Top 10 Must-Try Whiskey Bars In Manhattan New York

Manhattan offers an abundance of fine whiskeys from all over the world and a plethora of atmospheres in which to indulge in them. Whether you’re looking for an exquisite, barrel-aged Scotch or a traditional Old Fashioned, NYC has no shortage of impeccable whiskeys, bourbons, and ryes. We profile ten whiskey bars that are sure to fulfill all of your late-night and happy hour needs.

1. Hudson Bar and Books

Bar, Pub Grub

Hudson Bar and Books is a dedicated whiskey and cigar bar with several locations across Manhattan, as well as Prague and Warsaw. The drinks menu offers a stellar selection of Scotch, with several decently priced options. Choose from the MaCallan 24, Glenmorangie, and Hibiki. Pair your selection with a cigar, and unwind.

2. The Whiskey Ward

Bar, Pub Grub

The Whiskey Ward is a local favorite. Exposed brick walls, wooden bar chairs, and the pool table give this bar a rustic, relaxed vibe. Boasting a lengthy lineup of over 200 whiskies, including new and limited selections, this bar opens your eyes and taste buds to some seriously unique pours at reasonable prices. Whiskey aficionados can enjoy Masterson’s Rye or a Japanese Akashi White Oak, while cocktail devotees will love the top shelf Premium Bulleit Rye and Sparkling Bourbon Cocktail. Newcomers can choose a favorite with a whiskey flight sampling.

3. Brandy Library

Bar, Cocktail Bar, American

The Brandy Library, Manhattan, New York City.

With the largest Scotch collection in Manhattan, Brandy Library is a must-try for any whiskey connoisseur.Their menu features 450 types of whiskey, displayed on the wall throughout the dimly lit bar. Patrons can enjoy single malts, blended malts, blended Scotches, and single and blended grain Scotch whiskies. Spirit sommeliers are on site to guide you through their fine selection of elixirs. Enjoy the smooth flavors of the 1945 Darroze Armagnac or a 1914 Pierre Ferrand cognac while listening to classic tunes.

5. Whiskey Tavern

Bar, American

Whiskey Tavern is a neighborhood favorite due to its energetic vibe and impressive whiskey selection. Located in Chinatown, it offers reasonably priced savors like Buffalo Trace, Lagavulin, and High West, as well as classic cocktails like the Whiskey Sour, Traveling Secretary, and Bourbonrita. Check out its sister bars on the Lower East Side and in Brooklyn.

6. Rye House

Restaurant, Pub, American

This chic and contemporary American pub fosters a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Featuring a superior selection of whiskeys, Rye House offers rare vintages like Bulleit 10yr KY, Widow Jane 10yr, Ardbeg Corryveckan, and Yamazaki 18yr. Its signature cocktail, Clara Bow, is a great balance of sweet and tart, and it makes for a refreshing side to some savory truffle popcorn, while the punch with jalapeño-infused bourbon is another must-try. The bartenders will ensure that your experience is a thrilling one and that you try both sophisticated and eccentric dark spirits before the night is over.

7. Vintry Wine & Whiskey

Bar, Restaurant, Wine Bar, Pub Grub

With a 16-page menu, Vintry Wine & Whiskey is truly devoted to whiskey. Enjoy some exquisite pours like Balvenie 17, the Macallan 18, or the 18 year-old Laphroaig. If you fancy a sweet savor, try some of their signature cocktails like 1860’s Flip, Hot Sazerac, Vintry’s Hot Toddy, or Gingerade. Pair your drink selection with a cheese plate, which is served with apricot preserves, nuts, and bread.

8. Maysville

Bar, Restaurant, American

With high ceilings and a luxurious back-lit whiskey wall, Maysville is something of a modern lounge named after the birthplace of Kentucky bourbon. Indulge in a wide selection of bourbons, from Wheated Bourbon, Corn Whiskey, White Whiskey, and Wheat Whiskey, or opt for a signature cocktail like Sazerac Rye, Angel’s Envy, Eagle Rare Bourbon, and Berkshire New England Corn.

9. Caledonia Scottish Whisky Bar

Bar, Pub Grub

A haven for the whiskey-obsessed, Caledonia offers a discerning selection of Scottish favorites. The bar emanates an intimate, warm atmosphere, serving as the perfect go-to for a glass of Jameson, Caol Ila, or Glenlivet. If you don’t like your whiskey straight, opt for their cocktails like the Penicillin, the Smokey Whiskey Sour, or even a hot chocolate with whiskey.

10. The Campbell Apartment

Bar, American

Located in Grand Central Terminal, The Campbell Apartment is an extravagant cocktail bar exuding old New York City glamour. Go back to the Prohibition Era with beautiful stained glass windows, eccentric woodwork and wall art, dark hardwood beams across the walls and ceiling, and a massive antique bar. Listen to some classics and cool jazz while sipping on classic cocktails like a Kentucky Ginger, Old Fashioned, Sazerac, or Manhattan.

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