Discover the best bars in Midtown for your next event

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Written by Amanda Healy - March 13 2024


The best bars in Midtown


We believe that bars are good for many occasions. Date night? Cozy up in an intimate bar. After-work activity with friends? Stop by your local bar to unwind. Need to watch the upcoming game? Go to a sports bar and surround yourself with other fans.


There are so many options in the city, and there’s no doubt you’ll find yourself in Midtown at one point or another. Whether you’re being dragged by visiting family to Times Square or going along your daily commute, we've found the best Midtown bars for any purpose.


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ophelia lounge nyc midtown bars new york
ophelia lounge nyc midtown bars new york

1. Sipping, skyline, and Sinatra: Ophelia Lounge NYC

Midtown, New York

If Frank Sinatra was once a regular at Ophelia Lounge NYC, then consider us sold. This Midtown bar is located on top of the Beekman Tower off 1st Ave. Take the elevator to the 26th floor and be greeted by deep blues and silvers with a splash of velvety red. When you step out onto its 360-degree greenhouse terrace, sweeping views of the city skyline will immediately grab your attention.


There's a range of cocktails, wine, beer, champagne experiences, and a cocktail brunch. Ophelia creates an intimate atmosphere with jazz nights on Tuesdays and date night experiences.



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the dawson midtown bars new york
the dawson midtown bars new york

2. A friendly, family-owned Midtown bar: The Dawson

Midtown, New York

Elevated style meets tradition at The Dawson, an Irish pub a few blocks from Rockefeller Center. This family-owned bi-level Midtown bar and restaurant doesn't feel like any traditional pub. The wooden walls are adorned with tasteful paintings, and greenery is strung along the tops of the bar and cabinets. Passing the bar and going under the opulent chandelier brings you into a more spacious area to enjoy small bites or a meal with your drinks.


The Dawson has craft beer and libations and an extensive menu of cocktails, mules, tonics, wine, and more. No matter the time of day, the menu will have something for you, including brunch, dinner, or late-night bites.


This Midtown bar can hold private or semi-private events for eight or more people.



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oscar wilde midtown bars new york
oscar wilde midtown bars new york

3. A little rebellion never hurt anyone: Oscar Wilde

Midtown, New York

Have you ever wanted to follow in Oscar Wilde's footsteps and embrace his tendencies of rebellion? Located near Madison Square Park is, you guessed it, Oscar Wilde. This aptly named Midtown bar, paying homage to Oscar Wilde's stories, is home to New York's longest bar, measuring 118.5 ft. and adorned with Carrara marble and golden draft taps. Serving 300 varieties of whiskey, you’ll never run out of things to try. There’s an extensive cocktail menu, light bites, and even afternoon tea on weekends.


The Temptation dining room is used for private events. It seats 32 guests and stands 65, and guests will be impressed with the large marble fireplace and Victorian details throughout the room.



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the campbell bar midtown venues new york
the campbell bar midtown venues new york

4. Be careful, or you might miss your train: The Campbell

Midtown, New York

There is a thrill of being in on a secret. Being inside The Campbell, a Midtown bar located in the southwest corner of the Grand Central Terminal feels like a classified underground location no one else knows about. The industrial walls and dark features amplify this effect. Whether you’re ordering a cocktail, wine, or hard seltzer, you will be happy to be there, especially on nights when it plays live jazz music.


There are three areas available to rent for private events: The Campbell Bar (max. 250), The Campbell Palm Court (max. 50), and The Campbell Terrace (max. 260).



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the perfect pint midtown bars new york
the perfect pint midtown bars new york

5. Be transported to another country at this Midtown bar: The Perfect Pint

Midtown, New York

Pub culture in the United Kingdom is unlike anything in the United States; however, The Perfect Pint, a three-level Midtown bar, brings this tradition across the pond. The interior is nothing over the top, but the 30 beers on tap (including Guinness, of course) and exclusive brews draw guests in from off the streets. It even has a smoking loft if that piques your interest.


You won't just be served a pint; there's also a menu featuring classic dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd's pie. If you want a private space, it can accommodate groups of 15-350.



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Find the perfect bar for your event near Midtown.

Cheers to the bars in Midtown that pour an event experience as memorable as the city's nightlife. Rent a spot where each toast is a story and book a venue where "last call" is just the beginning. In Midtown, hire a bar that's not just a watering hole; it's a treasure trove of tales waiting to be told by the clink of glasses and the laughter of good company.

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The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Bar in Midtown

So, you’ve decided to host an event in Midtown Manhattan. You’re brave, ambitious, and possibly a little bit mad. But fear not! This ultimate guide will help you navigate the concrete jungle to find and hire a private bar that will make your event the talk of the town. Whether it's for a corporate shindig, a birthday bash, or a “just because” celebration, Midtown's got the perfect spot for you. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the wild world of Midtown bar hire!

Why Midtown?

Midtown Manhattan is the epicenter of everything fabulous in New York City. Home to Times Square, Broadway, and more Starbucks than you can count, it’s the place where tourists and locals alike come to experience the quintessential NYC vibe. Stereotypes abound here: you’ve got your Wall Street tycoons sipping $20 martinis, Broadway divas belting out show tunes at karaoke bars, and fashionistas strutting their stuff as if every sidewalk is a runway.

But let’s be real – you’re not here for the tourist traps. You’re here to find a private bar where you and your guests can enjoy some fabulous cocktails without elbowing through hordes of selfie-stick-wielding tourists.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding and Hiring a Private Bar in Midtown

Step 1: Define Your Event's Vibe

Are you going for a sleek, sophisticated cocktail party or a laid-back, casual gathering? Midtown has a bar for every vibe. Here’s a quick rundown of what you might be looking for:

  1. Swanky Cocktail Lounge: Think mood lighting, velvet couches, and mixologists who are more like magicians.

  2. Casual Pub: A cozy spot with craft beers, hearty snacks, and maybe a dartboard or two.

  3. Themed Bar: Karaoke, arcade games, or perhaps a speakeasy vibe – the more unique, the better!

Step 2: Set Your Budget

Midtown is notorious for its sky-high prices, but there are gems to be found at every price point. Be realistic about your budget and consider factors like:

  1. Bar rental fee: Some places charge just for the space, others have a minimum spend requirement.

  2. Drinks and food: Decide if you’ll have an open bar, drink tickets, or a cash bar.

  3. Extras: Decorations, entertainment, and tips for the staff.

Step 3: Scout the Perfect Location

Midtown spans a pretty big area, so consider which part best suits your needs:

  1. Start your venue search online through HeadBox. Just fill in our brief building with all your necessities and any requests and HeadBox will match you with a plethora of venues that fulfil your bar needs. Think if Airbnb and Tinder had a baby. And we won't match you with those with bad reviews – no one wants to discover their dream venue has a rat problem after signing the contract.

  2. Don't be afraid to shut the laptop screen and take a stroll around. Sometime the best hidden gems are found by stumbling across them.

  3. Social media can also be a good way to get a personal insight into a venue. Try TikTok-ing 'best midtown bar' and watch an influencer sip on their signature cocktail.

Step 4: Narrow it down

Now it’s time to decide. Can you see yourself and your guests in any of these places? Match with them on HeadBox, slide into those DMs or, if you’re old-fashioned, give them a call. When contacting the bars, be sure to ask:

  1. Availability: Is the date you want open?

  2. Capacity: Can they accommodate your group size?

  3. Private Hire Details: What’s included in the private hire? Are there any restrictions or additional fees?

  4. Catering Options: Do they offer food, or can you bring in your own?

Step 5: Visit the Bars

Pictures can be deceiving, so it’s worth taking the time to visit your top choices in person. Pay attention to:

  1. Ambiance: Does it match your event’s vibe?

  2. Space: Is there enough room for mingling and activities?

  3. Service: Is the staff friendly and attentive?

Step 7: Seal the Deal

Once you’ve found the perfect spot, it’s time to book. Make sure you:

  1. Get everything in writing: Contracts are your friend.

  2. Confirm all details: Double-check the date, time, and what’s included.

  3. Plan the logistics: Think about transportation, decorations, and any other details to make your event a success.

Step 8: Party Time!

Congratulations! You’ve navigated the Midtown maze and secured the perfect private bar for your event. Now all that’s left is to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Sip those cocktails, dance like nobody’s watching, and bask in the glow of a well-planned party.

Conclusion

Finding and hiring a private bar in Midtown might seem like a daunting task, but with this guide, you’re well-equipped to tackle the challenge. Remember, Midtown is all about glitz, glamour, and a good time. So embrace the chaos, enjoy the journey, and most importantly, have fun!

Whether you’re a local looking for a fresh spot to host an event or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Midtown nightlife, this guide has got you covered. Cheers to finding the perfect bar and making unforgettable memories in the heart of New York City!

Frequently asked questions

The cost of hiring a bar in Midtown can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, size, and type of bar, as well as the day and time of your event. Generally, you can expect:

  1. Rental Fees: Some bars charge a flat rental fee, while others may require a minimum spend on food and drinks.

  2. Food and Beverage Costs: This can range from basic bar snacks to full catering services, as well as the type of drink service (open bar, cash bar, or drink tickets).

3.Additional Charges: These may include gratuity, taxes, security deposits, and any extra services like DJ or AV equipment rental.

It's advisable to book a bar at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if your event falls on a weekend or during peak seasons (holidays, summer). Popular bars in Midtown can book up quickly, so securing your venue early will give you more options and ensure your preferred date and time are available.

Amenities and services vary by venue, but you can typically expect:

  1. Private Space: An exclusive area or the entire bar for your group.

  2. Customizable Menus: Options for tailored food and drink packages.

  3. Entertainment Options: Many bars offer in-house DJs, live music, karaoke, or AV equipment for presentations.

  4. Staff Services: Bartenders, waitstaff, and sometimes event coordinators to help manage the event.

  5. Decor and Setup: Some bars provide basic decorations, while others allow you to bring your own.

Policies on bringing your own food and drinks vary by venue. Some bars may allow you to bring in outside catering or special items like a cake, but they often charge a corkage fee for bringing your own alcohol. It’s important to discuss these details with the bar manager when making your booking to avoid any surprises.

When choosing a bar in Midtown, consider the following factors:

  1. Location: Proximity to public transportation and parking options.

  2. Capacity: Ensure the bar can comfortably accommodate your guest list.

  3. Ambiance: Choose a venue that matches the vibe and theme of your event.

  4. Menu and Drink Options: Look for a bar that offers a menu and drink selection that suits your tastes and dietary needs of your guests.

  5. Reputation and Reviews: Check online reviews and ask for references to ensure quality service and a positive experience.

For peace of mind and an easy booking process let us know exactly what you’re looking for via our brief builder. This way we can approach the best bars in Midtown with the exact needs of your event.

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