The Meatpacking District quickly caught up to neighbors like Chelsea and the West Village in terms of having some of the best bars in New York City.

Bathtub Gin - Meatpacking

Take a fun, anything goes trip back in time to the glitzy and sexy Roaring Twenties at Bathtub Gin, one of the Meatpacking District's most buzzed-about cocktail bars.

The cocktail list here has been inspired by Gin, the high octane drink that was king during the Prohibition era. From New York politicians like the playboy Mayor Jimmy Walker and glamorous socialites to Broadway luminaries as well as gangsters like Dutch Schultz, Gin was the preferred drink of choice.

Bathtub Gin was developed by "entrepreneurs" in response to the poor quality, watered down liquor that was being served in the local speakeasies.

The formula was simple. Bootleggers would mix denatured alcohol with different flavors and ingredients like Juniper berries in,of all places, a bathtub. These amateur mixologists would allow the potent blend to steep in the tub for several hours or even days at a time. The result certainly packed a punch and New Yorkers could not get enough of this brew.

You won't be able to, either. Today, gin is made under conditions that are a lot more sanitary than someone's bathtub. And the gin-based cocktails that are available here at Bathtub Gin are amazing. You'll relish each and every sip.

The atmosphere isn't too shabby at all. To top things off, the cozy booths and tables surround an actual, vintage bathtub! What an interesting conversation piece to break the ice if you happen to be on a first date.

From time to time, Bathtub Gin offers a variety of can't miss special events. On Sundays, you can take in the artistic moves of the beautiful performers who are the stars of the Wasa Bassco Burlesque show. Their stage is the area around the afore-mentioned bathtub. And these talented ladies have been known to utilize the tub as a prop in some truly incredible ways.

But, you're not just here for a show; you've come for the drinks. Their signature libation is the Gin-Gin Cup. Well shaken, this elixir is composed of Nolet's Silver Dry Gin, lemon juice, Wildflower honey, pressed ginger, lavender extract, sage and soda water.

The Vesper Martini consists of Ketel One vodka, Nolet's Gin, Chamomile Tea, Lillet Blanc, Pierre Ferrand dry curacao and orange bitters. It's served with an orange peel garnish.

Another drink you'll love is the Botanist Gin and Tonic. This cocktail is citrus-driven and quite refreshing. It contains lemongrass, grapefruit juice, gin ( of course) and an interesting array of wild foraged botanicals.

If it's getting really late and you're having trouble keeping your eyes open, then the Wakey Juice Joe is right up your alley.

A splash of Stone Street cold brew coffee and Edinburgh Gin are the main ingredients together with a dose of Falernum, pressed lime juice, green matcha, coconut cream and fresh mint.

Bathtub Gin brings back the old speakeasy vibe with a thoroughly modern touch.

Location and Contact Info

132 Ninth Avenue
New York NY 10011
(646) 559-1671
www.bathtubginnyc.com

The Tippler - Meatpacking

Every day, foodies, tourists and neighborhood residents alike shop the food stalls and stores that are located at the Chelsea Market which is right on the border of the Meatpacking District.

However, what most people don't realize is that underneath the market lies a very cool cocktail bar that will very soon, no longer be the neighborhood's best-kept secret.

The mixologists here at The Tippler are steadily burnishing their reputation for being some of the most creative cocktail mavens in the city. The Tippler is what destination drinking is all about; a superb cocktail list and a warm and welcoming vibe.

You have to look hard, though, in order to spot the entrance. You cannot get in through the market.

Instead, just turn the corner at West 15th street and stroll down the sidewalk. You'll come to a doorway that's enveloped by tall, green shrubs. At night, the overhead " open "sign, lights up and lets one and all know that you've arrived at the right place.

Once inside The Tippler, you will feel that you are a world removed from the noisy hustle and bustle of Manhattan.

The decor blends exposed brickwork with reclaimed wood from an old Meatpacking warehouse water tower. Re-purposed train rails from the nearby High Line add to the mystique and ambiance.

Gorgeous, red-hued antique rugs decorate the floor. On a typical evening, the place is packed with well-dressed workers from nearby offices as well as locals who are on their way home from the gym or running errands, hoping to grab a sip and a bite.

The delicious food here is sourced from nearby farmer's markets and purveyors. The menu does have a few entrees, but the focus is on small plates that pair well with a glass of wine or a cocktail.

One of their most popular items is the vibrant cheddar and scallion dip that is accompanied by Martin's famous pretzels. Those salty pretzels beat chips for dipping, anytime.

You will love the potato head plate which features smashed fingerling potatoes topped with Queso Fresco and a tangy chipotle-lime mayo.

Simply amazing is the 'Shroom plate, a dish that consists of a freshly baked pita that is layered with a boatload of marinated mushrooms, herb salad, red pepper flakes and a touch of honey.

The bar's cocktail list is quite extensive and you can't go wrong trying just about any of the potions that are on offer.

That having been said, though, there are four must-have libations on the menu.

The Shady Queen is sexy and a real buzz creator with its' blend of coconut infused vodka, blood orange juice, creme de cacao, lime juice, egg whites and cinnamon.

You may just have to Call an Uber after you drain your glass of this cocktail's knock your socks off ingredients; brown butter-washed bourbon, absinthe, lemon juice, cinnamon and honey.

The bar keeps performing all sorts of magic tricks when it comes to conjuring up unexpected tastes and flavors in their cocktails. But they definitely have saved their very best for The Smoke Show, a creative drink made with pineapple-infused whiskey, Dickson's smoked grenadine and mole' bitters

Last but never, ever least is Green With Envy, whose ingredients are vodka, house-pressed green juice, ginger, lemon zest and soda water.

Location and Contact Info

425 West 15th Street
New York NY 10011
(212) 206-0000
www.thetippler.com

Santina - Meatpacking

The ambiance here is an off the wall, funky blend of Miami Vice cool and an Italian beachfront resort. You could place Santina in downtown Miami or on the Isle of Capri and it would not be out of place.

One thing's for sure. Dining at this trendy meatpacking restaurant is like being on vacation. It's a much-needed escape from every day's sometimes stress-filled reality of living in New York.

Santina was designed by the renowned architect Renzo Piano, so you know that you're in for a visual treat.

Located near the Highline, the restaurant has gorgeous floor to ceiling windows that let in rays of natural sunlight.

Palm trees and potted plants are scattered throughout the main dining room. You will enjoy your meal and cocktails while dining on powder blue chairs and banquette seating. The huge chandeliers are way beyond colorful.

Decorating the back wall is a beautiful mosaic that depicts a beachfront town in Italy. All that's missing are umbrella drinks and a cabana.

Keeping with the Mediterranean and tropical theme, the menu highlights fish and veggies.

Their signature dish, Fusilli Santina has a generous portion of Mussels and sausage in it along with a light and tasty sauce.

You can also order delights such as spaghetti with blue crab, octopus and eggplant as well as swordfish with green tomatoes.

The menu's blend of seafood, veggies, herbs and pasta dishes work particularly well with the cocktails being served here.

Many couples and groups of friends come to Santina expressly for the atmosphere and drinks. Then, once they are seduced by the aromas emanating from the kitchen, they decide to stay and order some food.

At the bar or your table, you can go traditional and have a delightful drink like the Negroni Classic, a simple but effective blend of gin, Campari and vermouth. The mixologists here put their own little twist on the Bellini by adding basil to the peach juice and Prosecco.

Break out the sunscreen and umbrellas for the potent Capri Sun cocktail, that is made with grappa, passion fruit juice and Tikki spices.

The Drunk Zio ( uncle) consists of Rye, coconut juice and coffee vermouth. The View From Positano is absolutely stunning (and intoxicating) with a mixture of gin, strawberry juice and a dash of black pepper.

Location and Contact Info

820 Washington Street
New York, NY 10014
(212) 254-3000
www.santinanyc.com

STK Downtown - Meatpacking

STK is most definitely not your dad's steakhouse. The vibe here is warm and contemporary with a vibrant menu that focuses on more than just slabs of juicy red meat cooked to perfection.

The vibe here is very laid back and hip with trendy, stylish lounge decor. But the big bonus here, for your amazing night out, is their rooftop deck which has a stupendous view of Manhattan's glittering lights and office towers. Regulars feel that the view is among the most romantic in the entire city.

No doubt, STK Downtown redefines what a steakhouse can be in 2018. This is the kind of place where the ladies from Sex and the City would be very comfortable in, on girl's night out. The lighting is intimate and creates a great romantic ambiance.

If steak's not your deal, then just order from a variety of other tempting options including a savory roasted Amish natural chicken with rainbow carrots and Swiss chard.

You may also choose a scrumptious seafood platter that's served family style for the table. One option includes oysters, ceviche, shrimp, mussels and calamari. Now that's a genuine feast.

The kitchen knows how to turn out a steak that is flavorful but doesn't feel heavy or greasy. You can satisfy your cravings with a nice filet mignon, a dry aged 32 ounce Tomahawk or a Porterhouse for two.

Toppings range from Alaskan King Crab and truffle butter to a lively peppercorn crust. STK's steak sauces are to die for, enhancing every succulent bite.n The options are practically endless, but must-tries include chimichurri sauce, red wine, bearnaise and horseradish.

When you're dining out, everything just seems to go better when accompanied by a delicious cocktail.

Every drink on STK's list has been carefully developed ( and taste-tested, we might add) by their team of mixologists. These guys and gals know no boundaries when it comes to pushing the envelope behind the bar.

But, no matter how edgy things may get, the focus is always on libations that feature bold flavors, fresh herbs, succulent fruits and light syrups.

The refreshing Apple Bottom features Bacardi Rum, cider, cinnamon, assorted fruit and your choice of either red or white wine.

The appropriately named Not Your Daddy's Manhattan, with its' special blend of Bulleit bourbon, Zinfandel port, sweet vermouth and bitters, is the perfect elixir for those who love to party in the Meatpacking district.

For all of you fashionable stylers and profilers, keep on trend with the Mango About Manhattan. The hot to trot ingredients; Don Julio Reposado, Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur, and cayenne pepper are offset by a generous splash of mango puree and lemon juice.

The bar's signature drink is the Little West 12th Street, a tantalizing mix of Grey Goose, cucumber juice, Tarragon syrup, pineapple juice and bitters. This truly is the pause that refreshes.

Location and Contact Info

26 Little West 12th Street
New York, NY 10014
(646) 624-2444
www.stkhouse.com