Island Old-Fashioned (Zacapa aged rum, Velvet Falernum, Angostura bitters, cane syrup) and signature concoctions such as the East Side (gin, lime, mint, cucumber). Tradesman Good for: groups
Salvaged wood paneling and pegboard walls adorned with vintage tools give this drinkery a rustic feel. Co-owners Larissa Varges and Marek Gregorski stock their bar with locally made liquors, including Harvest Spirit’s Cornelius applejack from the Hudson Valley and COMB’s Honey gin from Westchester County. Brewhounds are well served by a dozen taps that dispense a selection of New York suds from the likes of KelSo Beer Company of Brooklyn. Claim a chair at the long oak counter or one of the small tables in the back and shake off the chill. Beer Table Good for: beer, groups
Beer fiend or not, you’ll want to rely on the friendly staff to guide you and your friends through the menu of rare and obscure beers, as some choices are more accessible than others. Among those we’ve sampled, the De Dolle Dulle Teve—a foamy, honey-sweet Abbey Tripel and served from the keg—goes down easy, but the Swiss, herbaceous La Meule from Brasserie Des Franches-Montagnes could be more of a challenge to the uninitiated. The prices may seem steep at first glance, but remember: ’Tis the season to treat yourself. Huckleberry Bar Good for: cocktails, chill
There’s something for every boozer at this easygoing lounge. The bar’s cocktail menu has staples like the Gold Rush (Evan Williams bourbon, lemon juice, honey) and modern takes that nod to the Kings County locale, such as the Brooklyn Sling (Brooklyn gin, Hardy VS cognac, sorrel-hibiscus liqueur, Bénédictine, fresh lime juice and simple syrup). But as the holidays approach, the most spirited night to visit is Tuesday, when the coterie holds its weekly Punch Party. Rally your crew for $5 cups of the rotating concoction and forget there’s another three days left in the workweek. The Tippler Good for: groups, cocktails
Use this expansive lounge from Tad Carducci and Paul Tanguay (Tippling Bros.) as a refuge from the Chelsea Market and Meatpacking District holiday crowds. Even at its most packed, there’s still a fair amount of room to maneuver, which means you won’t have too much trouble posting up at the long marble bar. The menu includes a number of affordable draft and bottled beers, plus wines from around the world, but you’d be remiss not to try at least one of the sophisticated specialty cocktails. The Booty Collins (gunpowder tea–infused Belvedere vodka, passionfruit and lemon juices, yohimbe extract, cayenne) appeals to adventurous revelers, while traditionalists might prefer the cheekily named but relatively straightforward Gin & Chronic (Plymouth gin, hops, spiced lime, tonic). The Vault at Pfaff's Good for: chill, cocktails
If this spot’s former incarnation as a beer cellar was good enough for Walt Whitman, its current form—a handsome cocktail lounge—is good enough for us modern plebes. Find a seat at the century-old white-oak bar, give yourself a moment to appreciate the restored iron columns and granite ceilings from 1855, then take stock of the drink menu. Our favorite among the 25 options, which are divided into “homegrown” and “classic” beverages, is the fizzy Champagne Charles, a festive combination of dry Ayala Brut Majeur, floral June liqueur and house-made cranberry bitters. Hair of the Dog Good for: beer, groups
Daily specials abound at this beercentric bar from the founders of Jake’s Dilemma, Down the Hatch and other sudsy bastions. On Monday nights, drafts are $1 and domestic pitchers are $8; on Thursdays, grab a bucket for $12. Sunday’s BYO coffee special allows anyone who brings in a cup of joe to score a half-price spike of liquor. Instead of Pabst-swilling LES regulars, the crowd skews toward sports enthusiasts who fixate on 25 flat screens and three projectors. If you’re not a Giants or Jets fan, turn your attention to the sizable roster of mostly American brews; you’ll find at least 11 on draft and about 20 by the can or bottle. You might also like 50 best New York bars Best happy hours for good beer Hit these bars for craft suds at Bud Light prices. Brooklyn BreweryBrooklyn Brewery taps are ubiquitous, but bargain-hunting boozers know to head straight to the source on weekends, when the brewery dispenses its goods for $4 per pint, or $20 for six. Eight varieties are at your disposal each week, ranging from standards (Brooklyn Lager) to seasonal releases. You might even get your hands on limited-edition sips from the geekworthy Brewmaster's Reserve series (recent editions have included a stout brewed with Stumptown coffee beans and a saison packed with Japanese hops). Fair warning: Friday nights get loud and crowded, so arrive early to claim your spot at one of the giant picnic tables. 79 North 11th St between Berry St and Wythe Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-486-7422, brooklynbrewery.com). Fri 6--11pm, Sat noon--8pm, Sun noon--6pm.
Drop Off ServiceThis worn-in local offers the perfect happy-hour triple play of length, quality and price. From 3 to 8pm Monday to Friday (and 1 to 8pm on weekends), beers are served for just $3 to $5. While away the afternoon feeding the jukebox and knocking back $3 imperial pints of malty Old Speckled Hen, $7 pours of peppery Delirium Tremens or any of the other ten international brews on tap. American craft brews also get strong representation with 16 diverse options. To balance the bargain booze, nosh on Aussie meat pies ($5) and sausage rolls ($3) that the bar stocks from Tuck Shop. 211 Ave A between 13th and 14th Sts (212-260-2914)
4th Avenue PubOn a strip packed with top-flight beer bars—Mission Dolores, Pacific Standard, Cherry Tree Tavern—this haunt stands out thanks to its generous happy-hour deals. On weekdays from 3 to 8pm, the pub shaves $2 off any of its 27 drafts and its cask ale (normally $6). Stock up on gratis munchies at the popcorn machine, then explore options including small-batch releases from Long Island's Greenport Harbor and San Francisco's Speakeasy Ales and Lagers. An ivy-clad patio invites hop heads to play hooky on warm days. 76 Fourth Ave between Bergen St and St. Marks Pl, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-643-2273)
The GateYou won't get any funny looks for ordering a PBR at this laid-back Park Slope pub, which caters to beer drinkers of all stripes with its happy hour. From 3 to 7pm on weekdays, the bar shaves a buck off most brews (usually $6 or $6.50). You won't have trouble finding something you like: The 24-tap lineup covers everything from Guinness to 21st Amendment's rich, Belgian-style Monk's Blood, and those PBRs go for $2 if you're feeling especially thrifty. No wonder everyone seems to be having a good time—including the dogs that carefree owners seem to leave to their own devices. When the weather warms up, the outdoor patio has hotly contested real estate. 321 Fifth Ave at 3rd St, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-768-4329)
Gleason'sNothing's better than a happy hour that takes care of your thirst as well as your hunger. Satisfy all your needs at this hops-forward sports bar. Monday through Friday from 4 to 8pm, the bar selects three craft labels from its 16 drafts to sell for just $3 (usually $5--$7); recent taps to get the nod have included the toasty Coney Island Lager and Speakeasy's caramel-tinged Prohibition Ale. During the same hours, soak up the pints with $5 pub-grub specials like pulled-pork sliders and gravy-and-cheese--laden disco fries. 33-08 Broadway between 33rd and 34th Sts, Astoria, Queens (718-626-5393)
Pony BarThis Hell's Kitchen saloon beckons Port Authority refugees and office workers with one of the best beer selections north of 14th Street. While happy hour is interpreted more literally than we're used to—it runs daily from 4:20 to 5:20pm—the small boozing window offers deals on some seriously big beers. A flag-waving menu of 20 drafts and two casks leans toward brawny, high-alcohol brews from craft superstars such as Founders and Lagunitas, all of which go for just $4 (a buck off the already cheap $5 price tag). If you can make Pony a regular stop, ask a bartender for a scorecard and vie to become an "All American" by drinking and rating 100 different beers. Should you complete the task, you'll be rewarded with a free Dickies work shirt. 637 Tenth Ave at 45th St (212-586-2707, theponybar.com)
The Stag's HeadStag's Head offers one of midtown's longest and most hops-oriented happy hours: At least half of the 16 drafts are just $4 or $5 from Monday through Friday, 11am--7pm (usually $6--$8). The patriotic taps rep cultish, far-flung outfits such as Pretty Things—a "gypsy brewer" that borrows other producers' facilities to make beer—and Colorado's Great Divide. Improve your beer IQ during free Wednesday-night tastings (6pm), when guest breweries pair their suds with themed snacks; recently Pennsylvania's Victory showed off its wares alongside Philly cheese-steak spring rolls. 252 E 51st St at Second Ave (212-888-2453, thestagsheadnyc.com)
Sweet AftonOn Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30am to 4pm, the bar's stellar eight craft brews—as well as a rotating cask selection—go for $4 a pop (regularly $6--$7). The top-tier pours make a great match for gut-busting fare like the Irish breakfast sandwich (packed with sausage, bacon and black pudding) or a Pat LaFrieda--blend breakfast burger crowned with a fried egg ($9). Catch the same bargain Monday through Friday from 4 to 7pm. 30-09 34th St between 30th and 31st Aves, Astoria, Queens (718-777-2570, sweetaftonbar.com)
Washington CommonsThe party starts early and doesn't slow down during the weekday happy hour at this Prospect Heights hang. Off-duty teachers colonize the handsome U-shaped bar starting at 3pm, followed by a steady flow of tie-loosening office workers and neighborhood folks who stream in until 8pm for $2 off quaffs from the 16-tap selection (most are usually $6). Choose an Avery New World Porter from Colorado or sample something more local like Captain Lawrence Brewing Company's Espresso Stout from upstate. When the weather warms up, expect the leafy outdoor patio to be packed with revelers and their furry friends. 434 Park Pl at Washington Ave, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn (718-230-3666)
The Wild Goose This Irish watering hole keeps the deals going all day and night long on Mondays and Tuesdays (noon--4am). Sidle up to the long wooden bar and order any of the 46 beers on tap (normally $4--$6), including brews from California's Bear Republic and local favorite Sixpoint, for half price until last call at 3:30am. And if an early-in-the-week bender isn't in the cards, come by Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 7pm for the same discount. 530 Forest Ave between Davis and Lawrence Aves, Staten Island (718-720-3800, thewildgoosepub.com) See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less The best Irish pubs Embrace the St. Patrick's Day spirit on this borough-hopping tour of the city's standout taverns. Molly's Pub and Shebeen287 Third Ave between 22nd and 23rd Sts (212-889-3361)The craic: Thickly accented bartenders tend to off-the-clock Manhattanites at this rustic East Side retreat. Pastoral touches—a whitewashed facade, sawdust-covered floor and Celtic crosses—make this tavern feel like it's been transplanted from the Irish countryside.Cost of a Guinness: $7Noteworthy eats and pours: Regulars swear by the stew ($18), a rib-sticking combination of lamb, carrots and potatoes, paired with a pint of Murphy's Stout ($7), a creamy swig brewed in County Cork using a 150-year-old recipe. If none of the four Irish beers on tap appeal, opt for one of the dozen-plus whiskeys, including the peppery Powers Gold Label ($8).
Ceol191 Smith St between Baltic and Warren Sts, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn (347-643-9911)The craic: Dublin native Loretta Heaney helms this cozy homage to the Emerald Isle, where you'll find neighborhood folk mingling with expats hankering for a sense of home. Heaney obliges: Vintage distillery signs and Irish blessings grace the walls, European football plays on four flatscreen TVs, and traditional tunes performed by live bands replace classic rock on alternating Sundays. Wednesdays are dedicated to singer/songwriter showcases (the bar's name means "music" in Gaelic).Cost of a Guinness: $7Noteworthy eats and pours: Wash down a traditional shepherd's pie ($13), a mix of seasonal vegetables and ground beef topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and cheddar cheese, with one of four Irish drafts. We like Smithwick's ($6), a malty and easy-sipping red ale.
The Wicked Monk8415 Fifth Ave between 84th and 85th Sts, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn (718-921-0601)The craic: There's quite literally a piece of ire in this jolly pub—in fact, there are several: When owner Michael Dorgan heard that a church in Cork, Ireland, was being demolished, he shipped over a few pieces (the wooden pews, pulpit, confessional, statues and stained-glass windows) to incorporate into his bar. The trimmings may skew sacred, but the older neighborhood crowd here is plenty rowdy—look for the faces of abiding regulars immortalized in the mural above the bar.Cost of a Guinness: $6.50Noteworthy eats and pours: The staff here takes its Guinness very seriously—if Dorgan spots incorrectly poured suds, he'll toss them down the drain without hesitation—so request a pint of the roasty stout with confidence. You can also throw back a dram of that old Irish standby, Jameson ($7).
An Beal Bocht445 W 238th St between Greystone and Waldo Aves, Bronx (718-884-7127)The craic: The name is Gaelic for "the poor mouth," which is also the title of a novel by Irish writer Flann O'Brien, but that's not the only artistic influence at this congenial hang, which serves as a gathering place for Riverdale's Irish-American, art and theater communities. Posters and sketches depict literary heroes like James Joyce, and five nights a week, live bands play everything from old-world ballads to contemporary hits from U2.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: Comfort foods abound on the lengthy menu, which stars bangers and mash ($10) and a classic Irish breakfast ($12) with traditional meats (Irish bacon, Irish sausage, and black and white puddings from the Butcher's Fancy in Woodlawn) and Batchelors beans. Whether or not you're breaking bread, ask for a pint of the smooth house amber ale, Lecheile ($4), brewed upstate.
Veronica's Bar34-04 36th Ave between 34th and 35th Sts, Astoria, Queens (718-729-9744)The craic: Owners Eddie and Veronica Devine, who hail from Counties Limerick and Fermanagh respectively, put a premium on old-fashioned hospitality, which keeps their modest spot packed with regulars. Despite the everyone-knows-everyone vibe, newcomers are warmly welcomed into the fold—especially if you're willing to belt out classic-rock tunes, warbling from a digital jukebox, with the rest of the bar.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: No food is served, but you can still say slinte (Gaelic for "cheers") with five different types of homeland hooch: Jameson, Powers, Paddy, Tullamore Dew and Bushmills ($6).
Sean Ogs60-02 Woodside Ave at 60th St, Woodside, Queens (718-899-3499)The craic: You're never far from a lilting laugh or brogue at this lively spot, where more than half of the staff is Ireland-born. A seat at the sleek wooden bar best positions you to hear stories from the bartenders, but it's hard to resist a table next to the stone hearth.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: Hunker down with a glass of toasty, mild Paddy Old Irish whiskey ($6), distilled and bottled in County Cork, and a mixed grill (Irish sausage, black and white puddings, a pork chop and eggs any style; $14.95).
See more in Restaurants + Bars See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less Birthday bars Alligator LoungeIf you hanker for your college days, spend a night with beer, free pizza, a killer jukebox and Big Buck Hunter. The pizza is authentically cooked in a wood-burning oven for a deliciously crispy base, and you get a personal-sized pizza with every drink. Though with pitchers of Rheingold only $10, your stomach will soon be begging you to stop. 600 Metropolitan Ave between Leonard and Lorimer Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-599-4440). Daily 3pm-4am.
BarcadeBoasting more than 20 classic arcade machines, like Ms. Pac-Man, Frogger, Tapper and Robotron:2084, at old-school prices (just a quarter), you can finally try to beat your '80s high score, except this time you'll be contending with the effects of 25 microbrews. 388 Union Ave at Ainslie St (718-302-6464, barcadebrooklyn.com). Mon--Fri 5pm--4am; Sat, Sun 2pm--4am.
Beauty BarIf you haven't got time for pampering and boozing on your big day, combine the two at this salon-turned-saloon, where a martini and a manicure cost a mere $10. (Manhattan: Mon--Fri 6--11pm; Sat, Sun 7--11pm. Brooklyn: Wed-Fri 7-11pm, Sat 9pm-midnight. Call ahead for parties of six or more.) Now that you're looking fresh, roll back the years dancing to the nightly Djs, or chuckle with a regular comedy night on Sundays at the East Village location. Beauty Bar New York: 231 E 14th St between Second and Third Aves (212-539-1389, beautybar.com). Mon--Fri 5pm--4am; Sat, Sun 7pm--4am; Beauty Bar Brooklyn: 921 Broadway at Melrose St, Bushwick, Brooklyn (347-529-0370). Daily 6pm--4am.
Blue OwlThe lights are low, the patrons well-heeled and the drinks properly stiff. Stake out one of the stylish pressed-tin tables and sip a proprietary Blue Owl—a sultry mix of Miller's gin, maraschino liqueur and fresh lemon juice. During cocktail hour between 5 and 8pm Monday through Friday, many drink selections are only $6, while early birds on Wednesdays are treated to free libations between 5 and 6pm. 196 Second Ave between 12th and 13th Sts (212-505-2583, blueowlnyc.com). Mon, Tue, Sun 5pm--2am; Wed--Sat 5pm--4am.
Brooklyn BowlRound up your posse and put your name down for a lane. While you wait, sink into the luxe Chesterfield sofas, down Brooklyn brews like Sixpoint and chow down on Blue Ribbon's scrumptious stoner food. It won't matter if the booze has made your group rowdy by the time you bowl—no one will be able to notice over the deafening hipster-rock soundtrack. 61 Wythe Ave between North 11th and 12th Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-963-3369, brooklynbowl.com). Mon--Thu 6pm--2am, Fri 6pm--4am, Sat noon--4am, Sun noon--2am. See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less
Leftfield Good for: lively
Despite its new-kid status, this welcoming spot has attracted enough regulars that it feels like an old standby. It’s easy to find yourself chatting up one of the Irish-brogued bartenders and nursing $3 Rolling Rocks or Natty Light for longer than you planned, especially when the temperature dips. The adjacent, admission-required space hosts indie-rock, punk and rockabilly acts three nights a week (Thu–Sat; free–$8). Another bonus: Offbeat-snack outfit Wolly Rolls serves up egg rolls stuffed with comfort-food fillings such as cheeseburger, pulled pork, Mexican grilled corn and French onion soup Wed through Sat. The Clock Bar & Cafe Good for: groups
Toeing the line between rustic chic (filament lighting, repurposed wood, exposed brick) and industrial (raw concrete), this intimate bar courts drinkers with shareable fare (cured meats, panini and tapas) and a solid cocktail list. The most intriguing section of the menu showcases retro cocktails, with tipples categorized by era. A traditional White Russian dates back to 1920, while the more recent Keyser Soze nods to the 1995 film The Usual Suspects and incorporates Tawney port, dry vermouth and lemon juice into one sturdy cold-weather libation. Cocktail Bodega Good for: cocktails, groups
Sometimes the only response to blustery days and a steadily dropping thermometer is total denial—which, in the cocktail world, translates to a bright, fruity drinks. Matt Levine and Michael Shah (The Eldridge, Sons of Essex) devote their corner-store homage to precisely this type of tropical refreshment. The drink menu is split into four categories—juice, shots, smoothies and make-your-own. Selections such as the Healer’s Lemonade (Effen cucumber vodka, cucumber juice, ginger lemonade, mint leaves, muddled cucumber, lemongrass) will knock you off your stool if you’re not careful, but the drink’s freshness is transporting enough to take you to warmer climes—at least in your mind. Die Koelner Bierhalle Good for: beer, groups
Park Slope gets its own beer mecca with this cavernous German-inspired hall built inside a former warehouse. Rows of picnic-style wooden tables offer seating for up to 200 and ample space for imbibing Deutschland imports (30 on tap, 40 bottled) in sizes up to a liter. Browse the menu by style (e.g., kolsch, Hefeweizen, pilsner) to find brews like the toasty Innstadt Extra Schwarze or the earthy, hoppy Bayreuther Original. Pair your selection with biergarten bites, including nine kinds of bratwurst and Bavarian pretzels. Proletariat Good for: beer, chill
This appropriately egalitarian suds space is staffed by barkeeps fluent in rare, new and unusual beers. Mismatched magnets behind a dozen rotating taps display a menu that changes daily; it’s recently included such obscure selections as a fruity framboise by Oud Beersel and the Yeastie Boys Rex Attitude. The Guthrie Inn Good for: cocktails
In opening this spiritscentric nook, the crew behind Earl’s Beer & Cheese brings yet another buzzy drinking destination to the Upper East Side. A trio of bartenders craft both classics and house originals, deploying a wide range of Italian amari to add depth to cocktails such as the Jackson Ward (Old Grand Dad 100 Proof bourbon, Nardini amaro and Punt e Mes vermouth). Though the quarters might be tight, you shouldn’t have much trouble snagging a seat and making an evening out of sipping and snacking. When you get hungry, slip next door to Earl’s for a nouveau twist on a winter favorite: the grilled-cheese sandwich filled with New York State cheddar, pork belly, kimchi and a fried egg. Alphabet City Beer Co. Good for: beer
Brew seekers can ogle 350 bottles and 12 rotating taps at this bar-retail hybrid. Get a growler for your next holiday bash, or sit at the bar with a pint or ten-ounce pour of a current offering. The friendly staff is happy to advise indecisive drinkers: A recent visit yielded Lagunitas Daytime, a fruity, sessionable IPA, and the rich, coffee-infused Founders Breakfast Stout. A wide communal table encourages kicking back, as does a selection of unfussy eats such as meat and cheese boards. You might also like 50 best New York bars Best happy hours for good beer Hit these bars for craft suds at Bud Light prices. Brooklyn BreweryBrooklyn Brewery taps are ubiquitous, but bargain-hunting boozers know to head straight to the source on weekends, when the brewery dispenses its goods for $4 per pint, or $20 for six. Eight varieties are at your disposal each week, ranging from standards (Brooklyn Lager) to seasonal releases. You might even get your hands on limited-edition sips from the geekworthy Brewmaster's Reserve series (recent editions have included a stout brewed with Stumptown coffee beans and a saison packed with Japanese hops). Fair warning: Friday nights get loud and crowded, so arrive early to claim your spot at one of the giant picnic tables. 79 North 11th St between Berry St and Wythe Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-486-7422, brooklynbrewery.com). Fri 6--11pm, Sat noon--8pm, Sun noon--6pm.
Drop Off ServiceThis worn-in local offers the perfect happy-hour triple play of length, quality and price. From 3 to 8pm Monday to Friday (and 1 to 8pm on weekends), beers are served for just $3 to $5. While away the afternoon feeding the jukebox and knocking back $3 imperial pints of malty Old Speckled Hen, $7 pours of peppery Delirium Tremens or any of the other ten international brews on tap. American craft brews also get strong representation with 16 diverse options. To balance the bargain booze, nosh on Aussie meat pies ($5) and sausage rolls ($3) that the bar stocks from Tuck Shop. 211 Ave A between 13th and 14th Sts (212-260-2914)
4th Avenue PubOn a strip packed with top-flight beer bars—Mission Dolores, Pacific Standard, Cherry Tree Tavern—this haunt stands out thanks to its generous happy-hour deals. On weekdays from 3 to 8pm, the pub shaves $2 off any of its 27 drafts and its cask ale (normally $6). Stock up on gratis munchies at the popcorn machine, then explore options including small-batch releases from Long Island's Greenport Harbor and San Francisco's Speakeasy Ales and Lagers. An ivy-clad patio invites hop heads to play hooky on warm days. 76 Fourth Ave between Bergen St and St. Marks Pl, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-643-2273)
The GateYou won't get any funny looks for ordering a PBR at this laid-back Park Slope pub, which caters to beer drinkers of all stripes with its happy hour. From 3 to 7pm on weekdays, the bar shaves a buck off most brews (usually $6 or $6.50). You won't have trouble finding something you like: The 24-tap lineup covers everything from Guinness to 21st Amendment's rich, Belgian-style Monk's Blood, and those PBRs go for $2 if you're feeling especially thrifty. No wonder everyone seems to be having a good time—including the dogs that carefree owners seem to leave to their own devices. When the weather warms up, the outdoor patio has hotly contested real estate. 321 Fifth Ave at 3rd St, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-768-4329)
Gleason'sNothing's better than a happy hour that takes care of your thirst as well as your hunger. Satisfy all your needs at this hops-forward sports bar. Monday through Friday from 4 to 8pm, the bar selects three craft labels from its 16 drafts to sell for just $3 (usually $5--$7); recent taps to get the nod have included the toasty Coney Island Lager and Speakeasy's caramel-tinged Prohibition Ale. During the same hours, soak up the pints with $5 pub-grub specials like pulled-pork sliders and gravy-and-cheese--laden disco fries. 33-08 Broadway between 33rd and 34th Sts, Astoria, Queens (718-626-5393)
Pony BarThis Hell's Kitchen saloon beckons Port Authority refugees and office workers with one of the best beer selections north of 14th Street. While happy hour is interpreted more literally than we're used to—it runs daily from 4:20 to 5:20pm—the small boozing window offers deals on some seriously big beers. A flag-waving menu of 20 drafts and two casks leans toward brawny, high-alcohol brews from craft superstars such as Founders and Lagunitas, all of which go for just $4 (a buck off the already cheap $5 price tag). If you can make Pony a regular stop, ask a bartender for a scorecard and vie to become an "All American" by drinking and rating 100 different beers. Should you complete the task, you'll be rewarded with a free Dickies work shirt. 637 Tenth Ave at 45th St (212-586-2707, theponybar.com)
The Stag's HeadStag's Head offers one of midtown's longest and most hops-oriented happy hours: At least half of the 16 drafts are just $4 or $5 from Monday through Friday, 11am--7pm (usually $6--$8). The patriotic taps rep cultish, far-flung outfits such as Pretty Things—a "gypsy brewer" that borrows other producers' facilities to make beer—and Colorado's Great Divide. Improve your beer IQ during free Wednesday-night tastings (6pm), when guest breweries pair their suds with themed snacks; recently Pennsylvania's Victory showed off its wares alongside Philly cheese-steak spring rolls. 252 E 51st St at Second Ave (212-888-2453, thestagsheadnyc.com)
Sweet AftonOn Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30am to 4pm, the bar's stellar eight craft brews—as well as a rotating cask selection—go for $4 a pop (regularly $6--$7). The top-tier pours make a great match for gut-busting fare like the Irish breakfast sandwich (packed with sausage, bacon and black pudding) or a Pat LaFrieda--blend breakfast burger crowned with a fried egg ($9). Catch the same bargain Monday through Friday from 4 to 7pm. 30-09 34th St between 30th and 31st Aves, Astoria, Queens (718-777-2570, sweetaftonbar.com)
Washington CommonsThe party starts early and doesn't slow down during the weekday happy hour at this Prospect Heights hang. Off-duty teachers colonize the handsome U-shaped bar starting at 3pm, followed by a steady flow of tie-loosening office workers and neighborhood folks who stream in until 8pm for $2 off quaffs from the 16-tap selection (most are usually $6). Choose an Avery New World Porter from Colorado or sample something more local like Captain Lawrence Brewing Company's Espresso Stout from upstate. When the weather warms up, expect the leafy outdoor patio to be packed with revelers and their furry friends. 434 Park Pl at Washington Ave, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn (718-230-3666)
The Wild Goose This Irish watering hole keeps the deals going all day and night long on Mondays and Tuesdays (noon--4am). Sidle up to the long wooden bar and order any of the 46 beers on tap (normally $4--$6), including brews from California's Bear Republic and local favorite Sixpoint, for half price until last call at 3:30am. And if an early-in-the-week bender isn't in the cards, come by Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 7pm for the same discount. 530 Forest Ave between Davis and Lawrence Aves, Staten Island (718-720-3800, thewildgoosepub.com) See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less The best Irish pubs Embrace the St. Patrick's Day spirit on this borough-hopping tour of the city's standout taverns. Molly's Pub and Shebeen287 Third Ave between 22nd and 23rd Sts (212-889-3361)The craic: Thickly accented bartenders tend to off-the-clock Manhattanites at this rustic East Side retreat. Pastoral touches—a whitewashed facade, sawdust-covered floor and Celtic crosses—make this tavern feel like it's been transplanted from the Irish countryside.Cost of a Guinness: $7Noteworthy eats and pours: Regulars swear by the stew ($18), a rib-sticking combination of lamb, carrots and potatoes, paired with a pint of Murphy's Stout ($7), a creamy swig brewed in County Cork using a 150-year-old recipe. If none of the four Irish beers on tap appeal, opt for one of the dozen-plus whiskeys, including the peppery Powers Gold Label ($8).
Ceol191 Smith St between Baltic and Warren Sts, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn (347-643-9911)The craic: Dublin native Loretta Heaney helms this cozy homage to the Emerald Isle, where you'll find neighborhood folk mingling with expats hankering for a sense of home. Heaney obliges: Vintage distillery signs and Irish blessings grace the walls, European football plays on four flatscreen TVs, and traditional tunes performed by live bands replace classic rock on alternating Sundays. Wednesdays are dedicated to singer/songwriter showcases (the bar's name means "music" in Gaelic).Cost of a Guinness: $7Noteworthy eats and pours: Wash down a traditional shepherd's pie ($13), a mix of seasonal vegetables and ground beef topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and cheddar cheese, with one of four Irish drafts. We like Smithwick's ($6), a malty and easy-sipping red ale.
The Wicked Monk8415 Fifth Ave between 84th and 85th Sts, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn (718-921-0601)The craic: There's quite literally a piece of ire in this jolly pub—in fact, there are several: When owner Michael Dorgan heard that a church in Cork, Ireland, was being demolished, he shipped over a few pieces (the wooden pews, pulpit, confessional, statues and stained-glass windows) to incorporate into his bar. The trimmings may skew sacred, but the older neighborhood crowd here is plenty rowdy—look for the faces of abiding regulars immortalized in the mural above the bar.Cost of a Guinness: $6.50Noteworthy eats and pours: The staff here takes its Guinness very seriously—if Dorgan spots incorrectly poured suds, he'll toss them down the drain without hesitation—so request a pint of the roasty stout with confidence. You can also throw back a dram of that old Irish standby, Jameson ($7).
An Beal Bocht445 W 238th St between Greystone and Waldo Aves, Bronx (718-884-7127)The craic: The name is Gaelic for "the poor mouth," which is also the title of a novel by Irish writer Flann O'Brien, but that's not the only artistic influence at this congenial hang, which serves as a gathering place for Riverdale's Irish-American, art and theater communities. Posters and sketches depict literary heroes like James Joyce, and five nights a week, live bands play everything from old-world ballads to contemporary hits from U2.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: Comfort foods abound on the lengthy menu, which stars bangers and mash ($10) and a classic Irish breakfast ($12) with traditional meats (Irish bacon, Irish sausage, and black and white puddings from the Butcher's Fancy in Woodlawn) and Batchelors beans. Whether or not you're breaking bread, ask for a pint of the smooth house amber ale, Lecheile ($4), brewed upstate.
Veronica's Bar34-04 36th Ave between 34th and 35th Sts, Astoria, Queens (718-729-9744)The craic: Owners Eddie and Veronica Devine, who hail from Counties Limerick and Fermanagh respectively, put a premium on old-fashioned hospitality, which keeps their modest spot packed with regulars. Despite the everyone-knows-everyone vibe, newcomers are warmly welcomed into the fold—especially if you're willing to belt out classic-rock tunes, warbling from a digital jukebox, with the rest of the bar.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: No food is served, but you can still say slinte (Gaelic for "cheers") with five different types of homeland hooch: Jameson, Powers, Paddy, Tullamore Dew and Bushmills ($6).
Sean Ogs60-02 Woodside Ave at 60th St, Woodside, Queens (718-899-3499)The craic: You're never far from a lilting laugh or brogue at this lively spot, where more than half of the staff is Ireland-born. A seat at the sleek wooden bar best positions you to hear stories from the bartenders, but it's hard to resist a table next to the stone hearth.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: Hunker down with a glass of toasty, mild Paddy Old Irish whiskey ($6), distilled and bottled in County Cork, and a mixed grill (Irish sausage, black and white puddings, a pork chop and eggs any style; $14.95).
See more in Restaurants + Bars See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less Birthday bars Alligator LoungeIf you hanker for your college days, spend a night with beer, free pizza, a killer jukebox and Big Buck Hunter. The pizza is authentically cooked in a wood-burning oven for a deliciously crispy base, and you get a personal-sized pizza with every drink. Though with pitchers of Rheingold only $10, your stomach will soon be begging you to stop. 600 Metropolitan Ave between Leonard and Lorimer Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-599-4440). Daily 3pm-4am.
BarcadeBoasting more than 20 classic arcade machines, like Ms. Pac-Man, Frogger, Tapper and Robotron:2084, at old-school prices (just a quarter), you can finally try to beat your '80s high score, except this time you'll be contending with the effects of 25 microbrews. 388 Union Ave at Ainslie St (718-302-6464, barcadebrooklyn.com). Mon--Fri 5pm--4am; Sat, Sun 2pm--4am.
Beauty BarIf you haven't got time for pampering and boozing on your big day, combine the two at this salon-turned-saloon, where a martini and a manicure cost a mere $10. (Manhattan: Mon--Fri 6--11pm; Sat, Sun 7--11pm. Brooklyn: Wed-Fri 7-11pm, Sat 9pm-midnight. Call ahead for parties of six or more.) Now that you're looking fresh, roll back the years dancing to the nightly Djs, or chuckle with a regular comedy night on Sundays at the East Village location. Beauty Bar New York: 231 E 14th St between Second and Third Aves (212-539-1389, beautybar.com). Mon--Fri 5pm--4am; Sat, Sun 7pm--4am; Beauty Bar Brooklyn: 921 Broadway at Melrose St, Bushwick, Brooklyn (347-529-0370). Daily 6pm--4am.
Blue OwlThe lights are low, the patrons well-heeled and the drinks properly stiff. Stake out one of the stylish pressed-tin tables and sip a proprietary Blue Owl—a sultry mix of Miller's gin, maraschino liqueur and fresh lemon juice. During cocktail hour between 5 and 8pm Monday through Friday, many drink selections are only $6, while early birds on Wednesdays are treated to free libations between 5 and 6pm. 196 Second Ave between 12th and 13th Sts (212-505-2583, blueowlnyc.com). Mon, Tue, Sun 5pm--2am; Wed--Sat 5pm--4am.
Brooklyn BowlRound up your posse and put your name down for a lane. While you wait, sink into the luxe Chesterfield sofas, down Brooklyn brews like Sixpoint and chow down on Blue Ribbon's scrumptious stoner food. It won't matter if the booze has made your group rowdy by the time you bowl—no one will be able to notice over the deafening hipster-rock soundtrack. 61 Wythe Ave between North 11th and 12th Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-963-3369, brooklynbowl.com). Mon--Thu 6pm--2am, Fri 6pm--4am, Sat noon--4am, Sun noon--2am. See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less
The Stand Good for: cocktails, groups
In the past, comedy venues left much to be desired in terms of food and drink, but a spate of recently opened venues—this bi-level Gramercy spot included—remedy that. Before heading downstairs to catch stand-up routines, peruse the list of signature cocktails, reasonably priced beers and wines at the upstairs bar. The Boozler combines seasonal flavors of ginger liqueur and pear puree with Ransom Old Tom gin and fresh tarragon. If hunger pangs strike, the comfort-food–inspired menu by RSVP’s Seth Levine has plenty of filling options, including cheeseburger dumplings and fish-and-chips. Randolph Beer Good for: beer
Craft brews are the focus at this warm Nolita tavern, decorated with wood from a century-old Kentucky barn and other salvaged materials from across the country. Behind the bar, a custom-built draft line dispenses 48 mostly stateside beers organized by tasting notes such as “crisp & light” (Tripel Horse from New Jersey’s River Horse) and “malt & roast” (Three Philosophers Belgian–style quadrupel from upstate’s Brewery Ommegang). To offset the booze, fill up on the cheddar-brat sandwich with horseradish mustard and “corn off the cob” with cotija cheese, piquillo peppers and chili-lime. Kent Ale House Good for: beer, groups
It’s only a few blocks from Bedford Avenue, but this brewhouse feels like it’s been imported from the Catskills. The spacious, exposed-brick-and-dark-wood haven offers a rotating selection of 24 drafts and 22 bottles, annotated with helpful tasting notes. On a recent visit, a server recommended the Captain Lawrence Katchkie Harvest ale, a caramelly brew made with locally grown squash instead of the season’s ubiquitous pumpkin riffs (also on offer). A menu of rib-sticking pub food—a “Kids” grilled cheese (pear, bacon, sharp cheddar), customizable burgers and hot dogs—provides all the more reason to linger. Center Bar Good for: cocktails, chill
Take in the treetops of Central Park and toast the fact that you’re nice and cozy at this fourth-floor lounge. The extensive cocktail list includes mint juleps, Sazeracs and other classics, as well as signature creations like the Cliff Dweller (Inocente tequila, aperol, Cointreau, lime). If you prefer vino to spirits, take your pick from an 80-bottle-strong wine list. Refined, belly-warming bites from Chef Michael Lomonaco include arancini filled with porcini mushrooms, pecorino and prosciutto and braised Berkshire pork belly with pistachios and aged port. The Pony Bar Good for: beer, lively
The sibling of the popular Hell’s Kitchen spot brings the same unpretentious vibe and quality beer uptown. The all-American brew list, featuring 20 taps, recently included a roasty Ithaca Beer Company 14th Anniversary black ale and the brightly hopped Ballast Point Sculpin IPA. The best part: Each pour (most 14oz) will only set you back $5. A menu of elevated bar food, including a fried-oyster-and-bacon sandwich and “sloppy” duck sliders, ensures you won’t have to venture into the cold in search of a proper meal. The Habitat Good for: beer
Since opening in 2008, this Greenpoint watering hole has become a neighborhood favorite thanks to a serious beer list, hearty food and nightly happy-hour specials. The compact space is dressed in warm wood not unlike a ski lodge, and wide booths encourage sharing a dozen wings. The bar’s 12 drafts change frequently, highlighting stateside craft breweries (Cottrell, Dark Horse) and international imports (Spaten, Franziskaner). Select pints are just $4 during happy hour, and if you have a tough time choosing, spring for a flight of four eight-ounce pours. Jimmy’s No. 43 Good for: beer
Though owner Jimmy Carbone takes his beer seriously, he cultivates a supremely egalitarian atmosphere at this intimate drinkery. Brewhounds will find plenty to please their discerning palates; we’ve sampled such obscure pours as unfiltered Franconian lagers and a Japanese brown ale brewed at the foot of Mount Fuji. Bartenders will also happily walk nonconnoisseurs through the dozen beers on tap. If you’re completely beer-averse, you can still hang and opt for one of seven wines by the glass or a pint of crisp Farnum Hill cider. You might also like 50 best New York bars Best happy hours for good beer Hit these bars for craft suds at Bud Light prices. Brooklyn BreweryBrooklyn Brewery taps are ubiquitous, but bargain-hunting boozers know to head straight to the source on weekends, when the brewery dispenses its goods for $4 per pint, or $20 for six. Eight varieties are at your disposal each week, ranging from standards (Brooklyn Lager) to seasonal releases. You might even get your hands on limited-edition sips from the geekworthy Brewmaster's Reserve series (recent editions have included a stout brewed with Stumptown coffee beans and a saison packed with Japanese hops). Fair warning: Friday nights get loud and crowded, so arrive early to claim your spot at one of the giant picnic tables. 79 North 11th St between Berry St and Wythe Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-486-7422, brooklynbrewery.com). Fri 6--11pm, Sat noon--8pm, Sun noon--6pm.
Drop Off ServiceThis worn-in local offers the perfect happy-hour triple play of length, quality and price. From 3 to 8pm Monday to Friday (and 1 to 8pm on weekends), beers are served for just $3 to $5. While away the afternoon feeding the jukebox and knocking back $3 imperial pints of malty Old Speckled Hen, $7 pours of peppery Delirium Tremens or any of the other ten international brews on tap. American craft brews also get strong representation with 16 diverse options. To balance the bargain booze, nosh on Aussie meat pies ($5) and sausage rolls ($3) that the bar stocks from Tuck Shop. 211 Ave A between 13th and 14th Sts (212-260-2914)
4th Avenue PubOn a strip packed with top-flight beer bars—Mission Dolores, Pacific Standard, Cherry Tree Tavern—this haunt stands out thanks to its generous happy-hour deals. On weekdays from 3 to 8pm, the pub shaves $2 off any of its 27 drafts and its cask ale (normally $6). Stock up on gratis munchies at the popcorn machine, then explore options including small-batch releases from Long Island's Greenport Harbor and San Francisco's Speakeasy Ales and Lagers. An ivy-clad patio invites hop heads to play hooky on warm days. 76 Fourth Ave between Bergen St and St. Marks Pl, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-643-2273)
The GateYou won't get any funny looks for ordering a PBR at this laid-back Park Slope pub, which caters to beer drinkers of all stripes with its happy hour. From 3 to 7pm on weekdays, the bar shaves a buck off most brews (usually $6 or $6.50). You won't have trouble finding something you like: The 24-tap lineup covers everything from Guinness to 21st Amendment's rich, Belgian-style Monk's Blood, and those PBRs go for $2 if you're feeling especially thrifty. No wonder everyone seems to be having a good time—including the dogs that carefree owners seem to leave to their own devices. When the weather warms up, the outdoor patio has hotly contested real estate. 321 Fifth Ave at 3rd St, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-768-4329)
Gleason'sNothing's better than a happy hour that takes care of your thirst as well as your hunger. Satisfy all your needs at this hops-forward sports bar. Monday through Friday from 4 to 8pm, the bar selects three craft labels from its 16 drafts to sell for just $3 (usually $5--$7); recent taps to get the nod have included the toasty Coney Island Lager and Speakeasy's caramel-tinged Prohibition Ale. During the same hours, soak up the pints with $5 pub-grub specials like pulled-pork sliders and gravy-and-cheese--laden disco fries. 33-08 Broadway between 33rd and 34th Sts, Astoria, Queens (718-626-5393)
Pony BarThis Hell's Kitchen saloon beckons Port Authority refugees and office workers with one of the best beer selections north of 14th Street. While happy hour is interpreted more literally than we're used to—it runs daily from 4:20 to 5:20pm—the small boozing window offers deals on some seriously big beers. A flag-waving menu of 20 drafts and two casks leans toward brawny, high-alcohol brews from craft superstars such as Founders and Lagunitas, all of which go for just $4 (a buck off the already cheap $5 price tag). If you can make Pony a regular stop, ask a bartender for a scorecard and vie to become an "All American" by drinking and rating 100 different beers. Should you complete the task, you'll be rewarded with a free Dickies work shirt. 637 Tenth Ave at 45th St (212-586-2707, theponybar.com)
The Stag's HeadStag's Head offers one of midtown's longest and most hops-oriented happy hours: At least half of the 16 drafts are just $4 or $5 from Monday through Friday, 11am--7pm (usually $6--$8). The patriotic taps rep cultish, far-flung outfits such as Pretty Things—a "gypsy brewer" that borrows other producers' facilities to make beer—and Colorado's Great Divide. Improve your beer IQ during free Wednesday-night tastings (6pm), when guest breweries pair their suds with themed snacks; recently Pennsylvania's Victory showed off its wares alongside Philly cheese-steak spring rolls. 252 E 51st St at Second Ave (212-888-2453, thestagsheadnyc.com)
Sweet AftonOn Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30am to 4pm, the bar's stellar eight craft brews—as well as a rotating cask selection—go for $4 a pop (regularly $6--$7). The top-tier pours make a great match for gut-busting fare like the Irish breakfast sandwich (packed with sausage, bacon and black pudding) or a Pat LaFrieda--blend breakfast burger crowned with a fried egg ($9). Catch the same bargain Monday through Friday from 4 to 7pm. 30-09 34th St between 30th and 31st Aves, Astoria, Queens (718-777-2570, sweetaftonbar.com)
Washington CommonsThe party starts early and doesn't slow down during the weekday happy hour at this Prospect Heights hang. Off-duty teachers colonize the handsome U-shaped bar starting at 3pm, followed by a steady flow of tie-loosening office workers and neighborhood folks who stream in until 8pm for $2 off quaffs from the 16-tap selection (most are usually $6). Choose an Avery New World Porter from Colorado or sample something more local like Captain Lawrence Brewing Company's Espresso Stout from upstate. When the weather warms up, expect the leafy outdoor patio to be packed with revelers and their furry friends. 434 Park Pl at Washington Ave, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn (718-230-3666)
The Wild Goose This Irish watering hole keeps the deals going all day and night long on Mondays and Tuesdays (noon--4am). Sidle up to the long wooden bar and order any of the 46 beers on tap (normally $4--$6), including brews from California's Bear Republic and local favorite Sixpoint, for half price until last call at 3:30am. And if an early-in-the-week bender isn't in the cards, come by Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 7pm for the same discount. 530 Forest Ave between Davis and Lawrence Aves, Staten Island (718-720-3800, thewildgoosepub.com) See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less The best Irish pubs Embrace the St. Patrick's Day spirit on this borough-hopping tour of the city's standout taverns. Molly's Pub and Shebeen287 Third Ave between 22nd and 23rd Sts (212-889-3361)The craic: Thickly accented bartenders tend to off-the-clock Manhattanites at this rustic East Side retreat. Pastoral touches—a whitewashed facade, sawdust-covered floor and Celtic crosses—make this tavern feel like it's been transplanted from the Irish countryside.Cost of a Guinness: $7Noteworthy eats and pours: Regulars swear by the stew ($18), a rib-sticking combination of lamb, carrots and potatoes, paired with a pint of Murphy's Stout ($7), a creamy swig brewed in County Cork using a 150-year-old recipe. If none of the four Irish beers on tap appeal, opt for one of the dozen-plus whiskeys, including the peppery Powers Gold Label ($8).
Ceol191 Smith St between Baltic and Warren Sts, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn (347-643-9911)The craic: Dublin native Loretta Heaney helms this cozy homage to the Emerald Isle, where you'll find neighborhood folk mingling with expats hankering for a sense of home. Heaney obliges: Vintage distillery signs and Irish blessings grace the walls, European football plays on four flatscreen TVs, and traditional tunes performed by live bands replace classic rock on alternating Sundays. Wednesdays are dedicated to singer/songwriter showcases (the bar's name means "music" in Gaelic).Cost of a Guinness: $7Noteworthy eats and pours: Wash down a traditional shepherd's pie ($13), a mix of seasonal vegetables and ground beef topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and cheddar cheese, with one of four Irish drafts. We like Smithwick's ($6), a malty and easy-sipping red ale.
The Wicked Monk8415 Fifth Ave between 84th and 85th Sts, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn (718-921-0601)The craic: There's quite literally a piece of ire in this jolly pub—in fact, there are several: When owner Michael Dorgan heard that a church in Cork, Ireland, was being demolished, he shipped over a few pieces (the wooden pews, pulpit, confessional, statues and stained-glass windows) to incorporate into his bar. The trimmings may skew sacred, but the older neighborhood crowd here is plenty rowdy—look for the faces of abiding regulars immortalized in the mural above the bar.Cost of a Guinness: $6.50Noteworthy eats and pours: The staff here takes its Guinness very seriously—if Dorgan spots incorrectly poured suds, he'll toss them down the drain without hesitation—so request a pint of the roasty stout with confidence. You can also throw back a dram of that old Irish standby, Jameson ($7).
An Beal Bocht445 W 238th St between Greystone and Waldo Aves, Bronx (718-884-7127)The craic: The name is Gaelic for "the poor mouth," which is also the title of a novel by Irish writer Flann O'Brien, but that's not the only artistic influence at this congenial hang, which serves as a gathering place for Riverdale's Irish-American, art and theater communities. Posters and sketches depict literary heroes like James Joyce, and five nights a week, live bands play everything from old-world ballads to contemporary hits from U2.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: Comfort foods abound on the lengthy menu, which stars bangers and mash ($10) and a classic Irish breakfast ($12) with traditional meats (Irish bacon, Irish sausage, and black and white puddings from the Butcher's Fancy in Woodlawn) and Batchelors beans. Whether or not you're breaking bread, ask for a pint of the smooth house amber ale, Lecheile ($4), brewed upstate.
Veronica's Bar34-04 36th Ave between 34th and 35th Sts, Astoria, Queens (718-729-9744)The craic: Owners Eddie and Veronica Devine, who hail from Counties Limerick and Fermanagh respectively, put a premium on old-fashioned hospitality, which keeps their modest spot packed with regulars. Despite the everyone-knows-everyone vibe, newcomers are warmly welcomed into the fold—especially if you're willing to belt out classic-rock tunes, warbling from a digital jukebox, with the rest of the bar.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: No food is served, but you can still say slinte (Gaelic for "cheers") with five different types of homeland hooch: Jameson, Powers, Paddy, Tullamore Dew and Bushmills ($6).
Sean Ogs60-02 Woodside Ave at 60th St, Woodside, Queens (718-899-3499)The craic: You're never far from a lilting laugh or brogue at this lively spot, where more than half of the staff is Ireland-born. A seat at the sleek wooden bar best positions you to hear stories from the bartenders, but it's hard to resist a table next to the stone hearth.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: Hunker down with a glass of toasty, mild Paddy Old Irish whiskey ($6), distilled and bottled in County Cork, and a mixed grill (Irish sausage, black and white puddings, a pork chop and eggs any style; $14.95).
See more in Restaurants + Bars See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less Birthday bars Alligator LoungeIf you hanker for your college days, spend a night with beer, free pizza, a killer jukebox and Big Buck Hunter. The pizza is authentically cooked in a wood-burning oven for a deliciously crispy base, and you get a personal-sized pizza with every drink. Though with pitchers of Rheingold only $10, your stomach will soon be begging you to stop. 600 Metropolitan Ave between Leonard and Lorimer Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-599-4440). Daily 3pm-4am.
BarcadeBoasting more than 20 classic arcade machines, like Ms. Pac-Man, Frogger, Tapper and Robotron:2084, at old-school prices (just a quarter), you can finally try to beat your '80s high score, except this time you'll be contending with the effects of 25 microbrews. 388 Union Ave at Ainslie St (718-302-6464, barcadebrooklyn.com). Mon--Fri 5pm--4am; Sat, Sun 2pm--4am.
Beauty BarIf you haven't got time for pampering and boozing on your big day, combine the two at this salon-turned-saloon, where a martini and a manicure cost a mere $10. (Manhattan: Mon--Fri 6--11pm; Sat, Sun 7--11pm. Brooklyn: Wed-Fri 7-11pm, Sat 9pm-midnight. Call ahead for parties of six or more.) Now that you're looking fresh, roll back the years dancing to the nightly Djs, or chuckle with a regular comedy night on Sundays at the East Village location. Beauty Bar New York: 231 E 14th St between Second and Third Aves (212-539-1389, beautybar.com). Mon--Fri 5pm--4am; Sat, Sun 7pm--4am; Beauty Bar Brooklyn: 921 Broadway at Melrose St, Bushwick, Brooklyn (347-529-0370). Daily 6pm--4am.
Blue OwlThe lights are low, the patrons well-heeled and the drinks properly stiff. Stake out one of the stylish pressed-tin tables and sip a proprietary Blue Owl—a sultry mix of Miller's gin, maraschino liqueur and fresh lemon juice. During cocktail hour between 5 and 8pm Monday through Friday, many drink selections are only $6, while early birds on Wednesdays are treated to free libations between 5 and 6pm. 196 Second Ave between 12th and 13th Sts (212-505-2583, blueowlnyc.com). Mon, Tue, Sun 5pm--2am; Wed--Sat 5pm--4am.
Brooklyn BowlRound up your posse and put your name down for a lane. While you wait, sink into the luxe Chesterfield sofas, down Brooklyn brews like Sixpoint and chow down on Blue Ribbon's scrumptious stoner food. It won't matter if the booze has made your group rowdy by the time you bowl—no one will be able to notice over the deafening hipster-rock soundtrack. 61 Wythe Ave between North 11th and 12th Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-963-3369, brooklynbowl.com). Mon--Thu 6pm--2am, Fri 6pm--4am, Sat noon--4am, Sun noon--2am. See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less
Spuyten Duyvil Good for: beer, lively
Another hub for beer nerds, Joe Carroll’s tiny spot typically pours just six drafts and one cask at a time so that the suds are always fresh. Bottles are another story—those number well over 100 and are primarily culled from small European breweries. You can sample old-world rarities such as the thick, sherrylike Samichlaus lager from Austria or cellar-aged Cantillon lambics of various vintages. Supplement your drinking with one of the smoked meats, pâtés, cheeses and terrines. d.b.a. Good for: beer, groups
For more than a decade, this bastion of democratic drinking has straddled the line between beer geekery and the mainstream. True connoisseurs will gravitate toward the 20-deep draft selection or the encyclopedic bottle list. You can find choices from all seven Trappist breweries, plus the ultra-alcoholic Dogfish Head World Wide Stout (at 18 percent ABV, it’s one of the most potent beers on the market). Rarities such as the British cellar-aged Thomas Hardy’s Ale also punctuate the menu. • 41 First Ave between 2nd and 3rd Sts (212-475-5097) • 113 N 7th St between Berry St and Wythe Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-218-6006) Char No. 4 Good for: cocktails
More than 150 varieties of American whiskey line the shelves of this Southern-influenced bar and restaurant, which also stocks a plethora of options from around the world. Order a neat pour of Mellow Corn or Jefferson’s Presidential 18-year bourbon, or sample the excellent cocktails that highlight the brown liquor. Among our favorites is the barrel-aged Sazerac, which combines Rittenhouse rye with sugar, bitters and absinthe. Oenophiles won’t be left wandering the cold streets of Brooklyn—there’s an ample selection of international vinos, though most are sold by the bottle. Donna Good for: beer, cocktails
An instant hot spot when it opened this summer, the cheery gathering place is equal parts elegant nook and welcoming den, replete with arched ceilings, dark-wood floors and curving counters. Though you’ll find a list of affordable, globe-spanning beers and wine, the bar’s raison d’etre is cocktails. This time of year, we’re partial to the slightly spicy Scarlet Fever (ancho-chili–infused Scarlet Ibis rum, El Dorado 5 Years rum, pineapple and lime juices, and cinnamon-bark syrup). The Richardson Good for: cocktails, chill, groups
Bartenders at this haunt excel in classic cocktails: The bar’s version of an old-fashioned doses an Angostura-soaked sugar cube with a pour of single-barrel bourbon, while the French 75 tops London dry gin, sugar and lemon juice with a float of effervescent sparkling wine. That’s not to say there isn’t something for those craving a more contemporary quaff; the house cocktails showcase such offbeat ingredients as plum liqueur, which stars in the Damson Gin Fizz (Damson plum gin liqueur, Plymouth gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar). Hunker down with friends in the subdued back corner for a predinner drink and share a spread of artisanal cheese and cured meat. PDT Good for: cocktails, chill
Despite the rigamarole required to get in (day-of reservations are the only kind accepted, and they’re a must), mixologist Jim Meehan’s neospeakeasy remains one of the city’s coziest and least pretentious drinking destinations in the city. You can’t go wrong with any of the innovative nips on the menu, whether you order the bar’s signature old-fashioned, made with bacon-infused Four Roses bourbon, or something newer like the Vesper riff made with hops-infused vodka. Jelsomino Good for: cocktails, groups, lively
Tucked below the Dream Hotel, this Moscow-based karaoke franchise promises a baller evening—and the hefty price tag to go with it. Make the most of your splurge (and fuel your Russian-music binge) by ordering one of the subterranean den’s vodkacentric cocktails, such as the Sparkling Combiere (prosecco, Russian Standard vodka, raspberry puree). If someone’s bankrolling your night, there’s also a luxe bottle-service option: Russian Standard paired with osetra caviar. Either way, the energetic MC is there to bolster your courage (wallflowers and acrophobics beware: the venue’s stage is elevated—and front and center). Bantam Good for: groups, lively
Inspired by the 2006 film Marie Antoinette, the decor inside this new venture from nightlife honcho Steve Lewis channels an 18th-century French parlor, with blue brocade walls and ornate mirrors. Tufted leather banquettes ring the dimly lit space and offer ample seating, while a sparse cluster of tables leaves plenty of room for dancing (DJ sets begin after 11pm nightly). Order your beverage of choice at the illuminated, stained-glass-topped bar, then stake out a spot on the temperature-controlled patio to boogie or people-watch. You might also like 50 best New York bars Best happy hours for good beer Hit these bars for craft suds at Bud Light prices. Brooklyn BreweryBrooklyn Brewery taps are ubiquitous, but bargain-hunting boozers know to head straight to the source on weekends, when the brewery dispenses its goods for $4 per pint, or $20 for six. Eight varieties are at your disposal each week, ranging from standards (Brooklyn Lager) to seasonal releases. You might even get your hands on limited-edition sips from the geekworthy Brewmaster's Reserve series (recent editions have included a stout brewed with Stumptown coffee beans and a saison packed with Japanese hops). Fair warning: Friday nights get loud and crowded, so arrive early to claim your spot at one of the giant picnic tables. 79 North 11th St between Berry St and Wythe Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-486-7422, brooklynbrewery.com). Fri 6--11pm, Sat noon--8pm, Sun noon--6pm.
Drop Off ServiceThis worn-in local offers the perfect happy-hour triple play of length, quality and price. From 3 to 8pm Monday to Friday (and 1 to 8pm on weekends), beers are served for just $3 to $5. While away the afternoon feeding the jukebox and knocking back $3 imperial pints of malty Old Speckled Hen, $7 pours of peppery Delirium Tremens or any of the other ten international brews on tap. American craft brews also get strong representation with 16 diverse options. To balance the bargain booze, nosh on Aussie meat pies ($5) and sausage rolls ($3) that the bar stocks from Tuck Shop. 211 Ave A between 13th and 14th Sts (212-260-2914)
4th Avenue PubOn a strip packed with top-flight beer bars—Mission Dolores, Pacific Standard, Cherry Tree Tavern—this haunt stands out thanks to its generous happy-hour deals. On weekdays from 3 to 8pm, the pub shaves $2 off any of its 27 drafts and its cask ale (normally $6). Stock up on gratis munchies at the popcorn machine, then explore options including small-batch releases from Long Island's Greenport Harbor and San Francisco's Speakeasy Ales and Lagers. An ivy-clad patio invites hop heads to play hooky on warm days. 76 Fourth Ave between Bergen St and St. Marks Pl, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-643-2273)
The GateYou won't get any funny looks for ordering a PBR at this laid-back Park Slope pub, which caters to beer drinkers of all stripes with its happy hour. From 3 to 7pm on weekdays, the bar shaves a buck off most brews (usually $6 or $6.50). You won't have trouble finding something you like: The 24-tap lineup covers everything from Guinness to 21st Amendment's rich, Belgian-style Monk's Blood, and those PBRs go for $2 if you're feeling especially thrifty. No wonder everyone seems to be having a good time—including the dogs that carefree owners seem to leave to their own devices. When the weather warms up, the outdoor patio has hotly contested real estate. 321 Fifth Ave at 3rd St, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-768-4329)
Gleason'sNothing's better than a happy hour that takes care of your thirst as well as your hunger. Satisfy all your needs at this hops-forward sports bar. Monday through Friday from 4 to 8pm, the bar selects three craft labels from its 16 drafts to sell for just $3 (usually $5--$7); recent taps to get the nod have included the toasty Coney Island Lager and Speakeasy's caramel-tinged Prohibition Ale. During the same hours, soak up the pints with $5 pub-grub specials like pulled-pork sliders and gravy-and-cheese--laden disco fries. 33-08 Broadway between 33rd and 34th Sts, Astoria, Queens (718-626-5393)
Pony BarThis Hell's Kitchen saloon beckons Port Authority refugees and office workers with one of the best beer selections north of 14th Street. While happy hour is interpreted more literally than we're used to—it runs daily from 4:20 to 5:20pm—the small boozing window offers deals on some seriously big beers. A flag-waving menu of 20 drafts and two casks leans toward brawny, high-alcohol brews from craft superstars such as Founders and Lagunitas, all of which go for just $4 (a buck off the already cheap $5 price tag). If you can make Pony a regular stop, ask a bartender for a scorecard and vie to become an "All American" by drinking and rating 100 different beers. Should you complete the task, you'll be rewarded with a free Dickies work shirt. 637 Tenth Ave at 45th St (212-586-2707, theponybar.com)
The Stag's HeadStag's Head offers one of midtown's longest and most hops-oriented happy hours: At least half of the 16 drafts are just $4 or $5 from Monday through Friday, 11am--7pm (usually $6--$8). The patriotic taps rep cultish, far-flung outfits such as Pretty Things—a "gypsy brewer" that borrows other producers' facilities to make beer—and Colorado's Great Divide. Improve your beer IQ during free Wednesday-night tastings (6pm), when guest breweries pair their suds with themed snacks; recently Pennsylvania's Victory showed off its wares alongside Philly cheese-steak spring rolls. 252 E 51st St at Second Ave (212-888-2453, thestagsheadnyc.com)
Sweet AftonOn Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30am to 4pm, the bar's stellar eight craft brews—as well as a rotating cask selection—go for $4 a pop (regularly $6--$7). The top-tier pours make a great match for gut-busting fare like the Irish breakfast sandwich (packed with sausage, bacon and black pudding) or a Pat LaFrieda--blend breakfast burger crowned with a fried egg ($9). Catch the same bargain Monday through Friday from 4 to 7pm. 30-09 34th St between 30th and 31st Aves, Astoria, Queens (718-777-2570, sweetaftonbar.com)
Washington CommonsThe party starts early and doesn't slow down during the weekday happy hour at this Prospect Heights hang. Off-duty teachers colonize the handsome U-shaped bar starting at 3pm, followed by a steady flow of tie-loosening office workers and neighborhood folks who stream in until 8pm for $2 off quaffs from the 16-tap selection (most are usually $6). Choose an Avery New World Porter from Colorado or sample something more local like Captain Lawrence Brewing Company's Espresso Stout from upstate. When the weather warms up, expect the leafy outdoor patio to be packed with revelers and their furry friends. 434 Park Pl at Washington Ave, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn (718-230-3666)
The Wild Goose This Irish watering hole keeps the deals going all day and night long on Mondays and Tuesdays (noon--4am). Sidle up to the long wooden bar and order any of the 46 beers on tap (normally $4--$6), including brews from California's Bear Republic and local favorite Sixpoint, for half price until last call at 3:30am. And if an early-in-the-week bender isn't in the cards, come by Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 7pm for the same discount. 530 Forest Ave between Davis and Lawrence Aves, Staten Island (718-720-3800, thewildgoosepub.com) See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less The best Irish pubs Embrace the St. Patrick's Day spirit on this borough-hopping tour of the city's standout taverns. Molly's Pub and Shebeen287 Third Ave between 22nd and 23rd Sts (212-889-3361)The craic: Thickly accented bartenders tend to off-the-clock Manhattanites at this rustic East Side retreat. Pastoral touches—a whitewashed facade, sawdust-covered floor and Celtic crosses—make this tavern feel like it's been transplanted from the Irish countryside.Cost of a Guinness: $7Noteworthy eats and pours: Regulars swear by the stew ($18), a rib-sticking combination of lamb, carrots and potatoes, paired with a pint of Murphy's Stout ($7), a creamy swig brewed in County Cork using a 150-year-old recipe. If none of the four Irish beers on tap appeal, opt for one of the dozen-plus whiskeys, including the peppery Powers Gold Label ($8).
Ceol191 Smith St between Baltic and Warren Sts, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn (347-643-9911)The craic: Dublin native Loretta Heaney helms this cozy homage to the Emerald Isle, where you'll find neighborhood folk mingling with expats hankering for a sense of home. Heaney obliges: Vintage distillery signs and Irish blessings grace the walls, European football plays on four flatscreen TVs, and traditional tunes performed by live bands replace classic rock on alternating Sundays. Wednesdays are dedicated to singer/songwriter showcases (the bar's name means "music" in Gaelic).Cost of a Guinness: $7Noteworthy eats and pours: Wash down a traditional shepherd's pie ($13), a mix of seasonal vegetables and ground beef topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and cheddar cheese, with one of four Irish drafts. We like Smithwick's ($6), a malty and easy-sipping red ale.
The Wicked Monk8415 Fifth Ave between 84th and 85th Sts, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn (718-921-0601)The craic: There's quite literally a piece of ire in this jolly pub—in fact, there are several: When owner Michael Dorgan heard that a church in Cork, Ireland, was being demolished, he shipped over a few pieces (the wooden pews, pulpit, confessional, statues and stained-glass windows) to incorporate into his bar. The trimmings may skew sacred, but the older neighborhood crowd here is plenty rowdy—look for the faces of abiding regulars immortalized in the mural above the bar.Cost of a Guinness: $6.50Noteworthy eats and pours: The staff here takes its Guinness very seriously—if Dorgan spots incorrectly poured suds, he'll toss them down the drain without hesitation—so request a pint of the roasty stout with confidence. You can also throw back a dram of that old Irish standby, Jameson ($7).
An Beal Bocht445 W 238th St between Greystone and Waldo Aves, Bronx (718-884-7127)The craic: The name is Gaelic for "the poor mouth," which is also the title of a novel by Irish writer Flann O'Brien, but that's not the only artistic influence at this congenial hang, which serves as a gathering place for Riverdale's Irish-American, art and theater communities. Posters and sketches depict literary heroes like James Joyce, and five nights a week, live bands play everything from old-world ballads to contemporary hits from U2.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: Comfort foods abound on the lengthy menu, which stars bangers and mash ($10) and a classic Irish breakfast ($12) with traditional meats (Irish bacon, Irish sausage, and black and white puddings from the Butcher's Fancy in Woodlawn) and Batchelors beans. Whether or not you're breaking bread, ask for a pint of the smooth house amber ale, Lecheile ($4), brewed upstate.
Veronica's Bar34-04 36th Ave between 34th and 35th Sts, Astoria, Queens (718-729-9744)The craic: Owners Eddie and Veronica Devine, who hail from Counties Limerick and Fermanagh respectively, put a premium on old-fashioned hospitality, which keeps their modest spot packed with regulars. Despite the everyone-knows-everyone vibe, newcomers are warmly welcomed into the fold—especially if you're willing to belt out classic-rock tunes, warbling from a digital jukebox, with the rest of the bar.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: No food is served, but you can still say slinte (Gaelic for "cheers") with five different types of homeland hooch: Jameson, Powers, Paddy, Tullamore Dew and Bushmills ($6).
Sean Ogs60-02 Woodside Ave at 60th St, Woodside, Queens (718-899-3499)The craic: You're never far from a lilting laugh or brogue at this lively spot, where more than half of the staff is Ireland-born. A seat at the sleek wooden bar best positions you to hear stories from the bartenders, but it's hard to resist a table next to the stone hearth.Cost of a Guinness: $6Noteworthy eats and pours: Hunker down with a glass of toasty, mild Paddy Old Irish whiskey ($6), distilled and bottled in County Cork, and a mixed grill (Irish sausage, black and white puddings, a pork chop and eggs any style; $14.95).
See more in Restaurants + Bars See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less Birthday bars Alligator LoungeIf you hanker for your college days, spend a night with beer, free pizza, a killer jukebox and Big Buck Hunter. The pizza is authentically cooked in a wood-burning oven for a deliciously crispy base, and you get a personal-sized pizza with every drink. Though with pitchers of Rheingold only $10, your stomach will soon be begging you to stop. 600 Metropolitan Ave between Leonard and Lorimer Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-599-4440). Daily 3pm-4am.
BarcadeBoasting more than 20 classic arcade machines, like Ms. Pac-Man, Frogger, Tapper and Robotron:2084, at old-school prices (just a quarter), you can finally try to beat your '80s high score, except this time you'll be contending with the effects of 25 microbrews. 388 Union Ave at Ainslie St (718-302-6464, barcadebrooklyn.com). Mon--Fri 5pm--4am; Sat, Sun 2pm--4am.
Beauty BarIf you haven't got time for pampering and boozing on your big day, combine the two at this salon-turned-saloon, where a martini and a manicure cost a mere $10. (Manhattan: Mon--Fri 6--11pm; Sat, Sun 7--11pm. Brooklyn: Wed-Fri 7-11pm, Sat 9pm-midnight. Call ahead for parties of six or more.) Now that you're looking fresh, roll back the years dancing to the nightly Djs, or chuckle with a regular comedy night on Sundays at the East Village location. Beauty Bar New York: 231 E 14th St between Second and Third Aves (212-539-1389, beautybar.com). Mon--Fri 5pm--4am; Sat, Sun 7pm--4am; Beauty Bar Brooklyn: 921 Broadway at Melrose St, Bushwick, Brooklyn (347-529-0370). Daily 6pm--4am.
Blue OwlThe lights are low, the patrons well-heeled and the drinks properly stiff. Stake out one of the stylish pressed-tin tables and sip a proprietary Blue Owl—a sultry mix of Miller's gin, maraschino liqueur and fresh lemon juice. During cocktail hour between 5 and 8pm Monday through Friday, many drink selections are only $6, while early birds on Wednesdays are treated to free libations between 5 and 6pm. 196 Second Ave between 12th and 13th Sts (212-505-2583, blueowlnyc.com). Mon, Tue, Sun 5pm--2am; Wed--Sat 5pm--4am.
Brooklyn BowlRound up your posse and put your name down for a lane. While you wait, sink into the luxe Chesterfield sofas, down Brooklyn brews like Sixpoint and chow down on Blue Ribbon's scrumptious stoner food. It won't matter if the booze has made your group rowdy by the time you bowl—no one will be able to notice over the deafening hipster-rock soundtrack. 61 Wythe Ave between North 11th and 12th Sts, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-963-3369, brooklynbowl.com). Mon--Thu 6pm--2am, Fri 6pm--4am, Sat noon--4am, Sun noon--2am. See more of New York's best bars Rooftop bars in NYC Best beer gardens Best Irish pubs Best fireplace bars Birthday bars Best craft-beer bars 5 great dive bars Best happy hours for good beer Ten great drinks for $10 or less The best New York bars and cocktails for winter
