The 9 Best Theme Bars in New York!

New York is home to some of the most historic, distinct, and architecturally interesting bars in the country. So if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind space for your night out, you will find no shortage here. Whether you feel like traveling to present day Japan or 19th-century Paris, getting your nails done or playing arcade games, you’ll find plenty of options. Continue reading to find where you’re drinking this Saturday night! 

Sake Bar Decibel, New York, NY

A bar that will transport you across the world, Sake Bar Decibel will see you making the trip to Japan without stepping foot on a plane. Open since 1993, Sake Bar Decibel is an underground spot for a massive selection of sake and unpretentious sake and shochu cocktails. Or, try their umeshu or Japanese whisky. Authentic Japanese cuisine is also available when dining or drinking at Sake Bar Decibel.

Please Don’t Tell, New York, NY

Step inside the classic phone booth and dial “1” to gain admittance into Please Don’t Tell. Associated with Crif Dogs, one of the best hot dog joints in New York, you can saddle up to the bar to order a drink and hot dogs from Crif Dogs. Sip your craft cocktail in a speakeasy environment with columns, a fully stocked bar, and taxidermy animals. If you’re coming with a small group of friends or a date, you can also call ahead for a reservation. 

Apotheke, New York, NY

Drink in an old pharmacy located in Chinatown that is reminiscent of swanky 19th-century Paris clubs. Specialty cocktails here are made incorporating dried herbs and fruit and the bar/pharmacy counter is a special place to watch the magic happen. Handcrafted cocktails are organized on the menu into different old-style pharmacists’ prescription lists such as Health & Beauty and Pain Killers.

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Fig. 19, New York, NY

Fig. 19 is a bar hidden behind an unmarked door in the back of a contemporary art gallery. When the day turns to night, you can switch from marveling at recent works of art and grab a handcrafted cocktail from the bar. One such flavorful cocktail is Vanishing Point, made with vanilla bean and cinnamon infused gin, lemon, agave, egg white, and sea salt. Also enjoy the live music during your night out.

Macao, New York, NY

As the name suggests, Macao has been inspired by the 1930s in Macao, with its Chinese and Portuguese fusion. Cocktails with names such as Green Jasmine, Jade Virtue, and Mah-Jong, enhance the already believable atmosphere. Dinner is also served at Macao, with a variety of dumplings, noodles, and seafood dishes on the menu. The dim lighting, elegant metalwork, and intimate seating further sets the scene.

Beauty Bar, New York, NY

Grab a drink while getting your nails done in this so-called beauty “saloon.” Located in a former salon complete with old hair dryers and sparkly details, you can really enjoy a girls’ night out with a free martini with the purchase of a manicure. Plus, you can enjoy music and a fun atmosphere. Numerous events are held at Beauty Bar, so check their schedule for what’s on.

Torst, Brooklyn, NY

Indulge in the modernity of Danish design and flavors in the sleek and sophisticated Torst. This bar and restaurant has an excellent selection of craft and specialty beers and shareable bar snacks. Enjoy Scandinavian hygge while relaxing with friends in Torst.

Barcade, New York, NY

Barcade is a great bar choice for those looking to have a fun night out gaming with friends while enjoying a casual drink because of its dozens of old arcade games. Find arcade classics such as Ms. Pac Man, Millipede, and Donkey Kong. While playing, order a beer and shareable snacks, such as the Big Deal, which is a snack set for four people that includes Philly cheese steak rolls, wings, tater tots, and pork sliders.

The Schooner Inn, Ocean Bay, NY

Located directly on the beach, The Schooner Inn allows you to enjoy a drink with your toes in the sand or on an umbrella shaded porch overlooking the water. This casual spot is a fun way to escape the sweltering summertime in the city with an umbrella drink in hand. It also features a classic seaside American menu with clam chowder, lobster bisque, grilled tuna, and more.

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