This historic NYC bar keeps earning accolades

Dante, a 104-year-old bar and restaurant in New York City, is riding a wave of success

Caffe Dante, which first opened its doors in Greenwich Village in 1915, quickly became a favorite among the Italian immigrants of the area. After a revival in 2015 by Australians Linden Pride and Natalie Hudson, the café has soared to global recognition just a few years later.

In the fall, Dante earned the #9 spot on the renowned 50 World’s Best Bars list, and at the recent Tales of the Cocktail Foundation event in New Orleans, it was honored as World’s Best Bar and Best American Restaurant Bar for 2019.

Dante stays bustling from morning till late at night, and it’s rare to find an empty spot. On sunny afternoons, you might think you can grab a sidewalk table, but you’ll quickly discover it’s already packed – standing room only. At 3:46 p.m. on a Tuesday.

So, what sets Dante apart?

It's the lively vibe, the charming subway tiles, and the laid-back yet welcoming bartenders who genuinely seem happy to serve you — a refreshing change from other places with a similar reputation.

What’s on the menu? Negroni on tap, a range of Campari-based cocktails, a non-alcoholic Negroni, spritzes (including a Spritz popsicle), an assortment of martinis, and more.

Dante’s food menu matches its drink selection, offering classic Italian favorites like burrata, ricotta, focaccia, salumi, lasagna, and meatballs — all with a modern twist. This isn’t your typical Nonna’s kitchen, especially with brunch options like avocado toast and granola.

The space is bright and airy, featuring subway tiles, floor-to-ceiling windows, a bustling sidewalk, a sleek bar with backless stools, and cozy indoor tables for those dining in.

Dante accepts reservations via phone or Resy, so you won’t have to wait endlessly for a table — unless, of course, you’re just after a drink, in which case you might try your luck on a random Tuesday at 3:46 p.m.

You could very well get lucky and grab a seat.

Dante, 79-81 Macdougal Street, New York City 10012; +212 982 5275