When you grow tired of your usual bar spots, there’s nowhere like New York to find a new go-to—especially when it’s home to some of the most unique bars in existence!
So whether you’ve been searching for a sing-a-long showtunes piano bar or wizarding fortress, we’re letting you in on the quirkiest bars in the city below.
1. Beetle House, East Village
If you’re a lover of all things ghoulish and spooky, Beetle House is the bar for you! Everyday is Halloween at this Tim Burton-themed joint. The entire interior of the bar and restaurant is decked out with scenes and character’s from his iconic movies, with a menu of eclectic drinks including The Beetle’s Juice a tequila and cranberry concoction and the Alice’s Cup O’Tea with peach vodka, gin, tequila, rum, sour mix, Peach Schnapps, and Coca-Cola.
Where: 308 E 6th St, New York
2. Boobie Trap, Bushwick
via @bdclt
Located on the corner of Irving Avenue and Bleeker Street, Boobie Trap bar is self proclaimed as “ur best new friend.” With a cheeky attitude and funky atmosphere, the bar promises to be a place where you’ll make lasting “mammories.”
Where: 308 Bleeker Street, Brooklyn
3. Café de L’Enfer, East Village
If you’re looking for a macabre, yet opulent atmosphere, you must check out Café de L’Enfer. Operating as an absinthe and champagne bar, this under-the-radar spot is one of the coolest places in the East Village. Find it behind a skull laden door on Avenue A and 6th Street.
Where: 95 Avenue A, New York
4. Zombie Hut, Caroll Gardens
This tiki bar is the perfect summer go-to with a heavenly back patio and refreshing drinks that will whisk you away to an island paradise.
Where: 273 Smith St #4739, Brooklyn
5. Beauty Bar, East Village
Come for a manicure, stay for a drink! That’s right, this quarter-century establishment in the East Village is filling your glass and painting your nails. You can even get their manicure & martini combo for just $10.
Where: 231 E 14th St, New York
6. Marie’s Crisis, Greenwich Village
Whether you’ve seen Younger or you’re simply a theater buff, Marie’s Crisis will have you singing along to your favorite showtunes all night long! Hear Broadway classics and belly up to the piano for a bar experience you just can’t find anywhere else.
Where: 59 Grove St, New York
7. Oscar Wilde, NoMad
Upon entry, be greeted by ornate detailing and Victorian-style decor at this Oscar Wild-themed bar. Take a seat at the 118.5-foot bar and order from their extensive cocktail menu inspired by the great poet and playwright. Plus, this joint has been known to go all out for special occasions and holidays, so keep your eyes peeled as Pride is just around the corner!
Where: 45 W 27th St, New York
8. House of Wax, Downtown Brooklyn
You’ll never be drinking alone when you’re at House of Wax! That’s because this Brooklyn bar is host to a plethora of life-sized waxworks. It’s truly something you’ll just have to experience for yourself. You can find it located in the lobby of the Alamo Drafthouse at City Point Brooklyn.
Where: 445 Albee Square W #4410, Brooklyn
9. La Caverna, LES
Travel into the depths of the Lower East Side’s caverns at this unique bar and restaurant that offers Mexican-American Cuisine. The intimate and eclectic space boasts cavernous walls and ceilings that have been transformed into a nightlife hotspot. It’s definitely a place to put on your list!
Where: 122 Rivington St, New York
10. The Royal Palms Shuffle Board Club, Gowanus
If you’re searching for a fun, quirky activity that involves drinking, The Royal Palms Shuffle Board Club will be right up your alley. Open for walk-in shuffleboard, you’ll get a quick lesson from a crew member before putting your skills to the test, all while slightly inebriated to add to the challenge.
Where: 514 Union St, Brooklyn
11. The Cauldron, FiDi
Calling all wizards and witches, The Cauldron is the place for all things magical and mystical. Book a Potion Making Class or Wizard Afternoon Tea, and even get your very own cloak to wear while you’re there. As you wield the magic wand, sip on drinkable elixirs as you test your hand at molecular mixology.
Where: 47 Stone St, New York
12. Strangelove, Midtown East
Graffiti covered walls give this unassuming bar an edge that invites punk-rockers and rebels in for a drink. Plus, they’ve got a cheap beer selection that will watch our for your wallet.
Where: 229 E 53rd St, New York
13. Trailer Park Lounge, Chelsea
This funky spot embraces old school Americana with a humorous touch and an interior that will surely have you snapping some photos. Fill up on one of their juicy burgers and wash it down with margarita pitcher!
Where: 271 W 23rd St, New York
14. Sunken Harbor Club, Downtown Brooklyn
Venture beneath the sea at Sunken Harbor Club, a nautical-themed cocktail oasis. Find it anchored on the second floor of NYC’s historic Gage & Tollner.
Where: 72 Fulton St 2nd Floor, Brooklyn
15. KGB Bar, East Village
“Gangster-inspired libations” are to be enjoyed at this one-of-a-kind bar, decked out in red. The speakeasy style lounge nods to the building’s prohibition-era history and is sure to be a hit for a night out.
Where: 85 East 4th Street, New York