New York City—a cacophony of sights, sounds, and sentiments—thrums with an electric energy that draws in the curious and the creative. Among its multifaceted neighborhoods, a particular breed of venue has emerged that captivates both locals and visitors alike: the hammer. These eclectic spaces are not just bars; they are purveyors of experiences, offering an array of culinary delights, artisanal cocktails, and vibrant atmospheres. Journey through this city that never sleeps as we explore ten remarkable hammers, each steeped in its own unique character, awaiting your discovery.
1. Grand Army
Address: 336 State St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Contact: (347) 987-4005
Website: grandarmynyc.com
Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, Grand Army boasts a stunning bar adorned with intricate tile work and a striking wooden facade. Renowned for its vibrant happy hours, the place specializes in locally crafted beers and innovative cocktails. Combine this with a bar menu that emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, and you have an establishment that seamlessly blends sophistication with conviviality.
2. Clover Club
Address: 210 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 834-8840
Website: cloverclubny.com
Step into Clover Club, where the charm of a 19th-century parlor greets modern cocktail enthusiasts. The knowledgeable bartenders here curate a tantalizing menu of classic and original cocktails—each meticulously crafted. Their ‘punch bowl’ offerings are particularly enticing for communal gatherings, making this spot ideal for intimate parties and festive celebrations.
3. Apotheke
Address: 9 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 406-0400
Website: apothekebar.com
Experience a hidden gem in Manhattan’s Chinatown. Apotheke channels a sense of old-world pharmacy with its apothecary theme. The cocktail menu draws inspiration from herbal medicine, offering health-conscious concoctions that please both the palate and the mind. With an ambiance punctuated by dim lighting and antique decor, the establishment encourages jovial indulgence and exploration.
4. PDT (Please Don’t Tell)
Address: 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 614-0386
Website: pdtnyc.com
Accessible through a vintage phone booth, PDT transcends the standard bar experience. This East Village haunt is a haven for opulent cocktails, with a menu designed for the adventurous drinker. Each sip embodies unique flavor profiles and inventive garnishes. The cozy, intimate setting invites camaraderie, instilling a sense of connection among patrons.
5. Employees Only
Address: 510 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 242-3021
Website: employeesonlynyc.com
Transform your perception of nightlife at Employees Only, a bar that prides itself on a combination of exceptional service and authentic ambience. This West Village establishment is lauded for its speakeasy vibe and expertly trained staff. The menu is diverse, featuring both classic cocktails and seasonal selections that will astound your senses.
6. The Dead Rabbit
Address: 30 Water St, New York, NY 10004
Contact: (646) 422-7906
Website: deadrabbitnyc.com
The Dead Rabbit marries Irish pub vibes with an avant-garde cocktail experience, making it a unique contender in the New York nightlife ecosystem. With two floors, you can enjoy either a casual drink or an intricate mixed drink crafted by world-renowned bartenders. The menu features an impressive selection of Irish whiskeys and sizable portions of traditional Irish fare.
7. Clover Club
Address: 210 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 834-8840
Website: cloverclubny.com
Layered in history, Clover Club is a bar steeped in tradition yet thoroughly modern. Not to be confused with another establishment, this Clover Club is a sanctuary for cocktail aficionados; its seasonal menu showcases ingredients that embody Brooklyn’s rustic charm. The oh-so-cozy atmosphere is designed to inspire animated conversations over creative drinks.
8. Attaboy
Address: 134 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (646) 490-1990
Website: attaboynyc.com
At Attaboy, each drink is metered by your preferences, ensuring a highly personalized cocktail experience. This speakeasy-style establishment embodies an air of exclusivity, which, coupled with its sophisticated menus, allows for delightful surprises in every sip. The bartenders, acting as alchemists of mixology, create drinks tailored to your mood and taste—an experiential journey in itself.
9. The Spaniard
Address: 190 West 4th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (646) 833-7033
Website: thespaniardnyc.com
This West Village retreat captures the essence of comfort within a lively gathering space. The Spaniard reinterprets the classic tavern with an infusion of European charm. Tastefully decorated with warm woods and soft lighting, it features an extensive wine list alongside craft cocktails that pay homage to traditional Spanish flavors.
10. Maison Premiere
Address: 298 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Contact: (347) 335-0446
Website: maisonpremiere.com
Drawing inspiration from New Orleans and Paris, Maison Premiere is an ode to the exuberance of life and revelry. With its breathtaking garden, delectable oysters, and signature cocktails, this Williamsburg hotspot serves an unforgettable dining experience. The ambiance is one that encourages lingering conversations, tantalizing taste buds, and an appreciation for the art of life.
As you traverse the vibrant tapestry of New York City’s neighborhoods, each hammer presents an invitation to explore, unwind, and delight in the unexpected. From the storied lanes of Brooklyn to the bustling streets of Manhattan, these venues promise not just drinks, but experiences—each with its own narrative awaiting to be unraveled. Whether you are a resident or a passing traveler, each stop on this list is poised to ignite curiosity and shift perspectives, creating moments that transcend the ordinary.
