BEST NEW YORK CITY DIVE BARS
Dive Bars in NYC: Where the Spirits are High and the Budgets are Low
Ah, New York City—the concrete jungle where dreams are made (and occasionally dashed over a double shot of whiskey). When the glittering lights of Times Square start to feel a bit too giddy, and you yearn for something more authentic, that’s when you seek out the dive bars! These beloved nooks are the heart and soul of the city’s nightlife, serving up strong drinks, eclectic vibes, and prices that won’t require a second mortgage. Grab your friends (or just your inner monologue) and let’s dive into the top dive bars in NYC and its surrounding boroughs!
Jimmy's Corner
Location: 140 West 44th Street, NYC
Hours: Daily, 11 AM - 4 AM
Cover Charge: None (but come prepared to tip)
Nestled just a stone’s throw from Times Square, Jimmy’s Corner is a shrine to all things boxing and cheap drinks. The walls are lined with photos of boxing legends, and the jukebox curates a fine selection of classic rock and jazz. With beers priced under $5, you can sip on a cold one and contemplate life while taking in the charm. Bonus: it’s open late, so you can drown your sorrows well into the night!
The Paul’s Cocktail Lounge
Location: 235 East 53rd Street, Midtown East
Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 5 PM - 1 AM
Cover Charge: None
A hidden gem in the heart of Midtown, Paul’s is an unassuming establishment with dim lighting that takes you back to the ‘70s. Enjoy affordable cocktails accompanied by the bar’s signature popcorn—yes, popcorn is a cocktail garnish here! Perfect for those spontaneous nights where you want a little something classy without the pretentious vibe.
Mother’s Ruin
Location: 18, 8th Avenue, NoLita
Hours: Monday - Thursday, 5 PM - 1 AM; Friday - Sunday, 5 PM - 2 AM
Cover Charge: None
Don’t let the hipster crowd fool you; Mother’s Ruin is a dive bar with a killer cocktail list! Famous for their frozen cocktails, this spot also offers a menu of some of the best small bites in the neighborhood. There’s hardly a better setting to raise a glass to your great escape from the mundane!
The Hairy Lemon
Location: 197 Avenue C, East Village
Hours: Daily, 3 PM - 4 AM
Cover Charge: None
Channeling a classic pub atmosphere with a touch of Irish charm, The Hairy Lemon is where friendships are forged over pints of Guinness and platefuls of wings. The cozy interior and outdoor seating beckon you into a world where life is best lived with good friends and frothy drinks.
The Hole in the Wall
Location: 1001 6th Avenue, Chelsea
Hours: Daily, 4 PM - 4 AM
Cover Charge: None
True to its name, The Hole in the Wall is a quaint dive that feels very much like an underground hideaway. The atmosphere here is chill, and the drinks are unbelievably inexpensive, which is half the reason locals swear by it. Enjoy the plethora of board games available—perfect for revelers looking to level up their social life!
The 13th Step
Location: 1492 2nd Avenue, Upper East Side
Hours: Daily, 2 PM - 2 AM
Cover Charge: None
If it’s a party you’re after, The 13th Step is your golden ticket! Known for its spirited weekends and extra-cheap beer specials, it attracts a lively weekend crowd without sacrificing its divey charm. With pool tables and large TVs, it’s a go-to for game nights, and who wouldn’t want beer in hand while watching their favorite teams?
New York City’s dive bars may not come with the glitzy reputation of rooftop lounges or exclusive nightclubs, but they hold a charm that’s hard to resist. Each of these watering holes offers something unique—warm smiles, plentiful laughs, and spirits that won’t empty your wallet. So gather your crew, tip your bartender, and discover the real heartbeat of nightlife in NYC. Cheers!