For more pictures and videos from this amazing location, make sure to check out my I G lawyer.traveler.dreamer.
If you love a good speakeasy and expertly crafted cocktails, Bathtub Gin NYC is a must-visit! Hidden behind an unsuspecting coffee shop in Chelsea, this place instantly transports you to the Roaring Twenties with its dim lighting, vintage decor, and lively jazz-infused ambiance.
From the moment I stepped inside, I felt like I had uncovered one of New York’s best-kept secrets. The atmosphere is both intimate and energetic, making it perfect for a date night or a fun evening with friends. The iconic bathtub centerpiece adds to the speakeasy charm and makes for a fantastic photo op!
Cocktail Standouts
🔥 S’MORES OLD-FASHIONED – Hands down, my favorite of the night! It perfectly captures the essence of s’mores without the campfire mess. Made with Sazerac Rye, bitters, graham crackers, vanilla, and white chocolate, this cocktail is bold, smooth, and indulgently delicious.
🍸 GIN MILL GIMLET – If you love botanical flavors with a refreshing twist, this one’s for you. It features garden gin, fig leaf, yuzu, Coco Lopez, and vanilla, creating a silky yet vibrant cocktail that’s both unique and dangerously easy to sip.
☕ BTG ESPRESSO MARTINI – Not a classic speakeasy drink, but an absolute staple here! Made with Wheatley Vodka, Borghetti Coffee Liqueur, salted maple, vanilla, and Stone St. Coffee, this one was rich, bold, and had the perfect kick to keep the night going.
The Overall Experience
What truly sets Bathtub Gin apart is the live entertainment. Whether it’s jazz, burlesque, or DJ sets, the energy in the room shifts throughout the night, making every visit feel special. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the craft of mixology, which made the experience even better.
Pro Tips for Visiting
📍 Location: 132 9th Ave, Manhattan 🕒 Open nightly 🎶 Entertainment: Live jazz, burlesque, DJ sets 👗 Dress Code: Smart casual ⭐ Pro Tip: Make a reservation or arrive early if you want the full experience without a long wait!
If you’re looking for a hidden speakeasy with top-tier cocktails, great ambiance, and a touch of vintage glam, Bathtub Gin NYC is the place to be. I’ll definitely be back to try more of their...
Read moreBathtub Gin is a not-to-be-missed entertainment and bar (shh!)-- err--- establishment that is a delight to experience. Over the last ten years I've enjoyed at minimum of a dozen visits to this fine "coffee shop" and thoroughly enjoyed each visit, booking reservations for myself, family, friends. The cocktails are unique, delicious and innovative in the high level of mixology at work. The menu has never disappointed and, while a bit abbreviated, offers all that's really necessary (including vegetarian options) that well complement the beverage options, which clearly are the stars of the show. And the entertainment from the burlesque shows on Tuesdays and Saturdays to the other live entertainment/DJ, this establishment knows how to set a mood and deliver on hospitality. On my most recent visit, I did have a concern with one of two reservations booked over the course of the week in NY-- and the timing of the seating and the turn of the table for the first reservation for a show we were enjoying was challenging. While the evening was "off" and the night did not quite meet the expectations of previous visits, we were invited back to the property and shown outstanding service and treatment by management like I've not experienced before. Specifically, Brendan Bartley, General Manager, gave careful and super conscientious attention to ensuring we'd return, which we did and were once again wow'd over the hospitality. In a time when hospitality and repeat visitation at restaurants/bars can be easily overlooked or succumb to inattention, the management team (as well as the servers, greeters, host, and Brendan all went above and beyond to make our second visit as delightful as it was. Hospitality truly means something here-- and Brendan ensures his team makes this high priority. Be sure to enjoy some coffee at Bathtub Gin... and more... book your reservation... it gets quite busy... as you'd imagine, but it's worth the advance reservations and any wait. Outstanding on hospitality and food and libations! Do not miss this place. Looking forward to getting back again soon. Standing ovation to Brandon, Henry, Joe-- (the best greeter for offering coffee and cream at the coffee shop!) and the host team. See you again soon! Jo from...
Read moreI visited Bathtub Gin because a friend wanted to go. Without actively searching for a speakeasy, I wouldn't have expected a bar hidden behind the cafe. They actually serve coffee (though it was closed during my visit), and there was a guard at the entrance, who let us in.
Stepping inside, it was a completely different experience from the cafe side. A clear 1920s vibe dominated the theme, and I even spotted an actual bathtub, which I assume is a nod to the prohibition era when alcohol was famously made in bathtubs. They did an excellent job of staying true to this time period, from the newspaper inspired menu and the coasters to even the bathroom, which I'll get to later.
We ordered several drinks. While I don't recall what my friends had, I got the Gin Mill Gimlet, which was arguably the best one out of all the drinks (everyone agreed) and one I highly recommend. A lot of my friends, however, weren't fans of their choices; one was too spicy, another tasted too much like medicine, and another was overly syrupy. A significant concern arose when a friend who specifically ordered a mocktail version of the Don’t Take Wooden Nickels was mistakenly served the cocktail version. He started feeling the alcohol kick in, and fortunately he was okay, but it could have been genuinely dangerous for people with serious alcohol allergy.
The bathroom was very clean, which was great. However, there was a restroom attendant working outside the stalls, keeping the bathroom tidy. While this was very much on brand for the 1920s speakeasy theme, I personally felt a bit uncomfortable and didn't like that aspect, though I did appreciate the cleanliness.
Despite my friends' drink choices not being the best, and facing some issues with the service (specifically the mocktail mix up), I thoroughly enjoyed my Gin Mill Gimlet. I'd be interested in coming back to try other drinks aside from the ones my friends ordered. The food menu items also look appealing, so I may return to try...
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