Man I love this city. I adore every visit I have here. The average bartender here is better than the average bartender anywhere else in the world. Here are my recommendations.
01
Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog
Located down in the Financial District all by it's lonesome is an amazing bar. Split into the casual downstairs and the more formal upstairs. They have two completely different menus. The upstairs bar is place where this bar really shines. A huge menu of 4 dozen cocktails (perhaps more) in a bound illustrated book. Irish whiskey is the main focus, but there is something for everyone.
Location: 30 Water St, New York, NY 10004
02
Death and Company
After all these years the cocktails here are as amazing as ever. Their impressive cocktail list is still is just about perfect. Everyone can find something they will love. The service is that perfect balance of professional and amiable. They also have had a very amiable doorman which more bars need employ. A great drinking experience all around. It has won award after award and they deserve each one. It is still my favorite bar in New York. Do not mistake the original in NYC with the new locations in Denver and LA. While the new locations have the same owners they are not very good. The original NYC location is just superb and should not be compared to the new locations.
http://www.deathandcompany.com
Location: 433 East 6th St., New York, NY
03
Raines Law Room
There are two location in NY of this superb bar. The original is marked with a small framed note by the door. A buzzer press and a door-person lets you know the wait time. The place is sexy and beautiful. My favorite bit is the "bar" which is a remodeled or modeled kitchen. You can wait at the "bar" kitchen island for a seat if there is space. Fantastic cocktails. The other location is also very good, but I slightly prefer the original.
Location: 48 West 17th St., New York, NY
04
ZZ's Clam Bar
Some of the city's priciest cocktails are well worth it. Many are ornately garnished. All are really very good. This tiny bar is pretty much reservation only so do yourself a favor and call ahead.
Location: 169 Thompson St. New York, NY 10012
05
Attaboy
This bespoke cocktail bar is run by the renowned Sammy Ross. Here in the old home of Milk and Honey he will make you a drink and it will be glorious.
Location: 134 Eldridge St. New York, NY 10002
Updated: 2023.06.04