5 Best Bars in SoHo, New York City

When the women behind hit NYC cocktail bars Clover Club and Leyenda took over the old Milady's dive bar, they kept its predecessor's name, but elevated its decor, drinks, and bar bites. Their inventive cocktail menu now offers “cheeky” minipours and “full-figured” libations, all listed with their ABV, so you can go strong or light.

Since the early 1800s, this watering hole (at one time also a bordello) has been a sturdy New York landmark in a rapidly changing downtown, and it still draws a laid-back crowd of locals for drinks and pretty good pub grub, too. There's live music several times a week. Note that the location is pretty far west, closer to the Hudson River.

Linger over lunch or a beer at this well-worn neighborhood bar and restaurant, a down-to-earth SoHo landmark that's been serving drinks (and good burgers, sandwiches, and old-school pasta dishes) since 1847. The old-timey photos on the walls add to the vintage atmosphere, as do the no-nonsense bartenders.

On the 18th floor of the ModernHaus SoHo hotel, Jimmy is an all-season rooftop bar with stellar views and a cozy fireplace. Sit in a corner nook for Empire State Building vistas, or head toward the (seasonal) outdoor pool area (the pool is tiny) to survey the bridges over the East River. Cocktails are a highlight, albeit pricey, featuring seasonal ingredients.

One of the forerunners of New York City's mixologist scene in the early 2000s, the Pegu Club has maintained its charm and dedication to serving excellent cocktails made with top-notch spirits. Modeled on the concept of a 19th-century officers' club in Southeast Asia, the bar manages to feel expansive and calm even when packed. It's open until the wee hours, making it the perfect spot to cap off a night out, and happy hour from 5 pm to 7 pm makes it a good stop early in the evening.