Discover the best wine bars in East Village for your next event

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Written by Amanda Healy - March 13 2024


The top wine bars in NYC's East Village


Probably best known for its sheer quantity of dive bars, the East Village’s recent transformation into hipsteropolis and kind of place Time Out labels a ‘cool neighborhood’ (read: gentrified) has resulted in an inevitable increase in wine bars. While our social conscience tells us we should be guiltily lamenting the ‘old’ East Village, the full-bodied depth of a biodynamic red makes these wine bars go down a little too easily.


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bibi wine bar east village NYC
bibi wine bar east village NYC

1. A cozy, eclectic and intimate East Village wine bar: Bibi

East Village, New York

In the heart of East Village, Bibi stands out with its sunlit interior, amplified by large, welcoming windows. This setting is ideal for engaging conversations and casual people-watching (the passing East Village fits alone make for decent entertainment). Bibi excels in offering a meticulously selected range of wines, complemented by an array of delicious plates and generous pours. Its versatile seating arrangements cater effortlessly to a variety of patrons, from solo visitors to couples and larger groups.



The immigrant room wine bar east village NYC

2. Snacks, wine and vibes: The Immigrant Room

East Village, New York

The Immigrant Room, a cozy spot in East Village, occupies a space that once housed a tenement. With its intimate bar seating for 10 and additional space for about 20 in the rear, it comfortably hosts both small and larger gatherings of up to thirty people. The bar's ever-changing snack menu offers a selection of savory olives, cheeses, cured meats, and unique in-house specialties, all paired with an impressive wine selection.



The ruffian east village wine bar NYC
The ruffian east village wine bar NYC

3. Funneling wine down the East Village resident's throats since 2016: Ruffian Wine Bar

East Village, New York

Situated in the East Village’s Historic District, Ruffian has been a haven for natural wine aficionados and vegetarian food lovers since its inception in 2016. The bar boasts an extensive and dynamic wine list, featuring over 250 selections, including a notable range of orange wines.


Ruffian's menu, inspired by East Village charm and Eastern European flavors, rotates quarterly, showcasing the culinary and wine-making traditions from regions like Austria, Hungary, the Republic of Georgia, and Macedonia. This thematic approach offers guests a unique journey through the world of wines and cuisine.



gomi korean wine bar east village wine bars new york
gomi korean wine bar east village wine bars new york

4. A culturally enriching East Village wine bar: Gomi Korean Wine Bar

East Village, New York

Some wine bars are just that: wine bars. Gomi Korean Wine Bar is much more – it combines drinks with Korean and Brazilian cuisines. Rare wines can be found on their vast menu, ranging from reds to whites, roses, oranges, and sparkling. Bibimbap, gyoza, and pão de queijo are some food options you can pair with your drink. The photographs of family and friends on the walls make you feel like you’ve entered someone’s home to try new wines and food, making it feel more welcoming than pretentious.



hard to explain east village wine bars new york
hard to explain east village wine bars new york

5. It’s not that hard to explain why you need to go to this East Village wine bar: Hard to Explain

East Village, New York

It’s difficult to describe the comfort of sitting by a fireplace on a crisp fall night. Still, the East Village wine bar Hard to Explain manages to capture it: the small room is filled with dim lighting, candles, and vintage records playing softly in the background. The Japanese-inspired establishment offers sparkling and natural wines, sake, cocktails, and Japanese beers. If, after a couple of drinks, you start to feel yourself wanting something small to nosh on, they offer bar snacks and bites. While they have traditional offerings like bar nuts and cheeses, they also offer Japanese snacks like Carlbee Chips and Pocky.



Find an amazing East Village wine bar for your next event

A new wine bar seems to pop up in East Village every other weekend, and for good reason. The world of wine has never been more diverse - whether you're after a room-temp red, biodynamic orange wine or just a cold glass of pinot, these East Village wine bars have something for everyone - including your picky friend who's just "really into natural wine right now". Hire one of these stunning East Village wine bars for your next event for a guaranteed good time - just don't blame us for the headache the next day.

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

Organizing an event in the bustling and vibrant East Village of New York City can be an exciting experience, especially when you're considering renting a wine bar. Whether it's a corporate meeting, birthday party, bridal shower, or any other special occasion, finding the perfect wine bar venue can elevate your event to new heights. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of renting a wine bar in the East Village, covering everything from finding the ideal venue to pricing, seating arrangements, and beyond.

1. Research East Village wine bars:

Before you begin the rental process, you should research East Village wine bars to find one that fits the style, size, and budget of your event. Use specialized event planning websites like HeadBox to explore the options available. Here you'll find photos and descriptions to get an idea of each wine bar's atmosphere, offerings and suitability for your event.

2. Contact wine bars to check availability:

Once you've narrowed down your options, contact the wine bars directly to inquire about their availability for your desired date and time. Most East Village wine bars have dedicated event coordinators or managers who can assist you with the rental process. Be prepared to provide details such as the date, duration, estimated number of guests, and any special requirements or preferences you may have for your event.

3. Pricing and Rental Packages:

Pricing for renting a wine bar in the East Village can vary depending on factors such as the size of the venue, the day of the week, the duration of the event, and any additional services or amenities included in the rental package. Some wine bars offer customizable packages that may include catering, bar staff, audiovisual equipment and decor, while others may charge a flat rental fee and allow you to bring in outside vendors. Request detailed pricing information from each wine bar you're considering to compare costs and make an informed decision.

4. Seating arrangement and layout:

When planning your event at a wine bar, consider the seating arrangement and layout to ensure maximum comfort and enjoyment for your guests. Depending on the size of the venue and the nature of your event, you may opt for cocktail-style seating with high tables and bar stools, traditional table seating with chairs, or a combination of the two. Work with the wine bar's event coordinator to create a seating plan that accommodates your guests while allowing for mingling, socializing, and easy access to the bar and other amenities.

5. Special Requests and Amenities:

Don't hesitate to communicate any special requests or amenities you may need for your event, such as dietary restrictions for catering, specific wine or beverage preferences, audiovisual equipment for presentations or entertainment, or themed decor to enhance the ambiance. Many East Village wine bars are accustomed to hosting a variety of events and can accommodate a wide range of requests to ensure your event is a success.

6. Finalize the rental agreement:

Once you've selected a wine bar and finalized the details of your event, it's time to finalize the rental agreement. Review the contract carefully to ensure that all terms and conditions are clearly outlined, including the rental fee, deposit requirements, cancellation policy, insurance coverage, and any additional fees or charges. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask the wine bar's event coordinator for clarification before signing on the dotted line.

Renting a wine bar for your event in the East Village of New York City can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any occasion. By conducting thorough research, communicating effectively with the venue's staff, and paying attention to details such as pricing, seating arrangements, and amenities, you can ensure that your event is a memorable and successful affair. So raise a glass and toast to a fantastic event at one of the many charming wine bars the East Village has to offer!

Frequently asked questions

It's advisable to book a wine bar for your East Village event as early as possible, especially if you have a specific date in mind or if your event is taking place during peak seasons such as holidays or weekends. Aim to book at least 3-6 months in advance to secure your desired venue and date.

Wine bar event rental packages can vary depending on the venue. However, they often include access to the venue space, seating, basic audio/visual equipment (if required), and sometimes bar staff. Some venues may offer additional services such as catering, beverage packages, and décor for an additional fee.

Many East Village wine bars allow outside vendors for catering, entertainment and decor. However, it's important to check with the venue beforehand and ask about any restrictions or requirements they may have for outside vendors, such as insurance coverage or licensing.

Some wine bars may have a minimum spend requirement, especially during peak hours or on weekends. This means you'll need to spend a certain amount on food and beverages to secure the venue for your event.

Parking can be limited in the East Village, so it's important to consider transportation options for your guests. Some wine bars offer valet parking or have partnerships with nearby parking garages for discounted rates. Alternatively, encourage guests to use public transportation or rideshare services to conveniently get to the venue.

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