Working in Midtown Manhattan is tough. The hustle and bustle of the city can be draining, and New Yorkers are always expected to be on the go. After a long day at the office, nothing beats relaxing with a good drink and good company.
Once you’ve clocked out for the day, grab your coworkers and head to one of these watering holes for a chance to sit, unwind, and revive.
The Long Room
120 W. 44th Street, between 6th Ave. and 7th Ave.
The Long Room is located on a busy street just steps away from Times Square, but don’t think it’s a tourist trap. This unpretentious Irish pub is filled with friendly NYC locals and hearty comfort food. Enjoy over 40 beers on tap, an impressive selection of scotch and Irish whiskey, and a classic cozy pub atmosphere. The Long Room also has daily $1 oyster specials, so bring a group of coworkers and enjoy.
Lillie’s Victorian Establishment
249 W. 49th Street, between 7th Ave. and 8th Ave.
Grab some friends and head over to Lillie’s if you want to relax in a beautiful atmosphere. This Victorian-themed bar has a dramatic coffered ceiling and tons of throwback decorations. Most importantly, they have dedicated bartenders and impressive craft cocktails. This bar has plenty of seating and draws a nice, relaxed crowd. Settle into one of their velvet-lined booths and you’ll quickly forget the chaos of Midtown New York.
Lantern’s Keep
49 W. 44th Street, between 5th Ave. and 6th Ave.
This old-fashioned bar is historic and stately without being stuffy. Lantern’s Keep is located inside the Iroquois Hotel, just steps away from Bryant Park. This bar has velvet seats, marble countertops, and romantic candles throughout, while the friendly staff and genuinely tasty drinks keep the atmosphere from feeling too pretentious. This bar has a noise policy and limits parties to five guests or less, so it’s the perfect place to relax with a friend after a hard day at work.
Faces and Names
159 W. 54th Street, on the corner of 54th Street and 7th Ave.
This lounge-style bar is popular with the after-work crowd, so you’ll be in good company when you leave the office and come here. Faces and Names has daily happy hour specials and an impressive selection of pub snacks. It’s a buzzy, happy place with comfortable seating, fireplaces, and fun celebrity portraits as decoration.
District Social
252 W. 37th Street, between 7th Ave. and 8th Ave.
District Social is a great place to bring your whole team. This chic bar has large booths, multiple levels of seating, and a private table you can reserve, making it the perfect place to bring a larger group. They have a great happy hour as well, featuring $6 well drinks and $5 select draft beers. Come for the happy hour and stay for dinner. District Social has a full menu and is a great place to relax into the evening.
Cock and Bull
23 W. 45th Street, between 5th Ave. and 6th Ave.
It’s easy to miss this tucked-away pub, located just a few blocks from Times Square. Cock and Bull will be your best-kept secret in Midtown. Bring a few coworkers and their classic cocktail menu and homey atmosphere. Be sure to come hungry, too. Cock and Bull is known for their award-winning fish and chips!
Beer Culture
328 W. 45th Street, between 8th Ave. and 9th Ave.
If you love beer and are looking to try something new, head over to Beer Culture. This cozy bar has a rotating, curated beer list and bartenders who truly know their stuff. Ask the staff for their recommendations, then settle in with your coworkers for an evening of relaxation. The laid-back environment will instantly make you feel welcome, and the beer selection changes often enough that you can come here regularly and discover something new each time.
Henry’s Rooftop Bar
501 Lexington Avenue, on the corner of E. 47th Street and Lexington Ave.
When the weather is nice, there’s no better place in Manhattan to relax after work than Henry’s. This rooftop bar is located in the Roger Smith Hotel just a few blocks away from Grand Central. Twinkle lights and patio seating make this place unpretentious and inviting so you can enjoy drinks outdoors without the lounge vibe that certain rooftop bars have. Too cold for the rooftop? No worries. This hotel also has an indoor bar called Lily’s that’s just as great.
Crimson and Rye
198 E. 54th Street, on the corner of 54th Street and 3rd Ave.
Unwind after a hard day in this smart lounge. Modern wood finishes, leather couches, and intimate booths make this a perfect place to relax with a good friend or bring the whole group. Located in the lobby of the iconic Lipstick Building, this bar offers creative cocktails in a chic location. Add Crimson and Rye to your list for Summer Fridays as well- they offer patio seating in the warmer months.
Vanguard Wine Bar
252 W. 51st Street, between 8th Ave. and Broadway
Relax in this tiny wine bar after a day at the office or before a Broadway show. This lively little bar features wines from all over the world as well as small plates and appetizers. The dim lighting, subway tile bar, and classic wood finishes give this bar a stylish and intimate feel. Discover a new favorite wine with the help of their friendly, passionate staff.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Whether you’re looking for a swanky hotel or a laid-back happy hour, Midtown Manhattan has some of the best bars for you and your coworkers. With so many great options, you’ll never run out of places to try. Grab your coworkers and get exploring!