'Sopranos' Actor James Gandolfini Dead At 51 | Photos | Listen Live: 1010 WINS | WCBS 880

Latest Best of NY

The 7 Best Bars For Birthday Parties In NYC

January 19, 2012 2:20 PM

Planning a birthday party in NYC? With so many choices, it can feel daunting to choose a place to host your big bash. If you are looking at getting together in a bar, be sure to plan ahead–some spots are tough to get into even with a small group. Here are some of the best bars in the city for you and your posse to celebrate. By Selena Ricks-Good.

Clover Club

The 7 Best Bars For Birthday Parties In NYC

(credit: Clover Club)

210 Smith St.
Brooklyn, NY
(718) 855-7939
cloverclubny.com

Feeling one year wiser and in the mood to host a more civilized kind of debauchery? Book the handsome back parlor at this Cobble Hill cocktail joint and you will be clinking glasses in a wood-paneled den worthy of a Gatsby affair. The room holds up to 45 people and hors d’oeuvres can be arranged.

Cienfuegos

(Credit: Facebook.com/Cienfuegos)

443 E. 6th St., 2nd Fl.
New York, NY
(212) 614-6818
cienfuegosny.com

The ornate tropical decor at this Cuban rum bar practically demands that you have a good time. You’ll have to make a reservation as they fill up quickly. Libations are sold by the punch bowl, such as the Isla Punch (Barbancourt Rum, guanabana juice, guava juice, lychee juice and orgeat syrup), ranging from $13 for a single serving to $100 for a group of nine.

GoldBar

(credit: Goldbar/Facebook)

389 Broome St.
New York, NY
(212) 274-1568
goldbarnewyork.com

You’ll be asked to provide a table minimum (i.e., bottle service) to secure a spot at this still-trendy Nolita dance den, but if you want to party like a rockstar, GoldBar has you covered. From the wall of gold skulls to the gilded ceiling and chandeliers, this place oozes with bling. Sip cocktails like the Gold Rush (bourbon, lemon juice and honey) while you get down to the DJ’s beats.

The Delancey

(credit: The Delancey)

168 Delancey St.
New York, NY
(212) 254-9920
thedelancey.com

This tri-level rock club boasts a lush rooftop garden that is perfect for chilling with friends. Expect palm trees, fountain pools and a retractable roof. Although the drinks here are fairly inexpensive and the vibe is low-key, be sure to call ahead to book your private party–it’s still a popular spot since opening in 2004.

Bushwick Country Club

(credit: Bushwick Country Club)

618 Grand St.
Brooklyn, NY
(718) 388-2114
Reviews & More Info

You’ve worked hard to plan your party–you deserve special treatment! Bring at least 15 guests to your bash here and you, party host, get free drinks. Bring more than 30 friends and your party gets free grilled hot dogs. From the coke and bourbon slushies to the photobooth to the mini golf course, this bar may be the definition of “hipster,” but it certainly is a welcoming place to let loose.

R Bar

(credit: R Bar)

218 Bowery St (Betw. Prince Street and Spring Street)
(347) 482-1392
rbarnyc.com

Tough bouncers who stick to their lists? Check. Large (enough) dance floor with party music everyone loves? Check. Large (enough) bar with speedy bartenders? Check. Sexy (enough) atmosphere to keep all partygoers feeling groovy? Check. Stripper poles and raised dance floor? You got it. R Bar has it all when it comes to hosting a great birthday bash. Our biggest knock on the joint are the skeevy bathrooms that keep you waiting and are often found to be without paper towels or well-functioning hand dryers.

Sutra Lounge

(credit: Sutra Lounge)

16 First Avenue (Betw. 1st & 2nd Streets)
(212) 677-9477‎
sutranyc.com
Reviews & more info

It oozes sexy, sultry, and Saturday night fever. Sutra doesn’t disappoint when it comes to providing its patrons with spacious, exquisitely decorated rooms, comfy velvet couches, lively dance music, and fantastic original drinks. Its staff prides itself on its service, and it stands up to the quality establishment it appears to be from the inside out. The line at the door and at the bathroom can be daunting, but that shouldn’t stop you from booking your next party here.

Selena Ricks-Good writes about drinks and produces events as the Dizzy Fizz.