What an authentic martini glass looks like, at Milk and Honey Flatiron
The original Milk and Honey speakeasy on Eldridge Street in the Lower East Side ushered in the global trend with Prohibition-era style “secret” bars (many of which we rounded up in our guide to New York’s hidden bars). We recently shared a booth with owner Sasha Petraske at the new Milk and Honey location on 23rd Street in the Flatiron, picking his brain while imbibing some of the best drinks in the city.
This Saturday, March 16: Join Untapped Cities and No Longer Empty for an evening of food and entertainment celebrating the closing of “How Much Do I Owe You?”, a site-specific art installation housed in the abandoned Bank of Manhattan in Long Island City. No Longer Empty is a non-profit arts organization that sponsors public art exhibits in empty storefronts in New York City. The No Longer Empty Dinner is a chance for Untapped Readers to experience curated local cuisine and meaningful art in an extraordinary setting. Seating is limited to 30, and the dinner is almost sold out. Tickets available here.
The evening will kick off with cocktails in the Clock Tower, followed by a tour of the “How Much Do I Owe You?” exhibition. Next, guests will enjoy a five-course seated dinner by Chef Will Griffin. The night will conclude with a special performance by Korean artist Hayoon-Jay Lee.
The No Longer Empty Dinner is organized in collaboration by No Longer Empty, Untapped Cities and Local Roots NYC.
The dinner menu is inspired by the era of big banks and robber barons, whose personal chefs and those in their favored restaurants were often imported from Europe. This Saturday’s dinner will include:
The No Longer Empty Dinner will take place on Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. The event is located in the Clock Tower at 29-27 41st Avenue, in Queens, NY. Tickets cost $125 and can be purchased here.
[Update: Love the hidden bar scene? Don't miss Prohibition NYC, a speakeasy event with Bravo chefs Rob McCue and Adam Banks. Only a few tickets left!]
Essential to survival in New York City is finding places where you can carve out your own space to momentarily escape the ever bustling city. The bars below not only represent well executed speakeasy experiences, clandestine entrances, and purveyors of well—crafted cocktails, but places that provide great evening refuges.
Ostensibly, the purpose of my research was to seek out hidden bars and speakeasies in New York City; however this article lent itself to a more expansive result. The city I had grown familiar with through work, wandering around my neighborhood and showing visitors around, revealed a whole other side I could not have expected.
124 Old Rabbit Club
Take a page out of Alice in Wonderland and follow the rabbit down the hole into this “craft beer bar.” The yellow rabbit on the exterior of the building marks the spot and guides you into the dimly lit establishment. This bar is a great choice for the beer connoisseur as it features an extensive list of domestic and imported beers. The ’60s English rock music that plays lightly from the speakers helps to create a casual, indie, and comfortable vibe. Recommendation is to go on a week night and early since this watering hole only sits about 20 people.
124 MacDougal Street between Bleecker Street and West 3rd Street
Campbell Apartment
The Campbell Apartment is situated in Grand Central Station and is a testament to the grandiosity of a different area. The space originally served as a private salon for 1920′s financial mogul John W. Campbell and has been restored to give prominence to the intricately crafted woodwork on the ceiling, the stained glass windows, the dark wood paneled bar adjacent to the balcony and the large fireplace. I came here earlier this spring for a drink before catching the train to the Botanical Gardens. While sipping gingerly on a single malt scotch would have been more fitting for the environment, I only had 20 minutes before my train departure so I order a Bellini instead. The Campbell Apartment in its own right is a well sought after destination for the after-work crowd, but the convenience of its location caters largely to those in transit. There is a tangible juxtaposition at this bar between the temporal existence of travelers passing through and the transcendent experience of stepping into a relic of the golden era of the 20th century.
15 Vanderbilt Ave between East 42nd Street and East 43rd Street
Who knew a pawn shop could be so glamorous? Beauty and Essex offers a very full night life experience so be prepared to spend a few hours at this bar. I came here for the first time last summer for dinner at midnight (still living in San Francisco at the time this was quite a shock to the system). A reservation for dinner is a must as the line out front can usually trail a few blocks down Essex street. From the outside you would never expect that the building holds a two-story bar and restaurant with high vaulted ceilings and enormous chandeliers. The dining room post midnight turns into a nightclub as restaurant goers forgo their booths to dance on the tables and swig champagne — reveling in contemporary Euro techno, Pop, and Hip-Hop music blaring from the DJ booth. If you choose to dine here, I highly recommend the lobster tacos and the short ribs to order as appetizers. The second level is fun for dancing but be warned that it gets really crowded and can become a bit of a muggy space. Also notable, they serve pink champagne in the ladies restroom, which definitely makes the wait more bearable.
146 Essex Street between Rivington Street and Stanton Street
Photo Credit: Urbandaddy.com
Completley unmarked, I made the mistake of almost entering in through the floor to ceiling windows in the bar area before sauntering around the side to walk in through the patio. I came here for a cocktail as well as dinner. The bar only seats about 15 people so again the recommendation is to get a reservation for dinner so you only have to be standing in the bar area before you are seated. I sipped on a delicious St. Germain cocktail and devoured scallops for my entree. The atmosphere is very warm and charming and the entire space helps create the illusion that you are no longer in NYC but at an upstate manor.
447 Hudson Street between Morton Street and Barrow Street
Fig 19
Photo Credit: David B. Torch for The New York Times
The address speaks for itself — as the illusive entrance should garner only 1/2 a digit. In the back of “Envoy Enterprises” a fluorescent light filled art gallery adorned with minimalistic and modern art pieces, hosts a nondescript doorway that leads into the back bar. The space is very crisp, clean, with two glittering chandeliers draping over the bar. The vibe is very hip but not pretentious as the knowledgeable bartenders are very relaxed in their service. They use a variety of fresh ingredients like mint, rose, ginger, taragon and lavender for their ever changing menu.
131 ½ Chrystie Street between Delancey Street and Broome Street
Little Branch
Photo Credit: Carmen Lopez and AJ Wilhelm for New York Magazine
The smooth jazz music and the even smoother cocktails transport you back in time to the days of Prohibition at this petite speakeasy. I squeezed into a booth here with a couple of my friends and enjoyed a Moscow Mule and an off-the-menu tequila concoction that the bartender crafted. The place is very cozy and the drinks are on the more expensive side, but I recommend this place for a mid-week night cap since it is very unassuming and a more relaxed environment.
22 7th Ave South between Carmine Street and Leroy Street
A slight spin on the adjective hidden — this place remains cloaked by the fact that it only grants entrance to members of the club and their guests. The brownstone offers a unique experience in that each floor has a different decor to create different atmospheres for private parties. My favorite locations in the building are the outer deck on the top floor, the main lobby bar (pictured below) and the beautiful back garden where they serve food as well but only until 11pm so as not to disturb the neighbors. The entire space has a very European and avant garde feel to it — perhaps a testament to the celebrities like Mick Jagger who have graced this establishment.
241 West 14th Street between 7th Ave and 8th Ave
Photo Credit: Raine’s Law Room
Ring the doorbell and you are greeted by a very serious and stoic man clad in a vest and bow-tie requesting the name on your reservation. Do not fret if you have not made one, usually you can put your name in and drink down the street at places like Rye for 30-45 minutes until a seating area is ready. Once in, you are swept past low couches and tables that are separated by mostly opaque curtains to the back kitchen area where the mixologists craft their signature recipes. You can drink in this standing room only or if available the host will show you to your own secluded, curtained area to enjoy your drink amongst the other hushed speakeasy goers.
48 West 17th Street between 5th Ave and 6th Ave
La Esquina
Firstly, the tacos available to order at the street level counter are one of my top 5 favorite things to eat in New York City. Secondly, the jalapeno margaritas called Pepino Diablo from the bar underneath are one of my top 5 favorite libations to drink in New York City. I recommend both experiences, although I have been to order just the tacos more times than I’d care to admit. The brasserie which is the restaurant and bar area down below can be difficult to get into since the bouncer likes to maintain the air of exclusivity and mystique — but if you make a reservation for dinner then you will have no problem getting into the bar. The bar area is very cavernous and dark with wrought iron lighting illuminating the lounge area — creating an alluring and romantic ambiance.
114 Kenmare Street between Mott Street and Elizabeth Street
Photo Credit Esquina NYC
The Back Room
Of this list, The Back Room receives the nomination as the most authentic speakeasy experience. The first picture is from the point of view of the entrance and captures the path down the hidden alley to get to the bar. The dark, dingy alley serves as a great contrast to the interior of the bar which is gilded, Victorian, embellished, and filled with overstuffed couches covered in luxe fabrics. I enjoyed the cocktail the “Bee’s Knees,” which was a vodka based concoction infused with honey and lemon flavoring — especially more enjoyable as it was served true Prohibition style in teacups.
102 Norfolk Street between Rivington Street and Delancey Street
Last but definitely not least, Freemans assuredly offers one of the most divine bar and restaurant experiences in the city. Tucked away at the end of Freemans Alley behind the club The Box, the large strung light bulbs and planted bench in the entryway create a very ethereal setting. The interior has a very rustic feel as taxidermy hangs above the main fireplace and bar, wooden tables are adorned with low candles and the walls encased with bookshelves. The second level has a small library and a separate bar if you choose to venture here just for a cocktail, although the food is as equally impressive as the decor. Private parties can rent out the secluded rooms on the second floor for special events and if you notice the bookshelf at the end of the hallway by the bathrooms — it swivels to reveal a whole wing of the building that is currently under construction for future private dining areas.
191 Chrystie Street between Delancey St & Rivington St
Try as I might, there are just too many bars in New York City to strike from the bucket list. I have covered a lot of ground, but have barely put a dent, let alone a seemingly small scratch into the nightlife here. Yet that is the beauty of this metropolis — the list will never be complete and it is something you have to learn to embrace.
The only thing New Yorkers enjoy more than a good secret is leaking it to the entire world as quickly as they can. Such is the case with Apotheke, a popular speakeasy on Chinatown’s Doyers Street framed by a photogenic “Chemist” sign. It’s no surprise, then, that its next venture would realize a similar fate.
Back in December, the guys from Apotheke decided to expand next door and open Pulqueria, a pseudo high end Mexican restaurant in a basement formerly known as a Vietnamese sandwich shop. ‘Sandwiched’ between Apotheke and Nom Wah Tea Parlor (see what we did there?), it has all the makings of a success. If you can believe it, I do not always eat Asian food, so I was excited by the chance to dine in a restaurant without Sriracha sauce on the table.
Now that the secret is out, the restaurant’s facade is no longer as unassuming as it once was. You’ll find a copy of the menu posted outside to point the way. Head down the stairs and make your way through the nondescript door ahead of you. A left turn will take you into the bar, a right into the dining room. Both are extremely intimate, offering perhaps the most inspired decor you’ll find in town.
Though you may come for the food, atmosphere, or just the story itself, you’ll stay for the drinks. Pulqueria is best known for Pulque ($6, pictured right) from which the restaurant derives its name (if you somehow couldn’t tell). A milky, tart drink made from the fermented sap of the agave plant, it’s one of the hardest to find in the city. It also boasts a long, storied history in Mexico, where it is believed that Mayahuel, the goddess of the maguey plant herself, first mixed the stuff. It’s certainly not for everyone, but I found it to be one of the more delicious and exciting drinks I’ve had in the city.
If you’re looking for more of a “speakeasy” vibe, explore Pulqueria’s cocktail and margarita selection. The Mexican Mule ($14) will be your summer drink of choice, featuring vodka, irresistible watermelon puree, ginger beer and lime. For a more traditional margarita, try the Mango-Cilantro, a devilish blend of chil-rubbed mango, cilantro, lime and tequila. Once you’ve pumped enough of the stuff into your bloodstream, it’ll be time to eat.
I must begin by apologizing for the quality of the above photo. The nicest part about an atmospheric, dimly lit restaurant is everything except its photogenic properties. You’ll have to trust me that these are much more beautiful in real life. Anyway, we came to Pulqueria for tacos. They offer an incredibly eclectic variety, from vegetarian to seafood to your traditional, kindergarten land mammals. They’re expensive, $11 for two, and while they’re delicious, would not be worth the price, were it not for the venue.
Start with the Pescado, packed with impeccable red snapper, tomato crema, fennel and jalapeno. As far as the food goes, it was the start of the evening, and is something I’d eat every day for lunch if my circumstances allowed it. The Chorizo Rojo, stuffed with house-made red spiced chorizo, is your best bet if you’re looking for a ton of strong, concentrated flavor. It stacks up well against the chorizo tacos found in your favorite Brooklyn taco trucks, so give it a shot.
Finally, for the wannabe storyteller, order the Verduras, which features grilled cactus, pobland peppers, mushrooms and queso chihuahua. If you’ve never had cactus before, don’t scare yourself away. They’re vaguely reminiscent of a green pepper, were you to remove the skin and cook it until it’s nice and soft.
If you spend as much time in Chinatown as I do, Pulqueria is a breath of fresh, salty, tequila-kissed air. It’s one of very few non-Asian restaurants that calls itself home in the oldest part of the neighborhood, and together with Apotheke, is holding its own very well. While the food and drinks can be expensive, the venue’s understated decor and exciting location makes a trip well worth your time.
Pulqueria [Map]
11 Doyers Street
New York, NY 10013
212.227-3099
Deep underneath Spring street (well, about 12 steps) on a sweltering summer afternoon, chef David Santos, best known for stints at Per Se and Bouley, works furiously in a tiny kitchen while dozens wait eagerly outside, sipping signature cocktails and chatting endlessly. The location is Parlor, a hidden, beautiful and private members-only club in Soho. The interior is candle-lit and Baroque. The mood is intimate and classical.
The event, of course, is Underground Eats, a series of exclusive dining experiences for alternative eaters. Here at Untapped New York, we’re excited to announce our coverage partnership with Underground Eats, bringing you to the most unique locations they’ll be entering in New York City.
As I navigate the crowd, warring against an untimely fashion choice I’d made earlier in the day (a $10 Target t-shirt) in a battle to stay inconspicuous, Harris and Adam, the eccentric curators of Underground Eats, guide me into the kitchen to meet David.
Chef Santos is preparing an eclectic menu that would blow me (and the rest of Parlor’s excited guests) away. From Cold, Seared Strip Steak with Chimichurri Sauce to Fluke Ceviche with Sesame Vinaigrette, Santos effortlessly pieced together wildly delicious canapé after wildly delicious canapé.
Meanwhile, the people at Alchemia Infused Vodkas are busy turning exclusive cocktails (ginger infused vodka with green tea, lime juice, jalapeno syrup and hella bitters) to help turn the hum of the crowd into a roar. Parlor’s DJ spins a remix of Death From Above 1979′s Sexy Results. The rest, admittedly, is better described with photos, so enjoy!
Chef David Santos shows off his Asparagus Crostini
Chef Santos’ Spread, including Parlor favorite, Potato Fritters with Truffle Cream
Parlor’s intimate, bustling bar
Conversation at Parlor
Parlor Punch, a ginger-infused vodka mixed with green tea
DJ’ing in a Baroque palace
Provocative art lines the walls of Parlor
Curry chicken salad with pita crisps, CU
Fluke Ceviche dipped in Sesame Vinaigrette
Mirror shot, way too swanky for Myspace
Get in touch with the author @lukekingma.
The Untapped Web Bites are editor picks of the best online reads of the week from each of our cities and the most Untapped places across the globe.
If you live in New York, life expectancy statistics are on your side, more so than anywhere else in the country. [Mike Bloomberg]
Herring, whitefish, chopped liver, salmon, smoked or pickled!! The options are endless. If you haven’t tried these traditional Jewish foods, you can and should. [Gothamist]
Fiber network issues and debates. [Gigaom]
Tour of SF Parklets. [SF Gate]
Go green with your remaining Christmas green. That’s right, recycle your tree! [Smart Planet]
The Gambit lists the top 50 newsmakers in NOLA. [Gambit]
New Orleans gets picked as the number one city for New Years’ Eve. [Travel and Leisure]
Hidden cocktail sanctuaries shake up Singapore. [The Wall Street Journal]
iPhones and Blackberry sales are banned in Argentina. Dia de los Santos Inocentes (April’s Fools)! [The Next Web]
Follow Untapped Cities on Twitter and like us on Facebook!
