Here’s Where To Spend Aperitivo Hour In NYC
The end of the day signals the beginning of aperitivo in Italy, which has gained an interest in the US as well. Aperitivo is a more sophisticated and leisurely than an American-style Happy Hour, creating a wonderful tradition of gathering with friends to unwind and sip cocktails before dinner. When meeting friends for after work drinks, or what we call it, cocktail hour, we like to unwind at a space that is inviting, with beautifully garnished libations and delectable fare. We have rounded up the best places to enjoy aperitivo hour, happy hour, or simply cocktail hour in NYC. So go ahead, cancel that late meeting, log off and gather your friends. Cheers!
Apotheke NoMad
The well-known Chinatown speakeasy has taken its striking luxe interior design and potent potions uptown to 9 W 26th Street. Apotheke NoMad features a below ground level speakeasy with an indistinguishable feel of the Doyers Street original and an intimate penthouse and terrace garden that similar to the indoor-outdoor manner of the LA location. Every part of the experience here is designed to elevate all five senses; Plants, herbs, roots and botanicals are infused and blended into everything, with many of them grown on-site. In addition to the garden to glass cocktail menu, Apotheke NoMad also features small plates and shareable food that are both fanciful and interactive. The penthouse lounge and terrace showcasing views of the Empire State Building and Madison Park year-round. Stop here at sunset for the true magic hour, when the light bursts through the windows and throws a stunning amber glow around the room with extraordinary effects.
Apotheke NoMad
9 W 26th St
New York, NY 10010
Thief LES
The second location from John McNulty (Katana Kitten and Cocktail Kingdom) , Thief LES is a bar inspired by 1980’s NYC graffiti, art and music scene. Located at 161 Ludlow St, the distinctive cocktail menu, expansive food offering and throwback playlist will have you reminiscing one of the best decades or dress like it.
Thief LES
161 Ludlow St
New York, NY 10002
Macchina
Owned and operated by the same team behind The Bedford and Roebling Sporting Club, Macchina focuses on quality food and an approachable wine and Italian aperitif cocktail menu delivered in a casual setting. Macchina also offers expertly crafted libations without booze. Sip a White Sbagliato and order the French Onion Soup Pizza topped with crispy shallots and caramelized onions.
Macchina
110 Bedford Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Reyna
Located in Union Square is Reyna, a Toronto staple and now the first in the United States. This Mediterranean snack and cocktail bar develped by restaurant industry veteran Nicki Laborie is a whole vibe. Designed in plush fabrics and tremendous finishing touches Reyna is an energetic gathering place with delicious food and photo worthy drinks intermix to create a wholly unique restaurant experience. The menu highlights a unique mix of both tapas and larger plates of Spanish, Greek, Italian and Arabic dishes rooted in bold, Mediterranean flavors. And with cocktails featuring names like The Queen Likes It Hot and Mezcal Smokeshow indicates you will have a grand time. Reyna’s Happy Hour special which involves 6 items for $6 makes this one of the best spots to enjoy aperitivo hour in NYC.
Reyna
11 East 13th Street,
New York, NY 10003
Batthub Gin
Bathtub Gin, the beloved New York Speakeasy Bar, now celebrating its 11th anniversary is renowned for its cocktails and its culinary program making the ideal spot for cocktail hour. From classic libations reimagined and modernized like a Salt & Vinegar Martini to a Flippin’ Good mixture adorned with a quail egg, paired with bites such as Salt & Vinegar Fried Olives or a Charcuterie Board will evoke joy and conversation with your group.
Bathtub Gin
132 9th Ave,
New York, NY 10011
646-559-1671
Bar Fogo
Nestled inside Fogo de Chao is Bar Fogo, which features all day happy hour. In addition to a Classic Martini order a handcrafted South American Caipirinha, Caramelized Pineapple Old Fashioned, or VSOP Sidecar. Small bites include Brazilian empanadas, Lobster & Shrimp tacos to Churrasco meat boards.
Bar Fogo
40 W 53rd St.
New York, NY 10019
212-969-9980
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