ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Long Island City
Master Critic Review
The Newsroom
8.3
A speakeasy-leaning cocktail destination with a polished, mood-forward room that works best as a pre-dinner anchor or a full night built around drinks and bites. The right play is to treat it like an experience: arrive early, order two signature cocktails, and add a small plate to keep the pacing clean.
Must-Try Dishes:
Latin-leaning small plates, House cocktail program, Late-night bar snacks
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A true speakeasy-style cocktail room with a full experience vibe.
Who should go: Cocktail lovers and date-night planners
When to visit: Early evening for easier entry and best pacing
What to order: Two house cocktails, one small plate, one snack
Insider tip: Start early, then keep it to two cocktails and one bite for balance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Dutch Kills is possible but competitive after 6pm; plan to circle or use nearby paid garages if arriving later.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine, but a polished top or jacket fits the room better.
Noise level: Moderate—music and crowd energy are present, but conversation is still comfortable at the table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—primarily an evening cocktail spot
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—small plates and snacks with vegetarian-friendly options are available.
Vegan options: Limited—some cocktails and a couple of small bites can work, but choices are narrow.
Gluten-free options: Limited—cocktails are the safest bet; food options may require asking the staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—low lighting, strong cocktails, and a contained menu make it ideal for conversation without pressure to commit to a full dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes if you arrive early; later in the evening you may wait, but bar seating turns over steadily.
Is it kid-friendly? No—this is an adult-oriented cocktail lounge best suited for 21+ evenings.
Best For
Better for: Mood-driven cocktails, date-night atmosphere, and a speakeasy-style experience that feels intentional rather than casual.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for a full dinner menu, quick bites, or a loud party-bar scene—choose a restaurant-forward spot instead.