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The Ultimate Guide to the SoHo Bar Scene

New York City’s SoHo is famous for its gorgeous boutiques, art galleries, and plenty of shopping. This previously industrial area became a flash-point for artists and great thinkers during the 1900s, ushering in a whole new era of posh, high-end attractions.

friends out drinking at best bar in soho nyc

One of the most exciting things about SoHo is that you can see the cast-iron bones of the original architecture mingling with the designer shops, restaurants, and bars of modern-day SoHo.

There’s plenty of things to do in SoHo. The Eden Art Gallery is one of the district’s most iconic and notable galleries for up-and-coming artists. You can also catch a show on Broadway or pick up some unique souvenirs from street vendors or small boutique shops.

One thing that you absolutely should do when you’re in SoHo is to visit their eclectic bars and restaurants. There’s truly something for everyone.   

If you’re in the mood for some good food and a cocktail or two, check out these best bars in SoHo.


La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels

249 Centre St, New York, NY 10013
Phone: 212-343-3660
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La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels
Source: La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels

This charming place is one of the best bars in Soho to relax in an idyllic garden and sip a glass of wine. It’s right down the street from the Museum of Chinese in America, and locals know it as “Little Paris.” So you might just feel like you’ve been transported straight to France when you dine there.

La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels strikes the right balance between being totally sophisticated and welcoming. With their extensive wine list and a sumptuous menu of small plates, it’s a great first date restaurant or an intimate gathering with friends. Try the charcuterie and peach cobbler with ice cream if you want a special treat.


Ear Inn

326 Spring St, New York, NY 10013
Phone: 212-226-9060
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Ear Inn
Source: Ear Inn

Ear Inn is a Big Apple staple right near the Canal. But, don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; this bar is one of the hottest spots that you can visit in this neighborhood. If you’re wondering where to get a drink in Soho, Ear Inn is a solid choice.

This bar is simply just cool, with great drinks and food. Their service is also second-to-none, and both the food and beverages are surprisingly affordable for the area.

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If you like cocktails, you should try Ear Inn’s spin on the Pimms Cup. It comes with fresh cucumber, sparkling ginger ale, lime juice, and a generous helping of Pimms.


Spring Lounge

48 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
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Spring Lounge
Source: Spring Lounge

Get off at the Spring Street Metro, and you’ll be just one short block away from Spring Lounge. Spring Lounge is known for its friendly service, reasonable prices, and vast beer menu. They also have a decent whiskey selection. So get a frosty pint of Barrier Money IPA or local favorite Brooklyn Lager.

They also serve classic Belgian beers like Ommegang Witte and Orval, as well as wine and cider. Spring Lounge is a popular local haunt, so you might have to wait for a minute to get a seat at the bar, especially if you visit on the weekends.


Von

3 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: 212-473-3039
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Von
Source: Von

Von is right down the street from the legendary Bowery Hotel. Locals love this classic bar for its incredible happy hour specials. Get amazing discounts on drinks between 4 and 7 p.m. daily. The atmosphere is also great, with a cozy gothic touch and plenty of soft chairs and couches to relax on.

Their Moscow Mule is an excellent option. Von uses their own homemade ginger beer as a base, then adds premium vodka and some fresh lime. Their wine list is extensive and good too. If you’re hungry, Von makes a great Pizza Bianca with goat cheese.


Mother’s Ruin

18 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
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Mother's Ruin
Source: Mother’s Ruin

Right near Elizabeth Street Garden, you’ll find Mother’s Ruin, a cute little bar with excellent ambiance and good service. This place is great for a boozy brunch. Try their eggs benedict with crab. The crab is luscious and perfectly cooked, then topped with a poached egg and rich sauce.

Their waffle fries and chicken burger are excellent as well. Wash them down with a citrusy Michelada, and you have the perfect meal. If you want a more substantial drink, try their Bloody Mary. The bartender can spice it perfectly to your specifications. 


Botanica Bar

47 E Houston St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: 212-343-7251
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Botanica Bar
Source: Botanica Bar

Botanica Bar is famous for its inexpensive beer and wine and great location right near the Broadway-Lafayette Metro. It’s one of the best Soho bars for relaxing in a casual, unassuming environment and having a few beers and a slice of artisan pizza with friends.

If you’re not a beer drinker, don’t worry. Their cocktails are great too. Try the Golden Oldie, a fun combination of Lillet Blanc, bourbon, orange bitters, and a splash of Triple Sec. Their Dark N Stormy is good, too, with real pieces of finely diced ginger right inside the drink.

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Houston Hall

222 W Houston St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: 212-675-9323
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Houston Hall
Source: Houston Hall

You’ll find Houston Hall right near James J. Walker Park. This bar fosters a community atmosphere, with plenty of larger tables to congregate at. Bring your friends, or make some new ones over a few tasty pints. Their beer list and wine lists are extensive, with something for everyone.

Their menu is excellent too. Try the grilled cheese or dumplings if you’re looking for pure comfort food. Their salads are satisfying and hefty too. If you want a cocktail, you can’t go wrong with their Black Rox Manhattan with bourbon, Italian black amaro, and bitters


The Crosby Bar

79 Crosby St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: 212-226-6400
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The Crosby Bar
Source: The Crosby Bar

The Crosby Bar is just around the corner from SoHo’s Museum of Ice Cream and is a high-class, lovely little place to go with friends. Its afternoon tea is immensely popular and comes with a robust wine selection and a variety of different teatime favorites like scones and cakes.

They also have various signature cocktails, like their Eden with vodka, St. Germain, mint, lemon, and pineapple. If you’re hungry, try their crispy calamari, flatbreads, or crispy popcorn shrimp. Their friendly staff can also help you pair your entree with a drink for a memorable dining experience.


Jimmy

15 Thompson St, New York, NY 10013
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Jimmy
Source: Jimmy

Jimmy is one of the best bars in SoHo to get a bird’s eye view of the city. Its beautifully decorated rooftop patio has both a retro and contemporary feel that will put you right at home. In addition, it’s. It’s one of the more sophisticated bars in SoHo, featuring an innovative menu of food and cocktails.

Jimmy is right near the Canal Street Metro, and it tends to get pretty busy on the weekends, so make sure that you arrive early if you want to get a prime seat. Try their champagne or wines by the bottle or specialty cocktails like the Spiced Pumpkin Mule with nutmeg and pumpkin butter.


The Blond

11 Howard St, New York, NY 10013
Phone: 212-235-1111
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The Blond
Source: The Blond

The Blond is another gem by the Canal Street Metro. It’s part of 11 Howard, a boutique hotel and workspace in the center of SoHo. The Blond has an excellent ambiance, with plenty of dark wood and luxurious gold and bronze accents. Their cocktails are inspired and intriguing as well.

Try their Pillow Talk with champagne, Limoncello, and a hint of lemon and walnut. Their Mulberry Mule is great, too, featuring fig vodka and thyme. If you’re hungry, you can snack on their french fries with samurai sauce or autumn salad with candied walnuts, apples, and squash

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There are plenty of diverse restaurants and bars in SoHo to fit every budget and taste. So whether you’re looking for a fantastic wine bar with bottles from all over the world or a live music venue, SoHo has got you covered.

Explore SoHo as the locals do with this insider’s guide to the best dive bar haunts and swanky rooftop bars. If you want more SoHo activities, then check out some of these brunch spots around town!

Did we leave your favorite SoHo bar off the list? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, Quora, Google Guide and Facebook.