Best Dive Bars

SUBWAY INN 1140 Second Ave.

212-758-0900

History abounds at this great old sports bar that once served Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe and still doles out relatively inexpensive shots, beers and simple cocktails. Wendy Wasserstein once called it “the kind of dive in which it makes sense not to order wine.” But you can order meaty wings, waffle fries and burger wraps while hanging out with friends and watching sports, especially soccer matches. The Washington Post named it one of the eight most authentic bars in the country.

BLONDIE’S 212 West 79th St.

212-362-3311

This dimly-lit sports bar is known as one of the best places to get wings in the city — $14.95 for 10, $26.95 for a double order and $64.95 for a huge bucket of 50. The friendly staff also serves tenders, chili, burgers and pasta and a mean party platter — but it’s really about watching sports and the inexpensive drinks. Blondie’s is a great night out for a group of friends who want to drink and get loud.

BILLYMARKS WEST 332 Ninth Ave.

212-629-0118

This non-nonsense, no-frills dive bar in Chelsea/Hell’s Kitchen was once described by The New Yorker as “grubby as Golem” — but it’s a great fun place featuring inexpensive shots and beer and a rowdy, diverse crew that’s as serious about drinking as about shooting pool and playing darts. The walls are plastered with movie and sports posters, including one of Captain America and another of ex-basketball coach Bobby Knight throwing a chair across the court. It’s a great place to stop before or after a Knicks or Rangers game at Madison Square Garden.