The 11 best dive bars in Manhattan

Nightlife in Manhattan can get frustrating with bars having double-digit cocktails on their menus, cover charges at the door, and an increasingly pretentious hipster scene. If you’re not from here, you’ll be annoyed to learn that even well drinks are expensive. “But at home…” you might begin to say, but stop right there. The midwest this isn’t, and that vodka cranberry is really $10. Thankfully, there’s one last holdout of the NYC drinks scene where you can avoid uppity cocktailians and save some money: dive bars. From iconic city mainstays to exciting newcomers, these 11 dive bars are some of the best places to get drinks in the city. Just don’t show up dressed to the nines or expecting a laundry list of Prohibition-era cocktails — and make sure you bring cash.

1. 169 Bar

A post shared by @dwntwn1 on Jun 16, 2018 at 9:47pm PDT

169 Bar is a mix between a dive bar and a nightclub that’s been in operation since 1916. The interior is designed around New Orleans in the ‘70s, so think colorful lighting, retro red and black leather booths, beachy palm trees in the corners, and a pool table. If you get hungry, try ordering the oyster platter or dumplings. There’s a $3 beer-and-shot special, and you can order via text.

Where: 169 E Broadway, New York, NY 10002

Hours: Monday to Sunday 12:00 PM – 4:00 AM

2. Barracuda

A post shared by Joshua McKinley (@itsjoshuamckinley) on Jun 5, 2018 at 2:18pm PDT

You’ll need to have the address handy to visit Barracuda because the outside offers no help. It’s a simple black door that’s pretty easy to miss if you don’t know what you’re looking for. The inside of this gay bar is stylish with colorful, low-hanging lights, and there’s even a small stage for DJs and the occasional drag show. It opens just in time for the perfect after-work drink, and then the vibe transforms completely for the nighttime crowd. Drink, dance, and have fun.

Where: 275 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10011

Hours: Monday to Sunday 4:00 PM – 4:00 AM

3. Doc Holliday’s

A post shared by Doc Holliday's (@dochollidaysnyc) on Sep 22, 2016 at 2:43pm PDT

Western-themed Doc Holliday’s is a surefire hit for those looking to get a good drink at a good price. Draft beers start at $5, and you’ll definitely be able to snag one of the many booths. The interior is where western meets the 1980s, with Old West decor covering the walls and ‘80s music playing through the night.

Where: 1141 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009

Hours: Monday to Sunday 12:00 PM – 4:00 AM

4. The Rusty Knot

A post shared by