Midtown East knows how to shake off the workday. The bars between 5th Ave and the East River are waiting for the post-5pm crowd to head out on the town. Think cocktail lounges tucked near Grand Central, wine bars along Second Ave, and private rooms perfect for office mixers or team toasts. Whether you're near 53rd or down in Turtle Bay, you won’t have to go far to find a solid drink and a spot to sit. Keep scrolling for the best after work drinks venues in Midtown East — because happy hour waits for no one.
Booking costs of after work drinks average $180 per person. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Midtown East, based on Tagvenue data:
| From $150 | to $202 | per person |
| From $1500 | to $7500 | minimum spend per event |
Smaller after work drinks usually fit up to 35 guests standing. Here are some great options in Midtown East, based on Tagvenue data as of September 2026:
Entire Venue at Chef Guo - restaurant for 20 guests
Venue said: The venue's decor resembles a Chinese imperial banquet, featuring beautiful traditional decorations.
The Boardroom at Fasano Restaurant New York - dining room for 28 guests
Venue said: Small professional groups seeking a quiet, seated, formal meeting or an intimate seated dinner. An in-room private bar enables discreet, exclusive drink service inside the room.
3rd Floor Meeting Room at Concorde Hotel Conference Room - meeting room for 20 guests
Venue said: The Concorde Hotel is the perfect choice in Midtown East for your next corporate meeting or social gathering, with our private 3rd Floor Meeting Space or Outdoor Terrace having natural lighting with a modern design, allowing...
Cheap after work drinks in Midtown East start from $1200 minimum spend per event or $150 per person. Check out these budget-friendly spaces you can book through Tagvenue, as of September 2026:
Entire Restaurant at Trump Grill, from $1200 minimum spend per event
(up to 50 guests standing)
Venue said: The combination of these elements creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, evoking a sense of classic luxury. In addition, our full bar offers an extensive selection of premium spirits, wines, and cocktails, providing the...
Bar Area at Benny John's Bar and Grill, from $150 per person
(up to 20 guests standing)
Venue said: The Bar at Benny John's is not just a place to enjoy drinks; it's a destination for those who appreciate the artistry of mixology in an upscale setting.
Entire Venue at Bonsaii Tapas & Wine Bar, from $150 per person
(up to 50 guests standing)
Venue said: For a full buyout our restaurant can host up to 34 people sitting down and 50 standing up (cocktail-type events), we usually host corporate events because of the area we're located in Midtown East Manhattan.
Page last updated in September 2026
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