50 best New York bars: Chelsea

Chelsea nightlife has its own frenetic rhythms. But for our money this classy New York bar—a favorite among cocktailians—is Chelsea's best.

By Time Out editors

Meaghan Dorman at Raines Law Room

Meaghan Dorman at Raines Law Room Photograph: Caroline Voagen Nelson

Raines Law Room

  • Price band: 4/4
  • Critics choice

There is no bar to belly up to at this louche lounge. Drinks are prepared in a beautiful but half-hidden back room surrounded by gleaming examples of every tool and gizmo a barkeep could wish for. From this gorgeous tableau comes an austere cocktail list, which includes classics like the Manhattan and Negroni, and variations thereof. The Old Cuban (rum, champagne, mint and bitters) smacks of a mojito with something to celebrate. And the velvety Japanese, powered by brandy and orgeat (almond-and-rosewater syrup), is so strong it could serve itself. Who needs a barstool anyway?

  1. 48 W 17th St, (between Fifth and Sixth Aves)
More info


Upper East Side | Midtown East | Midtown West | Gramercy/Flatiron | Chelsea
East Village | West Village | Soho | Chinatown/Little Italy | Tribeca
Williamsburg | Greenpoint | Bushwick | Park Slope | Carroll Gardens
Cobble Hill | Boerum Hill | Red Hook | Long Island City | Astoria


You might also like
Best restaurants in Chelsea
Best Chelsea galleries
More best bars in Chelsea
See more in Bars

Share your thoughts
  4. * mandatory fields

More of the 50 best New York bars

See all 50 best New York bars