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    Recreation

    3.5 (73 reviews)
    Closed 7:00 am - 12:00 AM (Next day)

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    Services - Recreation

    Bartending services

    Catering services

    Venue rental

    Recreation Photos

    RECREATION ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    DJ
    Live music
    Casual
    Trendy

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    Recommended Reviews - Recreation

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    Margherita Pizzetta
    Jessica C.

    I really enjoy Recreation's aesthetic, music, and drinks, but the food is a bit underwhelming and everything is overvalued. I highly recommend going during Happy Hour and ordering off that menu. During my last visit I had the spicy crispy salmon, margherita pizzetta and an 8-Bit. The salmon was just okay but the pizzetta was delicious. The drink was good but overpriced. Throughout my time there the staff was lovely so I wouldn't write this place off completely. Hopefully they add more options to the Happy Hour menu because I did enjoy my visit and would like to return in the future.

    Got Moxy Drinks
    Leenzie B.

    Me & my friend went here a few months ago. For a bar, the food wasn't bad. We ordered the arugula white flatbread. However the service was great, our bartender was attentive and didn't charge us for the extra flatbread the kitchen made by mistake. The ambiance was great as well! Very trendy & chill with different games to play

    Janice C.

    What a hidden gem in downtown! We find this fun beautiful place in city hall area. It's great to go with a group of friends here and enjoy the yummy cocktails here! Staffs are very friendly and have live DJ too! good vibes!

    Inside
    Dipali G.

    I came to recreation because of an event that was geld in the flex space within recreation! I am so happy the event took place here! Recreation has a really cool vibe - I love the tall ceilings and the floor to ceiling book shelf! The space is very upscale and fun! The music creates a really fun vibe! There are so many great cocktails on the menu. The pisco colada was absolutely delicious. Service was fast and good

    Tower of Mimosas
    Lex B.

    Was there on 4/20 for brunch. The only good thing of this place is the ambiance, music, games and the tower of mimosas we had . There was no French toast, waffles but no wings. I had the moxy breakfast, eggs with a thin piece of sausage and potatoes taters. From the freeze. My partner has the Mezcal short ribs with a sprinkle of meat and a lot to potatoes taters . I could get potatoes taters from the store , if that's what I want to eat , I was looking for restaurants cook potatoes. I wouldn't recommend brunch here . Drinks yes .

    Bar
    Kristina T.

    Recreation is the Moxy's lobby bar. It is a cool spot, and the neon signs, board games, arcade games, and quirky decor create a chill retro vibe. It is a quiet spot during the daytime, but it becomes a party at night during the weekends. I visited Recreation a few times because I was staying at the Moxy. Their menu is not big, but they have a few creative cocktails that pair with different board games or arcade games. I tried one of the cocktails and some of the flatbreads, and they were okay. The staff was nice, but the service was on the slower side. Recreation's standouts are its ambiance and vibe. It is a fun place to hang out with friends or meet new people, but better food and drinks can be found elsewhere. I would go to Recreation again if I was staying at the Moxy, but I would not go out of my way to visit them.

    Had such a great night at Recreation! The vibe is super chill, people having fun, and the drinks & bites are really good. Definitely going back next time I'm in FiDi, highly recommend!

    Sita P.

    Super cute bar located in the Moxy hotel Typical Manhattan prices for drinks ($16) Draft cocktail are not that great Free games- skee ball, table shuffle board, Pac-Man, video games, Photo Booth

    Brittany W.

    Stayed at the Moxy downtown for a weekend! Recreation is the bar/lounge on the 3rd floor and when I tell y'all the staff took care of me--they took care of ME! Special shout-out to Jorge and Quay behind the bar--y'all are the best! And the manager, Anthony went ABOVE and BEYOND and brought food to my room! Anthony you the real MVP! Great place to come have a drink, meet friends, and get all the good vibes! I'll stay at Moxy again just to visit this bar and hang with the staff! Thanks y'all, you made this Texas girl feel very welcomed!

    Tarun B.

    We came here for a friend's birthday and had an amazing time. Recreation is located on top of the Moxy Hotel in the financial district in NYC. Everything is set up as a giant game room for guests to enjoy. You have video games, skeet ball, board games, and my favorite a basketball court. You can spread out through the area and play games at your leisure. Food and drink prices were typical downtown prices. You can expect to pay around $18 for a cocktail here. It was crowded on a Wednesday afternoon with people finishing up work and hanging out. The group ordered several different options so you can try one of everything. I would come back here again for a group outing or a date. The only con I had was the high prices but other than that this is a great place to hang out.

    Chunjai K.

    I supposed to give one star but another bartenders were nice, so one rotten fish will make all bad! I'm not a tourist but I went to Recreation because my cousins who came from Florida picked this place to meet up. Yes! this bar is very touristy place, that is why one of the bartender just work like a brat and didn't care about being nice to customers. Rude and trashy service that what I can describe. Because most customers won't go back and enjoy their vacation for a short period of time. The bar is at 3 level, has cool decoration, like old radio and books, high ceiling, but not good view because the floor is so low and all buildings around are so tall. Moxy's midtown is so much better, if you talk about nice tourist spot.

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    Recreation Reviews in Other Languages

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    Review Highlights - Recreation

    Nice ambiance; it's basically this young people (as I feel I'm "old" now) bar inside the Moxy hotel.

    Mentioned in 3 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    Valerie

    Valerie

    4.3(1.4k reviews)
    3.4 miMidtown West
    $$

    Came for Brunch on a Sunday . Great food (try the shrimp &…read moreGrits- different but really good). Live music is fabulous (Danny Lipsitz) and the drinks are perfect. Of all the places to go In New York, Glad we stopped here . The attentive service (Bar and Restaurant) made the experience even better. Great job Valerie's !!

    Came here for a slightly early dinner after a Broadway show with a party of 4 on a Sunday evening…read more We had a reservation, but it didn't seem like we would have needed one, but I suppose better safe than sorry. The ambiance feels straight of the golden age, which is an aesthetic I'm certainly a sucker for. Even their robust cocktail menu fits the bill and is one of the prettiest menus I've ever had the joy of perusing. Staff was able to sit us a little bit ahead of our reservation which was also much appreciated. Wait staff was also very helpful and attentive, I don't think I've ever had my water glass so topped off! Starting off with cocktails, this place is a gin bar through and through and you'd be making a mistake if you didn't try one of their many options. I went with the 10,000 words, which you simply just give a spirit of your choice (I picked gin of course) and whether you antes) wanted your drink shaken or stirred and the bartender does the rest, so a bit of a surprise! I wound up with their version of The Last Word which was delightfully citrusy but I was hoping I'd wind up with something a little more adventurous app things considered. My girlfriend got the blackberry G&T, which was not only very pleasing to look at but delicious to boot. For food, we started with splitting some zucchini blossoms and beef cheek bao buns (both come in portions of 3). Both were tasty, but I love a good bao bun and these were so light and pillowy, I could have just went for an order of those for my main course. For the entree I went for the roasted half chicken, perhaps the most unassuming choice on the menu but this was maybe the best roast chicken I've ever had. Prepared perfectly, cooked to perfection, excellent portion size, and the kicker of it all was the stunning gravy that I was tempted to lick my plate for. Chicken is very easy to screw up, and they nailed it on all fronts here. My girlfriend went for the Valerie Signature burger with white cheddar and this thing did not mess around! A very rich patty, cooked to her temperature of choice served alongside some garlic truffle fries that made an American classic feel just a little more elevated. Our experience was delightful and I'd love to comeback here again, especially to check out more of the cocktail menu and soak in more of that golden age aura the place gives.

    Photos
    Valerie
    Valerie
    Valerie

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    Paradise Lost - Beautiful interior

    Paradise Lost

    4.4(171 reviews)
    1.5 miEast Village

    Thank goodness we FOUND paradise LOST. You ring the doorbell, and are buzzed in to be put on the…read morelist. For my group of 2, it was approximately a 25 minute wait on a Saturday at 7. We jumped over to the bar right beside and drank some girly drinks before getting the notification our table was ready. As with nearly every establishment in NYC, it is very close quarters in paradise lost. We stood at a table while waiting for seats at the bar to become available. Which, we didn't mind. I could see how this might be a little harder to get a seat for a bigger group if you aren't there before 6. It seemed that once a group got a big table, they camped out. The drinks were strong and creative. Friendly bartenders, good music, and yummy options for bar snacks. Also, the bathroom is a nice touch. Given the hell theming for the bar, the bathroom is a 180 and while using the Lou, you can listen to the bible being recited. Theres also a spooky surprise if you press the button in the bathroom. Speaking of the bathroom, it is at the bottom of some decently narrow stairs. So, try and stay sober enough for stairs or you may fall. Go to this bar. You will have fun.

    Paradise Lost is a speakeasy tiki bar located on 2nd Ave in the East Village. A friend & I went…read morethere after having dinner at Spicy Moon a few blocks away. We wanted to have after-dinner cocktails in a chill space, so we searched on our phones & saw Paradise Lost address via Google. We proceeded to walk down & was unable to find the establishment due to their being no front sign. After walking back & forth a few times, we saw another group walking towards the door & they confirmed the place. We walked inside the front door pressed a "doorbell" & lo & behold we gained entry after the previous group went inside. Definitely an incognito entrance. Once inside that door there is someone to greet you, & take your information. There is a forest/ grass/ jungle-looking foyer/ hallway we walked down to get to the next door. Before we knew it, we were near the "Paradise Lost No Vacancy" neon sign w/ an arrow pointing towards the snake-shaped knob door. It gets opened & a supercool speakeasy awaits.... Paradise Lost has mixed style table / seating arrangements throughout the place. A bar seating section, booth-style seating area, lounge- style seating area, etc. We got there a little after 7pm, so the afterwork crowd was in full swing. Paradise Lost has interesting atmosphere. At times a Gothic / Medieval Vibe, meets place w/ shipwreck decor, meets eleganct /club vibe w/ beautiful ceiling lighting, etc. Music played in the background. Staff are friendly, energetic, & attentive. We were pleasantly overwhelmed w/ the vast selection of tiki cocktails that were on the menu. Paradise Lost also have an intimate selection of snacks/ food menu items. This included Popcorn, Tater Tots, Devilled Eggs Rangoon Dip, etc. We ordered some cocktails served in unique tiki mugs & a bucket of popcorn to munch on w/ our drinks. The popcorn is flavored w/ Sea Buckthorn & Browm Butter, which gave it an special flavor profile. Our cocktails were well-prepared & nice & strong. Paradise Lost has individual unisex bathroom stalls & a communal vanity & sink area. The bathroom stalls have spooky voices coming from a speaker as you use the bathroom. I was so humorously taken aback, it had me laughing when I came out...Definitely a different thing to experience in the bathroom - lol. Before we left we watched one of the bartenders do a cocktail "fire" presentation for some patrons in a booth seated area. Wow.... Paradise Lost accepts walk-ins only, no reservations. Paradise Lost accepts groups of 8 or less, unless you are requesting to book the space for a private event. Ages 21+ paradiselost.nyc @paradiselostnyc Paradise Lost is open everyday - 5pm-2am.

    Photos
    Paradise Lost - Amazing atmosphere!

    Amazing atmosphere!

    Paradise Lost - Beware the shark!

    Beware the shark!

    Paradise Lost - Damned Dumplings ($10) and Kappa Krab Roll ($15)

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    Damned Dumplings ($10) and Kappa Krab Roll ($15)

    Osamil Upstairs - Ambiance / vibe

    Osamil Upstairs

    4.3(144 reviews)
    2.7 miKoreatown, Midtown West

    this bar has great vibes, and is speak easy esque, tucked behind a hidden door and upstairs of…read moreosamil. The ambiance is not too loud which is perfect for catching up with a friend. I got the omija, which seems to be one of their more popular drinks, which is yogurt clarified. It's definitely a bit on the sweeter side for me but nonetheless delicious. Super easy to get a last minute reservation here!

    Recommended to us by the folks from Atomix, we were excited to visit Osamil Upstairs for a drink…read morebefore dinner. It was on a weekday, the day of NBA Finals Game 3 when everyone else were at bars & lounges getting ready for the game to start. This afforded us a beautiful and tranquil experience at Osamil Upstairs. Hidden behind a locked door inside Osamil, it's a spot you have to seek out to get in. After we shared we were going to Osamil Upstairs, the hostess from Osamil promptly unlocked the unmarked door for us to head upstairs to Osamil Upstairs. Had other customers not come out as we were walking up the stairs, we might have passed the entrance to Osamil Upstairs and continued upward! Much like what you might expect of a speakeasy, it's well-hidden, and the interior just blows the mind. It's elegant, beautiful, and comfortable. The drinks were good. My cheese in the trap was smokey (as promised!) and alcohol forward. My hubby had the Jung cocktail and it had the most magical, delicious combination of flavors! We also ordered a foie gras with toast appetizer as a pre-dinner snack; it was OK. All in all, a really pleasant experience and we'd return if we were in the area again!

    Photos
    Osamil Upstairs - Beautiful interiors

    Beautiful interiors

    Osamil Upstairs - Inside coach seat area

    Inside coach seat area

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    Vibe

    The Flatiron Room - NoMad - Shrimp Tempura - classic and timeless

    The Flatiron Room - NoMad

    4.3(1.2k reviews)
    2.5 miFlatiron
    $$$

    We were pleasantly surprised that we were seated near the stage since they were reportedly all…read morebooked when we made the reservation. Depending on how long guests stay sometimes those seats are available as a first come first served so we were lucky. Our server was great and she explained the menu. I opted for the chefs menu which did not disappoint. Every course was thoughtfully prepared and delicious. It was fun to try everything including their starter course of three items. The oyster miso was quite a stand out for me. All of the fish prepared was delicate and lovely. The Parker rolls were soft and a nice complement. My friend who is less adventurous with seafood opted for their shrimp tempera roll, which was as good as you could make a shrimp tempera roll. Well prepared as well as their charcuterie board which we could not finish after everything. It was a memorable night I won't forget with nice entertainment and great staff. My partner held my hand as we walked back to the hotel which never happens. Quite a night thank you!

    Went here for a casual get together with some colleagues when I was in NY. The Jazz vibes were…read morehonestly the reason to pick this place. It's a low key establishment from the outside but once you are in it feels a lot more trendy. The stage is right in the front and all the tables can get a good view of the stage. The music can be loud at times and the ambience is more on the dimly lit side but still a great spot. The service was great, and the drink selection was cool too. I would definitely pick from the selection of speciality cocktails. I got the smoked old fashioned (or similar) and that was potent, Smokey and delicious. We also got a few bites to eat. Other than the tuna tartare (didn't feel fresh) everything we got was nice - nigiri combo, kimchi fried rice, kings toast.... Nice drinks, nice atmosphere, good food and great service!!

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    The Flatiron Room - NoMad - Live jazz and blues

    Live jazz and blues

    The Flatiron Room - NoMad - Shells & Bones: Escargot with bone marrow flan!

    Shells & Bones: Escargot with bone marrow flan!

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    Lillie's Victorian Establishment

    Lillie's Victorian Establishment

    3.9(2.1k reviews)
    3.7 miTheater District, Midtown West
    $$
    Locally owned & operated
    Free WiFi

    I almost missed it at first, it's a bit tucked away, but finding Lillie's feels like discovering a…read morehidden gem. The moment you step inside, you're transported to the Victorian era, with ornate details and charming décor that make the entire space feel like an experience in itself. We stopped in before a show without a reservation and, while the dining room was full, we were able to grab seats at the bar. Honestly, I think it worked out for the best--the bar felt more spacious than the table seating and had a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere for a Wednesday afternoon. The mocktails were as creative as they were delicious, and the cocktail menu offered plenty of tempting options as well. The bartenders were attentive, friendly, and impressively efficient, striking that perfect balance of great service without constantly interrupting your conversation. We shared the sliders and the summer salad, and both were generously portioned and perfect for splitting. Between the beautiful setting, excellent drinks, and seamless service, this is definitely a place I'll be returning to.

    Located near Theater District NYC. The perfect pre-broadway show dinner and drinks or if you're in…read moreTimes Square. Defiantly make a reservation for this one but you might get lucky to just walk in. Super stunning atmosphere and took amazing photos inside. Drinks where fabulous and a great wine selection. I would recommend their lobster ravioli and we shared their tuna tartar. Good idea to get to this place early as service was a bit slower. We waited 25 minuets for our second round of drinks and ultimately had to cancel them as we had our show to attend.

    Photos
    Lillie's Victorian Establishment
    Lillie's Victorian Establishment
    Lillie's Victorian Establishment

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    Chez Zou - Double Jarra

    Chez Zou

    4.6(91 reviews)
    3.0 miChelsea, Midtown West, Hell's Kitchen
    Full bar
    Gluten-free friendly

    Definitely hard to find if your rushing and not following directions given by Chez Zou. I blame it…read moreon my beerS not the restaurant itself haha It gives a speakeasy vibe with dimmed lighting, cozy chairs and the whole atmosphere is such a cute romantic feeling. Staff were friendly and acknowledged about the drinks/snacks giving us recommendations. Drinks were STRONG def not the restaurant fault, they were made perfectly. Just not my preference being a beer drinker. Good amount of snacks which were tasty, the fries had this interesting coating on them. I couldn't pin point the flavor but it was a nice hint of paprika? Chicken was nice and juicy. Def worth checking out if your in the area, just take your time to actually find it haha

    Made reservations for 7:00 p.m., and there was still plenty of lounge seating available when we…read morearrived. My first drink, the Papa Mele, was excellent. Unfortunately, it took far too long for our waitress to come back for a second round. The place wasn't busy yet, and we repeatedly saw her standing at a service station, seemingly occupied with something (her phone?), while we sat with empty drinks for nearly 20 minutes. For my second drink, I ordered the Golden Colada. It was packed with ice, which is fine, but the glass was only about two-thirds full. You can see it in the photo (I did take one sip), but it was only filled to where the foam begins. For a $21 drink, I prefer my drinks filled, if not with alcohol, then club soda if you have to. The cocktails themselves were good, but the service really took away from the experience. If you visit, I'd recommend sitting at the bar, where you'll likely receive much better service.

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    Chez Zou - Dirty Zou

    Dirty Zou

    Chez Zou - Papa Mele

    Papa Mele

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    "Secret Menu" food

    Recreation - cocktailbars - Updated July 2026

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