Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City at Night in SoHo
Top Things to Do in New York City at Night in SoHo
1. Balthazar
A glamorous French brasserie where mirrored walls, red banquettes, and a buzzing raw bar set the stage for late-night steaks, seafood towers, and celebratory bubbles.
✓ Why Go:
It’s quintessential SoHo nightlife—polished yet lively, perfect for people‑watching and a classic New York supper after dark.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After 8 pm for peak energy; later in the evening for a nightcap and dessert at the bar.
✓ Insider Tip:
Walk in for bar seats and pair the onion soup or steak frites with a glass of Champagne.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the timeless ambiance, seamless service, and the feeling of being in a movie set in downtown Manhattan.
2. Raoul's
An art‑lined 1970s bistro that glows at night, known for peppercorn steak, smart cocktails, and a lively bar that hums until late.
✓ Why Go:
A SoHo rite of passage—intimate, storied, and romantic, with classic French fare that anchors an evening out.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
8–10 pm for the room at full buzz; late evening for night‑owls at the bar.
✓ Insider Tip:
Aim for bar seating and ask about the coveted burger—it’s a locals’ legend and quantities can be limited.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Regulars rave about the moody vibe, vintage charm, and consistently excellent steak au poivre.
3. Fanelli Cafe
One of NYC’s oldest taverns, this neon‑signed corner spot delivers cold pints, classic bar fare, and a crowd of artists, locals, and late‑night wanderers.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an authentic slice of SoHo history—unpretentious, social, and ideal for a relaxed nightcap or casual bite.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After 9 pm for fewer shoppers and more neighborhood character.
✓ Insider Tip:
Nab a window table for vintage‑SoHo street views and order the patty melt or turkey club with a draft beer.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the no‑frills comfort, fair prices for SoHo, and that ‘only‑in‑New‑York’ tavern nostalgia.
4. Jimmy
A chic rooftop perched above SoHo with a pool, wraparound views, and craft cocktails that carry the evening from sunset into the city’s sparkling nightscape.
✓ Why Go:
For skyline drama in the heart of downtown—ideal for date nights, small groups, and camera‑ready moments.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour into night on clear evenings; weekdays to avoid lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive early for easier entry and terrace seats; dress smart‑casual to match the upscale vibe.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests highlight the cinematic views, DJ‑driven energy, and polished drinks program.
5. The Ship
A subterranean cocktail den with sleek nautical lines and meticulous drinks—quiet enough for conversation, sultry enough for a late‑night date.
✓ Why Go:
Serious mixology without pretension, right off SoHo’s main drag—perfect for winding down after dinner.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
9–11 pm when the room settles into a mellow, candlelit groove.
✓ Insider Tip:
Sit at the long bar to watch the bartenders work; ask for a bespoke classic based on your spirit preference.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Cocktail lovers applaud the balance, technique, and intimate atmosphere.
6. Lure Fishbar
A yacht‑like, below‑street dining room with a lively bar, sushi, and seafood platters—SoHo’s answer to a stylish supper club.
✓ Why Go:
It blends scene and substance: top‑notch sushi, a spirited crowd, and a see‑and‑be‑seen dining room.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Prime time 8–10 pm for a buzzy dining room; later for a spirited bar snack and martini.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request a booth for the full ‘on‑the‑yacht’ effect and ask about nightly sushi specials.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners note polished service, consistent seafood, and a fun, upscale vibe.
7. SoHo Grand Club Room
A plush lounge inside the SoHo Grand Hotel with low lighting, DJs, and craft cocktails—an effortlessly stylish backdrop for a late evening.
✓ Why Go:
Hotel‑lounge glamour without leaving the neighborhood, great for groups or a second round after dinner.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late evenings on weekends when DJs spin and the room comes alive.
✓ Insider Tip:
Enter through the hotel lobby and check the hotel’s events calendar for DJ nights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests appreciate the sophisticated crowd, comfortable seating, and reliable cocktails.
8. Crosby Street Hotel Bar
A design‑forward bar with colorful art, fireplace nooks, and a serene courtyard—ideal for refined cocktails and hushed conversations.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a calm counterpoint to SoHo’s bustle—elegant, creative, and quietly glamorous at night.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After 7 pm for pre‑ or post‑dinner drinks; later for a relaxed nightcap.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about film or cultural programming; grab courtyard seats in warm weather.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Patrons commend the stylish setting, attentive service, and balanced cocktails.
9. Angelika Film Center
A beloved indie cinema at SoHo’s northern edge screening arthouse hits, documentaries, and cult favorites into the night.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for a culture‑rich evening—catch a late show then stroll SoHo’s atmospheric streets after the credits roll.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late evening showtimes for fewer crowds and an intimate theater experience.
✓ Insider Tip:
Choose center seats to minimize the faint subway rumble and swing by the café for a post‑film espresso.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Film lovers celebrate the curation, downtown vibe, and nostalgic cinema feel.
10. The Dutch
A lively corner restaurant with a serious wine list, oysters, and craveable American dishes that make for a fun, unpretentious night out.
✓ Why Go:
Anchors a SoHo evening with quality food and a spirited bar scene—great for groups or casual dates.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
8–10 pm for energy and people‑watching; later for pie and a nightcap.
✓ Insider Tip:
Walk in for bar seats; split oysters to start and save room for dessert.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners praise the soundtrack, lively crowd, and consistently satisfying plates.
