Bar Bonobo

great cocktail bar with a fun, relaxed vibe. go for drinks with friends or before date night. bartenders are friendly and the menu is creative. cute interior and chill music. would come back to try more. would recommend coming for drinks and not dinner. good for date nights.

Had 2 Penicillins and the onion dip for an amazing pick-me-up for a Friday treat. Morgan and Dean were the best. Will def come back for the DJ and try more drinks. The space was way bigger than I imagined from social media too which was a nice surprise!

Great service, plus drinks and cocktails were amazing! The atmosphere was a pleasant surprise, even for a Sunday night! They have lots of creative well crafted cocktails.

Super cute and intimate lounge that gives 70s vibe. The ambiance was good, drinks were good, and service was good. Recommend the cornstar and chelsea cocktails: presentation was very pretty. Great place for catch up with friends !!!

We found this place by chance and absolutely loved it! The service was excellent, and the cocktails were amazing. The tables were a bit close to each other, so we could hear conversations from the next table, but the overall atmosphere was still great.

Cute and vibey cocktail bar with lots of tasty drink options! They have a few happy hour deals, including $10 mini martinis (and you can make a flight with 3). The Caesar salad and truffle parm fries were average. There were long waits for water, but service was friendly!

Snuck in for a quick Valentine’s drink and really enjoyed the atmosphere. Busy but not overly crowded. We stood at the back bar and had fantastic service and great cocktails. The Hot and Dirty martini was on point. Chilling the glass was an added bonus. Definitely will return for food and to enjoy one of the many great areas to sit and solve world problems over a beverage.

Great addition to the neighborhood. Wish the drinks were a little stronger. Great for date night. Recommend going early for happy hour as the crowd at night gets a bit too “frat bro” later on…

Bar Bonobo is an amazing cocktail bar serving up all the right vibes. The martinis are on point--smooth, balanced, and expertly crafted. It's the kind of spot where you can gather with friends, enjoy fantastic drinks, and feel instantly at ease. The service was equally impressive: attentive, friendly, and made the whole experience even better. With its warm, moody atmosphere and stylish touches, Bar Bonobo strikes the perfect balance for a chic night out. If you're in Chelsea, this place is a must-visit for top-notch cocktails and a laid back elevated experience. This place can get packed, reservations are recommended!

I miss Bareburger. There, I said it. My boyfriend and I were curious about checking out the spot for awhile and finally made the plunge. We were both trepidatious because the first time I came by was when they first opened and the bar was a little bit more open to the street and didn't have their windows covered up yet. We wanted to view the menu and the hostess kind of glared at us and asked what we wanted. I asked if there was a happy hour and he kind of smirked and was like no, we don't do that here. So I left and went somewhere more welcoming. We came back during the holidays and had a seat at the bar. The place has the same layout as Bareburger ironically. Exact same bar shape down to the booths. But they fancied it up with some imported Italian tile and relics. Pretty chandeliers and curtains. I guess they finally did succumb to inventing some kind of 'golden hour' that's from 3-6pm. $12 cocktails as opposed to $19-22 (half of these are just spritzes) and mini martinis were $10. Interestingly beer doesn't make an appearance on it and that's $12 on draft. I opted for the Bonobo mini martini (Beefeater Gin, Absolut Vodka, Lillet Blanc, Grand Marnier). I was too busy taking everything in to watch him mix it. But boy was I in a state of shock when it arrived. Mind you, I've had mini martinis before at other bars and this was literally the size of a shot glass. I'm not even sure how you would balance a cocktail into a shot glass. An eye dropper? Or was it premade, shaken and then poured? Beats me. But it literally just tasted like a shot of inexpensive alcohol. I'm sorry but beefeater gin and absolute with a lemon twist doesn't scream luxury to me. My boyfriend opted for getting a beer even though it wasn't on the happy hour. Boy was he surprised when he got a small water glass filled with his Gun Hill pilsner for $12. Lol. Which is a local beer and definitely not worth that value. Taking a further look at the menu - prices continue to be so erratic and over charged. Chips and dip are literally $16 while an order of truffle fries are $15 as well! And that's the cheapest thing on the menu. I haven't even seen inflated prices at rooftop bars or speakeasys this bad. And don't blame inflation because literally a year ago Bareburger in this same spot used to sell $1 drafts/ $3 moscow mules. And there are cocktail bars in the area a block away that sell happy hour cocktails for $8 in normal big people sized cocktail glasses. Another issue presented itself when we got up to go to the bathroom and I found the main bathroom's light to be out. In lieu of this they decided to place a giant candle next to the wood oiled wall in the dark on the bathroom floor. Somehow, this doesn't seem like a smart move. But time will tell. I think because they are new, they have some kinks to work out. Their specialty drinks sound intriguing but I'm almost afraid to find out what glass it's served in. I probably won't be back unless many things change about the establishment.

Cute bar with lots of space/seating and good music (SZA, Frank Ocean), vibes are def there. They make a good light skin espresso martini, if you're into that. I wanted to try the Cornstar Martini bc I saw it on Yelp, but $22 for that with some stale popcorn?! I will never financially recover from this. I guess it's to be expected at such a cute little place in Chelsea.

We really love this place. Shout out to Patricia who made sure we were taken care of. Amazing drinks. I had the spicy papaloma. Great music and dim lights. Amazing staff. Will return once a month.

Such a cozy vibe and well decorated too! I like coming here for a drink after dinner at Konban, one of my favorite restaurants. Staff is friendly and and it's a major plus that they have nice bathrooms! It can get pretty packed on weekends so definitely go early if you want to snag a table. Otherwise, weeknight would be much easier!

The cornstar martini is a must try! The concept is cute with the popcorn surrounding the drink and it has a nice flavor, albeit not very strong. They also have a mini martini happy hour which lets you try small versions of their famous martinis and my favorite was definitely their signature Bonobo Martini. They have so much fun cocktails and it was such a vibe, can't wait to go back. Also highly recommend the calamari!

The drinks were good but I was surprised that when my friend spilled her drink before even having a sip they refused to give her a new one. Super loud. Sceney.

Came in on a weeknight without a reservation around 5:30pm and they were able to offer us a table in the backroom with the understanding we'd be gone in 2 hours as there was a reservation for it. The space is simply gorgeous and everyone working there seemed pretty nice. We only ordered martinis so I'd need to go back to try something off their menu, but the martinis were pretty good. When we left 2 hours later the place was completely full and hopping.

Found this place off of TikTok and gave it a try on a Sunday with a friend. I have to say TikTok did not miss with this one! The bartender was funny and service was great. The ambiance in the place just gives off such a great vibe. It wasn't crowded when we went and we sat at the bar. We had the corn star martini and the Banana hammock both were great and the presentations for each were amazing! Def will be coming back

Nice bar in the neighborhood for fun drinks, but you can probably skip the food. They have yummy and creative cocktails, especially the martinis and signature drinks. I even had a matcha mocktail which was good. My group shared a couple bites like the spinach dip and whipped ricotta which were fine but not amazing. We sat in the front room, Chelsea Room, but next time I'd opt for the cozier and more plush back room. I'd go back if I'm in the neighborhood but wouldn't go out of my way for it beyond one visit.

Bar Bonobo is one of my absolute favorites in NYC. The vibe here is incredibly cool, with a laid-back yet trendy atmosphere that makes it perfect for a casual night out or an evening of enjoying great drinks. Ambience: The vibe at Bar Bonobo is definitely one of its best features--stylish, chill, and full of energy without being overwhelming. It's the kind of place you can relax in, but also feel energized by the unique, cool environment. Drinks: One of the main highlights for me is their Cornstar Martini. It's my absolute favorite--creamy, refreshing, and perfectly balanced. If you love a good martini with a twist, this one is a must-try. If you're in the mood for a fantastic drink in a cool, vibrant setting, Bar Bonobo should be at the top of your list!

Ok you have to get the popcorn cocktail!!!! I have never came across something like that but I loved the concept! It also comes with popcorn which was amazing. The bar itself is pretty big with two actual bars but definitely enjoyed our time here!

Visited once- came back twice- and will absolutely be back again. My wife and I enjoy the vibe and LOVE the drinks. Dino, who has been there from day 1, knows his shit ! Crafts amazing drinks every time. Asked for him to make a creation with what my wife was craving and delivered ! Friendly and welcoming each time !

Great drinks but terrible music. Book better DJs that don't switch songs every 30 seconds, and keep it closer to 70-80 db in that back Chelsea room so people can actually talk.

I'm soooo excited to come back here again. The bartender was so friendly, and the host was also so kind. The presentation of drinks are so cute and well thought out. My friend and I LOVED the matcha drink with the coconut. It went so well together that we got another round. I would have gotten a third, it's so good like juice to me. The place is so nice, had a restaurant in the back with comfortable seating. Great place for dates, happy hour with your chill coworkers, or catching up with friends.

I was drawn in here by the stunningly beautiful live music - the singer was something special. Had myself a lovely 2 hours at the bar drinking cocktails, eating their decadent black truffle Brie burger and occasionally requesting songs. The bartender makes a great Manhattan; I'll definitely be coming back to try their CornStar Martini.

Great cocktails, lively ambiance, and amazing service! 10/10 recommend with friends or for date night!

The cocktails here are fantastic, quality ingredients made in house with rich and delicious flavors expertly combined by the bartender! Great late night spot for any of us who work in nightlife and want to unwind with a cozy and chill atmosphere.

A great lounge area to grab a couple of drinks. Love the vibes here and the service was very attentive. Walked in on a Monday night and it was not hard to get a seat. It's very relaxed environment. The drinks were tasty but on the pricey side. Good place for a date night.

Unfortunately, will not be returning :( As someone who loves a well-made cocktail, we started our girls night here since we heard such great things about Bar Bonobo. We ordered the Mez Around (recommended by the server since I mentioned I like Mezcal Negronis), Cornstar Martini and the Bonobo Martini as planned to try each others and get different cocktails. The Cornstar Martini was okay; light and a bit sweet - the truffle? popcorn was the best part of the drink... The Bonobo Martini was okay - maybe try getting it dirty. My Mez Around had a harsh taste while taking the first sip which was overwhelming and masked the complexity of the other ingredients rather than complementing them. Definitely a great vibe and pretty atmosphere but the drinks didn't hit the spot.

Probably closer to 3.5. Nice atmosphere and tasty drinks, but didn't stop me in my tracks. Felt like your standard yuppie-ish type of NYC bar. High prices for good drinks that don't bring anything super innovative-- more gimmicky. Could be a nice winter bar. Little dark for the summer. Happy hour brought drink prices down a bit which was a welcome surprise. The mini martinis are indeed very mini. Think $10 for about a shot. Staff were friendly and the seating in the back was very cozy, no one bugged us to make use feel like we needed to hurry up and leave, which is always great in a bar in my book. I doubt I'll be back because these are kinda a dime a dozen, but I'd say you'll be content if you find yourself there.

I had such a wonderful time in this new cocktail bar! The atmosphere the drinks and the staff were all amazing, I would highly recommend this place for date night

I saw this place on tiktok and my boyfriend and I went for drinks before dinner! The ambience is really moody, trendy, dimly lit, and red. Our waiter came promptly and gave recommendations. I got the Cornstar Martini and the New York Green Apple drink. The Cornstar Martini came with popcorn that had a slight truffle flavor and the drink itself wasn't too sweet which I liked. I did prefer the green apple one a tiny bit more. The only reason the bar is losing a star is because it's very loud in here, with dance pop music suitable for a club. I could barely hear my boyfriend and had to raise my voice. Due to the music, I wouldn't come back for a romantic intimiate date but I will be back to pregame a night out!!

Beautiful bar, feels like I stepped into the 70s in Italy. The service was amazing and drinks were spectacular and definitely recommend going here for a nice vibe

First time here! Amazing drinks! The music is Also upbeat and perfect vibes! I loved my experience here! Everyone who works here is lovely and kind! I got the cold a$$ martini and it was amazing! Perfectly cold and huge olives! If you love martinis come here and order one! The ambiance is beautiful the place is sexy and fun! Great place for friends or third date and up! I'd come here for a birthday too! Can't wait to come again!

They feed zoomers marshmallows and popcorn, that will keep them busy. Martinis are fine but Bond and the bartender here are wrong, steered rather than shaken is the way to go. . https://www.instagram.com/reel/C51KHtIurG7/?igsh=M3Q0enNha2RtdGdh

The service here was absolutely horrible, and the drinks were also very bad. $15 for a drink and it tastes worse than anything I've ever had before!! There's supposed to be a waiter at the door, but literally nobody was there for like 20 minutes and then when someone came, they just told us to look for seats wherever we could find them. The music is super loud, you literally cannot hear anyone talk, and the vibes are also not great. Don't recommend.

Great drinks !! I wish they treated their staff better but everything was amazing from the food to the drinks. I love their creativity

Beautiful design and decor! Italian Deco meets Mid Century. Very promising. Great addition to the neighborhood. I hope to become a regular.

What an amazing experience. The bar is beautiful. The drinks are stunning! I'm not vegan, but the vegan meatballs are standout! Great job guys

Loved exploring and discovering this place! I had the cornstar martini with tequila and it was delicious!! Music was fire, vibes were romantic, and the service was good. Overall, very sexy place... would 100% go back.

Such a good spot. Highly recommend. Everyone is so kind and attentive and the music is GREAT. Wish there was more dancing but I'll survive

I love the ambiance, I made friends with one of the bartenders, I don't really drink alcohol, but she made me a couple virgin drinks that were great! Also love the food. The only thing is what's up with the red uniforms? Lol

Stopped by Bar Bonobo with a friend. This bar does not disappoint. The interiors are stunning and the staff is very friendly and welcoming. The drinks were both delicious - the sour Negroni is worth trying as is the spicy margarita. Definitely coming back later this week to try their food as well!

Just the coolest bar to liven your evening! Fantastic drinks, music n chill vibes. Go!!

Food and drinks were great! Our bartender was super fun, friendly and attentive. Definitely coming back. I was here with my partner and we both thought the red uniforms were a little weird tho

The drinks were super fun but the venue is very loud. If you are looking to go here for a date I would not recommend since it is hard to hear.

Beautiful bar and extensive cocktail menu. Ordered a Tom Collins under the assumption they could make great classics but the bartender didn't even shake it. It was fine, but not worth $21

Incredibly overpriced even for NYC. And the bartenders are not friendly. Not a place I would recommend at all.

Amazing service, great cocktails and food! The ambiance is unreal. Loving the 70's theme vibe. Love this new addition to Chelsea. It's what the neighborhood needed