Discover the best bars in East Village for your next event

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Written by Tara Monjazeb - April 15 2024


The best bars in New York's East Village


Pinned between the relentless churn of FDR Drive, old Bowery and Union Square, East Village is classic New York: Expensive, easy to stereotype and blessed with a disorientating number of great bars. The densely packed almost square mile has understandably attracted young professionals from across the country, leading to a daily tide of thrifted Carhartt jackets, micro-breweries and generational wealth. It’s enough to make you want a drink.


With a wide selection of cocktails, beers, wines and a few private hire options, these East Village dives, neighborhood drinking holes and cocktail labs tick just about every box you want.


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Maiden lane east village wine bars
Maiden lane east village wine bars

1. Bar food done right in the East Village: Maiden Lane

East Village, New York

Maiden Lane has been a unique culinary destination in the East Village since 2013, known for its European tinned seafood. It brings a New York twist to the European bar experience, complemented by an extensive selection of liquor, beer, and wine.


The menu features sustainable, hand-packed seafood tins, alongside a seasonal array of bar snacks, salads, and sandwiches. The beverage menu, emphasizing small-production wines, craft beer, and artisanal spirits, pairs perfectly with the food.


Maiden Lane, with its vibrant atmosphere, large windows overlooking Tompkins Square Park, and all-vinyl DJ sets on weekends, offers a lively neighborhood bar experience. It's also known for its online store and seasonal pop-up retail shops.



HiLOT bar east village NYC
HiLOT bar east village NYC

2. 1970’s East Village domestic bliss, with a bar: HiLot

East Village, New York

The drab 1970s home has curiously been picked up by many NYC bars as a beacon of aesthetic excellence. HiLot, a creation by the team behind Joyface, offers a distinct vibe in the East Village.


Resembling a mid-century living room with plaid carpets, mirrored ceiling, and fringed lamps, it operates as a quasi-speakeasy with a reservation-only seating policy. This lounge, with its unique aesthetic, provides a more relaxed and intimate setting compared to typical East Village bars. Its setting makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a less crowded and more sophisticated night out.



Ding a ling bar east village NYC
Ding a ling bar east village NYC

3. We told you the ‘70s were in: Ding-A-Ling

East Village, New York

Ding-A-Ling, another '70s-themed bar in the East Village, offers a dynamic experience depending on the time of visit. It’s a quiet spot for early evening drinks and conversation, transforming into a lively party scene late at night, so expect lines after midnight. The bar serves a small food menu, including hot dogs and vegan nachos, in an ambiance illuminated by a disco ball. It's a great choice for both a laid-back catch-up that shifts into a vibrant night out.



Madeline’s Martini bar east village NYC

4. East Village graffiti hides a composed drinking den: Madeline’s Martini

East Village, New York

Tucked behind a graffiti wall on Avenue C, Madeline’s Martini stands out as a sophisticated lounge in an area known for more casual bars. From the team behind The Wayland, it offers a cozy and romantic setting ideal for first dates, featuring comfortable seating and candlelight. The bar specializes in a wide range of martinis, both classic and innovative, complemented by limited but upscale bar snacks. With its larger-than-average cocktails, Madeline’s provides a much-needed elegant and grown-up bar experience in the East Village.



Ten degrees east village bar
Ten degrees east village bar

5. Hire the whole East Village bar: Ten Degrees Bar

East Village, New York

Since opening in 2006, Ten Degrees Bar has become a cornerstone in the East Village, drawing a diverse crowd including musicians, writers, and those from the Beatnik generation. Known for its service-driven attitude, the bar has cultivated a large base of loyal patrons who enjoy its fine wine selection and the welcoming atmosphere that lasts until 4 a.m. every night.


Ten Degrees Bar also stands out as a versatile events venue, offering private hire options for various occasions. Guests can hire the entire bar for their events, with a capacity to accommodate groups ranging from six to 200 people, making it an ideal location for gatherings of any size in the East Village.



Find the perfect bar for your event near East Village.

Cheers to the bars in East Village that pour an event experience as memorable as the city's nightlife. Rent a spot where each toast is a story and book a venue where "last call" is just the beginning. In East Village, hire a bar that's not just a watering hole; it's a treasure trove of tales waiting to be told by the clink of glasses and the laughter of good company.

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Your guide to hiring a bar in East Village, New York

The East Village in New York City is a lively and eclectic neighborhood, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse bar scene. Whether you're planning a birthday party, corporate event, or a casual get-together with friends, finding the right bar can set the tone for a memorable experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of hiring a bar in East Village.

1. Define Your Event Goals:

Start by clearly defining the goals and nature of your event. Consider the type of gathering, the number of guests, and the atmosphere you want to create. Whether it's an intimate cocktail party, a casual happy hour, or a lively celebration, understanding your event's purpose will guide your search for the perfect bar.

2. Research Bars in East Village:

Explore the diverse range of bars in the East Village by utilizing online platforms, reading reviews, and checking social media profiles. Pay attention to the ambiance, drink offerings, and customer feedback to create a shortlist of bars that match your event's vision.

3. Consider the Atmosphere:

The East Village offers bars with various atmospheres, from cozy and intimate to trendy and lively. Consider the ambiance you desire for your event and choose a bar that aligns with your preferences. Whether you prefer a classic pub or a stylish cocktail lounge, there are options to suit every taste.

4. Evaluate Capacity and Layout:

Assess the capacity and layout of each bar in relation to your guest count. Ensure there's enough space for guests to mingle comfortably, and consider any additional elements you plan to incorporate, such as entertainment or a dance floor.

5. Check for Special Amenities:

Different bars offer different amenities. Some may have private event spaces, outdoor seating, audio-visual equipment, or special catering services. Consider your event needs and preferences when evaluating potential bars to ensure they can accommodate your specific requirements.

6. Review the Bar's Menu:

The selection of drinks and food offered by the bar is crucial to the success of your event. Review the bar's menu to ensure it aligns with your guests' preferences. Some bars may also allow you to customize a menu for your event, adding a personal touch to the experience.

7. Visit the Bar in Person:

To get a feel for the atmosphere and assess the space in person, visit the bars on your shortlist. This allows you to interact with the staff, discuss event details, and address any questions you may have. It also provides an opportunity to visualize how the bar will accommodate your guests.

8. Understand Booking Terms and Costs:

Before finalizing your decision, understand the booking terms and associated costs. Inquire about any minimum spending requirements, deposits, and additional fees. Clarify the cancellation policy to ensure transparency in the financial aspects of hiring the bar.

9. Plan Transportation:

Consider the accessibility of the chosen bar for your guests. Ensure there are convenient transportation options nearby, and communicate this information to your attendees to facilitate easy access to the venue.

10. Confirm the Reservation:

Once you've chosen the ideal bar for your event in the East Village, confirm the reservation well in advance. Provide any necessary details, such as the final guest count and specific arrangements, and stay in communication with the bar's staff to address any last-minute adjustments.

By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the process of hiring a bar in the East Village, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.

Frequently asked questions

Start by defining the goals and atmosphere you want for your event. Research bars in the East Village, paying attention to their ambiance, drink offerings, and customer reviews. Choose a bar that aligns with your preferences and the vision you have for your gathering.

Yes, many bars in the East Village offer the flexibility to customize the menu for events. Review the bar's menu and discuss your preferences with the staff to create a tailored experience for your guests.

Evaluate the capacity and layout of each bar by visiting them in person. This allows you to visualize the space and ensure there's enough room for your guests to mingle comfortably. Consider any additional elements you plan to include, such as entertainment or a dance floor.

Yes, different bars offer various amenities, such as private event spaces, outdoor seating, audio-visual equipment, and catering services. Inquire about these amenities when evaluating potential bars to ensure they can accommodate your specific event requirements.

It's advisable to book a bar well in advance, especially if you have a specific date and time in mind or if you're planning an event during peak hours or on weekends. The East Village is a popular destination, and bars can fill up quickly, so early reservations ensure you secure your preferred venue.

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