George Bang Bang — Restaurant in New York

Where do I start with this place? It wouldn't be fair to say what the average spend is on this place - because I spend half my paycheck here. Every detail, from the cocktails to the presentation, to the red velvety dark interior that looks like you are on the set of the Moulin Rouge...on every level - this place blows my mind. Nestled behind a Korean soup spot that deserves its own review, GBB hides behind an unassuming door. I know what you might be thinking - great, just what New York needs...another effing kitschy speakeasy where you have to jump through hoops for 30 min with some dumb password you find off of a scavenger hunt after dialing in through a defunct laundromat (JUST GET ME MY DAMN DRINK)...but not GBB. No way. Just open the door and find yourself immediately transported behind velvet curtains, deep red ambiance, ornate furniture and carvings, and sexy jazz numbers hovering in the air. The solid wood bar lures you in and you feel like you are in a classic cocktail bar somewhere in Japan's bygone era, bathed in a red glow from the velvet backbar.

Although that alone is enough to get you through the door for a surefire way to impress your date or friends, it really is all about the drinks, and Alex, owner and operator, does it absolutely right.

You are not going to find frilly fires and pyrotechnics. No floating bubbles of nonsense popping in your face and no laundry list of ingredients that some Swedish handmaiden hand plucked from a rare patch of grasslands in the mountains... nope.

JUST. GOOD. DRINKS. Innovation and creativity meets mastery at GBB. Not relying on tricks, the drinks have to stand up to their integrity and these drinks do just that. GBB's inspiration comes from film - an inspiration for Alex. Drinks like Don Corleone set the tone with rosemary smoke and a house made chocolate garnish that you bite, drink, bite to your heart's delight. King Kong and Farinelli are must haves for a sweeter night cap...King Kong showing off flavours of toasted sesame and peanut butter - like a way more advanced White Russian. Ingredients show up that most everyone have in their fridge but are presented in new ways, like on the Most Beautiful Moment in Life, and it's tangy delicious cream cheese foam.

The staff follows suit, dressed in classic attire and are so kind and generous to each patron.

For me, I always start with a classic Negroni before I take a dive into Hollywood Land...because Alex - without a shadow of a doubt, makes the best Negroni in Manhattan....

Had an absolutely incredible night at George Bang Bang! From the moment we walked through the hidden entrance behind Okdongsik, the atmosphere was pure magic - dimly lit with that authentic speakeasy vibe, vintage decor, and the perfect intimate setting.

What made this evening truly special was our server Kevin. This gentleman is the definition of professionalism and genuine hospitality. Kevin’s approach to service was refreshingly authentic - he spoke with such professionalism while maintaining that warm, personal touch that makes you feel like a valued guest rather than just another customer.

Here’s what really impressed me: I actually remembered Kevin from another bar where I had the pleasure of experiencing his exceptional bartending skills. His cocktail craftsmanship was absolutely phenomenal back then, and I was thrilled to see him working at George Bang Bang! Unfortunately, during our visit, Kevin was serving rather than bartending, so I couldn’t sample his incredible drink-making abilities again.

The Experience: The hidden entrance through Okdongsik adds such a fun, mysterious element Dark, intimate atmosphere with oil lamps and vintage touches Professional service that goes above and beyond Extensive cocktail menu with creative, well-crafted drinks

My Hope for George Bang Bang:
I sincerely hope the management considers allowing Kevin to showcase his bartending talents again. His cocktail skills are truly remarkable, and I know other patrons would love to experience his creative mixology. The bar already has an outstanding reputation for craft cocktails, and Kevin’s bartending expertise would only elevate that experience further.

Final Thoughts:

George Bang Bang has everything going for it - the perfect speakeasy atmosphere, excellent service, and quality cocktails. With Kevin’s genuine professionalism in service and his proven bartending skills, this place is destined to remain one of NYC’s premier cocktail destinations. I’ll definitely be back, and I’m crossing my fingers that next time I’ll get to try one of Kevin’s signature creations behind the bar!

Highly recommended for: Date nights, special occasions, anyone seeking an authentic speakeasy experience with top-tier service.

Can’t wait to return and hopefully experience Kevin’s bartending...

George Bang Bang (GBB) is a hidden speakeasy-style cocktail bar located at 13 E 30th Street in Manhattan’s Koreatown, discreetly nestled behind the Michelin-recommended Korean restaurant Okdongsik. 

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🍸 Cocktails & Menu

GBB is renowned for its inventive, Asian-inspired cocktails that lean toward sweet and botanical flavors. Signature drinks include the “Juliet of the Spirits”, a mezcal-based cocktail, and the “500 Days of Summer”, featuring pear liqueur and soju. While some patrons find the cocktails delightful, others note that certain drinks may have a lower alcohol content and variable quality.   

The bar also offers unique snacks like honey butter chips and house-made beef jerky, complementing the drink menu. 

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🕯️ Ambiance & Design

Designed by Two Point Zero Studio, GBB exudes a moody, vintage charm with dark wood interiors, oil lamps, and high ceilings. The bar features a sunken design, allowing bartenders to serve guests seated on regular chairs, enhancing the intimate experience. A record player spinning big band jazz adds to the nostalgic atmosphere.  

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💬 Guest Feedback • “Amazing speakeasy bar. Came here so spontaneous, and not disappointed.”  • “Pretty cool spot and good drinks. The Juliet of the Spirits is great if you like mezcal.”  • “Cool speakeasy experience! The entrance is hidden inside of a restaurant which is a really fun twist.” 

While the ambiance and cocktails receive high praise, some guests mention that the space can feel cramped, especially for larger groups, and note the lack of coat hangers. 

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📍 Practical Info • Address: 13 E 30th St, New York, NY 10016  • Hours: Monday–Sunday, 6 PM – 2 AM  • Reservations: Recommended, especially for groups. Book via Resy.   • Website: gbbnyc.com • Instagram: @gbbnewyork

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George Bang Bang offers a unique, intimate setting for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a hidden gem in NYC. Its combination of inventive drinks, cozy ambiance, and speakeasy allure makes it a noteworthy destination in the city’s...