In recent years, New York City has been growing it’s beer scene to new heights. With new craft beer locations and local breweries popping up all over the Big Apple, there’s so much to see (and drink) when it comes to exploring the best of the city’s bar scene. Whether you’re a beer drinking novice or a self-proclaimed pro, here’s what you need to know about drinking the best beer in New York City.
The Best Bars
It makes sense to start this guide with the best bars around the city where you can try some excellent craft beers. These bars are known as the NYC classics when it comes to beer, so you’re sure to find one that suits your specific beer-tastes.
The Blind Tiger
Opened in 1995, The Blind Tiger is a divey bar with big commitment to craft beer. Located on the Bleecker Street, this no-frills establishment knows the craft. There are over 28 taps dedicated specifically to craft beers, and you can also join them for several beer-themed events throughout the year.
Proletariat
If you’re looking to try some rare brews, you’ve got to visit Proletariat. The decor looks like something crossed between a dive bar and a gritty tattoo parlor, but somehow that only adds to the experience. With a rotating selection of only the rarest selection of beer and some of the best bartenders in the city, this is an East Village staple for beer connoisseurs. The only warning is that this place is pretty small, and can get crowded quickly. Visit on off-times like during weeknights or Sunday afternoons to get a more personal experience.
SingleCut Beersmiths
If you’re in a crunch for time and want to combine the experience of visiting a brewery and a taproom, SingleCut Beersmiths is the place. With guided tours where you can sample their latest brews, this place is a hot spot. They even have live music most nights of the week. Located in Astoria, SingleCut Beersmiths is one of the best hidden gems in the city.
The Well
The Well has more selections than any person could dream of trying in their lifetime. They have over 40 beers on tap alone, but it doesn’t stop there with over 150 bottled and canned options. The Well used to be a brewery before being turned into a taproom, and it’s open space looks like it belongs to another time. This is a great place to bring friends who aren’t quite open to your developed taste in beers, since there are a lot of familiar choices for them to choose from.
Hops Hill
Hops Hill isn’t for the average beer drinker. With a tag line like “Strictly craft,” you know you’re going to get quality at this Brooklyn bar. They feature many local brews on tap like Threes and Other Half, but they also have a giant bottle list with almost 200 selections. The best thing about Hops Hill is their weekly happy hour with some great selections for an even greater price.
Beer Events
Everyone should experience one of NYC’s beer festivals at least once in their life. It’s a great chance to mingle with like-minded beer drinkers, and even learn a thing or two about your favorite brews.
NYC Craft Beer Fest
Hosted every year in November, the NYC Craft Beer Fest is just like it’s name sounds. With several days of beer drinking excitement, entry to the festival gives you access to tastes of all the up-and-coming breweries around New York and beyond! Buy your ticket early since these sell out quickly.
Five Boro Craft Beer Festival
The Five Boro Craft Beer Festival is the best time to try some local flavor while enjoying food and live music from local restaurants and vendors. It’s more than a beer festival, it’s an experience. You’ll get the chance to sample beer that hasn’t even been released yet as well as over 50 craft beers from the area.
The best way to drink in NYC
NYC has a large drinking culture, and there are a lot of ways to experience the best of the local bars and events. If you’re visiting NYC for the first time, you’ll want to first explore the sights and local areas before stepping foot in the best bars. To burn off some calories before drinking the night away, bikerentalcentralpark.com offers tours of Central Park during the day! Or explore the local neighborhood by foot to spot the best drinking holes before a night on the town! However you choose to experience NYC, you’ll surely acknowledge it’s home to some of the best beer selections in the world!
