The Back Room in the Lower East Side is such a fun speakeasy experience. I love the way they serve the drinks in teacups and mugs, which gives it that classic Prohibition era vibe and makes it feel a little different from other bars. The space itself is great too, with cool art on the walls that adds to the atmosphere. Definitely a great spot if you are looking for a unique night out in New York. read more

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Went to the back room with some friends on a weekday evening, and the ambiance was very cool - this place is a challenge to get to if you don't know which door you're looking for, and beware that some classic city rats may be scurrying above you as you enter. Nonetheless, I like how all the drinks are served in teacups in honor of the prohibition era. One note though, I wasn't a fan of the music - it didn't match the ambiance and was an odd mix of pop and rap. read more

The Back Room - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

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This place was the best speakeasy experience I've ever experienced, and I go to speaksies around the country regularly. I love the entire vibe of this place, the atmosphere makes you feel as if you have walked into the the perfect setting for a classic romance. The antique decor, drinks in teacup, and live jazz music, with swing dancing made the perfect night. The service was excellent as well, the bartenders were on point. read more

Getting here felt a little sketchy, but that's part of the fun came for a jazz night and would advise coming earlier rather than later to secure seating. It was packed, but nevertheless, still an amazing vibe. The drinks were strong and well worth your $. read more

The Back Room - Mixed drinks in teacups - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

I came here a few times over the years with friends for a drink. It's quite hidden but once you're inside its almost like you entered Narnia. The interior has a historical design and makes you feel like you've travelled back in time. You get your own drink at the bar and find your own seating in a first come first serve bases at one of the older style couches. I think this is a great place to bring friends visiting new york city. read more

Back room is exactly what it says it is. This speakeasy has a very antique, vintage style and aura. Big in size large bar area, a good amount of lounge chairs and couches. Classy and flavorful cocktail drinks served in tea cups with saucers. I really enjoyed it here. Service was on point. Great for date nights, night caps, or just hanging with the girls. read more

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I really enjoyed that place! This is a speakeasy with unique design, they serve cocktails in tea cups as a reference to prohibition times. I tried their penicillin cocktail that was very delicious. I would highly recommend it! read more

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A not so secret, secret bar - it's easy to miss by the decorated gate a couple of steps away from the subway. Reserved for those 25 years and older, you're guided down a flight of stairs, some graffitied walls and up into an entrance leading you into a dark lit room. The vibes are warm, cozy and classic. There's very few places to sit, and tables/couches must be reserved. They even serve your drinks in tea cups reminiscent of the prohibition era. If you like a classier atmosphere as your go-to speakeasy, then it's worth paying a visit at least once. read more

The Back Room - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

Definitely a true hidden speakeasy, my aunt and I got a bit lost trying to find this place haha. Go down the toy gate and walk all the way to the back up the stairs by the trucks and it's that door. Inside is beautiful, it feels like you're in a cozy fancy living room with soft candles and comfy couches. Wish the fireplace was working to rly emphasize the vibe. Drinks are fine, preferred the Bees Knees to the Pink Slipper, but all are served in cute teacups as a nod to their prohibition roots. It got pretty busy on a Saturday night, but the bartenders were friendly and speedy. Note- 25 yrs and up is only for Friday and Saturday. Other nights is anyone of legal drinking age read more

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Really cool speakeasy with an actual "hidden" entrance! The inside is super cozy and dark, and very spacious. I was there on a Friday night and it was busy enough that most of the seating was taken but there was lots of areas you can stand and not feel crowded at all. Like for the bar was short and bartenders were super nice. Drinks were standard and the tea cups were cute! Pricing is the same as any other bar in the area. I would definitely come back. read more

The Back Room - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

10/10 service and drinks! It's a bit of a challenge to find if you're a new comer but that's the fun part. You'll figure it out eventually! My favorite part was the free coat rack. Every drink is served in a tea cup (it's a small history lesson look it up) but definitely worth it. It gets packed so snag a seat but the vibes are very relaxed. read more

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One of my favorite speakeasies downtown. The entrance is pretty hidden so I recommend asking for help with directions. Very rich 50s/60s history according to one of the bouncers. The bar is dimly lit with red velvet finishes. Perfect night cap. read more

The entrance is obscure as a speakeasy should be. A creepy neon lit ally leads into a fire escape type staircase. Other than the entrance, the bar itself is a bit underwhelming. We went on Christmas Eve which is the best time to go since it wasn't crowded at all. The drinks didn't seem very prohibition or speakeasy themed. When I saw the $16 price tag I thought that was super affordable for a speakeasy, but the drinks was served in a tiny tea cup and pretty weak so the cheap price made more sense. The ambiance was pretty cool considering it really was a prohibition bar back in the day, but the drinks aren't that unique. read more

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After dinner at Dhamaka, one of my friends suggested we come here for drinks. Last time I was here was over a decade ago.. Maybe it's me but in my opinion, this place didn't exactly survive the test of time.. Won't be coming back again.. read more

Back Room was a really cool speakeasy! This was my first time patronizing such an establishment, and I'm so glad that I stopped in. This is the type of place you'd expect to see in a Prohibition-themed movie, and fits the bill of an underground speakeasy perfectly. Would highly recommend, it was a great time. read more

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I was very hesitant to return to this place after 9years from my last review and thought Dean would still be there but after a bit of peer pressure from my sister I gave in and I must say it was the best decision I made after dinner (at Dhamaka which you must try!). From the beginning Brandon was very friendly and approachable and was not greedy as Dean from 9yrs ago. He was very attentive and listened to what I wanted. Of course the drink decisions was on point with no regret. I wish he was the bartender from the beginning but unfortunately Brandon is only there Tuesday & Wednesday but I will definitely be returning when he's there! Ambiance remains the same but it's the service that counts! THANK YOU Brandon! read more

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The thing about a speakeasy is that they're usually hidden away from the public eye. I was a little lost on where the entrance was when I arrived since I didn't do my research, so let me help me. There's a short gate that leads down a staircase just between Nurse Bettie and The Blue Residential Tower. I noticed another couple looking lost on their phones until they followed us in. Once you go down the stairs, you go through an alley all the way to another set of stairs going up. There's some toys on display and you have arrived. As soon as you walk in, it really takes you back to the Prohibition era from the music, style, and mood of the space. The bouncer made sure to inform us that the bar is cash only, but they do have an ATM machine next to the men's restroom. Each drink is $14-16, so keep that in mind for how much cash to bring with you. I ordered the Penicillin ($16) and the boyfriend got the P.T.Z. ($14). The drinks are served in a teacup just like they did during the Prohibition, although this meant the drinks are smaller than usual especially with the ice too. I honestly couldn't tell too much of a difference between the drinks and they were more fruity than alcohol forward. I can't say the drinks are worth coming for, but it's the atmosphere that's really cool. I love that it's one of two bars still operating today from the Prohibition era, so it feels so real being here to enjoy some libations. Not sure what happened either, but when I gave $40 for my $30 drinks, I was only given $8 back. I wasn't sure if I was still supposed to tip if they already took some extra from my change, so weird. I tipped anyways, but not sure how it's charged being cash only and all too. read more

The Back Room - Penicillin. - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

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This speakeasy is such a vibe, the decor and atmosphere is so cool. Kind of made me feel like I was in a different timeline. They serve all drinks in mugs like they used to back in the day when alcohol was not legal haha, so cool! This is not the place to come to if you want to dance around with friends. It is more of a sit down and catch up place, even the music is lower and I'm assuming it is because of this! Important to note this place is 25y and up. read more

The Back Room - Green tea shots - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

I've been wanting to visit The Back Room since I heard about it. I love anything 1920s, especially if it's authentic. I think this is only one of two or so surviving speakeasy bars from the Prohibition era in NYC. The entrance is easier to find than you might think but it definitely gives you pause when you enter. Like, is this right? It is. Keep going. The interior is gorgeous. Love the moody red lighting. It's definitely a more intimate atmosphere. Lounge-y. The seating is a little hit or miss though. There are some big comfy seating areas and then these little makeshift vignettes with 2 stools and a tiny table. We started at the latter and then moved to the former once people moved on. From what I remember, the music was good. People mostly kept to themselves in the various corners, though. It was fun to drink out of the teacups. But honestly, the drinks weren't very good. I think they're premixed since they have to fit in the small cups. So don't come looking for a mind-blowing cocktail experience here. It's more about the novelty and the vibes! read more

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This is such a cool speakeasy! Located in east village, we were genuinely confused on how to get in (though they take reservations which takes a bit away from the speakeasy vibes). Once we did get in, we were served champagne in tea mugs which made this such a cool experience and really felt as if we were not drinking alcohol There is a lot of seating and they even offer cigars! read more

The Back Room - Inside - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

I've been wanting to visit The Back Room for a while now, and it's such a cool place! I came in with a friend on a Thursday night at around 9 pm and was blown away by the inside. The atmosphere is enchanting, with vintage decor, moody lights, and cocktails served in teacups (which I might add, were quite strong)! The staff were all very sweet and welcoming, with entertaining personalities too. One of them helped us find an open seat since the place was pretty dimly lit. We kept our visit short though and left in about an hour. Around that time, that's when more people started to trickle in, so it seems like a fun time for sure! read more

The Back Room - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

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This is a really cool place when it's not too crowded. It's cash only, and it's 25+ on weekends. They serve drinks in little mugs which is fun. read more

The Back Room - Inside - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

A speakeasy in Manhattan with an obscure entrance. Getting to the actual bar area is through a few stairways and you wonder where it will lead. The speakeasy is dimly lit. There was a DJ , but the music was just loud enough to still have a conversation. They offer many unusual drink selections, and all are served in tea cup. The drinks are pricey, especially since the tea cup was loaded with ice. This is a place to stop in once for the experience. read more

The Back Room - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

I was looking forward to my visit here and frankly, was disappointed. First off, there is no marking on the gate. Luckily some people were leaving and it gave us the heads up where it was (later in the evening there was someone standing by the gate). The vibe of getting into the speakeasy was really cool, but the place definitely looks larger in pictures. It was also quite disappointing to know that the actual speakeasy from the era, was their VIP/rental room and it wasn't able to be entered, even just to take a look around. The age on the weekends is 25+, but it is also at the bouncer's discretion... it seemed as though there was a younger crowd last night and it threw off the vibe a bit. The dress code is "casual, but nice", but they don't really enforce the "nice" part. Again, didn't match the vibe. I had emailed ahead of time asking about how reservations worked and was assured as a party of 2, especially earlier in the evening, there would be plenty of room - while that was correct, I didn't think I was going to be standing. All the tables (including a small couch that would hold 2-3 people, when reservations were only accepted for 5 or more) were "reserved". I knew that the drinks were served in teacups, but they were small and filled with ice as well. I don't believe you get the value for what you pay for. The surrounding area is also not the nicest. Unless you're a fan of Mexican or pizza, there really isn't any place to sit down and eat prior to/after your visit. Overall, nice concept, but it is overhyped. read more

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Friendly spacious speakeasy with good prices and music, nice place for hanging out with friends to enjoy some drinks. 25+ years is required on the weekends which creates a much different vibe than the other bars in the area which are full of college kids, imo a very good alternative if you want to avoid a drunk and noisy crowd. Bartenders were nice but not consistent with drink preparation, I ordered the same drink 3 times and each time it tasted different. The cups they use to serve the drinks are cute but small and with the amount of ice they served I saw a lot of cocktail getting thrown away from the mixers because it couldn't fit the cup. Not sure why they would rather served you ice instead of the drink that was already prepared. The cocktails list is short and precise with very interesting options, beer and draft beer is not listed in their menu but is also available. Music was good, the DJ made a good curation that didn't sound like radio hits, music was cheerful and enjoyable but not obvious. If you want a table I would recommend making a reservation as is not first come first served and even if you arrive early and spot a table you might be asked to move in order to accommodate a reservation later on. I enjoyed this place mostly because everyone was very friendly and I appreciate that more than whatever wasn't perfect, hospitality in NY has become brutality and finding a place where they still treat people with kindness is hard these days, so for that I'm pretty sure I'll be coming back. read more

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A true speakeasy in NYC! I won't tell you how to get there from the street... Sometimes there is an attendant outside to help you find it, otherwise best of luck. Their specialty drink list is wonderful and creative, the rest of their drinks are subpar. I can highly recommend for the atmosphere, and their lounge. I heard you can make reservations and will be trying so soon. There is live jazz on Mondays with no cover, which is our best NYC tip! Lots of dancing and wonderful bands. I would come every week if I could. read more

It's a cool speakeasy. Very crowded and almost impossible to find a seat. Bouncer kept telling my husband to take his hat off even though other people had hats on?? Worth a stop but I wouldn't go back. read more

The Back Room - Drinks served in coffee cups - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

Don't bother- Rude musician lectured my wife and I about how people stand too close to "her area" every week (nobody was playing yet). You'll walk through an alley to get in and overpay for average drinks. Try Madame George uptown instead! read more

The Back Room has been around in the Lower East Side for a while. To reach this speakeasy, you have to find a small hidden gate, then head down the steps and through an alley. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of the place, especially their cocktails, which are all served in teacups. If I do go, I stick to ordering the Penicillin--it's the only one I'd recommend. read more

Pretty decent speakeasy type set up on the LES. Decor and ambiance are sadly better than the limited drink menu. There are only a small offering of pre-batched cocktails available although you can order others. Seating was comfortable as we had made reservations be be advised there is a minimum per hour or bottle service required. Staff was friendly and the prices were okay. read more

Speakeasy where they serve you the drinks in teacups. Music was good. Drinks were good. It's good if you want to have a different experience. read more

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very cute little speakeasy. they still use teacups here! pretty good drinks. open space like you're hanging out in someone's home. i also love that the names of the drinks really do suggest they are non-alcoholic the way i imagine they were named during the prohibition era. i haven't seen another speakeasy bar do that anywhere yet and i've been to quite a few. a fav of all the speakeasies i've been to because it really does feel like i'm tucked away somewhere to have an innocent little drink. service: when the bartender set my drink on the counter my friend noticed there was a chip in the glass and immediately told the bartender. they apologized and remade the drink. good service. read more

The Backroom is a great place to take a friend from out of town. It's an old timy speakeasy from the 20s that hasn't changed since its construction. There are two levels and a few different rooms. It's one of my favorites because it's featured in an episode of Broad City where we are introduced to Val(Abby's drunken ego). We came by on a Saturday night and a Monday night to see the difference. Both nights were very fun great martinis but bartenders could have been friendlier. Portion size for the price wasn't great but this was due to the glassware they used to make the speakeasy vibe authentic. The performances were great. Great jazz and dancing on the Monday but the Saturday was just regular DJ music. We will be stopping by again in a few months for a follow up and a video will be posted via TikTok and Insta read more

"Val about townnnn, town about Vallll" went here to tickle that Broad City fan itch and don't regret it. My drink came in a tea cup, neat! The bouncer was nice but overall they're very particular about where people are sitting and whether you can put your jacket down or not. The drink we got had vodka in it. It was cheap vodka (kinda wish they had asked what kind of vodka we'd want) but it was a heavy heavy pour and sweet. Nice for what it was and then left. Worth checking out. read more

The Back Room - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

Came here for a friend's birthday party on a Saturday night. We had the very back room rented out which you can get into from a bookshelf which was very cool. The room itself was quite small with a smattering of couches and a bed in the back. The seats/bed were very comfy. They serve all of their drinks in tea cups. I got a sprite since I don't really drink but it was pretty flat. They really blare the music in the room as well so it is difficult to hear anyone if you are anywhere near the speakers. The experience of going into the speakeasy though was very cool. It is also very easy to miss the entrance because there is just one bouncer standing next to a small gate asking for your ID. Then he ushers you down some steep steps and you walk through a narrow alley to another building which houses The Back Room. The time sent in the Back Room was enjoyable but apart from the bookshelf/entrance into the speakeasy nothing else really stands out. read more

Music 8/10 - pop, hip hop, and afrobeats - was pleasantly surprised it wasn't just pop music. Me and my friend have different music tastes and we were both happy with it. Interior 10/10 - classy, sexy vibes. velvet couches and walls, chandeliers everywhere. prettiest speakeasy I've been to!! Also, this was an actual speakeasy during prohibition times! Drinks 7.5/10- pretty good, but there was too much ice and the teacups were very plain. I wish they had teacups with different designs and garnished them for a better presentation. Still good though! The bartender was also very nice. Fridays and Saturday are for ages 25+ only read more

The Back Room - ambiance - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

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One of my favorite speakeasy because of the decor, such a cozy vibe. The oldest bar in town. Would recommend for them to add more seating, there is literally such less. The service is not the best tbh. Drinks are very good read more

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Definitely went all out for Halloween! This review is a little bit late, but deserved for this bar. I hadn't been here in several years but I was so happy to see it has stayed true to what it always was: a great place to chill with friends, with a great playlist and some interesting characters. I believe it is one of the few NYC bars that survived the prohibition era, so definitely worth visiting if you like all things 1920s. The only downside is the limited drink menu, I think it is a missed opportunity given the amazing theme and ambiance of this place. read more

The Back Room - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

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I had no idea I was going to come to this speakeasy two nights in a row, as from the moment I stepped in the space, I immediately felt welcomed and the space was peaceful. I would definitely recommend getting 1-2 drinks in their teacup glassware, to either come for a chill night over the weekend, or to come for an eventful night, such as their live jazz performances. The only thing to note is that this place is cash only, and there is an ATM in the back if needed. read more

The Back Room - Lounges Near Me - New York, New York

The Back Room is an authentic speakeasy cocktail bar that is a welcome change of pace from the more pretentious one's around the city! This is one of two speakeasy cocktail bars in NYC that was actually open through the prohibition period. The tradition is kept alive here with teacup cocktails in a living room environment and special hidden parties. One of the main things I like about the Back Room when we went is that it feels like you are actually hidden away and part of a community. We went on a Sunday evening where The Poetry Brothel was taking over! There were magic trick performers, tarot card readings, boutique items for sale, poetry reciting, dancing, Christmas music, and some special deliveries from a scantly clad Amazon mailman! It was a fun night all around here and the cocktails were really good and not overly priced or served with a disregard for service. The bar staff was welcoming and attentive, too! All in all, it was very exciting to find this place because I feel like it was a refreshing reminder of what I originally enjoyed about speakeasies in NYC...unpretentious, no long wait to get in, an adventure to arrive at the entrance, and a good crowd of fellow speakeasy-ers! read more

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