York is a beautiful, historic city, and there’s so much to do there, such as visiting the wide range of amazing cocktail bars in York!
The city has Roman roots and a Viking past, and it’s a lovely place to have a stroll around, stopping off for a drink along the way.
Whether you live in the city or are just spending a few days here, you’ll be enthralled by the stunning architecture and history of this amazing city.
And, of course, you’ll have this list of the best cocktail bars in York to hand, so you’ll be even better equipped!
1. Evil Eye
Address: 42 Stonegate, York YO1 8AS
Phone number: 01904 640002
Evil Eye is the home of the weird, the wonderful and the bizarre in York, so if that’s your vibe, then this is the bar for you.
The bar can be found tucked away on York’s oldest street, and it’s the perfect place to escape from the norms of York.
It’s hidden behind their world-record-holding gin shop, and it’s a real treat for those looking for a slightly different take on a cocktail bar.
Get stuck into some of their inventive cocktails and come and have the time of your life at one of the best cocktail bars in York!
2. Bobos Cocktail Bar
Address: 5 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Phone number: 01904 621900
Bobos Cocktail Bar is a stylish spot that offers creative drinks that it claims are the best cocktails in York.
If that’s not enough to tempt you to try it out, then read on…
Their quirky décor and lovely atmosphere set the scene for one of the best cocktail bars in York.
Add to that their shisha rooftop terrace, and you’re really onto a winner.
They also host incredible cocktail masterclasses, so if you want to add a touch of fun to your night out, then this is the place for it!
3. Revolution
Address: Coney St, York YO1 9NA
Phone number: 01904 676054
Revolution is something of a legend on the cocktail bar scene, and it also happens to be one of the best cocktail bars in York!
The large, contemporary space sits at a waterside location that makes it incredibly aesthetically pleasing, which is always a plus in my book.
They’ve got a huge range of cocktails that promises to have something to tantalise everyone’s tastebuds.
As if it could get any better, they also have a great Happy Hour between 12 and 9 pm from Sunday to Friday!
Now surely that’s an offer that you simply can’t resist!
4. Slug & Lettuce
Address: Various locations
As far as cocktail bars in York go, it doesn’t get much more iconic than the two Slug & Lettuce venues in the city.
The bars have a great reputation for throwing a party, and either location will be the perfect place to get the party started.
With a two-for-one cocktail deal that runs pretty much all the time, you’re also in for a bargain with this one.
No matter what your tastes are, you’ll be sure to find a cocktail to suit you here.
Slug & Lettuce is also one of the best places to go for bottomless brunch in York so if you want to get extra boozy, you know what to do!
5. Manahatta
Address: 3 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Phone number: 01904 635146
Manahatta is a glamorous cocktail bar with a New York-inspired theme, spread out across three sprawling floors.
If you’re looking for a spot with an exciting party vibe, then Manahatta is one of the best cocktail bars for you.
The chic décor and interesting drinks list will ensure that your night is one that you won’t soon forget.
Get yourself down here in your favourite outfit, and get ready to dance the night away.
You’ll be coming back for more in no time!
6. The Botanist Bar & Restaurant
Address: 15-19 Stonegate, York YO1 8ZW
Phone number: 01904 541177
The Botanist Bar & Restaurant is a gorgeous cocktail bar with rustic interiors and a welcoming vibe.
Whether you fancy a Sunday roast or a bottomless brunch, the team here will be waiting to serve you with a smile.
Their botanical cocktails are incredible, with floral flavours that perfectly match their botanically-inspired décor.
For a unique cocktail bar with great drinks, amazing food and fantastic vibes, look no further than The Botanist.
7. Jalou
Address: 2 Micklegate, York YO1 6JG
Phone number: 01904 466502
Jalou is a stylish cocktail bar that’s housed in a stunning grade II listed building, right in the heart of York.
They’re the purveyors of excellent cocktails in the city and are completely dedicated to drink in all its glorious forms.
The bar is the go-to spot for hip hop tunes and incredible cocktails, so if that sounds like your vibe, then this is set to become one of your favourite cocktail bars in York.
Don’t miss out on this jaw-dropper of a cocktail bar.
It’s well worth a visit!
8. Dusk
Address: 8 New St, York YO1 8RA
Phone number: 01904 634851
Dusk is a lovely little independent café bar in central York.
It’s a chilled spot during the day before it becomes an exciting den of iniquity and debauchery at night.
They’ve got some great cocktails on offer, all of which are two-for-one all night from Monday to Thursday and until 10 pm Friday to Sunday.
A personal favourite is the Marge and Rita – what would your cocktail of choice be from this unique menu?
There are certainly plenty of choices!
9. All Bar One
Address: 13-17 New St, North Yorkshire, York YO1 8RA
Phone number: 01904 655868
All Bar One brands itself as a stylish space where spirited people come to meet, and it’s easily one of the best cocktail bars in York.
They love to celebrate life by sharing food and drink and helping you to make unforgettable memories with your nearest and dearest.
It’s got an understated chic vibe to it that makes it ooze class while still maintaining some level of casualness.
They also do one of the very best bottomless brunches in the city, so be sure to check them out if that’s your style!
10. Vudu Lounge
Address: 39 Swinegate, York YO1 8AZ
Phone number: 01904 627627
Vudu Lounge is York’s premier late-night destination, with a buzzing vibe and tunes that are to die for.
It’s a place where decadence meets rustic, and a world where Champagne and world beers are served in tandem.
Here you can be whoever you want to be, and it’s the perfect place to kickstart your weekend in the right way.
They’ve got live DJs at the weekend who will be sure to get you dancing, particularly when paired with their tasty cocktails!
11. Lucia Restaurant
Address: East, 13 Swinegate, York YO1 8AJ
Phone number: 01904 731599
Lucia Restaurant is the brand’s flagship spot, located right in the heart of the city, just minutes away from its most iconic landmarks.
Although it’s technically a restaurant and wine bar, they also do some incredible cocktails, so I had to give it a shout-out!
The décor is pretty in pink, and it makes for the perfect Instagram backdrop, so be sure to have your camera at the ready.
Dig into some tasty Italian dishes as you sip on a mix of creative and classic cocktails at this stylish bar.
12. Fancy Hank’s Bar & Kitchen
Address: 39 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LS
Phone number: 01904 655068
Fancy Hank’s Bar & Kitchen is a lovely little spot that you’ll find tucked away in the back streets of the historic Minster Quarter.
It’s an American-inspired bar with good mood food and delicious cocktails that will be sure to put a smile on your face.
The vibes here are excellent, and the drinks are some of the best in town, so this really isn’t a bar you should miss.
What are you waiting for?
Get yourself down here at the first opportunity!
13. Sotano
Address: 1 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Phone number: 01904 620230
Sotano is an intimate tapas restaurant and bar that is worthy of the title of one of the best cocktail bars in York.
It’s an independent spot that serves delicious Mediterranean tapas and classically-inspired cocktails.
Everything here is giving authenticity with its own modern Sotano twist, and the results are incredible.
They’ve also got a large terrace that’s lovely in the summer and can be heated and covered in the winter.
It really is the perfect cocktail bar!
14. The Biltmore Bar & Grill
Address: 29 Swinegate, York YO1 8AZ
Phone number: 01904 610075
The Biltmore Bar & Grill is a sleek space with beautiful arched windows and chic interior décor that will like you’ve entered another world.
The bar is set in what was once an Elim Pentecostal church, and it’s one of the most exciting spots in town.
They took their inspiration from a trip to New York where spacious urban chic is the norm, and it works so damn well here too.
The bar is calm, intimate and relaxed during the week, while at the weekends the vibes amp up to provide a vibrant and exciting space.
15. Forage Bar & Kitchen
Address: 2-4 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Phone number: 01904 437564
Forage Bar & Kitchen is a sustainable bar and restaurant with an eco-conscious mindset at its core.
They focus on seasonal produce and delicious small plates, and everything they produce is out of this world.
Here you can sink into a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city and feel as though you are eating in the wild.
Their creative cocktails truly are some of the best in town, so be sure not to miss out on this fantastic spot.
16. Chapter House
Address: Station Rd, York YO24 1AA
Phone number: 01904 688699
Chapter House is a stylish space that’s open daily until 1 am, and there’s no doubt that it’s one of the best cocktail bars in York.
The bar can be found in a prime location opposite York railway station, and it truly is the place to be.
Head for the food, and stay for their incredible cocktails that always highlight local brands and produce.
When it comes to listing the best cocktail bars in York, there’s no doubt that Chapter House is worthy of a spot.
17. Dyls
Address: Skeldergate Bridge, York YO1 9WJ
Dyls is an independent, family-run business with a passion for showcasing all things local and fresh.
It’s a quaint spot that’s set in a historic bridge motor house and has put a contemporary twist on the space.
They’re open from breakfast through to late-night nibbles and drinks, and they are by far one of the best cocktail bars in York, no matter the occasion.
Get stuck into some of their bespoke cocktails alongside a delicious sharing board.
This really is the cocktail bar of dreams!
18. Pitcher & Piano
Address: Coney St, York YO1 9QL
Phone number: 01904 658580
Pitcher & Piano is one of the nation’s most iconic cocktail bar brands.
Their York location is easily one of their best, too, so if you’re a Pitcher & Piano fan, then this isn’t one to miss.
The bar offers a sophisticated escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with delicious cocktails and tasty comfort food that you’ll be sure to love.
Sip on an Aperol Spritz or two as you indulge in some delicious light bites.
As cocktail bars in York go, it really doesn’t get much better than this one.
Get yourself down there on your next night in the city!
19. Cosy Club
Address: 19-22 Fossgate, York YO1 9TA
Phone number: 01904 395056
Cosy Club is a lovely, intimate cocktail bar with a classy feel to it that I know you’re going to love.
This is a bar that offers a home away from home, and you can expect warm and welcoming service in a stylish space.
They’ve got amazing interiors, exceptional food and incredible drinks.
What more could you possibly want from a cocktail bar?
Next time you’re stuck on where to go in York, check out this amazing spot.
It will soon be one of your favourite cocktail bars in York!
20. Kennedy’s Bar & Restaurant
Address: 1 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Phone number: 01904 620222
Kennedy’s Bar & Restaurant has been a York staple for over 20 years.
This fantastic spot has been a base for everyone from partygoers to lunchtime drinkers ever since its inception, and it’s showing no sign of disappearing.
It can be found in the hub of York’s historic quarter, in a stylish, modern space with delicious food and classic cocktails.
This is a bar with a real heart behind it, and it will make you feel instantly welcome.
If you’re looking for a stylish bar with a homely feel, then this is the one for you.
Be sure not to miss it!
21. Victor J’s
Address: 1A Finkle St, York YO1 8RW
Phone number: 01904 541771
Victor J’s is the perfect place for your next get-together, no matter the occasion.
It’s been on the York scene since 1997, and there’s no denying that it’s one of the best cocktail bars in York.
They’ve got a great function room, too, so if you’ve got an event coming up, check them out!
The bar has firmly established itself as a local favourite, and it will soon be a favourite of yours, too.
This is a real hidden gem, and you’re not going to want to miss out on it.
Be sure to come and enjoy a drink or two at this York icon next time you’re in town!
22. Social8
Address: 13 High Ousegate, York YO1 8RZ
Phone number: 01904 675350
Social8 is a fun lounge bar that is the perfect place for relaxing in style.
They’ve got a fun vibe, friendly service, comfortable interiors and an excellent choice of drinks that will suit all tastes.
As you can probably guess by the name, this is a place to come and socialise, and it will really get your weekend started.
Whether you’re after world-class cocktails or just a quick glass of wine, these guys have got you covered.
Round up the gang and come and enjoy the night of a lifetime at Social8.
23. Yates
Address: Church Ln, York YO1 9QT
Phone number: 01904 613569
Yates is one of the leading cocktail bars in York for cheap cocktails in a vibrant and friendly venue.
This is the ultimate cheap and cheerful spot, and it’s largely popular among a younger student crowd, but everyone is welcome.
They’ve got great deals from “pound a pint” on Wednesdays to two-for-one cocktails and amazing food deals that will help you save a penny.
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced cocktail bar with a great vibe, then look no further than Yates.
24. Las Iguanas
Address: 21 Back Swinegate, York YO1 8AD
Phone number: 01904 948849
Las Iguanas is the home of Latin American fiestas in York.
If you love a party and you want to add some exotic spice to your evening, then this is one of the best cocktail bars in York for it.
It offers a taste of the tropics right in the heart of York, and it’s a great spot for drinking and dining the night away.
Here you’ll find that it’s Happy Hour all day, every day, too, so you can get boozy for half the price, which is always a plus!
This is the place for socialising and enjoying some real Latin vibes.
Don’t miss it!
25. The Fossgate Social
Address: 25 Fossgate, York YO1 9TA
Phone number: 01904 625844
The Fossgate Social describes itself as a small but perfectly formed bar and coffee shop and York’s second coolest bar.
It’s a great date spot that’s been on the scene for seven years, and it’s become a firm favourite in the city.
They specialise in speciality coffee, craft beer and SOCIAL cocktails, and the whole place is just a vibe.
If you’re looking for a relaxed and friendly spot with great drinks and even better vibes, then this is the bar for you.
26. 1331 Bar & Grill
Address: 9, 13 Grape Ln, York YO1 7HU
Phone number: 01904 661130
1331 Bar & Grill is a fantastic independent bar and restaurant that can be found in the shadow of York Minster.
It’s a strong part of York’s thriving independent scene, and it’s a place to meet, eat, drink, stay and play.
If you’ve been looking for a bar that goes from casual to party real quick, then this is one of the best cocktail bars in York for you.
They’ve also got a lovely Secret Garden that’s perfect for those summer afternoons.
What more could you possibly want?
Go and have a drink in this lovely bar!
27. Charlie’s Pizzeria & The Hi Ho Club
Address: 10 Feasegate, York YO1 8SQ
Phone number: 01904 270101
Charlie’s Pizzeria & The Hi Ho Club is an informal New York Italian-inspired café bar with a great casual vibe.
Their menu is packed full of New York Italian classics, and their cocktails are some of the best in the city.
From pizzas to meat boards, their food menu does it all, and their drinks menu is just as interesting and exciting.
They also have regular live music and burlesque shows, so be sure to check out their events calendar!
Seriously, though, what’s not to love?
28. Plonkers
Address: 5 Cumberland St, York YO1 9SW
Phone number: 01904 655307
Plonkers is a relaxed, family-run wine bar that also happens to serve some of the best cocktails in York.
They’ve got delicious made-to-order cocktails that sit alongside their extensive wine menu, as well as tasty beers and ales that ensure there is something for everyone.
This casual basement bar is decked out with flagstone floors that give it a rustic feel and will make you feel right at home.
Be sure to check out their ground-floor bistro, too, because they serve up some truly tasty dishes here!
29. Turtle Bay
Address: 11 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Phone number: 01904 733995
Turtle Bay is the home of Caribbean vibes in York.
Their cocktail menu is packed full of rum-based cocktails that will get you feeling boozy and ready to party.
Pair this with their delicious Caribbean-inspired food, and you’ll soon see why this is one of the best cocktail bars in York.
They’ve also got an amazing bottomless brunch that runs for a full two hours and includes all of their cocktails!
Now that is what I call generosity.
30. D’vine Restaurant & Social Bar
Address: 20-24 Swinegate, Dvine Restaurant And Social bar, York YO1 8AZ
Phone number: 01904 633700
D’vine Restaurant & Social Bar is a cosy and stylish space that’s famous for its delicious gourmet pizzas and world-class cocktails.
It’s an exciting concept that brings a unique offering to the city of York, and it’s firmly established itself as a popular choice with locals.
The space is decked out with beautiful décor, and everything here is exquisitely presented and packed full of flavour.
If you want a bar with a special feel to it that promises excellent quality, then this is the place for you.
31. Tank & Paddle
Address: 1 Bridge St, York YO1 6DD
Phone number: 01904 461000
Tank & Paddle is a vibrant spot that has made a former merchants building in the heart of York its home.
It’s a modern pub with riverside balconies that serves tasty cocktails alongside a wide range of beer and ale.
The bar has retained the original industrial charm of the building while adding its own modern twist.
Come and enjoy a riverside drink and a bite to eat at this lovely spot.
It’s not don’t to be missed!
There you have it, then, my round-up of the very best cocktail bars in York!
For a small city, it certainly packs a punch on the cocktail bar front, and there really is something for everyone here.
Make a note of your favourites and get the gang together for a little bar crawl.
What better way is there to spend a weekend, after all?