ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Restaurants in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Scarlet Lounge
7.7
Scarlet Lounge is an intimate cocktail bar on Amsterdam Avenue with plush seating, moody lighting, and a late-night schedule built around craft drinks and small bites. It skews more grown-up than rowdy, making it a useful last stop when you want one more round in a proper bar setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Truffle Fries, Flatbread Pizza, Shrimp Tacos
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 6.6
What makes it special: Cocktail-focused late-night lounge with plush seating and a compact snack menu.
Who should go: Small groups who prioritize cocktails and a grown-up vibe.
When to visit: Late weekends after dinner when other spots thin out.
What to order: Signature cocktails, truffle fries, flatbread-style pizza.
Insider tip: Sit toward the back to keep conversation easy over the music.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be limited at night; nearby paid garages on Amsterdam/Columbus are the safest bet.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — dark denim or cocktail attire fits the room.
Noise level: Moderate — music-forward but you can still hold a conversation at low tables.
Weekend wait: Often busy after 10pm; you may wait 15–30 minutes for a table during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: No typical lunch service — evenings rarely have a wait before 9pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — small plates like fries and flatbreads work for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — a few shareable snacks may qualify, but options are sparse.
Gluten-free options: Some cocktails and small bites can be adapted; ask staff for guidance.
Best For
Better for: Cozy late-night cocktails in a refined, grown-up setting rather than a loud bar scene.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a full dinner menu, dancing, or a lively sports-bar environment.