From the all-too-familiar songs on repeat in just about every store, and the mini pine tree forests lining the sidewalks, to the ever-decreasing temperature and ever-increasing insanity at all the shopping hubs, it’s clear holidays have descended upon New York City once again.
We know. It’s a lot.
And with everything going on in the city this month, chances are you’re going to need to a drink. Soon.
But we bring tidings of great joy! There are a number of spots that are already fully geared up for the season and ready to help you take a little bit of that holiday edge off.
Read on to find out where the best bars to grab a drink are this month in NYC!
1. Pete’s Tavern (129 East 18th Street)
First opened in 1864, Pete’s Tavern is a quintessential NYC bar, reflecting the classic and nostalgic charm of old New York. When the holidays roll around though, the entire bar morphs into an explosion of Christmas cheer.
Elaborate wreaths and pine needle garlands grace both the outside and inside of this timeless bar and large ornaments adorn any space that can hold them.
Perhaps the bar's most impressive display are the hundreds of lights strung across the bar’s entire ceiling.
It’s also merely steps away from the Union Square Holiday Market. So whether you need a drink to brave the crowds or are rewarding yourself for surviving the holiday shopping mecca, Pete’s is the place to chill out and grab an impressively spiked eggnog.
2. Rolf’s (281 Third Avenue)
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If there were ever a place where you could accurately say that Christmas “threw up all over the place,” this would be it. Normally a well-known eatery with authentic German faire, Rolf’s bides its time all year for its December decoration operation.
The sight is, to say the least, overwhelming. Some form of holiday décor can be found on just about every place they could stick one, transforming the space into the holiday bar all the locals anticipate every year.
And since you're already in a German establishment, you might as well order a glass of their traditional German Mulled Wine, which combines red wine with oranges, lemons, spices, sugar and a splash of brandy. Prost!
3. Monarch (960 6th Avenue)
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Macy’s in Herald Square is probably one of the highest traffic areas in NYC around the holidays. Aside from its mesmerizing display windows for the season or getting to sit on Santa’s lap (after a 2 hour wait in line), the shopping just can’t be beat.
Should you find yourself desperately seeking refuge from the 34th Street calamity, take to the sanctuary of Monarch, and indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge that makes sure its holiday guests are well taken care of.
Take in the scenic views from 18 floors up on their expansive and usually open-air balcony, enclosed and lined with festive lights and Christmas trees for the winter. Curl up with a hot toddy and forget for a moment you’re actually still in Midtown.
,4. Vodka Soda/ Bottoms Up (315 West 46th Street)
The newest gem in the glittering crown of NYC’s gay bar scene, this dual-level watering hole prides itself on giving two for the price of one, and not just for their happy hour either.
“Christmas cheer” can be found all throughout the lower level, as it caters more to the smoke and lasers partiers, bringing back the feel of a sprawling dance floor that were once a common nightlife fixture that has been dwindling out of the NYC scene in recent years.
Head on upstairs for a bit more of a lounge experience with cozy couches and a more intimate feel, perfect for either a sleigh-full of shots with close friends or a Nutcracker nightcap with your “cuddle buddy” for the winter.
5. Camp (179 Smith Street - Brooklyn)
A safe distance away from the madness of Manhattan, this cozy cabin bar is more than worth the train ride to Cobble Hill. With décor inspired from the Swiss Alps, you’ll feel like you’re sipping hot cocoa at a mountainside ski chalet. Adult hot coca, that is.
Belly-warming drinks aren’t the only things to be enjoyed at Camp, however. Their innovative food menu boasts the expected sliders and such, but for a real treat order up their traditional s'mores, which are served table-side with mini Sterno burners to make them yourself.
Among their seasonal sips is their scandalous Dirty Girl Scout, an R-rated mint hot chocolate that will have you feeling like you’re wrapped up in a Christmas flannel in no time.
6. Bar Forty Four (44 West 44th Street)
Nestled in the lobby of the swanky Royalton Hotel is Bar Forty Four, an upscale spot that simply exudes the classic and timeless feel of Christmas in NYC. Small seasonal bites are served up beside an impressive and unique cocktail list.
The bar is centered around a sleek 20-foot working fireplace and accented with flickering candles and an array of unique design marvels, only adding to Forty Four’s luxurious ambiance. But the prices here won’t bust your present budget, especially at the 8:30 Tipping Point Happy Hour.
It’s also only a stone’s throw away from Bryant Park and the Theater District, making it an easy post-ice skating or holiday show pit stop. Among their specialties is El Krampus, Saint Nick’s naughty counterpart of Vida Mezcal tequila, Brugal Especial and holiday flavors of plum bitters and lemon.
Check out 6 Heated Rooftop Bars You Can Drink & Stay Warm at in NYC.
[Feature Image Courtesy Instagram]