New York City is renowned for its diverse and vibrant bar scene, featuring establishments that range from speakeasies to rooftop lounges, dive bars to high-end cocktail bars.
However, there’s much more to New York bars than meets the eye. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you might be surprised to learn some of the lesser-known facts about the drinking spots in the Big Apple.
From historical anecdotes to quirky traditions, New York bars are filled with fascinating stories waiting to be discovered.
Sports, Betting, and Social Life in New York Bars
Beyond their variety in style, many New York bars share a common thread: they double as hubs of entertainment and social connection. Sports bars, in particular, have become an integral part of the city’s drinking culture, drawing in crowds not only for their extensive beer selections but also for the communal thrill of watching live games. These establishments are much more than places to enjoy a drink—they serve as vibrant gathering spots where fans rally behind their favourite teams, celebrate dramatic wins, and commiserate over narrow losses.
In recent years, the rise in casino-style entertainment and sports betting has only deepened their appeal, transforming the simple act of watching a game into an interactive, high-energy experience. This trend mirrors global and online betting interests.
For example, snooker UK bookmakers have seen a growing interest in betting trends as New York’s bars become social hubs, where people gather to watch sporting events and support their favourite teams.
10 Surprising Facts & Hidden Secrets About New York Bars
Here, we explore 10 surprising facts about New York bars, from their histories and unusual traditions to how they bring people together through entertainment, each revealing something unique about the city’s vibrant bar culture.
1. The Oldest Bar in New York is Over 200 Years Old
New York City has a rich history, and its bars are no exception. One of the oldest bars in the city, McSorley’s Old Ale House, has been serving drinks since 1854. Located in the East Village, McSorley’s is a historic landmark and has retained much of its original charm. The bar was frequented by famous figures like Abraham Lincoln, and it still maintains its two-drink-only policy: you can choose between light or dark ale, and that’s it!
Here are some facts about McSorley’s:
- Historic patrons: Throughout its long history, the bar has seen visits from the likes of John Lennon, Woody Guthrie, and even Edward R. Murrow.
- Famous interior: The bar’s decor has remained largely unchanged since the 19th century, with old photos and memorabilia covering the walls.
McSorley’s Old Ale House is a place where history and drinking come together, offering a glimpse into the past while enjoying a cold one.
2. New York Bars Have a Long History with Prohibition
The Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933) had a significant impact on New York’s bar scene. During this time, alcohol was banned, but New Yorkers found creative ways to keep the party going. Speakeasies, illegal bars hidden behind unmarked doors, flourished across the city, especially in neighbourhoods like Greenwich Village and the Lower East Side.
Some notable aspects of Prohibition-era New York bars include:
- Hidden locations: Many speakeasies were located in unmarked buildings, often requiring a secret knock or password to gain entry.
- Jazz and cocktails: The speakeasy culture contributed to the rise of jazz music and the popularity of cocktails like the gin rickey and whiskey sour.
The legacy of Prohibition is still alive today in New York’s modern speakeasies, which replicate the secrecy and charm of their Prohibition-era predecessors.
3. The First American Barbecue Was Served in a New York Bar
While barbecue is commonly associated with the Southern United States, the first American-style barbecue was actually served in New York. In the late 1800s, a bar in the Bronx started serving barbecued meats, and this style of cooking quickly gained popularity. Today, New York boasts a thriving barbecue scene, and many bars incorporate smoky flavours into their menus.
Some facts about barbecue and New York bars include:
- The birth of American barbecue: The Bronx bar, known as the “Barbecue Pit,” is credited with helping to popularise the American barbecue tradition.
- Barbecue in bars: Many New York bars offer their own spin on barbecue, with smoked meats, sauces, and sides that reflect the city’s diverse culinary influences.
Barbecue may have deep roots in the South, but it owes much of its modern popularity to New York’s early adoption of the style.
4. The Empire State Building Once Had Its Own Bar
The Empire State Building, one of New York’s most iconic landmarks, once had its very own bar. In the 1930s, the 86th-floor observatory featured a bar where visitors could relax and enjoy drinks while taking in the stunning views of the city. Although the bar is no longer in operation, the building’s original design incorporated spaces for leisure and entertainment, reflecting the era’s grandeur.
Key facts about the Empire State Building bar:
- High-altitude drinking: The bar offered a unique experience, with patrons sipping cocktails while gazing at the city from over 1,000 feet above the ground.
- Part of the building’s allure: The bar was just one of many features that made the Empire State Building a symbol of sophistication and luxury in its early years.
Though the bar is long gone, the idea of enjoying drinks at dizzying heights lives on in New York’s rooftop bars.
5. Many New York Bars Have a Strong LGBTQ+ Legacy
New York City has long been a hub for the LGBTQ+ community, and its bars have played a central role in this history. Some of the most influential LGBTQ+ bars in the world are located in the city, including the Stonewall Inn, which was the site of the 1969 Stonewall Riots that are widely considered to be the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Some key LGBTQ+ bar facts include:
- The Stonewall Inn: This bar is a National Historic Landmark and remains a gathering place for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Bar culture: Many New York bars cater to the LGBTQ+ community, offering spaces for socialising, advocacy, and celebration.
New York’s LGBTQ+ bar scene is a testament to the city’s progressive and inclusive values, making it an essential part of its cultural fabric.
6. New York Bars Are Known for Their Unique Cocktail Traditions
New York City is often considered one of the cocktail capitals of the world. Many iconic cocktails, such as the Manhattan and the Cosmopolitan, were either invented or popularised in New York’s bars. The city’s bars also have a long-standing tradition of mixing classic drinks with modern twists, creating a constantly evolving cocktail scene.
Here are some famous cocktails tied to New York:
- Manhattan: One of the oldest and most famous cocktails, it’s thought to have been invented at a bar in Manhattan in the 1860s.
- Cosmopolitan: Popularised in New York in the 1990s, this cocktail became a cultural phenomenon thanks to shows like Sex and the City.
Whether you prefer timeless classics or cutting-edge concoctions, New York bars offer a diverse array of cocktails to suit every taste.
7. New York Bars Have Some of the Best Craft Beer Scenes in the Country
Craft beer has exploded in popularity in recent years, and New York’s bars are at the forefront of this movement. The city boasts a wide variety of craft beer bars, serving both local and international brews. From small, independent breweries to well-known national brands, New York bars have become havens for craft beer lovers.
Some highlights of New York’s craft beer scene include:
- Local breweries: New York has a rich history of beer-making, with many local breweries offering unique flavours and styles.
- Craft beer bars: The city is home to numerous bars dedicated solely to craft beer, with taps offering a rotating selection of brews.
New York’s craft beer bars are a great place for beer enthusiasts to explore and sample new flavours, all while supporting local businesses.
8. There’s a Bar in New York That Serves Only Frozen Cocktails
For those looking to try something a little different, there’s a bar in New York that specialises exclusively in frozen cocktails. This quirky concept has gained popularity, especially during the hot summer months, and it offers a fun twist on traditional cocktails.
Some facts about frozen cocktail bars in New York include:
- Frozen margaritas: One of the most popular frozen drinks, the frozen margarita is a staple at many New York bars.
- Variety of flavours: These bars often feature a wide range of frozen drinks, from tropical fruit concoctions to slushy versions of classic cocktails.
Frozen cocktail bars offer a refreshing and creative way to enjoy a drink in New York, perfectly complementing the vibrant summer nightlife.
9. Some New York Bars Have Secret Doors
Many of New York’s bars have hidden entrances, adding an element of mystery to the experience. These secret bars, often referred to as “speakeasies,” evoke the Prohibition era when hidden drinking spots were all the rage. Today, these bars are some of the city’s most exclusive spots, offering a unique and intimate drinking experience.
Key facts about secret bars in New York:
- Hidden entrances: Some speakeasies are accessed through unmarked doors or by entering through other businesses like restaurants or laundromats.
- Prohibition-era ambience: Many of these bars replicate the feel of a 1920s speakeasy, with vintage decor and jazz music setting the mood.
These secret bars offer a fun and immersive way to experience New York’s vibrant nightlife scene.
10. New York’s Bar Scene Is Constantly Evolving
New York’s bars are always changing, with new spots opening and old ones closing frequently. This constant evolution means that there’s always something new to discover, from the latest cocktail trends to innovative concepts that push the boundaries of traditional drinking establishments.
Some examples of how the bar scene is evolving:
- Pop-up bars: Temporary bars and seasonal spots are becoming increasingly popular, often built around unique themes or events.
- Themed bars: New York is home to bars with creative and eccentric themes, offering everything from retro gaming to immersive experiences.
The ever-changing bar scene in New York ensures that there’s always something fresh to explore, making it one of the most exciting cities in the world for nightlife.
New York’s bar scene is rich with history, innovation, and diversity, offering something for everyone. From historic spots like McSorley’s to cutting-edge craft beer bars, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a drink and experience the city’s unique culture. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, New York bars are sure to surprise and delight.
