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Manhattan's Best Big Bars for Groups

Large groups are often the most fun and boisterous, but finding a welcoming venue can present numerous challenges, especially in the space-limited environs of Manhattan. We've looked high and low and found these spacious and welcoming nightspots that make for ideal group destinations. Get some grub and a cocktail on at any one of these fine establishments next time you’re traveling NYC with your posse in tow.

Best of NYC Biggest Bars for Groups: Houston Hall (West Village) 

Houston Hall

Manhattan may be cramped for space, but Houston Hall has managed to snag a whopping 8,000 square feet of the West Village’s prime real estate. The lively crowd digs into empanadas, Southern-fried dill pickle spears, wings, burgers, bratwurst, and jumbo Bavarian pretzels with warm cheddar ale dip. Signature cocktails include Espresso Martinis and Moscow Mules, joined by a variety of craft beers on tap, with seasonal specials and plenty of lagers, ales, and even a hazy IPA. 222 W. Houston St., 212-675-9323, houstonhallny.com

Best of NYC Biggest Bars for Groups: The Tippler (Chelsea)

the tippler nyc

Tucked in the cellar space just below Chelsea Market, you'll find The Tippler. The inconspicuous light of the "OPEN" marquee illuminates your pathway underground to a bar steeped in NYC history. With its reclaimed water tower wood and train rails from the nearby High Line to its repurposed antique fixtures, vintage library decor, and distinctive speakeasy vibe, The Tippler showcases innovative craft cocktails and locally made products, while proudly serving a vast selection of artisanal spirits, beers, and wines. 425 W. 15th St., 917 261-7949, thetippler.com

Best of NYC Biggest Bars for Groups: The Jeffrey (Upper East Side)

When the weather warms, The Jeffrey’s outdoor patio is a hangout of epic proportions. You can snack, drink, and even opt for caffeine selections. This venue devotes mornings to brewing locally roasted artisanal coffees from Brooklyn Roasting Co., and transforms as the day unfolds into a spacious bar with 30 rotating, hard-to-find international and local brews. With 10 taps, a custom-built draft system, an array of organic wines, and a full menu of “gastro-bites” (house made beef jerky, paninis, pickled veggies, and Murray’s Cheese sandwiches), The Jeffrey is a one-stop shop for you and your entire group. 311 E. 60th St., 212-355-2337, thejeffreynyc.com

Best of NYC Biggest Bars for Groups: The Penrose (Upper East Side)

Ah, the exposed brick, the reclaimed wood that makes up the furnishings, and the porcelain tile floors all conspire to create a beautifully intimate yet spacious bar and gastropub. You'll be offered more than a dozen different beers on draft and another dozen in bottles at the bar, alongside an impressive selection of whiskies (single malt, bourbon, American, rye, and Irish). As far as eats go, you won’t go hungry at The Penrose, with a large variety of plates ranging from fried chicken sandwiches to fish and chips. 1590 Second Ave., 212-203-2751, penrosebar.com

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