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The Best of New York · Drink · Bars by neighborhood

The best bars in the East Village

Updated September 2026. 10 places.

The East Village has more bars per block than any neighborhood has a right to. I know because I’ve tested this theory extensively. Some of these places I stumbled into on a random Tuesday, others I’ve been going to for years. What they all have in common is that feeling where you walk in and immediately want to stay. Here are the best bars in the East Village.

For more on 10+ thirst quenching, see our guide to 10+ Thirst-Quenching Bubble Teas in New York City (Local’s Guide).

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best bars in the East Village, 2026

  1. Amor Y AmargoBar · East VillageNo seats, no tables, just award-winning cocktails so good every sip feels like an adventure.
  2. Death & CompanyBar · East VillageDeath & Company is arguably the most popular cocktail bar in the East Village.
  3. Goodnight SonnyBar · East VillageGoodnight Sonny is one of the best East Village bars for happy hour, especially if you love oysters ($18 for a dozen).
  4. Hi-NoteBar · East VillagePart radio-bar, part-cafe, the Hi Note is a swanky joint serving some of the best craft cocktails in the East Village after 5pm.
  5. KGB BarBar · East VillageThe all red Soviet-themed KGB Bar is one of the most unique bars in the East Village.
  6. Motel No TellBar · East VillageThis one of the best bars in the East Village for large groups.
  7. The Copper StillBar · East VillageThe Copper Still is a great spot to go if you're on the hunt for pub vibes, it doesn't disappoint.
  8. The WaylandBar · East VillageA popular destination for a dinner and drinks, The Wayland is a craft cocktail bar in the East Village with live music and great bites served in a rustic cabin-like atmosphere.
  9. Tile BarBar · East VillageSelf-dubbed the best dive bar in the East Village, Tile Bar couldn't be cozier, especially during the evening hours when it swells with locals.
  10. Please Don't TellBar · East VillageHidden behind a phone booth inside Crif Dogs, this celebrated East Village speakeasy exudes a thrill of discovery that dates back to the Prohibition era.

On the map

Where they are

All in East Village.

East Village

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 13 Exciting East Village Bars for Every Occasion.