The Best Bars Near Lincoln Center
New York Fashion Week is in full swing and these five bars near Lincoln Center are the perfect spots to grab a fancy cocktail, take in the view of the Upper West Side, and dish on the latest fashion trends debuting on the runway. By Carly Petrone.
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It's a little bit of a walk from Lincoln Center but if you're in the mood for some place mellow to kick back and enjoy a beer or two, Dive 75 is the perfect spot. There are cozy leather chairs to sink into while you sip on a variety of beers on tap. Choose from any number of board games from the corner to keep you and your friends entertained or sign up for trivia night on Wednesdays starting at 7:30 p.m. You can also satisfy your sweet tooth at this joint – trays of candy frequent the bar so you can take your pick.
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Spend a fun evening at the Rooftop Bar at The Empire Hotel. Step into the 12th floor of the iconic hotel and enjoy views of Lincoln Center, Columbus Ave., and Manhattan's Upper West Side. Sip on fancy cocktails underneath a retractable roof that makes it bearable in the winter and even more fun in the summer. Make sure to check their website to find out when sunset drinks and live jazz returns.
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Grab a cocktail at Robert Restaurant atop The Museum of Art and Design. Floor to ceiling windows make it easy to take in the views of beautiful Central Park and Columbus Circle while the modern and colorfully playful décor make it especially inviting. Pair your Mad Brooklyn ((chocolate whiskey, rye, maraschino, dry vermouth, and orange bitters) or Venetian Sparkler (prosecco and aperol) with one of their equally as delicious desserts. Pastry chef Benito Gregorio is whipping up tasty treats like Bamboloni (cinnamon dusted ricotta fritters), Raspberry Chocolate Mouse, and Strawberry Shortbread with vanilla ice cream and citrus crème fresh. It's also a great Valentine's Day spot. Enjoy a romantic menu for $145/person, which includes your choice of appetizer, main course, and dessert.
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The Smith is located across the street from Lincoln Center, making it a go-to spot for just before or after a performance. This distinctively New York-inspired restaurant and bar is lined with subway tiles and dim lighting, making it a great date spot or place to catch up with friends. Their extensive drink selection ranges from muddlers ($13) to housemade sodas ($6) and everything in between. Try one of their "fancy cocktails" for $13 like the Hungry Teacher – bourbon, fresh mint, lime, and lemon – or go big with the Three Sheets concoction – calvados, genepi, chartreuse, and Channing Daughters vermouth. A great place to have a night cap before calling it an evening.
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If wine is more your thing, stop by Vanguard Wine Bar on Amsterdam Avenue. From crispy and refreshing whites to rich and powerful reds, this place has your covered. Pair your glass with something from their small plates menu – may we suggest one of their many tartines – ham, cheese, and arugula or shrimp, melted leeks, and saffron aioli are both good choices. Sip on something bubbly or try a rose for something a little different. Beer drinkers can also enjoy a selection of brews ($7) ranging from Kronenbourg 1664 to Six Point Sweet Action. Cheers!
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Carly Petrone is a freelance writer living in New York City.
