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The Best of New York · Drink · Bars by neighborhood

The best bars on the Upper West Side.

Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 11 places.

As a long time resident of the Upper West Side, I’m not immune from the constant criticism the neighborhood receives for being a food (and bar) desert. I’ve spent years tracking down the best bars on the Upper West Side, and I’m finally sharing my favorites. While I’m inclined to agree (I don’t think our neighborhood’s food scene is worth a detour), I do believe we have some local gems that keep neighborhoods happily boozy and fed for years on end.

For example, the variety of bars on the Upper West Side span the gamut. From cozy dive bars to chic. With that said, allow me to share my quick roundup of the best bars on the Upper West Side.

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide

Best bars on the Upper West Side, 2026

  1. Amsterdam Ale HouseBar · Upper West SideThe Amsterdam Ale House is a no-frills neighborhood staple, we’ve caught many games here over the years.
  2. Bodega 88Bar · Upper West SideWith a variety of options to suit everyone, the bar serves delicious cocktails and ice cold beer.
  3. e’s BarBar · Upper West Sidee’s Bar is on constant rotation in my arsenal of neighborhood haunts.
  4. TessaBar · Upper West SideOffering a romantic ambiance with string lights, dimly-lit brick walls and cozy leather booths, Tessa is one of the most romantic bars on the Upper West Side.
  5. The Bar at Maison PickleBar · Upper West SideMaison Pickle is known for serving some of the best brunch on the Upper West Side, but the bar is not to be trifled with either.
  6. The Dead PoetBar · Upper West Side
  7. The Owl’s TailBar · Upper West SideThe Owl’s Tail is a swanky cocktail parlor serving incredible small bites (deviled eggs make an appearance at every table) alongside inspired craft cocktails.
  8. Tiki ChickBar · Upper West SideTiki Chick is one of my favorite bars on the Upper West Side.
  9. Vin Sur VingtBar · Upper West SideIt’s one of my favorite wine bars on the Upper West Side, perfect for an afternoon with a girlfriend.
  10. Nobody Told MeBar · Upper West SideThe creative seasonal concoctions at this popular cocktail bar on the Upper West Side are always inspired, it’s hard to go wrong with anything on the menu.
  11. The Milling RoomBar · Upper West SideIn a neighborhood without many swanky joints, I consider the Milling Room one of the best cocktail bars in the Upper West Side to take a date.

On the map

Where they are.

All in Upper West Side.

Upper West Side

Best bars on the Upper West Side, 2026

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Best bars on the Upper West Side, New York Dearest, 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 14 Best Bars on the Upper West Side (For a Tipsy Night Out).