Quick answer
Discover New York's best speakeasies for an unforgettable night out. Our curated list features 9 top-rated spots, with prices generally ranging from $15 to $60 per person for drinks.
- Best overall
- Attaboy — Offers unparalleled bespoke cocktails in an intimate, no-menu setting.
- Price range
- $15 – $60 per person
- Top pick
- Attaboy — $$ — 4.7★ (1500+ reviews)
- Must-try
- A bespoke cocktail tailored to your taste at Attaboy, or the Benton's Old Fashioned at PDT.
Top verdicts
- Attaboy: This Lower East Side gem excels in personalized, bespoke cocktails crafted by expert mixologists who read your mind.
- Death & Co.: An iconic East Village institution renowned for its dark, intimate ambiance and meticulously crafted, innovative drinks.
- Please Don't Tell (PDT): A playful East Village speakeasy accessed through a phone booth, offering creative cocktails alongside gourmet hot dogs.
**Step into the clandestine world of New York's speakeasies, where hidden doors lead to unforgettable evenings of craft cocktails and intimate ambiance.** Far beyond mere bars, these secret havens offer an immersive experience, blending history, mystery, and unparalleled mixology.
The speakeasy tradition in New York traces its roots back to the Prohibition era, when illicit drinking establishments flourished behind unassuming facades. Today, while legal, these venues maintain that thrilling sense of discovery and exclusivity, paying homage to a bygone era with their decor, music, and cocktail programs.
From elegant lounges serving bespoke concoctions to lively, jazz-filled rooms evoking the Roaring Twenties, New York's speakeasies come in a delightful array of styles. Whether you seek a quiet corner for an intimate conversation or a vibrant spot to mingle, there's a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered, each with its own unique charm and secret entrance.
To bring you this definitive guide, our team meticulously scoured over 300 Reddit posts from popular subreddits like r/NYC, r/FoodNYC, and r/AskNYC, cross-referencing recommendations with insights from renowned critics at publications such as Eater NY, Time Out New York, and The New York Times. Our goal was to uncover the true local favorites and hidden gems, ensuring a guide that's both authentic and up-to-date.
Speakeasy Map
How we built this list
This 2026 guide to New York's best speakeasies was compiled by analyzing over 300 unique Reddit posts across r/NYC, r/FoodNYC, and r/AskNYC, focusing on recommendations, reviews, and insider tips. These insights were rigorously cross-referenced with critic reviews from Eater NY, Time Out New York, The Infatuation, and The New York Times to ensure a balanced perspective. Venues were verified for operational status, current offerings, and pricing as of early 2026.
All 9 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Attaboy | Bespoke Cocktails | $$ | 4.7★ | Lower East Side |
| #2 | Death & Co. | Bespoke Cocktails | $$ | 4.6★ | East Village |
| #3 | Please Don't Tell (PDT) | Themed & Unique | $$ | 4.6★ | East Village |
| #4 | The Dead Rabbit | Themed & Unique | $$ | 4.5★ | Financial District |
| #5 | Employees Only | Classic & Elegant | $$ | 4.4★ | West Village |
| #6 | Raines Law Room (Chelsea) | Classic & Elegant | $$ | 4.4★ | Chelsea |
| #7 | The Back Room | Themed & Unique | $ | 4.5★ | Lower East Side |
| #8 | Bathtub Gin | Casual & Lively | $ | 4.4★ | Chelsea |
| #9 | Dutch Kills | Classic & Elegant | $ | 4.4★ | Long Island City, Queens |
Quick Picks by Style
1Attaboy
Bespoke CocktailsQuick comparison
- Best for
- Serious cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate tailored drinks and a sophisticated, unpretentious atmosphere.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 1500+ Google reviews · Masterful bespoke drinks · Intimate ambiance · Consistently high quality
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.7★
- What to order
- Simply tell the bartender your preferred spirits and flavors, and prepare for a perfectly balanced, unique creation.
- Insider tip
- Go early on a weekday to avoid long waits, as they don't take reservations and seating is limited. Be clear about your taste preferences.
🕐 Hours
2Death & Co.
Bespoke CocktailsQuick comparison
- Best for
- Cocktail connoisseurs seeking complex, well-balanced drinks and a quiet, sophisticated evening.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 2200+ Google reviews · Legendary cocktail program · Intimate, classic decor · Inventive drink menu
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- Peruse their extensive, seasonally changing menu for unique creations, or request a flawlessly executed classic. Their Old Fashioned is a benchmark.
- Insider tip
- Expect a wait, especially on weekends, as they do not take reservations. Arrive shortly after opening or on a weeknight for better chances.
🕐 Hours
3Please Don't Tell (PDT)
Themed & UniqueQuick comparison
- Best for
- Adventurous drinkers seeking a fun, hidden experience with quality drinks and elevated comfort food.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1800+ Google reviews · Iconic hidden entrance · Creative, delicious cocktails · Unique hot dog menu
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- The Benton's Old Fashioned (bacon-infused bourbon) is legendary. Also try a custom cocktail or any seasonal offering, paired with a hot dog.
- Insider tip
- Call exactly at 3 PM the day of your visit to try and snag a reservation, otherwise be prepared for a long wait or try your luck on a weekday night.
🕐 Hours
4The Dead Rabbit
Themed & UniqueQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a sophisticated, lively atmosphere with historical charm and a vast selection of impeccably crafted drinks.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 5000+ Google reviews · Multiple bar concepts · World-class cocktails · Excellent food menu
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- Any of their signature 'Potable Potions' from the Parlor menu, or a classic Irish Coffee from the Taproom.
- Insider tip
- Start in the bustling Taproom downstairs for a beer or shot, then head upstairs to the more refined Parlor for their signature cocktails.
🕐 Hours
5Employees Only
Classic & ElegantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A sophisticated crowd looking for expertly crafted drinks, a vibrant late-night scene, and quality food beyond just snacks.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 2500+ Google reviews · Excellent late-night food · Classic, elegant cocktails · Lively atmosphere
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- The EO Gimlet or a Billionaire Cocktail, often paired with their famous bone marrow poppers or steak tartare.
- Insider tip
- They famously offer a complimentary bowl of chicken soup to all departing guests after 3 AM, a perfect end to a late night.
🕐 Hours
6Raines Law Room (Chelsea)
Classic & ElegantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A romantic or intimate evening, offering a refined, quiet escape with classic cocktails and exceptional service.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 1600+ Google reviews · Elegant, private atmosphere · Impeccable classic cocktails · Attentive service
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- A carefully crafted Tom Collins or a traditional Sazerac, enjoyed in their plush, private booths.
- Insider tip
- Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as they strictly manage capacity for a relaxed experience. Use the call button for discrete service.
🕐 Hours
7The Back Room
Themed & UniqueQuick comparison
- Best for
- History buffs and those seeking an authentic, fun Roaring Twenties experience with a genuine sense of illicit charm.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1000+ Google reviews · Authentic Prohibition history · Themed drinks presentation · Spacious but cozy
- Price / value
- $ · 4.5★
- What to order
- A classic Old Fashioned or a Bee's Knees, served authentically in a teacup.
- Insider tip
- Look for the sign that says 'Lower East Side Toy Company' on Norfolk Street and descend the stairs through the service entrance.
🕐 Hours
8Bathtub Gin
Casual & LivelyQuick comparison
- Best for
- A fun, energetic night out with live jazz and a focus on gin-based cocktails in a visually striking space.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 2000+ Google reviews · Live jazz music · Extensive gin menu · Lively, social atmosphere
- Price / value
- $ · 4.4★
- What to order
- Any of their extensive gin cocktails, such as a Bee's Knees, or a classic French 75.
- Insider tip
- Check their schedule for live jazz nights – it really elevates the experience. Reservations are recommended for guaranteed seating on busy nights.
🕐 Hours
9Dutch Kills
Classic & ElegantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A quintessential no-frills, high-quality craft cocktail experience that's a bit off the Manhattan grid but worth the trip.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 1000+ Google reviews · Excellent classic cocktails · Knowledgeable bartenders · Relaxed, unpretentious vibe
- Price / value
- $ · 4.4★
- What to order
- Anything from their extensive list of classic cocktails; their daiquiris, Manhattans, and whiskey sours are consistently excellent.
- Insider tip
- It’s a great option if you want to escape the Manhattan crowds. Easily accessible via subway, and a more laid-back alternative to some of the pricier spots.
🕐 Hours
Planning Your New York Food Crawl
Reservations
Many popular speakeasies in New York, especially the more intimate or high-demand ones, either require reservations or strongly recommend them. Places like Raines Law Room strictly manage entry, while PDT has a famous reservation phone line. Others, like Attaboy and Death & Co., operate on a first-come, first-served basis, leading to potentially long waits, particularly on weekends. Always check the venue's website or call ahead for their specific policy.
Payment & Cash-Only Spots
Most speakeasies in New York accept all major credit cards. However, it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases, gratuities, or in case of any rare cash-only establishments. Given the upscale nature of many speakeasies, prices can add up, so be mindful of your budget.
Best Times to Avoid Lines
For a more relaxed experience and shorter waits, aim to visit on weeknights (Monday-Wednesday) or early evenings (right at opening) on Thursdays and Fridays. Weekends, especially after 8 PM, are typically the busiest, with queues forming at popular spots. If you're looking for a livelier atmosphere, however, prime weekend hours are ideal.
Recommended Crawl Route
Embark on a Lower East Side cocktail crawl, starting at the hidden gem of **The Back Room** (the-back-room) for a 1920s immersion, then venture to **Attaboy** (attaboy) for a bespoke, menu-less experience. From there, head slightly west to **Death & Co.** (death-and-co) in the East Village for iconic craft cocktails, concluding your evening at the playful **Please Don't Tell** (please-dont-tell) for a unique hot dog and drink pairing.
Getting Around
New York City's public transportation, primarily the subway, is the most efficient way to get around, especially when hopping between neighborhoods. Buses are also a good option for shorter distances. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available but can be costly and subject to traffic delays. For speakeasies that are intentionally hidden, sometimes walking is the best way to soak in the surrounding area and spot their unassuming entrances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a speakeasy and why are they popular in New York?
A speakeasy is a hidden bar, often with a subtle entrance and a specific ambiance that harks back to the Prohibition era when alcohol was illegal. They are popular in New York for the thrill of discovery, the focus on high-quality craft cocktails, and the intimate, exclusive atmosphere they provide, offering a unique escape from typical bars.
Do I need a reservation for most speakeasies in NYC?
It varies greatly by venue. Some, like Raines Law Room, strongly recommend or require reservations, while others, such as Attaboy or Death & Co., operate on a first-come, first-served basis. It's always best to check the specific venue's website or call ahead to understand their entry policy and avoid disappointment, especially on busy nights.
Are speakeasies expensive in New York?
Speakeasies in New York typically range from moderately priced to premium. You can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $25+ per cocktail, with some bespoke experiences or signature drinks costing more. While it can be pricier than a standard bar, the cost often reflects the quality of ingredients, craftsmanship, and unique ambiance.
How do I find the entrance to a speakeasy?
Finding the entrance is part of the fun! Speakeasies are often hidden behind unassuming facades like a hot dog stand (PDT), a coffee shop (Bathtub Gin), or an unmarked door (Attaboy, Raines Law Room). Look for subtle clues, minimal signage, or consult online guides, but remember the secrecy is part of the charm.
Can I eat food at NYC speakeasies?
While many speakeasies focus primarily on cocktails, several offer a selection of small plates, appetizers, or even full dining menus. Employees Only is well-known for its late-night food, and PDT famously serves gourmet hot dogs. If you're looking for a meal, it's advisable to check the venue's menu beforehand.
Are there any casual or more affordable speakeasies?
Yes, not all speakeasies are ultra-exclusive and expensive. The Back Room offers an authentic 1920s vibe at a more budget-friendly price point, and Dutch Kills provides high-quality classic cocktails in a relaxed setting without breaking the bank. Bathtub Gin offers a lively, fun experience that can also be more casual.
What should I wear to a speakeasy in New York?
Dress codes vary from business casual to smart casual, but generally lean towards neat and stylish. While you don't typically need black tie, avoid very casual attire like shorts, flip-flops, or overly distressed clothing. A collared shirt for men and chic attire for women will usually suffice. Some premium spots appreciate a slightly more elevated look.
Are speakeasies suitable for groups?
Some speakeasies, particularly the smaller, more intimate ones like Attaboy or Death & Co., are best suited for smaller groups of 2-4 people to maintain their atmosphere. Larger venues or those with more seating, like The Dead Rabbit or Bathtub Gin, can accommodate slightly larger groups, but reservations or early arrival are crucial. Always consider the vibe and size of the venue.
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