Top Bars and Lounges on the Upper West Side

New York’s Upper West Side boasts an intimate and inviting vibe, both upscale and friendly. The tree-lined streets and charming neighborhood buildings create a serene atmosphere, while the UWS buzzes with activity and iconic attractions. This vibrant neighborhood is home to some of the city’s finest bars and lounges, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail at a stylish rooftop bar, enjoying a glass of wine at a cozy lounge, or indulging in small plates at an elegant hotel bar, the Upper West Side offers an array of inviting spots to relax and socialize. And you can experience it all from the luxurious accommodations at The Wallace.

Just What The Upper West Side Was Missing

The Wallace Lounge is a relative newcomer to the Upper West Side, having officially opened just over a year ago. The Wallace Lounge invokes a classic Manhattan ambiance with its live music and entertainment. The lounge features a piano bar and hosts specially scheduled events, which can be found on the website's calendar. Offering top-shelf liquors, classic mixology, wines that would please any oenophile—including kosher wines and classic sparklers—and a delightful array of beers, The Wallace Lounge is just what was called for on the Upper West Side.

Conveniently located in The Wallace Hotel, the lounge is perfect for pre-show appetizer or end-of-the-evening light bite. Small plates meant to be shared or enjoyed solo showcase the gourmet experience, featuring caviar trays with an outstanding selection of Petrossian caviars, upscale charcuterie, cold bites like salmon tartare and tuna nori, and The Wallace Tasting—a sampling of the most coveted cold menu items.

The warm bites are creatively enticing, offering everything from a classic club sandwich to a lobster roll, skewered tempura prawns, wagyu sliders, and vegetarian-friendly Baja chipotle cauliflower tacos. For those who can’t decide, there’s also a warm bites version of The Wallace Tasting. Gourmet desserts include gluten-free options like Torta Caprese and Panna Cotta, as well as luscious treats like Pistacchio Cheesecake and Millefoglie. Prefer a lighter sweet? Try the gelato and sorbet!

The Wallace Lounge is open every day from 5:00 pm-12:00 am. 

Looking for More?

If you’re looking to kick back and relax on the Upper West Side you may want to visit some of the other bars and lounges in the area. Tucked amidst the sports bars and wine bars you’ll find some casually elegant spots that are on par with The Wallace Lounge.

The Owl's Tail

Check out The Owl’s Tail on 75th between Amsterdam and Broadway, just a three minute walk from The Wallace. Their small plate flare is inspired by local herbs, fruits, and vegetables, and their seasonal cocktails feature bitters and syrups made in-house. The Owl’s Tail is run by a husband and wife team who wanted to offer something different to the UWS community.

Lilly's Cocktail & Wine Bar

Lilly’s Cocktail & Wine Bar, at 50 W. 72nd just east of Columbus Avenue, offers delicious cocktails, craft beer and a surprisingly thorough wine list. They also feature mouth watering Italian “bites” served tapas-style. The ambience is decidedly sophisticated yet casual and comfortable. Happy hour is hip and fun at Lilly’s, located an easy 10 minute walk from The Wallace or a 5 minute cab ride. 

Caledonia

Caledonia on Amsterdam at 80th Street bills itself as “the least pretentious whiskey bar”. Of course they offer far more than whiskey and their celebrated cocktails are excellent. You’ll find those hard-to-locate scotch and whiskey brands at Caledonia and the pleasant ambience of this Scottish Pub is perfect for a relaxing evening out. You can walk to their location in under 10 minutes or 5 minutes drive from The Wallace. Caledonia also features menu items that are true to their Scottish heritage. Steak and Kidney Pie, Cottage Pie and Scotch Eggs standout among menu items. 

DaCapo

DaCapo Prima Lounge at 322 Columbus Ave is a destination to be sure. This unique lounge features an extensive cocktail menu with curated drinks that are sure to please. The upscale lounge space has a vibe that’s comfy yet elegant. Plush couches and steel and dim lighting evoke a romantic mood. DaCapo features a seasonal menu and a rotating art collection. Located 3 miles from The Wallace (5 minute walk, 4 minute car ride) DaCapo is an easy spot to begin or end your night. They also serve artisanal espresso so you may want to stop by during the day too. 

Tiki Chick

Tiki Chick, located at 517 Amsterdam Avenue, feels like you’ve taken a trip to a beach front paradise. Thanks to this retro tiki bar, the UWS is awash in tropical vibes. The patio tiki torches and lush decor transport you to the islands. Exotic drinks include the classics like Mai Tai and Singapore Sling, Tiki Originals that combine such flavors as guava, cachaca, coffee and absinthe or their own house made cola syrup combined with select Jamaican and Panamanian rums and bitters and those frozen classics to elevate your evening to beachy bliss. Tiki Chick is only a 15 minute walk or 6 minute cab ride from the Wallace.

Vin Sur Vingt

Vin Sur Vingt is an oenophile’s paradise with over 250 different wines from Bordeaux, The Loire Valley, Alsace, Languedoc, Bourgogne and Corsica. This French wine bar also serves delicious French fare. Cozy, nostalgic and oh-so-decidedly-French, Vin Sur Vingt is the place to go if you’re a passionate wine connoisseur or simply want a lovely glass along with some wine guidance from the knowledgeable staff. This casual French wine bar is located at 66 W. 84th Street. That’s a 20 minute walk from The Wallace or about 5 minutes by car. 

Vanguard

Vanguard is another wine bar with a French influence. And why not? The French certainly are about wine! With an impressive wine selection from all over the world and a menu that is uniquely French-influenced you’ll enjoy the unpretentious ambience of Vanguard. This casual wine bar is located at 189 Amsterdam Ave less than a half mile from The Wallace. That means a 10 minute walk or 5 minute cab ride.

George Keeley

George Keeley is an American bar with pub influence as noted in the incredible selection of craft beer and excellent food menu. The burgers at George Keeley are said to be among the best in the city. George Keeley is located at Amsterdam Avenue and 83rd Street just a 10-15 minute walk or few minutes car ride from The Wallace.

Pier i Cafe

Pier i Cafe is an experience to be sure. This al fresco cafe is located along the Hudson River in Riverside Park. It’s open from late spring through early fall and offers some gorgeous views. Time your visit around sunset and you won’t be disappointed. Pier i Cafe offers a casual menu that includes Cape Cod Lobster Rolls, classic fish ’n chips and burgers made with the Pat LaFrieda signature blend of beef. Pier i Cafe is a relaxing ambience brought to you by Mother Nature. Enjoy specialty cocktails and watch the boats as they pass by. The address is 500 W. 70th Street but you really can't miss it as it’s right on the Hudson about a 15 minute walk from The Wallace and a 10 minute car ride.

Minutes From All The Upper West Side Has to Offer

One of the beautiful benefits of staying at The Wallace is that when it comes to nightlife, bars, and lounges the Upper West Side offers something for everyone and most are mere minutes by taxi or walking, if you prefer.

For luxury, sophistication, and comfort in a modern and elegant setting book your next stay at The Wallace.