In the realm of travel, much like in life’s grand tapestry, the discovery of a well-kept secret holds a particular allure. This is especially true when that secret unlocks the door to a hidden gem, a place of unique character and exceptional experience. New York City, the celebrated metropolis that pulses with life around the clock, harbors a wealth of these clandestine treasures. Nestled within its vibrant neighborhoods are speakeasies that whisper tales of a bygone era and culinary havens that redefine the city’s gastronomic landscape.
This guide unveils Manhattan’s Top 10 Hidden Restaurants and Bars, revealing their locations and the distinct experiences they offer. From the counterculture-rich East Village, where mixology reaches its zenith, to the bustling tourist heart of Midtown, where cozy eateries provide a welcome escape, we’ve curated a selection of establishments that promise an unforgettable night out. Be prepared to engage your senses, for these hidden gems demand a keen eye and a willingness to explore. Forget relying solely on your phone; instead, focus on the subtle clues – the concealed entrances, the unmarked doors – that lead to these extraordinary destinations. No secret handshakes are required, only a spirit of adventure and a desire to uncover the city’s best-kept secrets.
Let’s embark on a journey to uncover Manhattan’s Top 10 Hidden Restaurants and Bars, starting with:
1. Angel’s Share
Nestled in the heart of the East Village at 45 Grove Street, Angel’s Share has been a fixture of New York City’s speakeasy scene since the mid-1990s. Its longevity speaks volumes about its enduring appeal. To find it, you’ll need to look beyond the obvious. Once you discover the unassuming entrance, you’ll be rewarded with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The ambiance is sophisticated and inviting, creating the perfect setting for a memorable evening.
The cocktails at Angel’s Share are the main draw, each one a meticulously crafted masterpiece. Expert mixologists pour their passion into every drink, using premium ingredients and innovative techniques. The result is a cocktail menu that is both classic and cutting-edge, offering something for every palate.
Keep in mind that Angel’s Share limits access to parties of four or less, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience for all guests. The bar’s location provides delightful views overlooking Stuyvesant Square, and the tuxedo-clad bartenders add to the bar’s elegant charm. These elements make Angel’s Share an ideal destination for a romantic date or a quiet evening with close friends.
2. Attaboy
Located at 134 Eldridge Street in the Lower East Side, Attaboy is a spin-off of the legendary Milk & Honey. This tiny bar exudes an industrial-chic vibe, a nod to the neighborhood’s gritty past and artistic spirit. The bar’s minimalist decor allows the focus to remain firmly on the cocktails, which are anything but minimalist in their creativity and complexity.
Attaboy operates without a set menu, placing the fate of your drink in the capable hands of the suspender-clad bartenders. These seasoned veterans of the mixology world will engage you in conversation, discerning your preferences and creating a bespoke cocktail tailored to your individual tastes. This personalized approach is a hallmark of Attaboy, transforming each visit into a unique and unforgettable experience. Be prepared to embrace the unknown and surrender to the whims of the talented bartenders.
3. The Back Room
While many bars in New York City claim a speakeasy vibe, The Back Room, located at 102 Norfolk Street, can legitimately boast of its history as an actual Prohibition-era establishment. During the 1920s, this clandestine watering hole was frequented by notorious gangsters such as Bugsy Siegel, Lucky Luciano, and Meyer Lansky. Stepping inside The Back Room is like stepping back in time.
The charming old-time decor evokes the atmosphere of a bygone era, with velvet sofas, golden accents, and a welcoming fireplace. In keeping with its speakeasy heritage, cocktails are served in teacups, and bottled beers are discreetly concealed in paper bags. This attention to detail adds to the authenticity of the experience, transporting guests to a time when enjoying a drink required a bit of subterfuge and a sense of adventure. The Back Room is a true historical gem, offering a glimpse into New York City’s colorful past.
4. Beauty & Essex
Beauty & Essex, situated at 146 Essex Street in the Lower East Side, is a magnet for trendsetters and those seeking a unique dining experience. The entrance is concealed behind a fully functioning pawn shop facade, complete with an intriguing array of vintage jewelry, art, and musical instruments for sale. This unexpected juxtaposition creates an element of surprise and intrigue, setting the stage for the delights that await inside.
Once through the pawn shop, guests are greeted by a grand restaurant entrance, complete with a two-story chandelier and a circular staircase. The restaurant boasts four dining rooms, two bars, and a lounge area, offering a vibrant and diverse atmosphere. Beauty & Essex specializes in New American small plates, with options available for those with gluten-free and vegan dietary restrictions. The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging guests to sample a variety of dishes and engage in lively conversation.
5. Dinnertable
Dinnertable, found at 206 Avenue A, is a tiny culinary sanctuary tucked away within The Garret, a polished watering hole. The entrance is marked by a simple doorbell, adding to the establishment’s discreet charm. Once inside, guests are treated to a curated Italian-American dining experience.
The intimate setting features a communal table bathed in soft lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Dinnertable’s chefs prepare high-quality dishes right in front of you. Main courses, such as charred stripe bass and braised short ribs, highlight the menu. This interactive dining experience allows guests to witness the culinary artistry firsthand and fosters a sense of community among diners.
6. Lantern’s Keep
Lantern’s Keep, located within the historic Iroquois Hotel at 49 W 44th Street in Midtown, offers a sophisticated escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Tucked away off the hotel lobby, this small, elegant oasis evokes the atmosphere of a 1920s Parisian-style lounge.
The dark wood paneling, velvet seats, Impressionist paintings, marbled tables, and candelabras create an ambiance of timeless elegance. Bow-tied bartenders are eager to serve up vintage Prohibition-period cocktails. Light bites from the neighboring Triomphe kitchen are also available, providing the perfect accompaniment to the expertly crafted drinks. Lantern’s Keep is a haven of tranquility in the heart of Midtown, offering a refined and sophisticated experience.
7. PDT (Please Don’t Tell)
PDT, short for "Please Don’t Tell," has earned its place on numerous "best of" bar lists in New York City. Located at 113 St Marks Place, this bar, founded by bartending icon Jim Meehan, once won the James Beard award for the best bar program. Getting there is part of the fun.
To enter PDT, you must first find a vintage phone booth inside Crif Dogs, a popular hot dog joint. Step inside the booth, pick up the receiver, and dial "1" to gain access to the hidden bar. Once inside, you’ll discover a small, taxidermy-strewn hideaway. Quality cocktails are the name of the game at PDT, and the menu features a range of innovative and classic drinks. Hot dogs from Crif Dogs are also available inside, providing a satisfying snack to complement your cocktails.
8. Raines Law Room
Raines Law Room, situated at 48 W 17th Street in Chelsea, is a sophisticated speakeasy that evokes the atmosphere of a 1920s watering hole. Run by cocktail maven Meaghan Dorman, the bar is named for a late 19th-century law aimed at curbing liquor consumption in New York.
The subterranean space features tin ceilings, plush velvet seating, and a dimly lit ambiance. Each of the curtain-enclosed tables is equipped with a buzzer, allowing guests to conveniently summon their server for the next round. The cocktail menu features classic drinks with a Jazz Age vibe, and the bartenders are skilled at crafting bespoke concoctions to suit individual tastes. Raines Law Room offers an intimate and sophisticated experience, transporting guests to a bygone era.
9. Sakagura
Sakagura, tucked inside a high-rise office building at 211 E 43rd St B1 in Midtown, is a Japanese-style eatery and one of the best sake bars in the United States. Donned in wood paneling, with traditional Japanese screens and plants, this restaurant hosts diners at intimate booths and tables.
The restaurant’s name translates to "hidden jewel," a fitting description for this unassuming establishment. Sakagura boasts an extensive sake menu, featuring over 200 premium sakes. The color-coded menu makes it easy to navigate the vast selection. The restaurant also serves a range of authentic Japanese dishes, providing a complete culinary experience. Sakagura is a haven for sake enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic taste of Japan in the heart of Midtown.
10. Bohemian
Bohemian, located at 57 Great Jones Street, is an ultra-exclusive secret restaurant. It opened in 2009 and requires a personal connection to secure a reservation. To dine here, you must mention the name of someone you know who has previously dined at the restaurant. This exclusivity adds to the allure of Bohemian, making it a coveted destination for those in the know.
Once inside, guests are treated to a unique Asian-fusion dining experience. The menu features a range of untraditional dishes, such as teriyaki burgers, uni croquettes, short rib sashimi, and a soup-like mac & cheese. The restaurant is particularly known for its Japanese Wagyu beef, which is sourced from the Japan Premium Beef butcher store down the street. Bohemian offers a sophisticated and adventurous dining experience, catering to those with discerning palates and a desire for the extraordinary.
These ten hidden restaurants and bars represent just a small sampling of the many clandestine treasures that Manhattan has to offer. The key to discovering these gems is to embrace a spirit of adventure, pay attention to detail, and be willing to venture off the beaten path. So, put down your phone, open your eyes, and embark on a journey to uncover Manhattan’s Top 10 Hidden Restaurants and Bars. The rewards will be well worth the effort. The next time you are looking for Manhattan’s Top 10 Hidden Restaurants and Bars you’ll know where to look.
