It’s not as easy as you think to find a real, bona fide Happy Hour in Manhattan. We’re not talking about the usual spots in Midtown to meet after work either. We’re going old-school: drink specials and $1.50 oysters.
The Restaurant: Justine’s on Hudson
The Neighborhood: West Village
If you’re seeking a cozy West Village spot for happy hour, look no further because Justine’s on Hudson is cozy and sophisticated, with some of the most reasonable prices you’ll find in the city. The French-Filipino flavors showcased on the menu are coupled with a vintage wine collection curated by wine importer Neal I. Rosenthal (Justine’s dad). The restaurant offers an Oyster Apero Hour daily from 5:00-6:30. While the window may be short, the offerings are a steal—$1.50 oysters, wines, and cocktails for $11. Try wines like a sparkling Glera from Bisson or a Kalamansi Margarita. The kicker is that they accept walk-ins, so prepare to get your Omega-3 fix and have an easy catch-up with friends.
The Restaurant: Heroes
The Neighborhood: SoHo
Heroes is your spot for something a bit more funky. First off, the owners show praise for, you guessed it, their heroes throughout the space. But these heroes are eclectic, to say the least, from culinary pioneers like Julia Child to Beyonce-covered coasters. The color scheme is also unconventional, with purple being the focus (couches and all) and black accents to ground the whimsy. The space has a young and fresh energy, with staff who seem genuinely happy to be there. Speaking of happy—Chef Aaron Lyrette curated a list of off-menu favorites like Smoked Turbot Croquettes and Iberico Pork Ribs (wet wipes included) for happy hour. They also offer $5 Martinis, $10 cocktails and mocktails, and 25 percent off all wine bottles with the purchase of food. You can also head to the second floor for walk-in seating for the Pearl Box Bar Room.
The Restaurant: American Cut
Neighborhood: Tribeca, Midtown
It’s about time someone made an adult happy meal. American Cut is exactly what it sounds like; the steakhouse offers your American favorites with tableside service and the glamour of the old days. During happy hour, you can opt for the aforementioned happy meal: a Caesar salad, truffle fries, and a Ketel One or Tanqueray Gin martini ($24), or pick your shareable dishes. Their menu includes options like a soft baked pretzel with mustard, a brioche crab cake sandwich, and truffle fries; in other words—a tipsy bargoers’ best friends.
The Restaurant: Raf’s
Neighborhood: NoHo
For the inbetweeners, Raf’s is your happy hour stop. If you’re not the boozy type or trying to cut down on drinks but aren’t necessarily looking for a mocktail, Raf’s will help you stay in moderation. The women-led team behind Michelin-starred Musket Room opened the French-Italian spot Raf’s back in 2023. They’re known for dishes like Sicilian wood-oven pizza and escargot combined with the elegance of white-clothed tables and a dreamy ceiling mural. Their best-kept secret, however, is their Teeny’ Tinis; you can try their classic cocktails, like the smoky Fumo Bianco or the citrusy Together Forever, without committing to a full glass.
FAQs
Q: Where is Justine’s on Hudson located?
A: Justine’s on Hudson is located at 518 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014.
Q: What time is Heroes happy hour?
A: Heroes happy hour is Monday through Saturday from 5:30 to 7 pm.
Q: Does Raf’s accept walk-ins?
A: Raf’s has a waitlist but does take walk-ins.
