5 Best Bars for Cheap Drinks in Manhattan NYC

Finding cheap drinks in NYC, amidst the swath of $18 Gin & Tonics, is vital for any traveler or local.

These spots not only have cheap beers and specials but also plenty of fun vibes to go around.

Here are 5 of our favorite cheap bars in NYC:

1. McSorley’s
2. Rudy’s
3. Jake’s Dilemma (or Gin Mill, 3 Sheets, Hair of the Dog, Down the Hatch, Stumble Inn)
4. Clockwork Bar
5. Jimmy’s Corner
6. Bonus – Mickey Spillane’s

Let’s look at each one below. 👇

Note: This article was written by a real human who lives in NYC, not artificial intelligence. 🥸

Best Cheap Drinks in NYC Podcast Episode

Want to hear more podcasts like this? Head here.

1- McSorley’s Old Ale House

McSorley’s is one of the most iconic and cheapest bars in all of New York City. It was originally established in 1854 and has seen the likes of Abe Lincoln and John Lennon.

It’s $8 for 2 beers, which works out to be about 1.5 normal-sized beers. They only have two drink options: dark or light ale.

Cash only!

Check out McSorley’s Old Ale House here.

2- Rudy’s Bar & Grill

Rudy’s Bar & Grill has been a Hell’s Kitchen staple since 1933. Regarding cheap beer in Manhattan, there isn’t a better spot than Rudy’s.

Plus, they serve up free (seriously) hot dogs with any purchase. 🌭

You can even get a pitcher of house beer for $12, which is truly unheard of in New York City!

They even have TVs in the front room and a massive projector in the back room. Rudy’s is a proper must-experience spot in Manhattan!

Check it out in Hell’s Kitchen here.

3- Jake’s Dilemma

Jake’s Dilemma is a phenomenal bar on the Upper West Side with cheap drinks and laid-back vibes. It also has multiple sister bars with equally cheap drinks, including The Gin Mill, 3 Sheets, Down the Hatch, and Stumble Inn.

At any time, you can get a $5 Miller Light or Seltzer or a Bud Light for as cheap as $4. They also have specials every day.

Most of the time, you can get any draft beer for $5!

And you should also head there with proper expectations. It’s not somewhere you’re gonna order intricate cocktails, have a business meeting, or read a book.

It’s a young bar with loud music, cheap drinks, and sports on the TVs at all times.

Plus, they have live DJs every weekend. 🪩

Check out Jake’s Dilemma here.

4- Clockwork Bar

Clockwork Bar is a dive, but it has cheap drinks!

They have a $6 beer-and-shot combo, $6 well drinks, and a true dive-bar feel with plenty of graffiti and stickers.

Check out Clockwork Bar here.

5- Jimmy’s Corner

Jimmy’s Corner is a Midtown staple that’s perfect for drinks before or after a Broadway show.

Drinks are as cheap as $3, and there are loads of boxing memorabilia.

Check out Jimmy’s Corner here.

This Episode’s You’ll Have to Check It Out – Amor Y Amargo

@bettertogetherhere

While not cheap, you’ll get a unique, well-crafted, thoughtful cocktail. All the drinks here include Amaros and, in most instances, unique bitters. The decor and bar itself are beautiful. We loved all the drinks we tried here, and you will, too! Plus, they have dozens of unique bitters for purchase. This spot was a featured segment on our bi-weekly podcast where we explore different aspects of NYC. Find it on Spotify & Apple Podcasts “Better Together Here”. #cocktailbar #nyc #nycdrinks #nycbars #nyccocktailbar #amaro #amarococktails #uniquebars #nyclife

♬ original sound – Better Together Here NYC

While not cheap ($18 cocktails), you get a unique, well-crafted, thoughtful cocktail. All the drinks here include Amaro and, in most instances, unique bitters.

Plus, the decor and bar itself are beautiful.

We loved all the drinks we tried here, and you will, too! Plus, they have dozens of unique bitters for purchase.

Check out Amor y Amargo here.

Cheap Bars NYC Recap + Next Steps

New York City can be an expensive place to drink, but these bars serve cheap drinks all day long.

Any other spots we need to check out? Tell us in the comments!

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