Finding the perfect happy hour spot in the Upper East Side can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This vibrant neighborhood boasts a diverse range of establishments, each with its own unique atmosphere and happy hour offerings. To help navigate this exciting landscape, we've compiled a list of the top 20 happy hour destinations, ensuring something for every taste and budget. This guide will delve into the best deals, ambiance, and overall happy hour experience each location offers, helping you find your new favorite spot.
Upscale Elegance & Happy Hour Delights
These spots offer a sophisticated ambiance paired with enticing happy hour specials:
1. The Campbell: Known for its elegant atmosphere and creative cocktails, The Campbell offers a daily happy hour with discounted drinks and small plates. Their handcrafted cocktails are a highlight, and the upscale ambiance makes it perfect for a more refined happy hour experience.
2. JG Melon: A UES institution, JG Melon is famous for its burgers and casual, yet upscale atmosphere. Their happy hour specials focus on discounted drinks, making it a great place to unwind after a long day. Expect a lively crowd.
3. The Smith: This stylish brasserie boasts a sophisticated happy hour with discounted drinks and an extensive selection of appetizers. The atmosphere is buzzing and vibrant, ideal for a group gathering.
4. Sarabeth's: This popular brunch spot also offers a delightful happy hour, featuring discounted cocktails and light bites. The charming atmosphere and delicious food make it a relaxing choice.
Casual & Lively Happy Hour Hangouts
For a more relaxed and casual atmosphere, these spots deliver on great deals and a fun vibe:
5. The Penrose: A gastropub with a wide selection of beers on tap, The Penrose boasts a daily happy hour with discounted drinks and pub fare. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming.
6. Lexington Candy Shop: This quirky spot is a fun option for those looking for something a little different. Their happy hour specials are unique and their atmosphere is undeniably charming.
7. CASK: This beer-centric spot is perfect for beer lovers. Their happy hour features discounted beer, wine, and snacks. It's a great place to relax and enjoy a good drink.
Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences
Venture off the beaten path to uncover these happy hour treasures:
8. The Skylark: While slightly further afield, The Skylark’s rooftop location and stunning city views make it worth the trip. Their happy hour often features signature cocktails and small plates at reduced prices.
9. Upland: This stylish restaurant features a seasonally changing menu and often has creative happy hour specials. The elegant ambiance makes it a stand-out.
10. Bar 82: Discover this hidden gem for a more intimate happy hour experience. Their cozy atmosphere and well-crafted cocktails are a draw.
Happy Hour with a View
11. Top of the Strand: This rooftop bar offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. Happy hour specials here often feature a blend of discounted drinks and bites, making the stunning view even more worthwhile.
12. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar: Similar to the Top of the Strand, this rooftop bar boasts breathtaking city views. Their happy hour is known for its extensive selection of drinks at discounted prices.
Budget-Friendly Happy Hour Options
13. Blind Tiger Ale House: A great option for those looking for affordable drinks and a relaxed ambiance. Their happy hour specials are consistently great value for your money.
14. The Ambassador: This gastropub is known for its extensive drink menu and budget-friendly happy hour deals.
15. The Wayfarer: Casual and inviting, The Wayfarer offers consistent happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers, providing excellent value.
Happy Hour with a Twist
16. The Clocktower: Known for its sophisticated British ambiance, The Clocktower's happy hour may offer a more refined approach to classic happy hour offerings.
17. Vandal: This stylish spot often features unique and themed happy hour experiences.
18. La Grande Boucherie: This French brasserie may have happy hour specials featuring classic French drinks and small plates.
Beyond the Usual Happy Hour
19. Sushi of Gari: Not all happy hours are created equal. While it may not be a traditional happy hour, some high-end sushi restaurants like Sushi of Gari offer “omakase” options that can work out to be surprisingly cost-effective for a high-end meal.
20. The Boathouse: A unique happy hour location boasting stunning Central Park views. Their happy hour often features seasonal cocktails and bites that perfectly complement the picturesque setting.
Important Note: Always confirm happy hour times and specials directly with the establishment before your visit, as these can change. Many happy hour deals are only valid during specific days and times.
This list represents a carefully curated selection of some of the best happy hour experiences the Upper East Side has to offer. Remember to explore, try new places, and find your perfect happy hour spot!
