Where to Drink Over Labor Day Weekend in NYC
With Labor Day comes a three-day weekend (yes!), but also looming is the reminder that the summer is coming to an end. If you’re sticking around the city for the long weekend and not jetting off to an exotic beach or out-of-town road trip for a last-ditch effort to keep summer alive, there’s lots to check out right here in New York. Before we say farewell to summer’s rooftop bars, beach lounging, and outdoor picnics in the park, here’s a roundup of some bars to check out in the city before summer’s done.
Verlaine
Arguably one of the city’s best happy hour specials, this Lower East Side bar offers daily specials from 5-10pm every night – think $6 martinis, sangrias, and Bloody Marys. Verlaine also features a wide array of tapas and small plates for some tasty nourishment while you’re sipping on your Hanoi Lychee Martini with vodka, lychee, and a splash of pineapple, or a Fleurs du Mal, cucumbers and hot pepper infused vodka, passion fruit puree, and fresh lime. (110 Rivington St., 212-614-2494)
Pazza Notte
This Italian restaurant has had a long-standing (15 years!) 2-for-1 happy hour special. Every day, martinis are 2-for-1, and from 3 to 6pm daily, wine is part of that special as well. The martini menu features creative options like strawberry lemonade, white peach, and blood orange. There is also typically a martini of the day to look out for. Located just a few blocks southeast of Columbus Circle, the restaurant makes for a great option at the end of a day of shopping (Labor Day deals, anyone?) or a walk in Central Park. The restaurant also features a resident DJ that spins tunes from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s, every Thursday and Friday evening. (1375 Avenue of the Americas, 212-765-6288)
Houston Hall
Whether you’re a beer drinker or not, odds are, Houston Hall has a beverage you’ll be into. This beer hall, with its rustic, woodsy vibe, serves select craft beers and features $6 pints for happy hour every weekday from 4-7pm. In addition to its draft beers, the pub-like space also serves a selection of house wines and specialty cocktails, like the fiery Diablo Margarita (Jalapeno-infused Patron tequila, Triple Sec, Cilantro, and homemade lime sour), and the refreshing Tattooed Sailor (Sailor Jerry Rum, Pineapple Juice, and Club Soda). The bar also features appetizers and bites from the Milk Truck, known for its grilled cheese sandwiches. Perfect pairing to say farewell to the easy days of summer. (222 W Houston St., 212-675-9323)
Raymi
This high-end Peruvian restaurant and pisco bar boasts tasty small plates to go with its daily happy hour specials. If you’re in the Flatiron area, check out Raymi’s three variations of the Negroni -- sample the Brazilian style, which is finished with chocolate bitters. You may also want to test out the restaurant’s assortment of classic Peruvian cocktails and its Quinoa Old Fashioned (made with quinoa syrup). Long, communal-style tables are great for larger gatherings, while more intimate high tables and booths are nice for smaller group outings. (43 W 24th St., 212-929-1200)
Photo via Pazza Notte