Cafe Nine- live music every night of all genres. Dive atmosphere. No food.

Three Sheets- pre Covid it was a super divey rock & roll bar with a devoted clientele. They’ve remodeled and looks much cleaner and brighter. seem to be more focused on a less punk rock vibe

Owl Shop- whisky and cigars. Sometimes live jazz. Usually a good spot to either start or end a night. A couple drinks and a smoke in there can be $$$

Elm City Social- next door to the owl shop. Fantastic and talented bartenders. Amazing cocktails. Rooftop bar if open is usually seasonally themed.

BAR- dance party in the back room but more hip(but loud) vibe in the front room. Pizza is amazing and available by the slice at night.

Trinity- the last and only real Irish pub in New Haven. Great food and staff. Big soccer bar(Liverpool)

Barcade- old school 80s/90s arcade with a great craft beer selection.

Rudy’s- Belgian frites w/ amazing sauces. Good beer selection. Sometimes it’s a great time other times the clientele can be a douche fest.

These are just suggestions. There are so many spots downtown that are all walkable from each other. Just pop in and grab a drink at any of them and you’ll find one you like. Guaranteed