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The best cocktail bars in Chelsea, NYC

Getting sick of recommendations from social media? Accounts may say a cocktail bar has the "best drinks and a cute aesthetic," but it never actually meets your expectations. We’ve all been there: what you believed would be the perfect place for a night out completely missed the mark.


We all know how overwhelming Chelsea can be with all it offers, so we are here to help stop the endless scrolling. Below, you can find our picks for the best Chelsea cocktail bars.


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Porchlight Chelsea NYC Bar Rent Private
Porchlight Chelsea NYC Bar Rent Private

1. A Chelsea cocktail bar that takes you back to the good ol’ days: Porchlight

Chelsea, NYC

Want to go out for drinks with friends but also miss being a kid? Porchlight combines cocktails with classic games, live music, and a cocktail book club. The southern charm of a homey porch is a reminder to enjoy the little things, like crushing your best friend in a board game while having a few drinks.


There are four spaces: the bar (max. 150 guests), game room (max. 40 guests), porch (max. 20 guests), and backyard (10-60 guests), and it all adds to the Southern family aesthetic, just like different parts of a house. But no home in North Carolina or Georgia has as extensive a drink menu as this Chelsea cocktail bar. Sippers, guzzlers, boilermakers, and classics. There’s a drink for everyone, like the Porchlight Spiked Seltzer, which is large enough to split between 2 to 5 friends.


With liquid courage flowing, we recommend you challenge your friends to some games and do so at the beginning of the week. Music Mondays range from genres like bluegrass, jazz, and country, and who doesn’t love friendly competition and live music?



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Bathtub Gin Chelsea Cocktail Bars NYC Private Events
Bathtub Gin Chelsea Cocktail Bars NYC Private Events

2. Take a splash into the roaring 20s in this Chelsea cocktail bar: Bathtub Gin

Chelsea, NYC

Although fictional, many of us would jump at the opportunity to attend one of Jay Gatsby's luxurious parties, and there is a place that simulates this era: Bathtub Gin. This Chelsea speakeasy, hidden behind the back door of Stone Street Coffee, transports you into the roaring 20s with live music, burlesque, and a DJ.


The dim lighting, gold-detailed ceilings, and fabric chandeliers capture the prohibition era. Offerings include ten different gin and tonics, cocktails like the Silver Screen Martini, and various small bites. Full buyouts are available for up to 300 people, and furniture is moveable depending on needs.


Of course, the space wouldn't be complete without an old-fashioned tub in the center of the room. As Bathtub Gin says, "Everything is better in the tub."



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The Fleur Room Cocktail Bar Private Event NYC
The Fleur Room Cocktail Bar Private Event NYC

3. A sky-high cocktail garden above Chelsea: The Fleur Room

Chelsea, NYC

You enter what you think is the study as Mrs. Peacock, narrowing down your suspects, but then you realize there are way too many flowers, and you’re not in a real-life version of Clue; this is The Fleur Room.


The 35th floor of the Moxy Chelsea is home to this glass-enclosed lounge, decorated with deep emeralds and maroons with leather and suede detail, looking out at Manhattan's skyline. Not to mention the bright flowers displayed throughout, which give the room a whimsical atmosphere.


After-work cocktails are after 5 pm Tuesday through Friday, including small plates and floral-inspired signature drinks; the space then turns into a nightlife destination. This Chelsea cocktail bar's North and South sides can accommodate 100 guests individually or a combined 200.



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Coopers Craft Cocktails Chelsea Cocktail Bar NYC Private Events
Coopers Craft Cocktails Chelsea Cocktail Bar NYC Private Events

4. Everyone needs a reliable cocktail bar: Cooper’s Craft and Cocktails

Chelsea, NYC

Cooper’s Craft and Cocktails is a straightforward Chelsea cocktail bar where you and your friends can get food and drinks without much fuss. Simple string lights are hung from the ceiling, and everything is wooden, from the tables to the bar stools to the roof. But in a city as extravagant as this one, sometimes simple is needed.


The extensive drink menu carries draft and house cocktails, locally sourced craft beer, wines, and agave spirits. There is something for everyone, and while you can come just for a drink, the food menu has everything from brunch to late-night bites, sharables, sandwiches, and everything in between.


Cooper’s can accommodate large parties of over 10 for semi-private and private events.



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Manderley Bar Chelsea Cocktail Bar NYC Private Events
Manderley Bar Chelsea Cocktail Bar NYC Private Events

5. An intimate and jazzy Chelsea cocktail bar: Manderley Bar

NYC

Located in The McKittrick Hotel is the Manderley Bar, a cozy cocktail lounge that is open for small concerts and during its iconic Sleep No More theatrical performances. The dark room, filled with the smooth sounds of jazz and small round tables facing the stage, encapsulates the dynamic allure of this Chelsea cocktail bar.


While transported to the 20s by The Nightingales, the resident band, guests can choose between wine, beer, non-alcoholic options, and specialty cocktails like the Sleep No More, Old McKittrick, and Manderley Renewal. You can book private events for up to 150 people standing and 60 seated. Just be careful – you may lose track of time getting caught up in the music.



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Find the perfect cocktail bar near Chelsea.

Shake things up at a cocktail bar in Chelsea, where the mixologists are magicians and the drinks are your potion of choice. Rent a space to book an event that's a blend of sophistication and a splash of the city’s spirited essence. Hiring a cocktail bar in Chelsea means your event will stir up excitement and shake off the conventional.

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Your Ultimate Guide to Cocktail Bars in Chelsea, NYC

Discover the Best Cocktail Experiences in One of Manhattan’s Most Stylish Neighborhoods

Chelsea is a neighborhood known for its art scene, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a sleek lounge with expertly crafted cocktails, a cozy speakeasy-style bar, or a lively spot for after-work drinks, Chelsea’s cocktail bars offer something for every mood. This guide will help you navigate the best cocktail bars in Chelsea and what to consider when choosing the perfect setting for your night out.

Why Chelsea is the Perfect Destination for Cocktail Bars

Chelsea’s cocktail bars offer a unique mix of sophistication and creativity, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Here’s why this neighborhood stands out:

A mix of upscale lounges, hidden speakeasies, and lively social spots
Handcrafted cocktails featuring top-shelf ingredients and innovative flavors
A stylish yet laid-back atmosphere perfect for any occasion
Convenient location with easy access to nightlife, dining, and entertainment

What to Consider When Choosing a Cocktail Bar in Chelsea

With so many options to explore, selecting the right cocktail bar depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Atmosphere and Vibe – Some bars offer an intimate, low-lit setting perfect for date nights, while others feature a high-energy ambiance with DJs and live music.

Drink Menu and Specialties – Some venues focus on classic cocktails, while others highlight creative mixology with seasonal ingredients and unique presentations.

Seating and Space – Depending on the occasion, you may prefer a cocktail bar with comfortable lounge seating or a standing-room setting that encourages socializing.

Reservations and Entry – Some Chelsea cocktail bars accept walk-ins, while others require reservations, especially for larger groups or weekend visits.

The Best Types of Cocktail Bars in Chelsea

Chelsea’s cocktail bars cater to different tastes, whether you’re looking for a relaxed setting or a high-energy social scene. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular styles:

Sophisticated Cocktail Lounges: Elegant and Refined

For those seeking an upscale experience, Chelsea’s refined cocktail lounges offer expertly crafted drinks, plush seating, and a stylish ambiance perfect for an intimate evening.

Lively Cocktail Bars: Social and Energetic

If you’re in the mood for a high-energy environment, Chelsea’s vibrant cocktail bars offer curated playlists, lively crowds, and a fun atmosphere ideal for group gatherings and celebrations.

Hidden Speakeasy-Style Bars: Intimate and Unique

For a more exclusive feel, Chelsea’s speakeasy-style cocktail bars provide a low-key, intimate setting with expertly made drinks and a more personalized experience.

How to Make the Most of Your Cocktail Bar Experience

To enhance your night out in Chelsea, consider these expert tips:

Try the Bartender’s Recommendations – Many cocktail bars in Chelsea feature signature drinks or seasonal specials that highlight the best flavors of the moment.

Visit During Happy Hour – Many venues offer discounted drinks and small plate specials in the early evening, making it a great time to explore high-end spots at a lower cost.

Dress for the Occasion – While some bars maintain a casual vibe, others may require upscale attire, especially in the evening.

Plan for a Late-Night Experience – Chelsea’s nightlife scene doesn’t stop at cocktails. Consider visiting a nearby rooftop bar or lounge to continue the evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a cocktail cost in Chelsea?

Prices vary depending on the venue and ingredients used, but expect to pay between $15 and $25 per cocktail at most bars.

Do cocktail bars in Chelsea require reservations?

Some high-demand cocktail bars recommend reservations, especially on weekends, while others accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis.

What’s the best time to visit a cocktail bar in Chelsea?

Early evenings provide a relaxed setting with happy hour specials, while later in the night offers a more social and lively experience.

Are cocktail bars in Chelsea expensive?

Pricing depends on the venue, with some offering affordable happy hour deals and others featuring high-end, premium cocktail selections.

Experience the Best Cocktail Bars in Chelsea

Chelsea’s cocktail scene is a perfect mix of sophistication, creativity, and energy. Whether you’re looking for an intimate setting, a lively social experience, or an innovative take on mixology, there’s a cocktail bar in Chelsea that fits your style. Explore the best cocktail bar options on HeadBox and start planning your next unforgettable night out!

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