The Garret — Restaurant in New York

Listen, the bartenders are awesome and the service is always great here. But, if you’re looking for a cool downtown spot without having to maneuver around a bunch of stuck up finance bros trying to impress their dates by going to a speakeasy, this is not the bar for you. There was never a specific dress code when I started going to this neat little bar, but in my most recent visit I was greeted with nothing but judgmental looks from the other patrons. I remember trying to squeeze closer to the bar to order my drink and as I said excuse me to another gentlemen, he and his (I assume) girlfriend looked me up and down with a look that said, “what are you doing at this place?” I immediately felt unwelcomed so I finished the drink I had ordered and left as fast as I could. I wish I could say other patrons were more friendly, but in my assumption of a table getting up, my friend and I were rudely pushed out of the way to lose the table to a group of bros that didn’t even have drinks. Maybe I’m just old fashioned, but it seems like this bar has attracted mannerless, elitist types who are at this great speakeasy just cus it’s trending for the moment. I hope that it’s still as cool in its slower times of the week as I remember the first time I came here. It used to be such a great vibe, with chill music, great cocktails and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Now a days I’m not so sure. Again, the drinks and bartender were incredible. Even under the pressure of how busy it was, my bartender greeted me with a smile and made my drink in a timely manner and it was delicious. I’ll try you again garret but maybe midweek in...

Probably the worst place in the West Village. This rude place doesn't even deserve 1 star as it discriminates against any person that does not fit their all american white criteria. I was dressed very well and was in line to meet my friend who was already at the bar- the bouncer took one look at me and quickly stated that there was a private event going on and no more people were allowed in. It took me by surprise, but I stepped aside anyway and ordered a soda from Five Guys. People came in and there was quickly a long line again. It was obvious that these people were not all attending the same 'private event' as they were in different small groups , some were trashed more than others as if they were bar hopping. I went up to the guy and asked what the event was for. He immediately tried to intimidate me by screaming at me to get out. I stood my ground and told him it was now obvious he was not letting me in because I was short and brown (although I'm a good looking guy), and that I was not going anywhere because I was technically in another business (Five Guys). He stood up from his stool as to attempt to challenge me with the huge difference in height and mass. between us. It was by far the worst experience I have ever had in NYC nightlife. Definitely do not waste your time or money going to this douchey place. There are way better options in the neighborhood than this fishing for...

This is the speakeasy that's above a Five Guys. You go through the restaurant toward the back, and there's usually someone sitting there who will either wave you upstairs, make you show your ID, or tell you it's too crowded and you have to hang out and wait.

We were given the wave up and went straight to the bar. My partners in crime ordered Vodka Sodas or Manhattans or something classic like that. I spotted this slender foamy green drink that looked just lovely and pointed to it and said, "I'll have that." No clue what it was, but later found out it was called The First Lady, and it has matcha green tea (call me basic, but cue heart eyes).

The place was rollicking on a Friday evening, and we even spotted a few people that we saw at the place we were at before (Bandits). Again, later I found out they share the same owner, so maybe that's why? Anyway, a nice couple offered us their AMAZING corner couch seats as they were leaving, so we could enjoy our drinks, our bubbly conversations, and also a great view!

Overall, we had a great experience, and I would love to come back. Just know that this place has more of a "bar" feel than a "speakeasy" -- it's more bustling and energetic than it is cool...