While classmates went home for the summer or friends hit the beach, I was absolutely loving my summer jobs and internships. But when it comes to adulting and post-shift drinks, it can be challenging to find NYC bars with DJs that bring the vibes while still feeling fun and approachable. Going to school in New Jersey meant being super close to Manhattan, New York City, and I can confirm that hitting a neighborhood bar after slamming my laptop shut hits different, especially when there’s an outdoor patio and boppin’ music. If you’re working in the city for the summer or an NYC local, grab your work besties, your neighbors, or go solo to one of these Manhattan bars that has all of the fun of a live DJ without overbearing club vibes.
Bar Calico – Flatiron District
23 Lexington Avenue, Second Floor Freehand Hotel, New York NY 10010
Located on the Second Floor of the Freehand Hotel in the Flatiron District, Bar Calico may just be the city’s vibiest hotel bar with a New Mexican flare. In addition to a fantastic selection of cocktails and drinks that pay homage to artist Georgia O’Keefe and the American Southwest, Bar Calico also has a live DJ in residence every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night for music and dancing without a club atmosphere.
The Living Room – Theater District, Midtown West
1567 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
While some bars in Manhattan can feel cramped, The Living Room’s ambiance is incredible thanks to dim lighting, a wide-open bar area with unique seating options, and DJs that tend to play light and upbeat tunes. The Living Room is great for date night, a quick cocktail before a show, or a night cap. Fair warning, the drinks tend to be booze-y.
Nothing Really Matters – Theater District, Midtown West
1627 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Having grown up in Los Angeles, mass public transportation is still somewhat a novelty to me, so when I found out that Nothing Really Matters is a speakeasy in a subway station, the Californian in me needed to go. The speakeasy feel lends itself to a trendy and intimate vibe (reviewers agree it isn’t too crowded in the early night), while the live DJ brings the party. Plus, they serve Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Need I say more?
Peachy’s – Chinatown
5 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013
Y2K girlies, this one’s for you. Peachy’s DJs are beloved for playing club-adjacent 2000s party hits, but instead, you’re sitting down and casually enjoying your drink. Bonus points if you post-game at any of the fantastic late-night dumpling spots nearby.
Juke Bar – East Village
196 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
Customers love that Juke Bar feels like a dive bar with live DJs who play fun mashups – some even commented that it’s fun to go solo thanks to great music and friendly staff.
Plus, they have a killer happy hour if you’re saving your summer job income (or, like me, worked an unpaid internship).
#SpoonTip: If you’re living or working in Brooklyn (not Manhattan), Juke Bar also has a Bushwick location!