Happy Hour Bars

Whether you’re a nine-to-fiver seeking respite from weary workdays, low on cash or looking to get the party started early, these spots can help. They don’t call it “happy hour” for nothing.

JULEP: 14 AVENUE A
212-254-2442
The Deep South meets the LES in this free and easy bar, where folks can listen to Delta blues, rock or soul on the jukebox while sampling the impressive and often unusual assortment of beers in the backyard. For those of us who tend to fully acclimate ourselves with our surroundings, standard Southern libations, such as the mint julep, are on the menu but the Southern drawl is up to you.
The Deal: Mon-Sat 5pm- 8pm,Wed. ladies’ night 10pm-12am, Sunday 10pm- 12am, all drinks 2 for 1.

BRITE BAR: 297 10TH AVE.
212-279-9706
A sleek yet stress-free addition to the throes of West Chelsea’s more-fabulous-than-thou club scene. Didn’t make the cut at Bungalow 8 or Marquee? Get over it with Brite’s signature cocktail, the “Fother Mucker,”made with Zygo Energy Vodka while scoping the cool crowd and even cooler stuff. (Where’d they find that Lite- Brite machine anyway?)
The Deal: Mon-Fri 5:30pm- 8:00pm, well drinks $5, all beer $3.

THE COLLINS BAR: 735 EIGHTH AVE.
212-541-4206
In the crux of Hell’s Kitchen sits The Collins Bar, 100% free of tourists and gimmicks. Boasting an extensive selection of beer, scotch, bourbon and Tequila, you can bet it’s not the free popcorn that makes this the spot all the local bartenders hit up after work.
The Deal: Mon-Fri 4-7pm, $1 off draft beer, well drinks and wine.

ABSOLUTELY 4TH: 228 W. 4TH ST.
212-989-9444
Small and sexy, this West Village lounge offers an extensive martini list, with more than one appealing if not oddly lengthy titles such as “White Trash Blue Tease” and “Get a Sugar Daddy.” Our personal favorite? “The Thai-Me-Upalada”made with raspberry rum, Cocolopez, raspberry puree and pineapple.
The Deal: Sun-Tues all night long, Thurs-Fri 4-9pm. 2-for- 1 specialty martinis, $4 beer 4-8pm.

WELCOME TO THE JOHNSON’S: 123 RIVINGTON ST.
212-420- 9911 123 Rivington St. 212- 420-9911
Call it “That ’70s Bar,” and hang out in the wood-paneled suburban styled rec room of your (and the Bradys’) youth. The vinyl furniture is perfect to sit and discuss the Carter administration while viewing an array of old family portraits, bowling trophies and that requisite olive green refrigerator.
The Deal: Mon-Fri 3-9pm, Weekend 1-9pm. $2 Bud, $1.50 PBR, $2 well drinks, $3 margaritas.

NAKED LUNCH: 17 THOMPSON ST.
212-343- 0828
Absolutely nothing to do with William Burroughs, this small but airy lounge is a hit with almost everyone that comes through and has been since its inception more than 10 years ago. Attentive bartenders serve up libations to a sobriety-challenged youngish crowd. Expect an eclectic and often random mix of ’80s hits, old-school hip-hop and don’t be surprised if, as the night goes on, this little lounge converts into a full-on dance party.
The Deal: Tues-Fri 5-9pm, $2 off all drinks.

THE LUCKY CAT: 245 GRAND ST., BROOKLYN
718-782-0437 Comfortable coffeehouse by day, artsy and comfortable lounge by night, The Lucky Cat’s emphasis on relaxation makes it a favorite in Williamsburg. Listen to the various eclectically hip music acts that perform nearly every night, or find a cozy nook among the plush sofas for a romantic chat.
The Deal: Daily 5-8pm, 2- for-1 beers, well drinks and house wines.

Source: am New York


Previous Posts
NYC Guide - International Drinks
NYC Guide - "Cheap" Football Bars/Pubs