The best wine bars in the West Village

This café and natural wine bar mimics the all-day corner bistros of Paris, where you’ll see too-cool city dwellers having a cigarette, reading a niche classic, and having a glass of red wine in the middle of the day. At St. Jardim, herbal cigarettes and literary classics are optional – it’s really just a laidback spot to people-watch streetside.

The space is simple, decorated with light wood and marble, highlighted by warm tones, florals and bistro seating. But behind this aesthetically pleasing exterior, St Jardim is an expert in refined food and natural wine. There are daily wines by the glass, ranging from fruity and funky to creamy and simple. For food, it’s an all-day affair: La Cabra pastries and espresso in the morning, oysters and a glass of champagne at night.

It’s walk-in only until 5 pm, and after that, you can reserve dinner for up to 8 people. For larger parties, inquire about private events.

Temperance offers 100+ wines by the glass, and its standout staff and welcoming atmosphere make even the most novice of oenophiles feel like a pro. Try something a little different, or go for a classic, like a Riesling or a Chardonnay. Wine flights are available starting at $35 ($25 at Happy Hour), and you can customize it yourself or have your server select them for you. More formal guided tastings are also available as part of private events.

The interior has checkered floors, mid-century modern design, and lighting that’ll remind you of the OG Target food court. The main space can be bought out for 50 to 75 guests, and the semi-private tasting alcove holds 20 guests and can be combined with the lounge for up to 40. Groups are offered a selection of 3 red, 3 white, 1 rose or orange, and 1 sparkling wine. Small sharable dishes are available to pair, like cacio e pepe arancini or deviled eggs.

If you’re looking for a natural wine bar that differs from the minimalist, merch-selling spots that have popped up in the city over the past few years, Moonflower is the one. The name sounds like a folk group from the '60s – and the interior matches. This West Village wine bar is covered with colorful murals and uniquely shaped shelving for the wines behind the palm-patterned bar. It feels like somewhere Grateful Dead groupies would hang out if they enjoyed natural wine (which, let’s face it, they probably would).

The natural wines are unique, sourced from small-batch indie producers and the Union Square green market. From 4 to 6 pm, you can indulge in a $10 wine special, and the menu also has spritz cocktails, alcohol-free drinks, and beer/cider. Small plates like ricotta with pear and honey or roasted cabbage with labne and fish sauce make for an interesting pairing with your glass.

Walk-ins are always welcome, and limited reservations are available for up to 7 guests. For larger groups, inquire about private events.

No one does wine like the French, and St. Tropez knows it. With an all-French wine list separated into regions like Provence, Bordeaux, and Loire, you’ll be taken on a countryside tour without crossing 6th Ave. Dark wood finishes and candles line a space inspired by a Southern French farmhouse interior. The food celebrates the vibrant culinary traditions of the French Riviera, with classic dishes like tarte flambée and ratatouille, as well as more locally influenced ones like truffle mac and cheese.

Up to 60 guests can rent the wine bar for a standing reception, or 40 for a seated dinner. Reserve the big communal table for up to 14, or close off portions of the restaurant for semi-private gatherings. Full buyouts include unlimited food, wine, beer and bubbles, and party menus start at $95 a person. Wine tastings and pairing events can also be arranged.

Lelabar has so many wines some bottles are stored on the ceiling above the bar. How do they keep them there? We don’t know. But if you’re sitting around the dimly-lit, oval-shaped bar with a date and run out of conversation, maybe try to figure it out. The super lengthy wine list is carefully curated, with daily specials and by-the-glass options for almost every bottle. To pair, order charcuterie or a cheese plate, market oysters (subject to availability), or simple bread and butter.

Happy Hour is every day until 6 pm, with $12 wine glasses and a selection of $44 bottles. Lelabar offers wine tastings for 8 to 14 people, and seated pairing experiences for up to 16 people in the semi-private back room, which also hosts standing receptions for up to 30 guests. A private buyout in the cozy wine bar can fit 75 guests.