5 Fantastic NYC Dive Bars You Need To Add To Your Itinerary

By Eno Edet

We’ve never been velvet rope type people. And we are not particular fans of sparkling bottle service. We do enjoy hard seats, snarky bartenders and customer selected music; the perfect way to describe NYC dive bars. It’s something about the smell of day-old Pabst and Bali Shag that gives us the feeling of relaxation and ease.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quieter place where you can just chill or a place of interesting conversation and $2 beers, the following NYC dive bars have you covered.

1. Welcome to the Johnsons (123 Rivington Street). This place is the definition of a dive bar. Their early 70’s living room feel makes you feel strangely comfortable. The bar is decorated with trophies, pictures, couches with the plastic covering and a vintage refrigerator. The bathroom looks like they have been transplanted out of an episode of That 70’s Show. At Happy Hour, you can get a Pabst Blue Ribbon for $2 and Budweisers and Coronas for $4. For entertainment, there are options from a competitive round of pool or a trip back to your childhood with a game of Ms. Pac-Man.

This bar is truly a must-visit whether you’re planning a 4 day NYC itinerary or something shorter or longer.

2. Parkside Lounge (317 East Houston Street). Four words: Good whiskey. Fun games. This fun spot is great for escaping the city after a long day. Some nights they have live music and others you’ll hear classic rock blaring out of the speakers. The bar is flowing with any drink you could possibly want and at a reasonable price. If you want to use your buzz productively, there is a foosball and pool table to show your skills.

3.169 Bar (169 East Broadway). In this secluded place, the drinks are affordable and the atmosphere is lively. Located deep in Chinatown, this venue attracts a mix of people. It’s a dive bar with a nightclub vibe. Unlike most dive bars, they have an assortment of food on the menu. Our personal favorite is their Mac and Cheese; the definition of a guilty pleasure. Extra additions of pool tables and a fish tank make this spot even more fun.

4. Home Sweet Home (131 Chrystie Street). This hidden gem is located underground and is perfect for wild nights and strange conversations. Armed with a deceiving name, there is not anything homey about this place, unless your home is a bar on the Lower East Side. The bar is decorated with elegant couches, stuffed animal heads mounted on the walls and sofas, and beautiful chandeliers. The drinks are inexpensive and they always have live music playing.

5. The Delancey (168 Delancey Street). Check this place out and you will not be disappointed. This venue has three levels that will tickle anyone’s fancy, and each with terrific music. Their rooftop is legendary. It feels as if you are in an urban jungle. The main level/area is where you will find an array of live acts from DJs to live musicians depending on the night. Also, during the weekdays you can catch amazing burlesque shows. Beers start at $6 and cocktails at $10.

This is just a start to your exploration of NYC dive bars. Check them out today and tell us what you think below. Any others you love?