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Thu / Feb 21
Party Earth Review It may be an ordinary coffee shop by day, but it’s the not-so-covertly hidden speakeasy in back that draws the real thirsty crowd to Bathtub Gin at night. Come 6pm, the bouncer makes the joint look like the most exclusive... ... read full review
132 9th Avenue
New York, NY 10011
A, C, E, L: 14th Street / 8th Avenue; A, C, E: 23rd Street / 8th Avenue; F, L, M: 14th Street / 6 Avenue
646-559-1671
M–W 6pm–2am, Th–Sa 6pm–4am, Su 11am–2am
Chelsea / Flatiron, New York –
It may be an ordinary coffee shop by day, but it’s the not-so-covertly hidden speakeasy in back that draws the real thirsty crowd to Bathtub Gin at night.
Come 6pm, the bouncer makes the joint look like the most exclusive café in town, but patrons entering into this 1920s-styled watering hole aren’t looking for cappuccinos.
The walls are covered in damask detail, the warm lamps are fringed, and the crowd tucked around the cozy black-lacquered tables and silk couches is a mix of the curious, the connoisseurs, and young party types who don’t mind a mildly discerning doorman.
Exclusivity isn’t what the venue’s about, though the host of creative cocktails whipped up by expert mixologists usually attracts a classy crowd.
That doesn’t stop patrons from climbing into the vintage copper tub in the room’s center after a few too many gin martinis, of course, or from getting frisky during Sunday’s regular burlesque show, or making use of what little open space is available on a busy night when dance music turns up after dinner hours.
The secret is long out on Bathtub Gin, but with a host of tasty shareable plates like lamb ribs and crab-stuffed mushrooms to go with the drinks, it’s a great place to enjoy an old fashioned date and chill with friends – and then stick around for a good old modern party.
Couples on dates, dressed down finance guys, cocktail hounds, folks who aren’t tired of the speakeasy craze, creative suits, and a younger/rowdier crowd on the weekends, 20s to 40s+.
Jazz earlier in the evening. DJ spins a little of everything including rock, house, and dance Th–Sa. Burlesque show last Sunday of every month.
Assortment of small plates including pork tacos, truffle mushroom gnocchi, and mini burgers, and a small selection of desserts including toast-your-own s’mores.
Brunch on Sundays is a prix fixe deal that includes one item off the menu – egg dishes, salmon scramble, hummus plate, and other brunch standards – and a mimosa or Bloody Mary. Food served until a half hour before closing.
No cover charge. Brunch prix fixe $20, plates $5–$18, desserts $5–$9. Beer $8–$14, wine $11–$16/glass or $55–$80/bottle, cocktails $14–$16, champagne $13–$25/glass or $65–$200/bottle.
Classy: suits, cool vintage wear, Brooks Brothers button-downs, sequined skirts, 1920s flapper dresses. A little more Ed Hardy and mini-miniskirts on the weekends.
Early in the week for an intimate date or chill gathering with friends, Thursdays through Saturdays for more of a party scene, or the last Sunday of the month for the burlesque show.
Tippler (425 West 15th Street) is another popular speakeasy tucked beneath the famed Chelsea Market, so patrons can stock up on fresh produce before enjoying some fresh cocktails.
Bathtub Gin User Reviews