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Employees Only

VENUE REVIEW

Employees Only

New York City — West Village

GERALD'S VERDICT

COCKTAILS

9.5/10

ATMOSPHERE

9.2/10

SERVICE

9.0/10

OVERALL

9.3/10

ADDRESS

510 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Late evenings, especially weekdays, for a classic speakeasy experience.

MUST ORDER

EO Espresso Martini, Ginger Smash

PRICE POINT

$$$$

Employees Only isn't just a bar; it's a pilgrimage for the discerning drinker. Tucked away in the West Village, this speakeasy-style institution has perfected the art of the cocktail, delivering liquid masterpieces with a wink and a nod to a bygone era. Forget your trendy, neon-lit concoctions; here, tradition reigns supreme, and every sip is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to quality. It's a place where the spirits are as strong as the stories, and the atmosphere is as intoxicating as the drinks themselves.

THE DRINKS

The cocktail menu at Employees Only is a masterclass in balance and flavor. The **EO Espresso Martini** is a revelation, a perfectly calibrated blend of Grey Goose, fresh espresso, and a whisper of cinnamon that will both invigorate and delight. For something with a bit more zing, the **Ginger Smash** is a vibrant concoction of muddled ginger, fresh pineapple, rum, and maraschino liqueur – a true tropical escape in a glass. And, of course, no visit is complete without sampling their impeccable **Manhattan**, a timeless classic executed with flawless precision. Each drink is a journey, a testament to the bartenders' deep understanding of their craft.

THE ATMOSPHERE

Step through the velvet curtains and into a world of hushed conversations, flickering candlelight, and the gentle clinking of ice. The atmosphere at Employees Only is undeniably seductive, a perfect blend of intimacy and understated glamour. The dimly lit interior, with its antique decor and plush seating, invites you to linger, to lose track of time, and to truly savor the moment. It's a place where you can feel both completely at ease and utterly transported, a rare feat in the bustling heart of New York City. The energy is sophisticated yet unpretentious, making it ideal for a romantic rendezvous or an intimate gathering with close friends.

GERALD'S FINAL WORD

"Employees Only is a masterclass in timeless elegance and impeccable libations – a true New York City gem."

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