The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is epicenter of the festive season in the city and an international symbol of the holidays in New York. Every year, thousands of tourists and New Yorkers alike brave the cold and crowds for a glimpse of the “Big Tree” which brightly stands tall in Rockefeller Plaza West on 48th and West 51st Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenues from November 28th through January 7th, 2019. Very fair warning, that this area of Manhattan is beyond slammed this time of year and since it is located in a corporate area, you won’t find many small business offerings or “cool kid” trendy hotspots. However, since we always enjoy the holiday spirit with some, um, spirits, here are some of our thirsty recommended bars by Rockefeller Center.
Great Bars near Rockefeller Center
Bar SixtyFive
Looking to class up your post tree viewing adventures? Check out Bar SixtyFive, located at 30 Rock and perched 65 stories above the famous tree at Rock Center, for creative cocktails and lite bites. The terraced-venue at the iconic Rainbow Room also has sweeping city views, and is the perfect spot for holiday celebrating. 30 Rockefeller Center, 65th Floor, 212-632-5000, www.rainbowroom.com/bar-sixty-five
Tanner Smith’s
This 20th century gangster inspired bar and restaurant is an homage to the prohibition era serves up some of the best cocktail offerings in the area. Dark wood and rustic trimmings provide a cozy relaxed setting. It’s bi-level set up provides a more pub style atmosphere upstairs and 1920’s cocktail den vibe downstairs. Good for groups or a holiday post-Tree date. 204 West 55th St,(646) 590-2034, tannersmiths.com
The Rum House
A short distance from Rockefeller Center, The Rum House is serving up some serious cocktails with a focus on rum, natch. Don’t get freaked out by its proximity to Times Square – the crowd is great and they even feature live music. Score. 228 W. 47th St., 646-490-6924, www.therumhousenyc.com
Vida Verde
Feliz Navidad! If you are looking for something with a bit more spice to your holiday hopping, Vida Verde is a great option. This Mexican inspired bar and restaurant serves up awesome food, flavorful cocktails and has a very strong agave selection for those who want to sip. With two levels, this is a fun spot for groups. There is also a late night menu if you want to see the sights after the rush of the crowds. 248 West 55th Street, Phone number (646) 657-0565, vidaverdeny.com
Bill’s Bar & Burger
After a long day of touristing and taking in the must-see tree for that perfect Insta story, it’s time for a beer and a burger. No better place than Bill’s Bar & Burger. Conveniently located just steps from the tree, Bill’s serves up a variety of brews along with a solid selection of juicy burgers. Also: don’t miss the spiked milkshakes! 16 W. 51st St., 212-705-8510, www.billsbarandburger.com
Morrell Wine Bar
A cozy spot located directly in Rockefeller Center, Morrell Wine Bar is the ideal place to escape the tree-gawking throngs. Sit back and unwind with a glass of wine – they have over 150 options, including tasting flights – or a signature cocktail while enjoying some snacks. 1 Rockefeller Plaza, 212-262-7700, www.morrellwinebar.com
Lantern’s Keep
Sometimes, just sometimes, you come across a place you enjoy so much, you kind of want to keep it a secret. Lantern’s Keep is that place. Tucked away in the back of the Iroquois Hotel, Lantern’s Keep is a bartender favorite pick, with a super chill vibe and fantastic cocktails. 49 W. 44th St., 212-45304287, www.iroquoisny.com/lanternskeep
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