Flying Solo: Where to Booze By Yourself

by Melanie Berliet - Citysearch Editor - 103 Reviews - 52 Lists

Updated: March 31, 2009

Drinking alone does not an alcoholic make. Sometimes you don't want to bother arranging plans, or you simply crave some QT with your true best friend (you know, the liquid, cocktail one). Fortunately, in New York--the land of solo-dwellers and solo-drinkers--there are places where you can be your boozy floozy self without inviting others (and their judgments) along.

It Only Takes One

  1. 1 4 Star Rating: Recommended Employees Only
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    510 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014 (map)

    At a fancy cocktail den where the emphasis is on concocting, attention is given to the mixologists (here they're even uniformed)--and not the bar stool occupants. Go for the selection of specialty drinks without the burden of being given a critical eye. The drawback? It's all you when the bill arrives.

  2. 2 4 Star Rating: Recommended Half King Bar
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    505 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011 (map)

    Whether or not you're strolling between galleries, this Chelsea mainstay is the perfect spot for a brew. Nobody will question your solitude as the venue's lonely west location and homey vibe in a land of over-the-top clubs make it a natural home for random passers-by.

  3. 3 Blue Ribbon Bar
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    34 Downing St, New York, NY 10014 (map)

    This intimate nook of a wine bar is so tiny, it's nearly impossible to bring your troop with you. Plus, the friendly staffers are always willing to engage in conversation--about wine, or any trite subject--so there's simply no need for sidekicks here.

  4. 4 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Bemelman's Bar
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    35 E 76th St, New York, NY 10021 (map)

    One secret of the independent-minded imbiber is to seek places filled with other single drinkers. This hotel bar, notorious for housing business types is a safe bet. Not only are its patrons bound to be solo, but they can also be found at all hours thanks to the curse of jet lag.

  5. 5 4 Star Rating: Recommended Spuyten Duyvil
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    359 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211 (map)

    At this warm Williamsburg bar, the beer and wine list changes regularly. Not only are patrons always welcomed--solo or not--but the rotating menu of bevies provides an acceptable excuse to pop in on a whim to try the new brews, in case the 'tender ever asks.

  6. 6 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Heathers
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    506 13th St, New York, NY 10009 (map)

    The environment is so laid back, it's doubtful that anyone will take note of your friendlessness. Sidle up to the bar and blend in without any effort. As an added bonus, consistent two-for-one happy hour offerings will keep your tab for one super low, although you'll be too sloshed to properly appreciate it.