15 Bustling Bars in SoHo (You'll Keep Coming Back To) (2024)

This list of best bars in SoHowas written by Yana Zaytseva, co-founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps).

SoHo, you beautiful thing. It’s hard not to romanticize life while strolling the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets, especially after a tipsy night out with friends. Countless nights of laughter have unfolded within the welcoming confines of SoHo’s best bars. I’ve fallen in and out of love over drinks and dreamt bigger than I ever thought I could (thank you, tequila).

Now, I’m eager to share the gems of SoHo’s bar scene with you. We’ll explore the must-visit spots, catering to every preference, whether you’re seeking budget-friendly drinks, a sports haven, or the ideal setting for a memorable date night. Enough of the small talk, let’s dive right in!

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time?Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC,hands down.

Best Bars in SoHo, NYC

Balzem

Website:Balzem
Address: 202 Mott St, New York, NY 10012
Good to know: Extensive wine menu, friendly staff, great date night spot

Balzem, a standout among NYC’s Mediterranean restaurants, is possibly the best. This SoHo wine bar, with its warm lighting, brick walls, and lively ambiance, sets the stage for a perfect romantic night out. The candlelit dinner, whether a quick bite or an extended chat, always leads to effortless and enjoyable conversations (courtesy of the wine).

Despite being one of SoHo’s top wine bars, Balzem prioritizes its Mediterranean cuisine, offering an incredible dining experience. The dilemma between savoring every bite and devouring the meal quickly speaks to the irresistible food quality. Don’t miss the chance to try the octopus!

JIMMY

Website:JIMMY
Address: 15 Thompson St, New York, NY 10013
Good to know: Rooftop bar, city views, there is a public pool during the summer months

Cap off your NYC exploration with a visit to the JIMMY rooftop bar—one of SoHo’s best. Featuring both enclosed and open-air seating, this year-round spot is ideal for a drink, especially at sunset, offering breathtaking views of Manhattan.

In the summer, the outdoor pool (open to the public after 5 PM, M-F) adds a vibrant touch, while a fireplace keeps it cozy in winter. If you’re looking for drink recommendations, try the pineapple mojito with Brugal extra dry rum, pineapple, mint, and lime. Reservations are a must for this popular SoHo bar.

Local

Instagram:Local SoHo
Address: 144 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012
Good to know: Laid-back vibe, small venue, no-frills menu

I hesitate to mention Local as one of SoHo’s best bars, as I want to keep it my little secret. This neighborhood gem remains somewhat hidden, but I won’t be a gatekeeper. Despite its petite size, Local exudes charm, making it perfect for an impromptu date night. The small yet tasty menu includes free popcorn for a light snack.

Local exclusively offers beer and wine, which may be a deal-breaker for some. However, I find the simplicity a refreshing break from flashy drinks, making Local one of SoHo’s best bars for a laid-back evening. If the tables are full, the heated outdoor patio is just as cozy. With a steady flow of drinks, warmth is guaranteed.

SoHo Room

Address: 203 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Good to know: Laid-back vibe, friendly staff, no-frills menu

SoHo Room, a quaint hole-in-the-wall tavern, surprisingly ranks among the best bars in SoHo. Forget flashy attractions; here, it’s all about friendly service and cold beer. Craft co*cktails aren’t the focus—this is the spot for ordering nachos, grabbing a beer, and settling in to watch the game.

The bar offers a laid-back atmosphere with kind and friendly bartenders, fostering easygoing small talk among newcomers and regulars at the bar. In the back, comfortable tables provide a space to gather with friends and spend hours catching up. SoHo Room stands out as one of the best bars in SoHo for those seeking a casual neighborhood joint. If you crave a cold beer without the fuss of dressing up, this is the place to be.

Little Ways

Website:Little Ways
Address: 343 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013
Good to know: Innovative drinks, friendly staff

My introduction to Little Ways was sparked by a friend’s mention of a drink named after Harry Styles (yes, I’m a fan) made with watermelon and mezcal. Needless to say, I fell in love and have been a regular ever since! Little Ways earn its spot among the best bars in SoHo for its charming afternoon ambiance, transforming into a mini club at night—an ideal combination for enjoying dinner, drinks, and dancing into the early morning.

While the menu is compact, it offers enough diversity to cater to everyone in your party. However, the true allure of one of the best bars in SoHo lies in its drinks. Despite a limited co*cktail selection, each one is flavorful, unique, and packs a punch. My personal favorite is the Harry Styles drink, closely followed by the enticing espresso martini at Little Ways.

Grand Bar & Lounge at SoHo Grand Hotel

Website:Grand Bar & Lounge at SoHo Grand Hotel
Address: 310 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013
Good to know: Reservations encouraged

Nestled in the luxurious SoHo Grand Hotel, the Grand Bar & Lounge exudes posh elegance with plush couches and chairs, creating a swanky ambiance perfect for photo-worthy moments. The SoHo bar stands out for crafting exceptional classic co*cktails, with the espresso martini being a true work of art.

Offering a decent menu of traditional American fare, including steak, burgers, and salmon, the Grand Bar & Lounge is in high demand, meaning reservations are non-negotiable to avoid lengthy waits. If your night extends beyond dinner, the SoHo Grand Hotel also has a club room.

PS at Pine and Polk

Website:Pacific Standard
Address: 300 Spring St, New York, NY 10013
Good to know: Speakeasy, reservations are encouraged

Pine & Polk, initially appearing as a charming local grocery store, is more than what meets the eye. Over half its products hail from women and minority-owned businesses, emphasizing healthy options. What might surprise you is that beyond the chocolate bar wall lies a speakeasy – PS at Pine & Polk. Sporting the same polished vibe as the store, it’s no wonder it’s counted among the best bars in SoHo.

With an extensive selection of wine, co*cktails, beer, and spirits, along with a small food menu, PS at Pine & Polk offers a modern and elegant setting. While not ideal for dinner, the shareable options can keep you and your friends satisfied as you sip your drinks in the dimly lit, intimate space. Despite the small grocery store front, the surprisingly spacious interior and lounge-style seating make it an inviting spot to linger.

St Tropez

Website:St Tropez
Address: 194 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Good to know: Extensive wine list, great spot for celebrating occasions

The French excel at crafting unforgettable food, and what better complement to a hearty meal than a bottle of wine? Fortunately, St Tropez stands out as one of the best wine bars in SoHo. Each visit leaves me wanting to personally thank the kitchen staff for their golden hands that create such delectable dishes.

In the summer, the open windows give St Tropez an inviting open-air vibe, with sunlight streaming into the restaurant. If you’re given the option to snag an outdoor seat, do it! With a diverse wine selection, including white, red, and champagne for special occasions, St Tropez ensures that as one of the best wine bars in SoHo, you have plenty of options. And fear not if your companion isn’t a wine enthusiast – there’s a small beer menu available too.

Kenn’s Broome Street Bar

Address: 363 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013
Good to know: Innovative menu, laid-back vibe

Ever tried a hamburger in pita bread? Kenn’s Broome Street Bar adds a simple yet unique twist by blending the soft chewiness of pita with a juicy hamburger patty. While the pita-burgers steal the show, Kenn’s Broome Street Bar doesn’t boast many other distinctive features. Its “normal” charm has made it a popular spot for tourists seeking the quintessential New York City dive bar experience.

This neighborhood joint has held its place among the best bars in SoHo for 50 years, offering great service, people-watching opportunities, and a flavorsome drink list. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, Kenn’s Broome Street Bar provides the perfect setting to unwind with a cold one.

Ear Inn

Website:Ear Inn
Address: 326 Spring St, New York, NY 10013
Good to know: Historical significance, live jazz

Situated on the ground floor of the historic James Brown House, which belonged to an African-American Revolutionary War veteran and aide to George Washington, the Ear Inn has been in operation since 1817.

Originally catering to sailors with homemade beer and whiskey, the bar has maintained its popularity over centuries. Today, it offers delicious burgers, beers, and pasta accompanied by live jazz. For those seeking one of the best bars in SoHo with a touch of history, Ear Inn is a must-visit. Even if history isn’t your priority, it’s still a fantastic bar serving refreshing drinks!

Fun fact: Wondering how Ear Inn got its name? Since the building is a designated landmark the owners aren’t allowed to make any changes without jumping through bureaucratic hoops. The owners simply changed the lighting in the sign to make it read “Ear” instead of “Bar” and were able to avoid the paperwork of a new sign.

Bisou Wine Bar

Website:Bisou Wine Bar
Address: 112 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Good to know: New to the scene, incredible service, great date night spot

Bisou Wine Bar sets the perfect tone for the beginning of your night out in SoHo. This intimate and cozy wine bar, infused with strong French influences, offers an ideal space to kickstart your evening and unwind in a relaxed atmosphere.

While the noteworthy food and drinks are worth mentioning, the true standout is the exceptional service. The dedicated staff at Bisou goes above and beyond, making it their personal mission to ensure folks leave happy and satisfied. Their commitment to service sets a high standard in the industry.

Toad Hall

Website:Toad Hall
Address:57 Grand St, New York, NY 10013
Good to know: Fairly priced, local hotspot

Toad Hall epitomizes the dive-bar experience—ideal for an affordable night out with a pool table, brick walls, and a wall adorned with numerous photos. As one of the best bars in SoHo, it attracts a diverse local crowd, fostering a homely atmosphere where bartenders and regulars share stories.

Toad Hall, known for its casual and laid-back vibe, is perfect for those looking to unwind. Evenings can get lively with locals enjoying the relatively inexpensive drinks, featuring classic co*cktails and beer. However, don’t expect food; plan your dinner before or after visiting.

Spring Lounge

Website:Spring Lounge
Address: 48 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Good to know: Laid-back vibe, historical significance, early hours

Spring Lounge is the quintessential SoHo bar, displaying its rich 100-year history on the walls. Originally a store selling beer during prohibition, it went through various names, settling on The Spring Lounge in the 1970s. Locally known as “shark bar” (thanks to the shark hanging above the bar), its history is just one reason it’s among the best bars in SoHo.

With the slogan “life’s short, drink early,” Spring Lounge opens at 8 AM, making it an excellent spot for daytime drinking without judgment. Offering beers and traditional co*cktails, the bar is known for its friendly service, homely ambiance, and lively crowd.

The Crosby Bar

Website:The Crosby Bar
Address: 79 Crosby St, New York, NY 10012
Good to know: Friendly staff, lively atmosphere

Boasting enormous windows facing charming SoHo streets, The Crosby Bar is a stunning place to enjoy a drink. The colorful accents help set the tone for a fun get-together with friends. Featuring a full-service kitchen, the Crosby Bar is a great place for brunch, afternoon tea, or dinner. If you’re looking for one of the best bars in SoHo for a date night, you’ve found it.

But that’s not to say you can’t pop in for just a drink. Pulling out a stool and sitting at the bar is always a delightful experience thanks to attentive bartenders and expertly made co*cktails. The downtown crowd gives The Crosby Bar a buzzing atmosphere, filled with lively chatter and laughter.

Mother’s Ruin

Website:Mother’s Ruin
Address: 18 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Good to know: Open late, fairly priced, lively atmosphere

Mother’s Ruin may seem like an ordinary watering hole at first glance, but its impressive drink menu and food offerings have elevated it to one of the best bars in SoHo. Distinguishing itself from typical dive bars, Mother’s Ruin serves innovative co*cktails like the Man After Midnight, made with bourbon, pineapple, allspice, and lemon—a perfect choice for casual hangouts.

The food at Mother’s Ruin is noteworthy too, with some claiming it has the best wings in New York City. If you’re not in the mood for a full meal, the crispy waffle fries with just the right amount of salt are a delicious option.

Best Bars in SoHo (Post Summary)

1. Mother’s Ruin
2. The Crosby Bar
3. Spring Lounge
4. Toad Hall
5. Bisou Wine Bar
6. Ear Inn
7. Kenn’s Broome Street Bar
8. St. Tropez SoHo
9. PS at Pine and Polk
10. Grand Bar & Lounge at SoHo Grand Hotel
11. Little Ways
12. SoHo Room
13. Pine and Polk
14. Local
15. Jimmy
16. Balzem

Further Reading for SoHo

Where to Grab Brunch in SoHo:15 Satisfying Brunch Places in SoHo (Worth the Wait)
Best Happy Hour in SoHo:12 Satisfying Happy Hour Spots in SoHo
Coffee Shops in SoHo:15 Satisfying SoHo Coffee Shops (Locals Can’t Live Without!)
Restaurants in SoHo:

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Best Pizza in NYC:15 Best Pizza Joints in New York City
Iconic Restaurants in NYC:10 Iconic New York City Restaurants Every Local Needs to Try
Mouthwatering Bagels in NYC:15 BEST Bagels in New York City
Unbelievable Brunch Spots in NYC:18 Prime Brunch Spots in New York City Worth the (Inevitable) Wait

Map of Fun Bars in SoHo

And there it is, the best bars in SoHo NYC, according to yours truly. Let me know if there’s any you recommend I try.

Cheers.