Today, we are savoring the finest Manhattan Autumn-Themed Cocktails.
As autumn sweeps through the city with its crisp, invigorating air, New York City transforms into a canvas of rich colors and cozy charm. The vibrant foliage ideal leisurely strolls, while the scent of crisp apples and pumpkin spice fills the air. It is that magical time of year when New Yorkers, ever eager for an autumn adventure, find themselves drawn to the myriad outdoor activities that define the season.
After a brisk walk through Central Park or a rewarding trek through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, there is nothing quite like unwinding with a well-crafted autumn-themed cocktail. Gone are the days when a simple cider or mojito would suffice. Today’s cocktail scene in NYC embraces the season with flair, offering a delightful array of fall-inspired drinks that are as inventive as they are comforting.
Our Guide to Manhattan Autumn-Themed Cocktails
In this autumn edition of our guide, we take you on a journey through Manhattan’s best bars, where seasonal libations are crafted with artistry. From sophisticated speakeasies to charming neighborhood spots, discover where to savor the finest fall cocktails in the city. So, whether you are winding down after a day of autumnal exploration or simply looking to indulge in a taste of the season, let this guide be your passport to the ultimate autumn cocktail experience in the heart of Manhattan.
We would love to hear about your favorite cocktail bar in NYC. Drop a comment below or connect with us on social media [@brooklynslifestyle or tag us with #explorewithBKLS]. We are always excited to uncover the next exceptional New York City adventure.
Manhattan Autumn-Themed Cocktails
1. Please Don’t Tell [PDT]
- Location: 113 St Marks Place—East Village
- Phone: (212) 614-0386
- Website: Please Don’t Tell
Tucked away in the heart of the East Village, behind the unassuming facade of a beloved hotdog joint, lies one of New York City’s best-kept secrets. Crif Dogs, known for its signature offerings, is more than just a quirky spot for a late-night snack. Step inside and look to your left, where a vintage red rotary phone awaits. Dial “1” and suddenly, you are transported through a hidden door into the dimly lit world of Please Don’t Tell. An award-winning speakeasy that feels like a page torn from the city’s past.
For autumn, The Great Pumpkin is a must-try. Created by Jim Meehan in 2008, it combines rye whiskey with pumpkin ale, applejack, nutmeg, and maple syrup—an earthy, foamy drink that embodies the season.
Of course, no trip to PDT is complete without savoring their bestselling Benton’s Old Fashioned. This unique twist on a classic feels tailor-made for autumn’s crisp air. Bourbon, infused with the unmistakable smokiness of bacon, creates a bold yet unexpectedly smooth base. Add in the warmth of Angostura bitters and a touch of maple syrup, and you have a cocktail that feels like wrapping yourself in a blanket of flavor, perfect for fending off the evening chill.
2. The Raines Law Room at The William Hotel
- Location: 24 East 39th Street—Midtown
- Contact: The Raines Law Room
- Website: The Raines Law Room at The William Hotel
Stepping into Raines Law Room feels like crossing a threshold between eras. The blend of Victorian elegance—complete with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves—and sleek modern touches creates an intimate, almost secretive atmosphere that is ideal for savoring something special. Named after John Raines, the man behind the Raines Law of 1896 that famously banned alcohol sales on Sundays [except for hotel guests], RLR is steeped in history and nostalgia, offering a little wink to the past while serving up contemporary indulgences.
The Jasmine cocktail is a seasonal favorite—Beefeater Gin, Campari, and Cointreau come together in a bitter-rich punch, refreshed by lemon and served over crushed ice. It’s an exceptional companion for a crisp autumn day.
But if you are looking for something with a bit more fire, Electric Guava might be your match. This vibrant, tropical drink brings a Latin American flair to the fall season, with Oaxacan rum infused with jalapeños and layered with guava, grapefruit, and passionfruit. The spicy notes of pepper and cinnamon are softened by the tart sweetness of lime, making each sip an experience that dances between heat and refreshment.
RLR’s charm, history, and expertly crafted cocktails make it an unforgettable autumn destination.
3. Jacques Bar in The Lowell Hotel
- Location: 28 East 63rd Street—Upper East Side
- Phone: (212) 935-2888
- Website: Jacques Bar in The Lowell Hotel
At Jacques Bar, the warmth of autumn invites you to savor the Moroccan Orange. A cocktail that feels like an adventure in every sip. This smoky mezcal concoction is infused with the vibrant zest of orange and lemon, while orgeat syrup adds a velvety layer of almond sweetness. It is the kind of drink that both intrigues and comforts, capturing the spirit of autumn with its blend of spice and citrus.
Jacques Bar itself is a tribute to the renowned French Orientalist painter Jacques Majorelle, whose lush Majorelle Garden in Marrakech inspired the bar’s aesthetic. The luxurious setting feels like a hidden gem. French-style interiors with ornate polygon tables, plush velvet couches, rich oak-paneled walls, and geometric mosaic floors that echo the exotic elegance of Majorelle’s work. It is a space that invites you to linger, where each detail reflects a story of artistry and escape.
Whether you are drawn in by the cocktail’s bold flavors or the bar’s opulent charm, Jacques Bar offers a rich experience that feels both worldly and intimate—making it an ideal stop for cozying up with a seasonal drink as autumn unfolds.
4. BLACKBARN Restaurant
- Location: 19 E 26th Street—Flatiron
- Phone: (212) 265-5959
- Website: BLACKBARN Restaurant
At BLACKBARN, it is easy to find yourself lingering over more than just a meal. The cozy space, already famed for its butternut squash ravioli, Amish chicken, and indulgent butterscotch bread pudding, is also home to some of NYC’s most creative autumn cocktails. A top-notch retreat as the weather cools down.
Beverage Director Jay Akin puts a playful twist on classic concoctions. He weaves in unexpected ingredients like beet juice and Ancho Reyes while balancing them with citrus oils, rosemary, sage, and warming spices. His fall menu feels like an invitation to savor something bold, something familiar, and something just a little bit unexpected.
Do not miss the Isabel. It is a vibrant take on the gin martini, featuring Cotswold’s Gin and Del Professore vermouths, accented by essential oils and botanicals. It pairs beautifully with BBQ beef ribs or shellfish.
Another highlight is Gran’s Pumpkin Pie, blending Black Dirt Bourbon with pumpkin liqueur, spices, and a hint of apple cider vinegar for a cozy, autumnal sip.
For those craving something a bit more unconventional, BLACKBARN also offers creative sips like Beetlejuice, Stable Boy, and Bootlegger—each as layered and intriguing as the season itself. With such a dynamic menu, BLACKBARN is the kind of place that effortlessly becomes your go-to for autumn evenings in NYC.
5. Bookmarks Rooftop Lounge
- Location: 299 Madison Avenue, 14th Floor—Grand Central Terminal
- Phone: (212) 204-5498
- Website: Bookmarks Rooftop Lounge
Celebrate the captivating allure of autumn at Bookmarks’ rooftop oasis. This penthouse retreat seamlessly blends luxurious indoor comforts with the refreshing charm of a lush terrace garden and two inviting greenhouses. The Writer’s Den is a bibliophile’s dream, adorned with opulent furnishings and a literary atmosphere. With cocktails inspired by classic literature and a curated collection of works by Walt Whitman, Dylan Thomas, and other literary greats, it’s a must-visit for anyone who cherishes the written word.
The Spiced Cider cocktail is a seasonal delight—a Rye Whiskey elixir enriched with allspice liqueur, apple cider, and honey syrup. For something with a bit more zing, try The Pulitzer, a gin-forward creation featuring Dorothy Parker gin, St. Germain, and Fernet Branca, balanced with lemon and agave nectar.
Pair your drinks with mini cheeseburgers or other savory bites as you flip through the pages of a new book. At Bookmarks, the essence of autumn in NYC is not just seen but savored, making each visit a rich, immersive experience.
Honorable Mentions
Here are two more fantastic spots to savor autumn cocktails in NYC.
6. The Good Good
The Good Good, nestled in the heart of East Harlem, is a cozy gem that invites you to unwind in its warm embrace. With its charming brick walls draped in curtains, spacious lounge seating, and genuinely inviting atmosphere, it is a delightful destination whether you are a Manhattan local or a curious visitor.
As the autumn chill sets in, the Tequila Sunrise here becomes a comforting choice. This cocktail stands out with its harmonious blend of house-made grenadine and fresh orange juice, creating a refreshing and vibrant taste. If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option, The Good Good also offers delightful fruity-fizzed zero-proof punches that do not skimp on flavor.
Pair your drink with a selection of savory delights like fritters, jerk mushrooms, fish sandwiches, or coconut fish burgers. Each dish is crafted to impress and is ideal for sharing with friends and family. At The Good Good, every visit feels like a warm embrace on a cool autumn day.
7. The RagTrader & Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store
Step into the world of vintage elegance at The RagTrader & Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this vibrant venue offers a fusion of exquisite cocktails, live music, and an enchanting atmosphere that draws you in from the moment you arrive.
This autumn, indulge in their hot cider, crafted with bourbon, demerara, and bitters. It is a drink that captures the season’s essence with its warm, cozy flavors. Paired with their live jazz performances, the experience feels like stepping into a bygone era of glamour and charm.
For a captivating cocktail experience, head to The Rag Trader & Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store. This stylish spot is known for its speakeasy atmosphere, creative cocktails, and lively ambiance—perfect for an evening out in the city. Whether you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink or a night of live music in their underground lounge, this venue delivers an unforgettable experience. Located at 70 West 36th Street, it is a hidden gem that brings a touch of old-world charm to Midtown Manhattan.
Elevate Your Mood with Seasonal Manhattan Autumn-Themed Cocktails
Concluding Seasonal Manhattan Autumn-Themed Cocktails
When the crisp autumn air beckons a break from the city’s hustle, NYC’s coziest bars offer a delightful refuge. Whether you are catching up with friends or savoring a solitary moment on a chilly evening, these spots serve as a perfect escape with their invigorating fall cocktails. Each sip is a toast to the season, a comforting end to a long day.
Autumn-themed cocktails capture the essence of fall with their rich hues and flavors. Picture a drink enhanced with the comforting sweetness of honey or maple syrup, mingling with fresh fruits and a blend of spices. This combination transforms an ordinary cocktail into a seasonal indulgence.
For those who delight in mixology, experimenting with ingredients like vanilla beans, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, rosemary, sage, or ginger can elevate your creations to new heights. These additions infuse each drink with the spirit of fall.
NYC’s cocktail scene extends beyond casual hangouts and good food. It offers a curated menu of specialty drinks and inventive concoctions. The city’s bars promise a cozy atmosphere and a full immersion into seasonal flavors, where expertly crafted cocktails elevate your autumn evenings.
READ:
Warming Up: New York City Cozy Bars to Visit This Winter
Discover the Ultimate Espresso Martini Experience in Manhattan
Do you have a go-to bar in NYC where you can sip on a delicious autumn-themed cocktail? Share your favorites in the comments or tag us on Instagram using #explorewithBKLS @brooklynslifestyle!
