Coyote Ugly

If you are looking for the most fun happy hour party at NYNY, Coyote Ugly makes a strong case. Located on the mezzanine level to the left of Pour 24, this is not a food-and-drink destination so much as a pre-party lounge that builds toward a full-blown nightlife scene. The venue runs daily happy hour from 6–9 PM, with $7 draft beer, $8 well cocktails, and $12 draft beer-and-a-shot specials. The bar is also free entry before 9 PM, with the first performance at 9:30 PM every night.

The catch is simple: there is no food. So the best strategy is to do your bites somewhere else in New York-New York, then come here for the drinks and atmosphere. And atmosphere is what Coyote Ugly does best. The room is built for fun, not finesse, and even during happy hour you can feel the energy building toward the later-night performances. Once the music gets going, this place shifts from casual bar to full-on entertainment venue.

I spent some time with Brittany the bartender and “T” from security, and both helped make the visit memorable. In fact, all of the employees I encountered were friendly, upbeat, and clearly good at drawing the crowd into the mood of the place. Even before the bigger shows start, the staff keeps things moving with games and interaction that get people loosened up and ready for the fun later on.

Another nice touch: happy hour comes with a wrist stamp, which helps you get back in later without dealing with the line. That makes this place especially smart as a two-step stop—come early for the cheap drinks, go elsewhere for dinner, then circle back once the dueling energy of the room really kicks in.
Bottom line: the drink menu is simple and there is no food, but Coyote Ugly is easily one of the liveliest happy hour experiences at NYNY. For value, atmosphere, and a smooth transition into late-night fun, it is definitely worth a stop.