New York City
12 Super-Secret Hotspots in NYC
Perfect for impressing a special date or wowing your out-of-town friends.
Little Branch (no website), 22 Seventh Avenue South at Leroy St., 212-929-4360
Look for the rusty door with no sign then follow the long stairway down. Expert bartenders in prohibition era uniforms whip together a tantalizing array of cocktails. Seductive, dimly lit booths practically scream come hither. A frequent haunt of celebrities, try to play it cool when stars like Scarlett Johansson are seated in the booth right next to you. Jazz Sunday through Thursday. Cash only, so hit up an ATM on your way in.
The Raines Law Room, 48 W. 17th St. bet. Fifth & Sixth Aves. (no phone)
Named for an 1896 liquor tax designed to curb alcohol consumption (and we know how well those worked), The Raines Law Room is accessed by an unmarked stairwell under a black awning on this residential block. Ring the button to get in then ring the button on your table to call a server. Indulge in a little Hanky Panky (which is the name of one of their amazing Prohibition-style craft cocktails, of course – although there are loveseats with curtains…). No phone for this plush lounge, so for reservations Sunday through Tuesday so contact me, I’ll make it happen.
Dylan
Definitely want to try some of these bars! What is the dress code for say, Little Branch?
Hannah Meyers
Bathtub gin is one of the greatest in NYC. Its my go-to place with my college buds. 😀
Chris Naselli
What a great resource! I’m going to use this list the next 12 dates I go on LOL
Instrata looks pretty cool. Their “Gramercy” location is more like Murray Hill though… Cool concept. More buildings should have concierges and other services like that.
Jude Vargas
Will definitely check out these places when I’m in NYC. Who knows, I may even hop from one place to another, they are all gems! 🙂
Francis Woods
The Raines Law Room and Death & CO looks so cool! I’m going to get a drink (or three) at them this weekend. Please do more articles like this!!!
Gabrielle Williams
These look so hip! But am I too old to go? What’s the average age range at these places? What should I wear??
Rebecca Givens
Fantastic list! I love checking out spots like this — you always meet interesting people at them.
Langley Fox
I’ve been to a few of these places and they’re great. It’s always impressive when someone brings me to a truly hidden gem like some of these, rather than the typical spots (like Top of the Standard, although I love it there too…)
Courtney Watson
What a great list!! I’m going to save this and check these places out one-by-one.