10 Charming Chelsea Bars (That'll Keep You Coming Back) (2024)

Famous for its art galleries and markets, the deceptively peaceful neighborhood conceals a lively secret – Chelsea has some extraordinary bars. Having indulged in countless evenings immersed in Chelsea’s vibrant nightlife I can say from first-hand experience, there’s a bar for everyone here.

Whether you’re into cozy co*cktail spots for first dates or dance-worthy venues that go late into the night, this quick list of Chelsea bars list ensures you’ll find a place that suits your style.

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Best Bars In Chelsea NYC

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Bathtub Gin

Website: Bathtub Gin
Address: 132 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Tucked discreetly within a coffee shop, Bathtub Gin exudes the ambiance of a 1920s speakeasy, offering an intimate setting to savor tasty co*cktails. Its name pays homage to the prohibition era, where “bathtub gin” was a colloquial term for homemade liquor.

Although the name is usually associated with low-quality, amateur-made alcohol the drinks at the Bathtub Gin are anything but. The mixologists have made Bathtub Gin one of the best co*cktail bars in Chelsea. Offering a diverse range of both classic and innovative drinks, Bathtub Gin guarantees a memorable experience. For a standout choice, I highly recommend ordering their inventive “s’mores” twist on the timeless old-fashioned.

Another reason Bathtub Gin is considered one of the top bars in Chelsea is thanks to the lineup of entertainment:

• Sunday: Live burlesque
• Monday: Live Jazz
• Tuesday: Live burlesque
• Wednesday: Live music
• Thursday: Disco night
• Friday: Live DJ
• Saturday: Live DJ

Word to the wise: I must say, one gripe I have against this otherwise great Chelsea bar is the awkward oddity of having someone work inside the restroom for tips. Upon exiting the stall you may find the sink water already running along with a new person who has emerged from places unknown and insists on dispensing the soap into your hands for you. Personally speaking, this makes me less likely to return given the amount of great speakeasies in Chelsea.

Porchlight

Website: Porchlight
Address:271 11th Ave, New York, NY 10001

Porchlight, brought to us by renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer, the mind behind Shake Shack, Gramercy Tavern, Daily Provisions, and more, is a charming Chelsea bar—ideal for a date night. Described as a “New York bar with a southern accent,” Porchlight seamlessly blends the flavors of the American South with the vibe of the Big Apple, showcasing a rustic yet industrial aesthetic.

Their outstanding Chelsea bar offers a few co*cktails for $11, with a rotating selection, $6 beers, and $5 flasks of punch. With Porchlight’s constant innovation, there’s always something new to try, making it not only one of the best happy hours in Chelsea but also one of the most innovative. A pit-stop here is always worthwhile.

Trailer Park Lounge

Website: Trailer Park Lounge
Address:271 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011

Entering the Trailer Park Lounge feels like stepping into a Southern diner themed bar. Amidst vintage signs and license plates, the retro yellow and red chairs create a vintage atmosphere – like you’re stepping onto a movie set of a Scorsese film (or inside the James Patterson book that featured it).

For margarita enthusiasts, Trailer Park Lounge stands out with its strong and refreshing versions, especially the frozen variety that adds to the Chelsea bar’s down-south charm. Pair your drinks with bar food classics like burgers, wings, and top-notch tater tots. Plus, nothing complements an innocent buzz like a plate of nachos.

Peter McManus Cafe

Website: Peter McManus Cafe
Address:152 Seventh Avenue New York, NY 10011

One of the most historic bars in Chelsea is Peter McManus Cafe, the longest-running family-owned bar in New York City. A classic Irish pub establishment that’s been around since 1936 serving fantastic food and drinks. This is a perfect Irish pub to pop into and sit at the bar for a proper pint (of Guinness).

One standout menu item that must be mentioned is the burger. Speaking from personal experience, rarely does a place that self-proclaims actually have one of the best burgers in New York City. In the case of ol’ Pete McManus, the burger is actually top-notch and worth a detour.

I tried both the “Pop Pop’s Top-Shelf Cheeseburger” & the classic cheeseburger. Both were great but I preferred the classic.

Pro-tip: If you like it medium-rare then order it medium to avoid a let down.

The Lobby Bar

Website: The Lobby Bar
Address:226 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011

Located inside The Hotel Chelsea you’ll find The Lobby Bar, a great Chelsea bar if I do say so myself. Specializing in craft co*cktails and small plates this classy watering hole is perfect for a date you’re trying to impress.

This upscale bar is the perfect addition to the iconic Hotel Chelsea which opened in 1884 and has been a neighborhood staple ever since. You can hear references to the hotel in songs by Bon Jovi, Bob Dylan, and of course Leonard Cohen with his famous Chelsea Hotel #2.

It always surprises me that the place isn’t more crowded. I’m not complaining, but given the vibes and the great co*cktails it seems like the kind of place that would be. Take advantage of the fact this Chelsea bar still somehow seems to be under the radar and enjoy a swanky night on the town.

The Tippler

Website: The Tippler
Address:425 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011

Located in the cellar of Chelsea Market, The Tippler stands out as one of Chelsea’s most captivating bars. Despite its subterranean setting, the rustic charm created by brick and wood is splendid.

The bar’s construction incorporates history, with reclaimed wood from original High Line Park railroad ties, repurposed antique light fixtures, vintage library decor, and water-tower wood. The quality of the co*cktails at The Tippler secure its status among Chelsea’s top co*cktail bars. Try the Blue Bayou, “a margarita and paloma having a baby.”

While reservations aren’t available at The Tippler, arriving early is crucial. Finding the entrance can be a challenge—head to 15th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues and spot the illuminated “entrance open” sign across from Live Nation.

Storehouse

Website: Storehouse
Address:757 6th Ave, New York, NY 10010

Storehouse is a friendly Irish-pub style neighborhood bar that has everything you need for an after-work hangout or casual date night. The joint is known for serving no-frills drinks in one of the more relaxed bars in Chelsea.

There isn’t a big menu to choose from, but sometimes all you need is a simple beer and you’re set. It’s also a great spot for groups since ordering is straightforward and quick. There’s plenty of seating so finding a table isn’t an issue, especially on weeknights. It’s one of the best bars in Chelsea for casual sports games since they’re open late and the staff is easygoing.

Crompton Ale House

Website: Crompton Ale House
Address:159 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001

Crompton Ale House is my go-to Chelsea sports bar when I don’t want to go to a sports bar. Let me explain, while lots of sports bars are dingy, cheap, and smell like a frat house, Crompton Ale House is a clean and classy establishment. This Irish pub offers a medley of beer, wine, and spirits in a more polished setting. The copper accents, granite bar, and bookshelf-lined walls create an air of (casual) sophistication.

But don’t let the classy look fool you, this joint gets just as thunderous as a college bar on game day. During the World Cup, the bar is stuffed like a can of sardines. The food at the Crompton Ale House is also noteworthy, which makes it one of the best bars in Chelsea for casual get-togethers. If you need a suggestion, I always recommend ordering the fish and chips!

Raines Law Room

Website: Raines Law Room
Address:48 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011

Named after the Raines Law, a New York State liquor tax aimed at reducing alcohol consumption, Raines Law Room has become a neighborhood favorite. The law prohibited selling alcohol on Sundays, except for hotels. To exploit this loophole, saloons started expanding and adding rooms to qualify as a hotel. These became known as Raines Law rooms and paved the way for one of the most intimate co*cktail bars in Chelsea.

If low lights and good drinks are just about all you need for a great date night then Raines Law Room is looking to host. If you’re looking for an engaging date night, consider taking one of their co*cktail-making classes.

Slate

Website: Slate
Address:54 W 21st St, New York, NY 10010

Remember how in elementary school there was always something to do during recess? Kickball, monkey bars, and swings provided innocent fun. Well, in adulthood, I go to Slate, one of the coolest bars in Chelsea. This swanky hot spot has pool tables, arcade games, and a 20 ft. slide. You read that right, a slide!

The 16,000 square foot space means ample space for lounge-style seating, so you and your friends can get comfortable.

On Fridays and Saturdays, there is a live DJ, essentially turning the bar into a nightclub (but you’ll need tickets). There are also karaoke nights, comedy shows, and live performances. Keep an eye on the online calendar to stay on top of the schedule, or just visit for kicks and giggles since this is one of the most unique bars in Chelsea.

Best Chelsea Bars (Post Summary)

1. Bathtub Gin
2. Raines Law Room
3. Crompton Ale House
4. Storehouse
5. The Tippler
6. The Lobby Bar
7. Peter McManus Cafe
8. Slate
9. Trailer Park Lounge
10. Porchlight

Further Reading for Chelsea

Best Bakeries in Chelsea:12 Cheerful Chelsea Bakeries
Fun Things to Do in Chelsea:15 Things to Do in Chelsea
Best Brunch in Chelsea:15 Fantastic Spots for Brunch in Chelsea
Best Coffee in Chelsea:15 Charming Coffee Shops in Chelsea
Happy Hour Spots in Chelsea:18 Satisfying Happy Hours in Chelsea

Best Bars in Chelsea NYC (Map)

And there you have it folks, the best bars in Chelsea NYC. Leave a comment down below if you think we missed a spot — we love to hear from you!

Cheers!