Summary
- "Clover Club offers world-class cocktails and a generous $7 margherita pizza in a modern speakeasy setting."
- "Dutch Kills features $10 classic cocktails in a Prohibition-era glamour setting with chatty bartenders."
Here’s a hand‑picked rundown of five of New York City’s happiest happy‑hour spots—each offering killer drink deals, tasty bites, and a vibe that’ll have you sliding off work‑mode faster than you can say “last call.” From Brooklyn cocktail dens to Village oyster bars, these lounges and pubs serve up everything from two‑for‑one spritzes to dollar oysters. Whether you’re hunting for craft cocktails on a budget or a sleek spot to unwind with colleagues, you’ll find your next go‑to below.
1. Clover Club (Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn)
A Brooklyn institution known for world‑class cocktail craftsmanship without the uptight atmosphere.
What’s On Offer
- When: Monday–Friday, 4 pm–6 pm
- Drinks: $4 draft lagers, $5 spritzes (try the Rosemary Spritz), $6 wines by the glass
- Bites: $7 margherita pizza—yes, the size is generous enough to be its own snack
Why You’ll Love It
The dimly lit, intimate space feels like stepping into a modern speakeasy, but the staff are anything but stuffy. Expert bartenders craft each drink with precision, and the small‑plate menu is designed to pair perfectly with the cocktails.
Pro Tip
Head there right at 4 pm to grab one of the coveted bar stools—by 5 pm it’s buzzing with both neighborhood regulars and cocktail‑savvy visitors.
2. The Mermaid Oyster Bar (West Village & Times Square)
Seafood lovers, listen up: dollar oysters and half‑priced drinks await.
What’s On Offer
- When: Daily, 4 pm–5:30 pm
- Drinks: $8–$12 cocktails, $8–$12 wines
- Bites: $2 oysters and littlenecks (minimum order of six)
Why You’ll Love It
Whether you’re at the cozy West Village outpost or the bright Times Square location, you can’t beat slurping oysters at two bucks a pop, washed down with a crisp pinot or bracing gin‑and‑tonic. The bar’s nautical décor and friendly staff make every visit feel like a mini coastal escape.
Pro Tip
If you’re oyster‑obsessed, arrive by 4 pm sharp—once the happy‑hour trays come out, they disappear fast
3. The Half Pint (West Village)
A laid‑back pub that serves up some of Manhattan’s best bang‑for‑your‑buck cocktails.
What’s On Offer
- When: Monday–Friday, 3 pm–7 pm
- Drinks: $5 Espresso Martinis, Aperol Spritz, Frozen Boba Bellini; $6 beers; $8 well drinks and wines
Why You’ll Love It
Just across from NYU’s main gate, The Half Pint blends college‑town energy with serious drink deals. The espresso martini is a crowd favorite—just don’t blame us if you end up buzzing all night. With sports on TV and a friendly bar crew, it’s perfect for both post‑work wind‑down and a casual date night.
Pro Tip
Keep an eye on their “no more than one martini at a time” rule—it’s there to stop you from ordering a dozen in quick succession. Pace yourself!
4. Port Sa’id (Hudson Square)
A tiny, record‑filled Mediterranean bar where cocktails come buy‑one‑get‑one‑free.
What’s On Offer
- When: Monday–Friday, 5 pm–7 pm
- Drinks: BOGO cocktails, beer, and wine
- Bites: Select snack specials (ask about that feta‑and‑pepper jam dip!)
Why You’ll Love It
Port Sa’id’s back‑room record setup and neon glow feel like a secret urban hideout. Their cocktails are inventive—think Toki highball with mint and a hint of rose—served alongside a curated vinyl collection spinning in the corner.
Pro Tip
Seating is extremely limited, so snag a slot at the “bleachers” or stand at the bar. And if you find yourself dancing, it’s totally acceptable here.
5. Dutch Kills (Long Island City, Queens)
An award‑winning cocktail bar that transports you back to Prohibition‑era glamour.
What’s On Offer
- When: Monday–Friday, 5 pm–8 pm
- Drinks: $10 classic cocktails (Old Fashioned, Negroni), $6 beers
- Bites: $3 snacks like olives and nuts
Why You’ll Love It
Tucked down a quiet Court Square street, Dutch Kills looks unassuming from the outside—but step in past the velvet rope and you’re in a moody, lantern‑lit parlor worthy of Gatsby himself. Their cocktails are measured to perfection, and the bartenders love to chat about technique.
Pro Tip
Though in Queens, it’s just a quick subway ride from Manhattan—plan to stay for a second round, because once you’ve had a $10 negroni here, you’ll wonder why you ever paid full price anywhere else.
Wrapping Up
These five NYC happy‑hour destinations cover every corner of the cocktail spectrum—from oyster bars and pizza snacks to speakeasy‑style lounges and Mediterranean vinyl havens. Each spot nails its niche with thoughtful deals and a distinct atmosphere. So wind down your workday (or kick off your evening) at one of these gems—you’ll save a bundle and maybe discover your new favorite haunt. Cheers!
These happy hour spots in NYC sound amazing! Whether you’re in the mood for oysters, craft cocktails, or a cozy speakeasy vibe, there’s something for everyone. Each place seems to have its unique charm and fantastic deals. Cheers to finding a new favorite spot!