Do you want find a place which is not just an unsafe but also a venue that tolerates violence, discrimination, and intimidation? Schmuck is definitely the best choice. Here are some reasons.
Violent Assault by Security Staff Our group of three visited this bar for drinks. One of our friends stepped outside for a smoke, and when he tried to return, the bouncer refused him entry, demanding he rejoin the line. Our friend decided to leave instead and attempted to wave at us through the open door to inform us. Misinterpreting this as an attempt to sneak back in—despite him never stepping inside—the bouncer violently tackled him to the ground, pinning him down and choking him. This resulted in our friend bleeding from his hand and suffering a mild concussion, requiring emergency medical attention. In the process, an innocent bystander was also knocked over. We immediately called the police, and after multiple witnesses confirmed the assault, the bouncer was arrested on the spot and is now facing prosecution by the district attorney.
Blatant Racial Discrimination by Management After the attack, we (all Asian) attempted to resolve the issue with the bar’s manager and owner, requesting an apology from the bouncer. They outright refused, denying any wrongdoing. However, when a White woman—an unrelated bystander—offered to testify on our behalf, their attitude instantly changed. They repeatedly apologized and promised a fair resolution, asking us to wait outside. Once the woman left, they kept us waiting indefinitely. When I went back inside to follow up, they dismissed us, claiming they were “too busy with customers” and told us to return the next day. This clear racial bias and deceptive behavior are completely unacceptable.
Intimidation and Threats After the Incident After the police arrested the bouncer, the bar’s owner began filming us with his phone. When we politely asked why, he responded in an aggressive and hostile manner, insisting it was his “right to record.” This felt like a direct attempt to intimidate and threaten us, making us fear potential online harassment or further retaliation.
This establishment is not just unprofessional—it is outright dangerous. If you value your safety and dignity, stay far away...
Read moreThis isn’t your average cocktail bar—Schmucks is a bold, irreverent, and elevated drinking experience wrapped in downtown edge. From the moment you walk in, you know you’re somewhere special: the lighting is moody, the music is vibey, and the energy feels like a wild night in Barcelona landed in the East Village.
🍸 The Cocktails • Inventive, layered, and impeccably balanced—each drink feels like it belongs in a gallery. • The menu changes often, but always pushes creative boundaries while keeping things fun. • Presentation is playful but never gimmicky—expect elegance with a wink.
👨🔬 Service & Staff • The bartenders are world-class: fast, sharp, and deeply knowledgeable. They’re happy to guide you through the menu or freestyle something based on your tastes. • No attitude—just confidence and precision.
🎭 The Vibe • Think upscale cocktail bar with a punk rock soul. The space is stylish but doesn’t take itself too seriously. • It’s loud, social, and designed for people who love to drink well and party better. • Perfect for a date, late-night hang, or impressing out-of-towners who think they’ve “seen NYC.”
💵 Prices • Cocktails are in the $16–$20 range, and worth every cent for the quality and experience. • You’re not here for cheap drinks—you’re here for world-class cocktails in a space that feels alive.
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Bottom Line: Schmucks is where top-tier mixology meets rebellious energy. It’s high-end without being stiff, playful without being sloppy. If you love cocktails and nightlife, this...
Read moreI was very excited to try this place out after not being able to get in their first week of opening. We were able to sit down, in the ‘living room’, as soon as we walked in, but we were met by a strange smell. A bit musty and unsettling. I’m not sure if it was just that day or if it is always there. Regardless, the drinks we got were very creative and unlike anything I’ve had before. We got the bread and tomatoes, which for a loss of words, tasted exactly like bread and tomatoes. I was shocked. I would recommend it if you want something new to try, but I’m happy to never have it again. It is more savory and has the taste of a very flavorful spiked broth. The second drink we got was recommended by our server, Camillo, from the ‘kitchen’, it was strawberries and cheese. They were inspired by the ratatouille scene where Remy eats strawberries and cheese together and it was definitely a party in my mouth to say the least. This was my top drink of the night. I would highly recommend. Camillo was such a wonderful aid in helping us figure out what drinks to try throughout the night.
The scene was very hip and cool. It had that East village funk that only comes with bars that have been around for a while. Couches along the wall and many architectural components that will start a conversation. Overall, I’m happy I was able to try this place. It excites me when a bar experiments outside of the norm and this place is doing just that. I’m excited to see where they continue to go in the...
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