The Darkside, A Star Wars-Themed Pop-Up Bar Has Opened In NYC’s SoHo

Come to the Darkside, they have cocktails. Last week, the Star Wars-themed pop-up bar The Darkside opened in SoHo, reported Metro New York. While New York City has more bars than anyone can count, a Star Wars-themed one was definitely missing. But it won’t be here long! The Dark Side will only be open for two months, through January 15, with locations in Washington D.C. and Los Angeles.

The brain child of Zach Neil, creator behind East Village Tim Burton-themed bar Beetle House, The Darkside is the San Remo Cafe by day, but transforms into a speakeasy by night as a place for Jedi and Sith Lord enthusiasts alike. The bar will host nightly events and parties that include “intergalactic burlesque” shows, along with themed nights like trivia and “alien speed dating.”

For food and fare, six customs cocktails are served from “The Galaxy” (a black vodka, exotic fruit extracts, Spirited essence and secret liquors mix) to “The Imperial” (a blend of spices and rum, maple extract, citrus juice, and cayenne). To absorb all the intergalactic drinking, a menu of “galaxy inspired” small bites and sharing plates will be available including tentacles on sticks (soy barbecue-glazed octopus) and Bantha fodder (vegan sushi egg rolls).

It may not be the grittier Mos Eisley cantina where Han shot first, the Darkside finds itself well adjusted to the New York City nightlife scene. If you’re a Star Wars fan, it is worth the visit, if at least to find out what exactly “alien speed dating” is and what “intergalactic burlesque” looks like.

While walk-ins are welcome, but will cost you $40 at the door. Reservations are highly encouraged and come at $33 per person (which includes two specialty cocktails). As for the dress code? Costumes are encouraged but not required.

The San Remo Cafe turns into The Darkside at 201 Lafayette Street, open from 6:00 pm to 4:00 am Fridays-Saturdays, and from 6:00 pm to 2:00 am on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Need a more Earth-related experience after this? Go to An Alpine Ski Chalet Without Leaving NYC at Baita at Eataly Flatiron.