As September ushers in that perfect blend of summer warmth and early fall energy, I find myself not wanting that vacation energy to end. In the concrete jungle, I have been really enjoying spending time in places that remind me of a tropic escape. Nothing sets the mood quite like sipping under greenery or lounging in a jungle-chic setting. Whether you’re looking for an exotic cocktail, a vibrant Instagram backdrop, or simply a mini getaway from the city grind, these spots deliver all the jungle vibes you didn’t know you needed.
1. Gitano NYC (Seaport)
Admittedly visiting Gitano was the inspiration for this post. I enjoyed my experience so much. Gitano’s Seaport location is your full-on Tulum escape without leaving Manhattan. Towering palms, a giant disco ball, and 30-foot ceilings create a glamorous jungle oasis, with a stunning view of the Brooklyn Bridge if your dining outside. It’s perfect for small bites and cocktails with the girls and a great sunset to afterhours spot as there is a great DJ and things can get pretty roudy on weekends.
2. Le Bar Penelope (Midtown East)
Le Bar Penelope is a plush, European-inspired lounge with subtle botanical accents. Low lighting, cozy booths, and an intimate atmosphere. For those working in midtown this is perfect for elevated happy hour, evening cocktails and bites. The jungle inspiration is understated but adds a luxurious, verdant touch to your city night out.
3. Cantina at Public Hotels (Lower East Side)
Not all hotel bars are created equal. This one I couldn’t even tell whether I was indoors or out. Cantina brings a leafy, Peruvian-inspired vibe to the hotel’s modern interiors. Hanging ferns, ivy accents, and a planted ceiling give a serene, natural feel amid the urban energy. Plus their Pisco menu is very impressive.
4. Tán (Midtown East)
Tán is another Tulum-inspired retreat. Tropical greenery, dim, moody lighting, and natural textures make it feel like a jungle lounge in the middle of the city. The menu leans toward bold, modern flavors — seafood-forward, artistically plated, and effortlessly stylish.
🌸 5. Good Behavior (NoMad)
We had to include a rooftop to the mix. Perched atop the MADE Hotel, Good Behavior offers an escape with panoramic city views and a lush tropical setting. The vibrant decor, featuring greenery and disco balls, is great to start at happy hour and stay into the night. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s perfect for sipping seasonal cocktails in a cozy, intimate atmosphere and will be a staple in the Fall.
Fandi Mata
Nestled in Williamsburg, Fandi Mata is a lush Mediterranean escape in a sprawling industrial space with soaring ceilings and greenery-filled interiors. While many of our jungle inspired locations have leaned very Tulum and Mexican themed, this vibrant menu blends global flavors with modern twists. The cocktails are memorable and the dishes are unique and satisfying. Definitely be sure to try the Truffle Egg Boat.
La Victoria
A little jungle boogie. La Victoria Social Club brings jungle-inspired vibes to NYC nightlife. Lush greenery, warm lighting, and tropical décor give the club a glamorous, immersive feel. This is definitely the dancing option and the jungle vibe you’re looking for in the club scene.
Citrico
For my queens people, that ever popular Tulum vibe can be found at Citrico. It definitely fits the bill for an elevated Taco Tuesday and also a little loungey tribal house vibe on the weekends when there is a DJ. For a little more on my experience there early on you can check out my post here.
Tulum Tacos & Tequila
Finally a little outside the boroughs I recommend, Tulum Tacos and Tequila, a lively Long Island spot bringing bold Mexican flavors to a playful, colorful setting. A fun and inventive taco menu, a slightly understated but present jungle vibe , and great cocktails create a fun, casual dining experience. On weekends, this is also a great option for those live in the area with not a lot of nightlife, there is also a DJ and a vibe that feels like a real night out.
Finally with so much talk of Tulum, if you happen to be interested in visiting the real city in Mexico, I will leave my travel guides right here for you.
