Haute Top 5: Where To Go For Cocktails in New York

This Lower East Side speakeasy is famous for its bespoke cocktails, relaxed vibes and expert mixologists. The hidden gem was founded by former Milk & Honey bartenders, who brought some of the magic (and then some) of the former joint into their new venture. Request the cocktail of your wildest dreams and they might just be fulfilled.

You've probably already heard of Death & Co.; the high-end East Village speakeasy is famous for having the best cocktails in the city. Despite its super tight door policy, once you're inside, the ambience is warm, dimly lit and buzzing with enthusiasm.

Keeping the Prohibition Era mystery alive in the Lower East Side, Backroom is nicely tucked away in an alley on Norfolk Street and is one of only two speakeasies from the time that is still open in New York today. Once you get past the alley, the doors lead you into a large, authentic speakeasy with cocktails served in teacups and all the glamour and glitz of the 1920's.

This West Village joint packs the scene and the cocktails. At Employees Only, bartenders treat cocktails like an art. Stop by for the creative cocktails and stay for the crowd; always lively and always classic New York.

A contrast to the other places on this list, While We Were Young is a bright, beautiful space perfect for catching up over a cocktail. The plush, pink banquettes and Instagram-worthy decor alone are worth stopping by; their creative cocktail list includes a kale/tequila concoction interesting enough to make you order a second.