12 Best Bars in Lower East Side, New York City

This legendary theater with art deco accents is probably the city's top midsize concert venue. Packing in the crowds here is a rite of passage for musicians (some already big; some on the cusp of stardom). Grab one of the tables on the balcony (if you can), stand (and get sandwiched) on the main floor, or retreat to the comfortable bar in the basement, which fills up after each show.

With multiple performers at each of the three intimate venues, there's so much to hear here. Expect music of all types, often from bands or soloists just passing through the city. The lineup usually starts around 6 or 7 pm and runs 'til around midnight—meaning you can get your live music fix and catch up on sleep, too. There's typically one stage with no cover charge, making Rockwood a great spot to just drop in.

A sensation when it opened in 2007, Simon Hammerstein's Roaring '20s–style cabaret–cum–burlesque show–cum–performance art emporium remains one of the biggest players in any nightlife category. The triumvirate of gorgeousness—design, customers, and performers—explains why the experience doesn't come cheap. Check the website to make reservations and prepare for a late night.

The group behind the beloved Brooklyn absinthe-theme cocktail bar Maison Premiere opened this speakeasy-style lounge on the Lower East Side in December 2023 and it instantly became the place to sip cocktails that straddle the line between classic and creative, as well as bespoke martinis (in which guests can request the ratio of vermouth and gin). The gold-accented decor invites '80s-style debauchery among the twenty- and thirtysomething revelers who frequent the place. Make a reservation to ensure you can get in.

Crowds of youngsters and longtime New Yorkers have been packing into Arlene's since 1995 for live rock-and-roll, as well as the occasional variety shows, burlesque, live-band karaoke. The drinks are cheap, and the vibe is all about the good times.

In the space that was once home to the legendary cocktail bar Milk & Honey, Attaboy continues the tradition of serving exemplary cocktails to an ultratrendy crowd. The "Penicillin" cocktail, a spicy-smoky mix of Scotch, honey, and ginger, is a must here—it was invented by Sam Ross, one of the current owners. Hint: There's no sign but look for the door marked with "AB." 

At this stylish spot from an alum of the Pegu Club, one of the city's foremost cocktail dens, you can expect high-quality, innovative concoctions that make use of the Japanese theme: the Sakura martini is made with sake, gin, maraschino, and cherry blossom, while the Kyoto old-fashioned incorporates rice vodka, gin matcha, and sencha. Small plates to accompany your drinks include miso-slathered wings and savory cabbage pancakes.

You have to squeeze past the sardine-packed hipsters in the front bar to reach the stage, but it's worth it. Not only does this top-quality venue specialize in cool bands on the indie scene, but it was also where the late, great Jeff Buckley used to stop by to do spontaneous solo shows. Other big-name musicians follow in his footsteps with occasional pop-up shows of their own.

With two venues for live music and DJs—the Showroom downstairs and the Upstairs Lounge—as well as a full bar that serves food downstairs, there's something for everyone at this neighborhood staple. Weekends and late nights are especially happening.

From the palm-studded rooftop deck (heated in winter, breezy in summer) to the ground-floor lounge and down to the basement venue where DJs and rock bands hold court, the multifaceted Delancey, at the foot of the Williamsburg Bridge, is a versatile spot for thirsty lounge lizards.

Manhattan's preeminent venue for burlesque, magic, and the "circus arts," has been showcasing the city's talented performers since 1999 and it's still going strong. Some shows have reserved seating, with a two-drink minimum, others are general admission, and the intimate space seats about 200 over two floors. Bring dollar bills to tip the performers.

When The Ten Bells opened back in 2008, the unusual wine list attracted people in the wine industry and wine nerds, as well as locals who loved the $1 oysters (still a thing) and tapas-style food. Now that natural wines have become trendy, the dark cozy space is busier than ever—and the happy hour is just as inviting.