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The Best of New York · Drink · Happy hour

The best happy hours on the Lower East Side

Updated September 2026. 14 places.

I still remember the first time I stumbled upon a truly great happy hour in Lower East Side. Since then, I’ve made it my personal mission to find every hidden gem and local favorite the area has to offer. Here’s what I’ve discovered.

As a local with an interest in the neighborhood, I’m here to help you decide where you can find the most refreshing drinks in the most charming settings. Whether you just need to unwind or catch up with an old friend, this list of LES happy hour joints is sure to help.

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

Best happy hours on the Lower East Side, 2026

  1. Bar BellyBar · Lower East Side
  2. Black CrescentBar · Lower East SideThe atmosphere here is warm and unpretentious.
  3. DonnybrooksBar · Lower East SideOn the bright side, Donnybrook allows outside food so bring your own food and enjoy one of the best LES happy hour deals in the area.
  4. EssexBar · Lower East SideAs the most popular happy hour spot in the Lower East Side, reservations are strongly recommended.
  5. Loreley Beer GardenBar · Lower East SideLoreley Beer Garden is irresistible with its heated patio, vibrant decor, and endless booze.
  6. Pretty Ricky'sBar · Lower East SidePretty Ricky's also has one of the best happy hours in the Lower East Side, boasting $5 beer, $6 wine and well drinks, and a selection of shareable appetizers for less than $10.
  7. AntlerBar · Lower East SideAnd true to form, this neighborhood bar has one of the best happy hours in the Lower East Side.
  8. Bonnie VeeBar · Lower East SideEnjoy one of the best happy hours in the Lower East Side amid outdoor couches and a laid-back backyard vibe with great sunsets.
  9. Grey LadyRestaurant · Lower East SideGrey Lady is a seafood restaurant with one of the best happy hours in the Lower East Side.
  10. JadisBar · Lower East SideSurprisingly, it also offers one of the best Lower East Side happy hours, featuring the best wines starting at $7.
  11. Nurse BettieBar · Lower East SideThey also have one of the best happy hours in the Lower East Side headlined by $6 well drinks and beer as well as a constant supply of specials.
  12. The MagicianBar · Lower East SideThe Magician pulls off a budget-friendly trick in a city where drinks can be pricey.
  13. The Ten BellsBar · Lower East SideAs one of the best oyster happy hours in the Lower East Side, you'll find them for $1.50 a pop.
  14. VerlaineBar · Lower East SideVerlaine, a sophisticated spot in the Lower East Side, hosts one of the best happy hours around.

On the map

Where they are

All in Lower East Side.

Lower East Side

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 15 Refreshing Happy Hours in the Lower East Side To Unwind.