Explore Dante New York in Greenwich Village for award-winning Negronis and Italian-inspired cocktails. Visit Dante New York for a unique aperitivo experience.
Dante NYC, located at 79–81 MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village, is a historic bar with a modern twist.
Originally opened in 1915 as Caffè Dante, it was reimagined in 2015 into a vibrant aperitivo bar. Known for its award-winning Negronis and Italian-inspired cocktails, it earned the title of The World's Best Bar in 2019. Visitors can enjoy $10 martinis during Martini Hour (3:00–5:00 PM) or explore its creative Negroni variations like the bubbly Negroni Sbagliato.
The menu also includes Italian small plates, such as burrata and tiramisu, priced between $6–$15. With its mix of historical charm and contemporary design, Dante offers an inviting space for cocktail enthusiasts. Reservations are recommended for dining, but the bar welcomes walk-ins.
At Dante, the charm of classic Italian aperitivo blends seamlessly with modern cocktail creativity, offering a drinking experience complemented by Italian-inspired small plates. Their standout cocktails set the stage for a memorable menu.
Dante's cocktail program shines with its inventive spin on the classic Negroni. Guests can savor several variations, including the Negroni on Tap and the Negroni Sbagliato, where Prosecco replaces gin for a lighter, bubbly twist. It’s a perfect balance of tradition and modern flair.
From 3:00 to 5:00 PM, Dante's Martini Hour offers a selection of cocktails for just $10. Options include The Dante Martini, With a Twist, Dirty, Upside Down Dirty Gibson, Emerald Martini, and 20th Century. For those looking to splurge, premium choices are available but priced separately: the Cosmotini at $17, the Caviar Martini at $38, and the Pornstar Martini at $24.
To complete the aperitivo experience, pair your drink with one of Dante's Italian small plates. The menu features light bites priced between $6 and $15, such as burrata, flatbreads, roast chicken, and tiramisu. These dishes are thoughtfully crafted to complement the cocktails without overpowering them.
Dante blends over a century of history with a modern touch, creating an experience that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Stepping into Dante is like walking into a piece of living history. Alex Van Buren of Condé Nast Traveler describes it as having "a faded grandeur vibe that conjures its famous regulars - Patti Smith, Hemingway, Anaïs Nin - of yore". The space captures its historic essence while offering a fresh and welcoming environment.
"Daylight floods in through sprawling old windows at this century-old watering hole ideal for day drinking." - Alex Van Buren, Condé Nast Traveler
The interior pays homage to Caffè Dante's storied past with thoughtful restorations. The pressed-tin ceilings have been renewed to closely resemble the original designs, and the once dark green walls now feature a soft cream color, brightening the space. Photographs of the café's early days, its founders, and the eclectic mix of patrons who have passed through its doors add a personal, nostalgic touch. The large windows flood the room with natural light, making it an ideal spot for an afternoon cocktail.
While the ambiance is steeped in history, Dante ensures that every detail of your visit feels effortless.
Dante keeps things straightforward when it comes to its hours and policies. Located on MacDougal Street, the café opens at 12:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM on weekends. Food service runs until 11:00 PM from Sunday to Wednesday, and until midnight on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
If you're planning to dine, reservations via Resy are recommended. However, the bar operates on a walk-in basis, so you can drop by for cocktails without a reservation. Bar seating is first-come, first-served, offering flexibility for spontaneous visits while ensuring a smooth experience for those with dinner plans.
The dress code strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and ease, with business casual as the standard. Whether you're dressed in jeans or something more formal, you'll feel right at home in this Greenwich Village icon.
"Its historical integrity and sense of community remain firmly intact but now complemented by an elevated selection of modern Italian cuisine, world-class cocktails, and an award-winning bar program." - Dante NYC
With its blend of history, style, and attention to detail, Dante provides an experience that’s as memorable as it is seamless.
Make the most of your trip by timing it perfectly and knowing what to order.
Stop by during happy hour, from 3:00–5:00 PM, to enjoy $10 cocktails. Whether you're craving a classic martini or one of Dante's famous Negronis, this is the perfect time to try them without breaking the bank. For a quieter experience, arrive right when Dante opens - 12:00 PM on weekdays or 10:00 AM on weekends. This early window lets you soak in the historic charm of the space before the crowds arrive.
Keep in mind that peak dinner hours bring the most people. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, plan your visit outside of those busy times. Once you've nailed down your timing, dive into Dante's impressive cocktail menu.
Dante is renowned for its creative Negroni variations. The Negroni on Tap offers a modern twist, ensuring each pour is perfectly consistent and lightning-quick - ideal for busier times. If you're in the mood for something lighter, the Negroni Sbagliato, made with Prosecco instead of gin, delivers a refreshing, bubbly alternative.
Happy hour is also a great opportunity to explore Dante's martini lineup. Each one reflects the bartenders' skill and attention to detail. Beyond the classics, seasonal cocktails often make an appearance, featuring fresh ingredients and Italian-inspired flavors. Don’t hesitate to ask the bartender about any specials or hidden gems on the menu.
Crowds can be part of the experience, but with a little planning, you can avoid the busiest times. Arriving before 7:00 PM usually ensures a more relaxed atmosphere. If the dining room feels too hectic, opt for the bar area - it’s often less crowded and offers the best view of the bartenders in action.
While Dante's Italian small plates are well-crafted, the cocktails are the real stars of the show. Even when the space is bustling, the bar staff keeps things running smoothly, ensuring you don’t have to wait long for your drink.
If you're flexible, aim for bar seating. Bar stools tend to become available faster than dining tables, and sitting at the bar offers more than just convenience. You’ll get a front-row seat to watch the bartenders at work and might even strike up a conversation with other cocktail lovers. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Dante's lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Dante is more than just a bar; it's a piece of New York's living history and a cornerstone of the city's cocktail culture. Nestled in Greenwich Village, this iconic spot has earned global recognition for its inventive cocktails and warm, welcoming vibe, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.
What makes Dante truly special is its journey from a humble Italian café, established in 1915, to a modern cocktail haven. While it has embraced change, Dante remains deeply rooted in the traditions of Italian aperitivo culture. Walking into the bar feels like stepping into a time capsule, with its pressed-tin ceilings and vintage photographs that pay homage to the original Caffè Dante. And then there’s the Negroni program - a standout feature that solidifies Dante's reputation as a cocktail lover's paradise.
Dante strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and approachability. There's no pretentiousness here. The casual dress code and inviting atmosphere ensure that everyone feels at home, all while enjoying expertly crafted drinks. This blend of accessibility and mixology mastery is part of what makes Dante so unique.
But it’s not just the drinks or the décor that make Dante unforgettable - it’s the energy. The sunlit space hums with the chatter of locals and visitors alike, creating a lively yet relaxed environment that captures the true spirit of New York. It's a place where the city's rich history and modern creativity come together effortlessly.
For those who appreciate great cocktails and genuine hospitality, Dante is a destination that can't be missed. Whether you're a first-time visitor exploring Greenwich Village or a seasoned New Yorker looking for your next favorite spot, Dante offers an experience that’s equal parts Italian tradition and New York flair. It’s a seamless blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy - distinctly Italian, yet undeniably New York.
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