Forget the idea that bars are places to just drink — these days, New York City restaurant bars have increasingly become prime spots to dine and our favorite seats in the house. Several restaurants around the city offer standout experiences at their bars, complete with comfortable seating. That includes offering a handful of bar-only dishes in addition to the regular menu, wine tastings not available in the main dining room, special cocktails, and other extras. Then there’s the appeal of the convivial setting, with everyone socializing, including the bartenders, who tend to be more generous with the alcohol pours as the night goes on. And, more importantly, you don’t need a reservation to dine at the bar.
Ask Daniel Boulud about the appeal of bar dining at his eponymous upscale Upper East Side restaurant, and he’ll tell you it’s an insider’s destination that locals love. “There are a lot of regulars here from the neighborhood, and they come here for a drink or dinner with friends,” he says. “Sometimes, I even like to go behind the bar and make martinis for customers myself.”
And with that, here is our list of go-to restaurants in the city with the best bars for dining out.
