16. Underground Spots in Chelsea
On the more contemporary end, there are a plethora of undergrounds and lesser-known spots to discover in Chelsea. Some of our favorites include Artechouse, an immersive art space below Chelsea Market, the Norwood Club, and the KGB Museum about spycraft. Chelsea also features quite a few speakeasies that pay homage to those from over a century ago. Speakeasies were illicit bars that sold alcoholic beverages during the Prohibition era, many hidden in hard-to-find spots in lower Manhattan. Recently, though, many secret speakeasies have popped up across Manhattan, many hidden behind doors or bank vaults, underneath unassuming buildings, or on the other side of a vending machine.
In the heart of Chelsea is Loulou, a French bistro with a basement speakeasy accessed through a vintage Coca-Cola refrigerator door. La Noxe is a speakeasy hidden inside a subway station, notable for Mediterranean small plates and chic drinks. Raines Law Room is a step back in time to the 1920s; go downstairs and ring the bell to get in and order food and drinks. And Bathtub Gin is hidden behind a coffee shop, offering specialty drinks as well as live jazz and burlesque shows.
Next, check out 22 Must-Visit Spots in Chelsea!