Hotel bars aren’t just for tired businesspeople looking for a nightcap. They’re where the hip, sophisticated and thirsty go to see and be seen, and what better city to be seen in than New York. Hotel bars in the Big Apple are infused with as much charm and pizzazz as the signature cocktails they’re serving up. From trendy, celebrity-favorite lounges to the quintessential rooftop bars, New York City hotels are ready to quench your thirst.

Whiskey Blue at W New York

Located in Midtown Manhattan, Whiskey Blue is one of the many bars in the portfolio of nightlife entrepreneur Rande Gerber. This trendy, candle-lit lounge calls the names of New York professionals who are looking to loosen up their collared shirts and enjoy an extensive selection of libations. From 30 types of tequila to specialty cocktails such as the Bubblicious (bubblegum flavored vodka mixed with a dash of pomegranate), Whiskey Blue has all the right stuff.

541 Lexington Ave., New York, NY 10022 at 49th St. 212-407-2947. www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels.

Bar D’eau at Trump Soho

While we might question his hairstyle, there’s no questioning Donald Trump’s hotel expertise—the man knows how to make a hotel the talk of the town. Trump Soho’s Bar D’eau opened its doors in the beginning of August, just in time for rooftop-bar hoppers to relax by the 7th-floor pool and bocce court before summer draws to a close. Sip on eccentric spirits such as the Bourbon Tea with Woodford Reserve, which is infused with a house-made tea blend, fresh lemon and honey, and be sure to try the curry lobster roll.

246 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. 212-842-5500. www.trumpsohohotel.com/Food-And-Wine/Bar-dEau.

Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle

This classic watering hole has been satiating politicians, movie stars, socialites and business execs for more than 50 years. The bar’s namesake, Ludwig Bemelmans, was commissioned to paint a large mural of charming Central Park scenes on the walls of the bar and did so in exchange for a year and a half of accommodations at The Carlyle. Bemelmans is the perfect bar for those looking for a classy, old New York experience. The ceiling is coated in 24-karat gold leaf, the glass tables are nickel-trimmed and the single malt scotch selection is divine.

35 East 76th St., New York, NY 10021. 212-744-1600. www.thecarlyle.com/dine4.cfm.

A60 at 60 Thompson

You might want to book a room or don your “Members Only” jacket if you plan on checking out this ultra swanky rooftop bar—access is restricted to hotel guests, members and private parties—but it would certainly be worth it. With unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline, A60 is serving up more than just delicious cocktails made with exotic fruits; if you manage to score security clearance, you might as well order a drink or one of their Thai hors d’oeuvres.

60 Thompson St., New York, NY 10012. 877-431-0400. www.thompsonhotels.com/hotels/nyc/60-thompson/drink/a60.

The Bull and Bear at the Waldorf Astoria

If rooftop bars and chic lounges aren’t your style, come mingle and drink scotch with the Wall Street types; chances are you won’t see any twenty-somethings drinking oddly named cocktails. Named after the statues on Wall Street, The Bull and Bear exudes masculinity and class. Stop by for a drink with co-workers or stay to indulge in one of their mouthwatering steaks.

301 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022. 212-872-4900. www.waldorfnewyork.com/dine-in-style/restaurants.

Studio King Room (Room Number 905)

Thompson Hotels has established a great portfolio of Boutique Hotels and Thompson LES is one of their newest additions. As the name implies, Thompson LES is located in New York City’s Lower East Side. We originally planned to try Thompson’s Smyth Hotel in Tribeca, but the hotel wasn’t quite finished in time for our arrival. We decided to give LES a try, and weren’t at all disappointed with the change of plans.

Upstairs Lobby Area

We were pleasantly surprised by Thompson LES’s stellar location. SOHO is just a short walk from the hotel, affording utmost convenience to some of New York’s best Lower Manhattan attractions, restaurants and shopping. LES was grandfathered as one of the last High Rise buildings in the area, which allows for great views of Downtown from some of the guest rooms and suites. Also, LES is a new build property built from ground up, something that is rare for Manhattan Hotels. Consequently, guests will enjoy new accommodations along with a wide variety of services including an on property Spa and Gym.

Thompson LES is clearly contemporary, and utilizes an industrial design theme in guest rooms and common areas. We had an opportunity to see a large number of guest rooms, and regardless of your room category, you’re likely to enjoy the ultra modern residential feel. Exposed concrete ceilings, ebony hardwood flooring and designer furnishings are all standard features, from Superior to Suite Category Rooms. Also standard are generously sized bathrooms with large Glass Showers which feature Rainforest Shower Heads and Wands… and the water pressure is truly outstanding. Some guest room categories feature outdoor balconies and views of Downtown Manhattan. The Thompson Suite at LES is something that every NY apartment aspires to: lofty ceilings, dynamite views and an amazing residential feel.

Studio King Room (Room Number 905)

Superior King Room w/ Terrace (Room Number 1000)

We’re often let down by New York Hotels, as they have a well deserved reputation for offering small accommodations at high prices. The Thompson LES however clearly delivers value in a high end package: generously sized rooms, luxurious amenities (Like Kiehl’s Products and Fine Linens) and a fabulous location for those wanting to be in Lower Manhattan.

We got a rare first look at LES’s sister property Smyth, so stay tuned for our full report. Smyth is expected to open in late January.