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Where to find the best martinis with fries combos in NYC
By
Tiffany Hanssen
Published Feb 9, 2026
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Paul Beck
By
Tiffany Hanssen
Published Feb 9, 2026
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For some New Yorkers, the mere mention of Valentine’s Day elicits eye rolls. For others, it feels like a made-up holiday that excludes people who aren’t paired up. According to Paul Beck, the mastermind behind the Instagram account “Martinis with Fries,” that means it’s a perfect day to slip away for an evening alone to partake in what he calls “the New York Happy Meal.”
That is, obviously, a perfectly chilled martini served alongside an order of French fries.
For anyone looking to leave the quest romance at the door in favor of a nice evening alone at a bar with a drink and some fries, Beck has some recommendations.
Cecchi's in the West Village (105 W. 13th St.) — with wide leather booths and murals on the wall — brings an old-school New York City vibe to any anti-Valentine’s Day outing. Beck says the bartenders are always friendly and welcoming, and there’s even a martini and fries special every day from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., and again one hour before closing. The cost is $25 and is valid at the bar only.
Bar Rêve in Cobble Hill (222 Smith St.) is putting some “high-class hospitality” on the New York Happy Meal. The restaurant bills itself as influenced by “Belle Époque Paris,” a time known for “optimism, style and revelry.” With many velvet lounge nooks, it’s a nice place to settle in and feel magnifique about a Valentine’s Day alone with a martini and fries. Their French fries with togarashi aioli is $12.
Le Dive on the Lower East Side (37 Canal St.) is billed as a French tabac-inspired natural wine bar. That doesn’t stop Paul from recommending this “no-frills” spot. He says that as the night goes on, the place usually gets louder and rowdier, offering a good chance you’ll meet a new friend — even on Valentine’s Day. Cocktails are priced at $16 and fries at $11.
Holiday Cocktail Lounge in the East Village (75 St. Mark’s Pl.) is a legendary spot and allegedly the inspiration for Madonna’s hit “Holiday.” It's perfect for a Valentine’s Day and for enjoying a martini and fries in a funky and eclectic space with “super knowledgeable” bartenders, Paul says. Their hand-cut fries are $9 and their classic gin martini is $18.
Tagged
brooklyn
food
french fries
manhattan
martinis
new york city
Tiffany Hanssen
Tiffany is a host on WNYC. You can hear her regularly on Saturdays and Sundays during All Things Considered.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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