It’s summer, which means it’s officially spritz season in NYC. And while you can’t go wrong with a classic Aperol or Campari option, there are several venues in Lower Manhattan that put a unique twist on the standard. To help you enjoy the warm weather with the perfect seasonal beverage, head to these hip downtown spots serving everything from fruity peach spritzes to boozy bourbon-spiked options and beyond.
Leonessa
The spritz originated in Italy, so it is only fitting that Leonessa immerses you in Italian aperitivo culture in a gorgeous rooftop setting. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled straight to the Amalfi Coast as you sip Italian cocktails and nibble on olives and breadsticks, all while surrounded by lush citrus trees and gorgeous views of the Statue of Liberty and the Hudson River. During the bar’s Monday-Thursday Aperitivo Hour, from 4 to 6 p.m. you can get Aperol and Hugo spritzes for $18.
The bar also features a dedicated spritz menu with more creative options. For something light and floral, try the vodka-based Leonessa Spruzzo with St-Germain, jasmin and white grape, or opt for the more tropical Lei Sai featuring El Tesoro blanco tequila, passion fruit and vanilla — just to name a few options from the menu. (102 North End Ave.)
Urban Cove Society & Kitchen
Located in the Seaport, Urban Cove Society & Kitchen serves modern American fare and unique spritz cocktails. Inside, the sun-drenched space keeps the summer energy going with massive windows illuminating a sleek lounge with warm wood paneling and plush velvet seating.
During the warmer months, it offers a dedicated Summer Aperol Menu complete with unique takes that add unexpected ingredients to the mix — like the bourbon-infused Seaport Bound or the peach liqueur-spiked Sail Away spritz. This is also one of the best local boozy brunch spots, especially as the Aperol spritz is one of the bottomless drink options. (33 Peck Slip.)
Sadie’s
Another fun Seaport spot, Sadie’s serves American comfort dishes like smash burgers and fish and chips across its indoor restaurant, outdoor patio and back garden. During summer, its Garden Bar is the highlight. Along with hosting pop-up events like live music sessions, games and trivia and sports viewing parties on its 18-foot TV, the restaurant offers a weekday happy hour from 3-6 p.m. where you can get $10 spritzes. Alongside the popular Aperol spritz, you can order a Hugo spritz featuring St-Germain and mint or a limoncello spritz made with premium Il Tramonto limoncello. While not included in the happy hour deal, they also offer a non-alcoholic and refreshing cucumber spritz. (19 Fulton St.)
Le District Bar & Bistro
The waterfront Le District Bar & Bistro is known for serving delicious French dishes, wines and cocktails in a beautiful setting. Relax in their indoor restaurant — which feels like a Parisian bistro with bright green velvet banquettes, crisp white tablecloths, and a massive gallery wall — or sit out on their breezy patio surrounded by greenery with a view of the Hudson River. For a drink, order the rosemary spritz featuring Grey Goose vodka, peach, lemon, rosemary and sparkling wine.If you’re craving a mocktail and are looking for something spritz-like, the Faux 75 hits that same light, bubbly note by mixing Fever Tree lemon soda with fresh lemon. (225 Liberty St.)
Harry’s Side Bar
There are few better places to be on a sunny day than Stone Street, with its endless outdoor tables and lively atmosphere. This is especially true if you head to Harry’s Side Bar, a European-style cocktail bar serving up delicious drinks, bubbles and bites. Opt for their indoor space, which feels like a retro cafe by day and a moody speakeasy at night, or grab a table outside for more of a block party vibe.
On the beverage front, you can order the Bianco spritz — a bright mix of Carpano Bianco, St-Germain, Aperol, grapefruit bitters and Prosecco — or an off-menu Hugo spritz. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, there is also the Hugo Zero, which offers that same refreshing fizz using elderflower, club soda, and mint and lemon oils.
To balance out the drinks, pair them with salty snacks like truffle polenta fries or settle in for a larger meal of braised short rib sliders. For a great deal, visit during their twice-daily happy hour (4-5 p.m. and 10-11 p.m.) for discounts on select wines and cocktails, including the Aperol spritz, and half-price dips. (62 Stone St.)
Jessie Festa is a New York-based content creator, photographer and tour guide. She is the founder of NYC Photo Journeys, which offers photo tours and shoots in the city’s most interesting and scenic locations.
photo: Courtesy Urban Cove Society & Kitchen
