The best wine bars in Lower Manhattan

Ruffian is a tiny, unfussy, natural wine bar located in the East Village. The bar’s equestrian theme is fitting, given that the interior is about the size of a small stable. Like the size of the space, the vegetarian food menu is minimalistic yet thoughtfully curated to complement your glass. The predominantly natural wine list, on the other hand, is extensive with heavy Eastern European and Balkan influence.

This spot is ideal for intimate celebrations or smaller private events. Host a semi-private dinner for up to 14 guests, or go for the covered outdoor space for a team happy hour of up to 25 guests. For larger groups, you can do a total buyout for up to 35 guests.

Dreaming of a European summer but can't quite make it across the pond this year? Look no further than Le Dive, nestled in Dimes Square, a bustling and dynamic micro-neighborhood perfectly situated between Chinatown and the Lower East Side. With its tightly arranged small red bistro tables and a chic maroon-and-cream awning, Le Dive exudes Parisian charm while maintaining the dive-bar feel you would expect so far downtown. You’ll feel like you’re in the Marais but with an authentic New York twist..

Le Dive’s no-nonsense approach is perfect for those weary of parsing through extensive menus. With roughly 10-15 natural wines ranging from red to sparkling and a diverse selection of small plates, it’s the ideal spot to people-watch.

You can rent out the venue for up to 150 during the warmer months or keep it limited to 70 people for an intimate indoor-only event in the winter.

With a wine list crafted by renowned sommeliers featuring rare and exceptional bottles from around the world, Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels is a chic and well-known spot for an event. The interior has a Parisian-inspired ambiance, with plush velvet seating, antique mirrors, and dim candlelight. The wine & drinks menu is one of the most extensive I’ve seen in the city, spanning a whopping 61 pages. The food menu, by comparison, is simple with a curated selection of small plates, allowing the wine to take center stage.

An ideal choice for wine tastings, corporate gatherings, or private celebrations, the space can host a private event of up to 65 guests or a large group of up to 15.

Referring to itself as a "wine-focused restaurant," Corkbuzz has been a neighborhood gem since 2011, standing strong amid the ever-evolving NYC wine scene. It masterfully balances sophistication with approachability, featuring an inviting and approachable interior, adorned with soft lighting and sleek wooden accents. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, highlighting a selection of lesser-known, high-quality vintages that cater to both novices and seasoned connoisseurs alike.

With its 2000 sq. ft. of space & 17-foot ceilings that give the space an intimate and open feel, there is plenty of space and options for a private event here. Seated events at Corkbuzz can be reserved for groups of 10-54 guests. Standing receptions can be reserved for groups ranging from 13 to 120 guests.

The ambiance at Della’s is relaxed and inviting, with an exposed brick interior, wooden tables, and rustic decor. The food menu is a celebration of comforting, Italian-inspired cuisine while the wine menu features a diverse range of options, designed to be approachable, with detailed descriptions that help guide your choices.

There are multiple options for hosting a private event at Della’s. They can host groups of 25 seated and 40 standing in their wall-to-wall tasting room. For a cozier event, the cabin-like outdoor structure outside the wine bar is perfect for al fresco summer gatherings, casual celebrations, and group dinners of up to 24.