Bartender preparing cocktails at a well-stocked bar in a dimly lit setting
Best Cocktails Guide - Discover the world's finest cocktails and the bars that craft them
8.7
speakeasy$$$

Employees Only

Gallery

Illuminated bar counter with various bottles displayed on shelves in New York
Group of bartenders posing in front of a well-stocked bar in New York
Exterior of a dimly lit venue with a red neon psychic sign and green awning in New York
Bartenders working behind a well-lit bar with numerous bottles on shelves in New York
Two cocktails on a bar with a flower and citrus garnish in New York
Dimly lit interior with patrons dining and a cocktail on the table in New York
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Essential Information
Today18:00 - 04:00
Address
510 Hudson St, New York, 10014
Reservations
Walk-ins

Reservations available but not required. Walk-ins are welcome, though wait times may occur during peak hours (approximately 10 minutes on busy Saturday nights). Reservations recommended for guaranteed seating.

Price Range
$$$
About

Employees Only is a legendary speakeasy-style cocktail bar in New York's West Village, offering an unforgettable journey back to the 1920s. Located at 510 Hudson Street, this intimate venue combines vintage elegance with modern mixology expertise. The bar features warm lighting, classic wood panels, and cozy booths that create a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. Known for their outstanding cocktails, each drink is meticulously crafted with creative flavor combinations and beautiful presentation. The talented bartenders, including standout mixologist Kevin, transform every cocktail into a true masterpiece using innovative ingredients and impeccable technique. Beyond exceptional drinks, Employees Only serves high-quality food that exceeds typical bar fare expectations. Open seven nights a week from 6 PM to 4 AM, this iconic establishment welcomes both walk-ins and reservations, making it perfect for date nights, special occasions, or an elevated night out. The attentive service and spectacular ambiance have earned it recognition as one of New York's premier cocktail destinations, though it faces stiff competition in the city's evolving cocktail scene.

Ambiance & Features

Vintage 1920s speakeasy atmosphere with warm lighting, classic wood panels, and cozy booths creating an elegant yet relaxed environment. The interior design transports guests to a bygone era while maintaining modern comfort.

Atmosphere

Vintage
Speakeasy
Intimate
Elegant
Cozy
Romantic
1920s Inspired
Warm lighting
Classic

Noise Level

moderate to lively

Lighting

warm and dim

Features

craft cocktails
food menu
late night hours
bar seating
booth seating
expert bartenders
creative cocktails
classic cocktails
Our Ratings
8.7
/10

Overall Score

Our weighted scoring system

Score Breakdown

Cocktail Quality

9.2

Service

8.8

Ambiance

9.0

Value

7.5

Accessibility

5.0

✗ Not confirmed accessible

Good to Know

Food & Menu

✓ Food menu available

bar food
elevated bar fare

High-quality food that exceeds typical bar fare expectations. Creative, balanced, and beautifully presented cocktails crafted with innovative ingredients and impeccable technique.

What People Say

Overall Sentiment:

very positive

Guests Love

  • Exceptional cocktail quality and creativity
  • Vintage 1920s speakeasy atmosphere
  • Outstanding service and bartender expertise
  • Beautiful presentation
  • Perfect for date nights
  • High-quality food

Other Considerations

  • Can be very crowded, especially on weekends
  • May require wait time without reservation
  • Faces competition from newer cocktail bars in terms of innovation

Location

510 Hudson St, New York, undefined undefined, US

Directions

40.733435, -74.006111