Chelsea Neighborhood Guide: Bars, Restaurants & Things to Do

Chelsea is a Manhattan neighborhood with a rich collection of bars, restaurants, and things to do. While it’s known for art galleries, there is much more to see and do for visitors of all ages.

In this Chelsea Neighborhood Guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about exploring this famous section of Manhattan.

Here’s what we will cover:

• Where is Chelsea in NYC?
• Why is it called Chelsea?
• Chelsea bars
• Chelsea restaurants
• Chelsea coffee shops
• Things to do in Chelsea

Let’s look at each one below. 👇

Remember, every spot we mention in this article is on our Chelsea Neighborhood Guide Google Maps list. Get free access by signing up for our newsletter.

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

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Where is Chelsea in NYC?

From around 14th Street as the bottom boundary to around 30th Street, or parts up to 34th Street, depending on who you ask. The side boundaries run from 6th Avenue on the east to the Hudson River on the west.

Essentially, on the far west side of Manhattan, once you get below Hell’s Kitchen and Hudson Yards, you’re in Chelsea until you hit 14th Street.

Many prominent subway lines run through Chelsea, including the 123, ACE, and F & M trains.

Why is it called Chelsea?

Chelsea takes its name from the estate and Georgian-style house of retired British Major Thomas Clarke, who obtained the property when he bought the farm of Jacob Somerindyck on August 16, 1750. Clarke chose the name “Chelsea” after the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London.

So, like many things in old New York, the influence of Europe, specifically England, played a vital role in the naming of Chelsea.

Best Bars in Chelsea

Chelsea has a vibrant bar scene, including a strong collection of sports bars.

Here are some of our favorite bars in Chelsea:

• The Canuck
• Pioneers Bar
• Tara Mor
• Pennsylvania 6
• Crown Alley ($1 oysters, $5 beer and $8 cocktails on happy hour. Normal ish burgers and food menu.)
• Smithfield Hall
• Jake’s Saloon
• New York Beer Dispensary
• District Local
• Flannery’s
• McKenna’s Pub (temporarily closed?)
• Barcade
• Mustang Harry’s

Let’s look at each of our favorite Chelsea bars below. 👇

The Canuck

The Canuck is a sports bar with Canadian vibes and hockey-themed decor throughout.

It has great TV viewing and plenty of food and drinks. Solid spot!

Pioneers Bar – Cozy Vibes & Games

We first visited Pioneers Bar for a friend’s birthday party, and it didn’t disappoint.

Not only do they have an extensive beer list, but they also have loads of activities and TV viewing options, with cozy couches.

Some of the activities at Pioneers Bar NYC include:

• Giant Jenga
• Basketball hoop/shooting game
• Billiards
• Pinball
• Punching power game
• Connect four
• And other board games

They also have a fantastic sports-viewing area at the bar and near the back, with comfy couches and a giant projector. Oh, and the music selection is usually top-notch! 👌

Tara Mor – Solid Pre-MSG Spot

Tara Mor may have the best Guinness pour in the city. It’s a slightly upscale Irish bar with quality food options and lots of seating.

It’s perfect before or after MSG events with the kitchen open late.

The Irish Spice Bag with chicken tenders is a hit!

Pennsylvania 6 – Amazing for Bills Games

Pennsylvania 6 is a massive sports bar right near Penn Station. They’re an official supporters bar for the Buffalo Bills, and they have amazing game-day specials.

The wings are SOLID.

Crown Alley – Great Happy Hour Option

Crown Alley is a solid bar in Chelsea for happy hour.

They have $1 oysters, $5 beer, and $8 cocktails on happy hour.

Their food menu is good enough, but a bit overpriced outside of happy hour.

Smithfield Hall

Smithfield Hall is one of the best sports bars in Chelsea. It is a HUGE space with seating for hundreds of people.

We’ve watched college basketball, Euro soccer matches, NFL, and so much more at this bar.

It’s a bit more expensive than you’d hope, but a really solid option for bar fare with plenty of drink options.

Jake’s Saloon

Jake’s Saloon is a classic pub/grill in Chelsea.

Plenty of drink options, sports on the TVs, and solid bar food.

New York Beer Dispensary – Craft Beer Bar in Chelsea

New York Beer Dispensary is a craft beer spot with top-notch options, as well as sake and wine. Plus, their happy hour has very fair pricing!

Happy hour gives you $2 off drafts and wine pours weekdays from 4-7pm 12-4pm on weekends.

District Local

District Local is a classic sports bar with fair food prices and solid drinks, with sports on at all times.

We’ve typically only gone here if Flannery’s is too full for Tottenham games, but have enjoyed it each time.

Flannery’s

Flannery’s is the Tottenham Hotspur supporters’ bar and an absolute vibe on game days. While it’s a bit aging, the experience can’t be beat.

We usually opt for a Guinness or anything on draft. If you’re coming for a Spurs match, bring cash and get there early!

McKenna’s Pub

McKenna’s Pub is a classic Irish pub that’s currently closed, but we’re hopeful it will open again! Super affordable and great specials on food and drinks.

Barcade

Barcade is just what it sounds like, a bar with arcade games. The simple idea truly makes for a super fun time, no matter what time of the day or week you go!

It’s also not a bar with just some arcade games, they have a fantastic selection of arcade games. Tons of classics, some new ones, and even a variety of pinball options.

I grew up going to arcades on the weekend, and this place really hits that nostalgic feeling for many.

Barcade also hosts a variety of craft beers (bottle & on tap) and cycles through new options frequently! Be sure to check their website for what’s currently on tap.

Here are some of the fun (and my favorite) arcade games you can play at Barcade (games vary by location):

• Asteroids
• Contra
• Crazy Taxi
• Daytona USA
• Donkey Kong
• Dr. Mario
• Excitebike
• Galaga
• The Legend of Zelda
• Marvel v Capcom
• NBA Jam
• Pac-Man
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Barcade is a top-notch fun bar in NYC for drinks and an activity!

Mustang Harry’s

Mustang Harry’s is a great sports bar, especially for before or after MSG events.

It’s a bit more expensive than it should be, but has a great vibe and is worth checking out if you’re near it.

Before you head out to drink, you can fill up at one of the dozens of amazing restaurants in Chelsea. 👇

Best Restaurants in Chelsea

While Chelsea isn’t our first choice for a place to eat, it has some really delicious options throughout the neighborhood.

Here are some of our favorite restaurants in Chelsea:

• Whitmans
• Jack’s Wife Freda
• Westville Chelsea
• Hao Noodle
• Pier 57 Food Hall
• Pisillo Italian Panini
• Chama Mama
• Ajisen Ramen
• Cull & Pistol in Chelsea Market
• Sappeisan

Let’s look at each of our favorite Chelsea restaurants below. 👇

Whitman’s

Whitman’s is a spot near Hudson Yards with a solid, solid burger. Plus they have some great drink options, too.

Jack’s Wife Freda for Brunch

Jack’s Wife Freda is a delicious, predominantly brunch spot, in Chelsea. Despite what some random guy on TikTok said about it being a chain now and blah, blah, blah, its a great spot.

Every dish we’ve had has been delicious, the service is quick, and their drinks are top-notch.

Westville Chelsea

We’ve been going to Westville for years now; it’s so consistent. Westville in Chelsea, one of their many locations, is the perfect spot for healthy, veggie-forward plates.

Portions are fair, everything is extremely fresh, and they have plenty of vegetarian options as well.

We usually opt for the Classic Market Plate and then add a protein. It’s usually the right amount for two to share.

Westville also has a solid beer selection and plenty of delicious cocktails. The Mulled Red Wine Cider is my go-to in the winter.

Hao Noodle

Hao Noodle had some tasty options. While it wouldn’t be my first choice for Chinese food in the city, if you’re in Chelsea and are craving Chinese then it’s a good spot.

The Dandan noodle and duck confit with crispy rice were our favorite dishes.

Pier 57 Food Hall

Pier 57 Food Hall, called Market 57, is on the ground floor of Pier 57 and has dozens of unique food options, making it the perfect spot to eat in Chelsea with a group.

Market 57 has cuisines ranging from seafood to Japanese and so much in between. You can snag craft beers at Hudson Hops, delicious coffee from Bird and Branch, or a wide variety of tasty food options.

Here are some of the types of food you can get at Market 57:

• Indian Homestyle Cuisine
• Japanese Cuisine 
• Bird and Branch Coffee
• Italian Food and Wine Bar
• Craft Beer (Harlem Hops)
• Chicken, Biscuits and Seafood
• Chinese snacks and bubble tea
• Island BBQ
• South Asian-inspired ice cream
• Traditional Mexican cuisine 
• Cajun Cuisine
• Chinese-American Dim Sum
• Plant-based cuisine 
• Lobster and shrimp rolls
• Bakery
• Northeastern Thai Cuisine 

It’s the perfect spot to go with a group because everyone can try something different and share!

Pisillo Italian Panini

Pisillo Italian Panini has some of the tastiest, largest sandwiches in the city.

Their ingredients and condiments are imported from Italy, while their bread is sourced from Bensonhurt, one of Brooklyn’s top bakeries.

You can easily share one sandwich with two people, maybe even three.

Chama Mama

Chama Mama absolutely blew our expectations out of the water. Every single dish was unique, flavorful, and filling.

You HAVE to try the Megruli Khachapuri! It’s a bread dish with cheeses and tastes like heaven.

The lamb chops were also tender and delicious.

Oh, and don’t forget to try some Georgian orange wine!

Ajisen Ramen

When we used to travel to NYC, we frequented Ajisen Ramen. The staff is friendly, the ramen is delicious, and the prices are fair.

It’s consistent, which is really what you want from a ramen spot!

Cull & Pistol

Cull & Pistol is a counter-style seafood eatery inside Chelsea Market. If it’s seafood, you can probably get it here!

We’ve loved their oyster bar, lobster rolls, and their happy hour is solid. Monday through Friday from 4-6pm, you can snag half-price oysters. 🦪

SAPPEISAN

Sappeisan has unbelievable reviews, and it lives up to the hype!

We recently took advantage of our Chase Sapphire’s dining credit (amazing card btw, worth checking out) at what turned out to be our new favorite Thai spot, SAPPEISAN.

Getting a reservation wasn’t easy, which is often a great sign.

Every single dish was mouthwatering and full of flavors I hadn’t thought possible.

The dipping sauce that came with the Crying Tiger dish hasn’t left my mind..

Oh, and both cocktails were balanced, unique, and worth the price tag. 🍸

Best Coffee Shops & Desserts in Chelsea

Chelsea has some top-notch coffee shops and dessert options worth trying.

Here are some of our top desserts and coffee options in Chelsea:

• The Donut Pub
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery
• Bird & Branch inside Pier 57 Food Hall
• Telegraph Cafe
• Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company
• Doughnuttery in Chelsea Market

The Donut Pub

The only thing better than coffee?

Coffee with a donut. The best spot for that in the city?

The Donut Pub. 🍩

With two locations, both open 24 hours, you’ve gotta do yourself the favor of snagging one of their freshly made donuts during your time in the city.

My favorite? The Fruity Pebbles donut, because I’m still 9 years old at heart. 😅

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is worth visiting, just for the ambiance and viewing experience. More than just a standard Starbucks, the roastery puts the coffee making process on display.

With beautiful decor, a restaurant with a bar, and plenty of drink options, it’s a great spot to snag a coffee and explore. Their espresso martini flight in the bar is unparalleled.

Bird & Branch

While Bird & Branch’s main location is in Hell’s Kitchen, they also have a small spot inside Market 57.

Their coffee is phenomenal, and they have tasty homemade nut milks.

From their website: “We’re a husband and wife team with hopes of opening a coffee shop that gives back to the community we serve by supporting the people within it. We strive to be intentional with our actions and how they affect our earth and the people in it. We don’t have all the answers, but come join us for a good cup of coffee as we figure things out together.”

Telegraph Cafe

Telegraph Cafe is a solid coffee and breakfast spot, especially if you’re looking for somewhere to work.

The prices are VERY fair, especially for New York City standards.

Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company

Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company is a local favorite for kettle-boiled bagels and plenty of spreads.

Plus, a strong coffee output makes this a great option in Chelsea!

Doughnuttery

Doughnuttery is a fun dessert spot inside Chelsea Market. Essentially, you choose multiple bite-sized donuts with a variety of unique flavored sugars. Some options include:

• Lemon pop
• PB&J
• Coco Loco
• Cookies & Cream
• Apple Cider
• Pumpkin Pie Brulee
• and so many more

Fun Things to Do in Chelsea

Chelsea has so many fun activities and attractions worth seeing. There are fun options for travelers of all ages, and so many of them are free! 🙏

Here are some of our favorite things to do and see in Chelsea:

• The High Line
• Pier 57 Rooftop Park
• Little Island
• Chelsea Piers
• Chelsea Market
• Pier 62 Skatepark
• Dog & Co
• Barcade
• Art Galleries
• The Whitney Museum

Let’s look at each activity in Chelsea below. 👇

The High Line

The High Line is an old, elevated rail line that was refurbished into a beautiful above ground green space and park. It cuts through the heart of Chelsea and it well worth visiting, even if only for a small portion of it.

You get beautiful views of the city, river, and unique buildings in Chelsea.

Note: That map location is only one spot; it’s a long park, so check their website for all the entry spots.

Pier 57 Rooftop Park

Pier 57 Rooftop Park is one of the most breathtaking, free views in New York City. Located on top of Pier 57 is a massive public park with green space, plenty of seating, and unbeatable views.

It’s an amazing spot for views of the Hudson, the surrounding Chelsea neighborhood, and even One World Trade Center. Pier 57 Rooftop Park is a phenomenal free alternative to NYC observation decks.

Little Island

Little Island is right next to Pier 57 and is one of the more unique parks you’ll experience in the city.

This landscaped oasis provides beautiful views of downtown Manhattan, and you’re literally on top of the Hudson River.

It’s a great free option for wonderful views, a serene break from the city’s noise, and a spot that’s perfect if traveling to NYC with kids.

Chelsea Piers

Chelsea Piers is more popular with locals than travelers, but there is a lot to do inside Chelsea Piers.

You can find a golf driving range, gymnastics center, bowling, and plenty of activities.

Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market is a bustling market in New York City with dozens of shops, local art, and delicious food spots. We love the book shop, Market & Fleas area, and many of the food spots.

Listen to our full episode below for a complete breakdown and some unique history as the birthplace of the Oreo. 👀

Pier 62 Skatepark

If you like to skateboard or rollerblade, Pier 62 Skatepark is a top-notch spot.

The 15,000 square foot skatepark has some VERY intense vert, and you’ll often encounter extremely talented riders.

Dog & Co

Dog & Co. is a super-friendly dog supply store in Chelsea. The staff is always ready to help you find the right treat or gift for your pup.

Plus, they sell Pupford products, a company I worked at for many years!

Barcade

We covered Barcade in the bars section, but are also including it here. Barcade is just what it sounds like, a bar with arcade games. The simple idea truly makes for a super fun time, no matter what time of the day or week you go!

It’s also not a bar with just some arcade games, they have a fantastic selection of arcade games. Tons of classics, some new ones, and even a variety of pinball options.

Art Galleries

If Chelsea is known for one things, it’s an extensive collection of art galleries. With over 200 art galleries, it’s the perfect free alternative to NYC museums.

Between 10th & 11th Avenues, you’ll find loads of free-to-explore art galleries. You can make an entire date activity out of it, completely for free.

Use the free See Saw app (only on iOS) to find galleries to visit. It shows information and hours for art galleries throughout the city, including Chelsea.

The Whitney Museum

The Whitney Museum is right on the outskirts of Chelsea, technically, but is a phenomenal contemporary art museum worth visiting.

Plus, the outdoor areas offer great views of Chelsea!

We’ve loved our visits to The Whitney Museum and have seen some galleries that are extremely unique and thought-provoking. Get tickets here!

Chelsea Neighborhood Guide Recap & Next Steps

If you’re visiting New York City, an afternoon in Chelsea should be a part of your itinerary. Walk the High Line, explore Chelsea Market, and grab a bite to eat at any of the dozens of delicious restaurants throughout the neighborhood.

Remember, every spot we mention in this article is on our Chelsea Neighborhood Guide Google Maps list. Get free access by signing up for our newsletter.

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