The Independent: A Cozy Garment District Bar With $14 Classic Martinis
The Independent — “The Indo” to its regulars — is the snug, woodwork-lined restaurant-bar that’s become a reliable pre- and post-theater pit-stop near Bryant Park. Handcrafted cocktails, a genuinely good kitchen, and a happy hour built around $14 classic martinis make it a calm island in the Times Square churn.
The happy hour at The Independent runs Thu, Fri, Sat, 9pm-midnight.
The deals: $14 classic martinis.
About The Independent
At 147 West 40th Street in the Garment District, The Independent is a cozy, stylish American restaurant and cocktail bar — handcrafted cocktails, local beers, and approachable wines paired with a creative menu. Beautiful woodwork, window seats for people-watching, and live music give it a warm, characterful feel, and it’s steps from Bryant Park, Times Square, and the Theater District.
The Happy Hour in Detail
The happy hour centers on $14 classic martinis — a fair number for a proper, well-made martini in this part of Midtown — alongside the bar’s broader cocktail, beer, and wine list. It’s the easy after-work or pre-theater move: walk in, grab a window seat or a stool, and settle in. Confirm the current days and window when you go, since the specials aren’t always posted.
What to Order
Start with a classic martini, then lean into a kitchen that punches above the usual bar standard — the hanger steak gets called out as particularly good and tender, and the rest of the creative American menu is varied, hot, and fairly priced. Pair with a local beer or an approachable glass of wine if martinis aren’t your thing.
The Space & Vibe
Snug, stylish, and welcoming, with a terrific atmosphere built on warm woodwork and a friendly team — reviewers single out the staff and the manager for taking time to chat. It works equally well as a quick bite between two Broadway shows, a relaxed pre-theater dinner, or a post-show nightcap, and it runs late (to 1am most nights).
The Midtown Angle
On West 40th near Bryant Park, The Independent is a short walk from the B/D/F/M at 42nd St, the 7 at Fifth Ave, and the whole Times Square / Theater District orbit. It’s the dependable, non-touristy pit-stop in a neighborhood full of gift shops — a good martini and a real meal, anytime.
Who It’s For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| An early dinner | a relaxed table in NoMad |
| Happy-hour bite | the deal: $14 classic martinis |
| Groups | works for a table of friends in NoMad |
| A quick one | in and out before a show or a shift |
FAQ
Does The Independent have a happy hour?
Yes — built around $14 classic martinis, plus the bar’s cocktail, beer, and wine list. Confirm the current days and window when you visit, as specials aren’t always posted.
Where is The Independent?
147 West 40th Street in the Garment District, near Bryant Park and the B/D/F/M at 42nd St.
What’s The Independent known for?
Handcrafted cocktails and a creative American menu in a cozy, woodwork-lined room — the hanger steak is a standout, and it’s a favorite pre- and post-theater stop.
Is it good before a Broadway show?
Yes — it’s steps from the Theater District and Times Square and works well for a quick pre-show bite or a post-show nightcap.
Happy hour details verified June 2026. Times change — confirm with the venue.