Reliable, Low-Key Bars in NYC

4 bars in NYC where you can reliably get in every night of the week but actually enjoy yourself.

Bar Pendry

Sophisticated, yet laid-back cocktail lounge

About: Bar Pendry is an elegant cocktail lounge in the Pendry Manhattan West hotel. The ambiance is great – quiet, yet elevated, with gold ceilings, a fireplace, and intimate banquettes. The cocktail menu is short and simple, but the ample bar seems well stocked enough to make any drink off-menu upon request. With well-executed drinks, a stylish interior and friendly staff, Bar Pendry is a great spot to linger.

How to do it right: Bar Pendry is perfect if you want to have a quiet, reliable drink, yet still want to enjoy a fancy ambiance. It’s also a fantastic backup to Zou Zou’s or Chez Zou, as it is located in the same building and doesn’t require a reservation like the others. Try the Haku Sour and the Old Fashioned, or order off-menu. Stick to drinks and skip on the bar food, which is quite overpriced.

On the Rocks

Understated, dimly-lit whiskey bar where you can stay a while

About: On the Rocks is a cozy, understated whiskey bar, hidden in Hell’s Kitchen. Despite its size, the bar is home to an impressive array of whiskeys; if you’re a whiskey fan, then you’ll love On the Rocks. The bar is laid-back – this is the place to sip a great Old Fashioned over some quiet conversation and listen to jazz. On a cold, rainy day, this is the spot to be.

How to do it right: Part of the charm of On the Rocks is its relaxed, intimate feel – so don’t come here with a group. There’s no menu, so if you’re new to whiskey, try their Old Fashioned (it’s one of my favorites in NYC). The bartender is also extremely knowledgeable and more than happy to help novices experience their first whiskey or introduce whiskey lovers to a new favorite. Go for the alcove seating in the back if you want to be even more low-key.

Pocket Bar

Lively, welcoming cider bar in Hell’s Kitchen, where everyone’s your friend

About: If you want a casual, fun evening where you can sing your heart out any night of the week, Pocket Bar is for you. The bar has a limited menu, serving up beer, fortified wine and cider – but it’s the wholesome neighborhood community feel that will keep you coming back. It’s the type of place that can turn a bad day around and have the most shy of patrons joining in on a song. The free popcorn also doesn’t hurt.

How to do it right: As the name might imply, Pocket Bar is quite small and cozy, so at peak hours it can get tight. Once you squeeze in, order a cider and just unwind. If you really can’t get in, try its sister bar Back Pocket Bar, located on the other side of the building.

The Pineapple Club

Reliable, unpretentious group spot in the East Village

About: A night out in the East Village is never simple, with unimaginable wait lines, overrated speakeasies and chaotic groups stumbling through the streets. The Pineapple Club is a welcome and reliable respite. The bar is sizeable, with ample patio seating in the summer. The food and drinks are forgettable, but carry a fun tropical theme. Even though it’s a lively and popular spot, it still feels unpretentious and welcoming – a rarity in the East Village.

How to do it right: The Pineapple Club is a great spot to hang out while you wait get off a waitlist, grab a drink before a reservation, or pre-game before starting your night. The drinks are average, but there are some fun options like the frozen margs or ube pina colada. Come with a date or with a group – it’s a good spot for anyone.