Best Bars in New York City

Bon Appétit

by Andrea Strong

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

New York City’s bar scene is thriving with innovative mixology and a strong emphasis on sustainability and creativity. From Lower Manhattan to Brooklyn and Long Island City, some of the city’s most exciting bars are setting new standards for cocktail culture. These establishments are not only pushing boundaries with unique ingredients and zero-waste practices but also offering immersive experiences that redefine what it means to enjoy a drink. Whether you’re a mixology enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable night out, these bars are leading the charge in haute drinking. One of the standout spots is *Golden Ratio* in Brooklyn, known for its perfectly balanced cocktails and zero-waste approach. Co-founded by Steve Wong and Piper Kristensen, who also run beloved restaurants like Cafe Mado and Place des Fêtes, the bar creates 16 non-alcoholic and 16 spirited versions of each drink using greenmarket scraps and leftover ingredients from their culinary ventures. Collaborating with Acid Spirits, they craft seasonal batches of spirits in just a week. Their signature *Fir* cocktail combines distilled fir needles with clarified grapefruit for a unique martini-style experience. In the West Village, *Dandelion* offers a cozy, castle-like atmosphere with dark wood and crystal lamps setting the mood. Led by mixology experts Keith Laury and Nikola Stankovic, the bar focuses on creative signatures like the *One Night Stand*, a bold riff on bourbon and vermouth. Meanwhile, *Chin Up Bar* in Chinatown impresses with its extensive gin collection, including rare bottlings from around the world. Bartenders Brian Grummert and Blake Walker bring a modern twist to classic cocktails, such as the *Gibson*, made with leek vermouth and pickles. Finally, *Room 207* in the East Village channels Prohibition-era charm with its walnut wood and velvet drapery. Helmed by mixologist Hemant Pathak from Michelin-starred Junoon, the bar specializes in speakeasy-style drinks like the *Bayab*, a tropical gin cocktail with coconut and ginger. These bars not only reflect the city’s culinary innovation but also its growing focus on sustainability and immersive dining experiences, making them must-visit destinations for food and drink enthusiasts alike. This trend matters to readers interested in food because it highlights how cocktail culture is evolving alongside broader culinary movements. By emphasizing locally sourced ingredients, zero-waste practices, and creative flavor combinations, these bars are redefining the intersection of taste, sustainability, and experience. Whether you’re a mixology aficionado or simply looking for a unique dining experience, NYC’s bar scene offers something new and exciting to explore.

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Originally published on Bon Appétit on 2/26/2026