As the workweek wanes and the anticipation of the weekend mounts, Thursday evenings emerge as a delightfully vibrant opportunity for New Yorkers to unwind, connect, and indulge. Amidst the bustling streets of the city, countless bars and lounges offer enticing happy hour specials that beckon locals and visitors alike. But among the myriad options, which spots truly stand out? As you ponder this delightful dilemma, let’s embark on a journey to discover ten extraordinary Thursday happy hour destinations throughout the diverse neighborhoods of New York City.
1. The Gray Mare
Location: 10 E 61st St, New York, NY 10065
Contact: (212) 774-4411
Website: thegraymarenyc.com
Stepping into The Gray Mare feels like entering an intimate soiree. This elegant bar offers a Thursday happy hour from 5 PM to 7 PM, featuring artisanal cocktails and curated wines at reduced prices. The plush atmosphere is enhanced by the live jazz playing softly in the background, creating a perfect ambiance for unwinding after a long day.
2. Apotheke
Location: 9 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 406-0400
Website: apothekenyc.com
A hidden gem in Chinatown, Apotheke combines mixology with an apothecary theme, presenting a unique take on happy hour. Their Thursday offering from 5 PM to 7 PM includes concoctions that are both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful. Prepare to be challenged by their creative takes on classic cocktails—will you dare to try the herbal-infused delights?
3. The Belfry
Location: 222 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 559-1458
Website: thebelfrynyc.com
Located in the historic East Village, The Belfry is famed for its extensive beer selection and eclectic decor. On Thursdays, revelers can enjoy $5 drafts and select appetizers at half price from 4 PM to 7 PM. Challenge yourself to pair their craft brews with delicious bites—will you find the ultimate combo?
4. Tinsley
Location: 1714 Wells St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 660-5785
Website: tinsleynyc.com
A bohemian paradise, Tinsley specializes in creative cocktails, offering a Thursday happy hour from 5 PM to 8 PM. As you sip on delightful blends, you might engage in the playful challenge of deciphering their seasonal ingredients. Engage your palate and lose yourself in the plush surroundings—how many flavors can you identify?
5. The Cabin
Location: 120 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 539-2000
Website: thecabinyc.com
This cozy spot in the East Village evokes feelings of a rustic escape. The Cabin’s Thursday happy hour runs from 6 PM to 8 PM, featuring a special selection of cocktails at $6 and appetizers starting at $3. Embrace the challenge of trying to pick your favorite amidst such an inviting atmosphere—what will you choose to indulge in first?
6. The NoMad Bar
Location: 10 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 796-1500
Website: thenomadhotel.com/bar
With a chic decor and a sophisticated clientele, The NoMad Bar serves delightful specialty cocktails during their happy hour, available from 4 PM to 6 PM on Thursdays. Attempt the challenge of trying their classic dishes reimagined, paired with the cocktail of your choice—can you handle the culinary creativity?
7. 1534
Location: 1534 6th Ave, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 252-4540
Website: 1534bar.com
Situated in NoMad, 1534 captures the spirit of community with its lively atmosphere. Their Thursday happy hour invites guests from 5 PM to 8 PM to enjoy signature cocktails and small plates at discounted prices. Challenge your friends to create their own cocktail concoctions using the available ingredients—how inventive will you be?
8. Clover Club
Location: 210 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 855-7939
Website: cloverclubny.com
Renowned for its vintage cocktail experience, Clover Club in Carroll Gardens offers a Thursday special from 4 PM to 7 PM. The challenge here is to choose your favorite cocktail from an impressive list of libations, all while enjoying their award-winning bar snacks—are you up for the task?
9. The Dead Rabbit
Location: 30 Water St, New York, NY 10004
Contact: (646) 422-7906
Website: deadrabbitnyc.com
This renowned Irish bar features a basement cocktail lounge offering an extensive drinks menu during happy hour from 4 PM to 7 PM on Thursdays. The challenge? Sample from the innovative cocktail list while munching on their traditional Irish bites—can you return for a second round?
10. The Up & Up
Location: 5 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (917) 565-3131
Website: theupandup.com
Nestled in the East Village, The Up & Up is both intimate and stylish. On Thursdays, their happy hour runs from 5 PM to 7 PM, inviting patrons to savor crafted cocktails at reduced prices. Take on the challenge of sharing your favorite mix with a new friend—will you make a lasting connection?
New York City pulsates with energy, especially as Thursday turns into a celebratory prelude to the weekend. Each of these ten establishments offers more than just drinks; they provide an experience, an opportunity to engage in jovial banter, and a test for your taste buds. So, as you gear up for your Thursday night out, consider where you’d like to venture first, and make it a night to remember. Cheers to fun, flavors, and a myriad of new connections!
