Bon Courage: A Speakeasy Bar in Tribeca, New York City

Bon Courage Introduce

In the heart of Tribeca, a neighborhood known for its unique blend of historic charm and modern sophistication, lies a hidden gem that promises to transport you far from the bustling streets of New York City. Bon Courage, a speakeasy bar nestled beneath the acclaimed 1803 NYC restaurant, is designed to evoke the vibrant and soulful spirit of New Orleans. With a name that translates to "good courage" in French, this establishment aims to be a cool fusion of NYC chic and New Orleans heat, offering an escape into a world of jazz, unique cocktails, and a cozy ambiance. Its discreet entrance and intimate setting make it a perfect hideaway for those looking for a sophisticated and quiet night out away from the mainstream crowds.

Bon Courage is not just a place for drinks; it is part of a larger concept that pays homage to the culinary treasures and rich culture of NOLA. While the bar's primary focus is on its extensive drink menu, the connection to 1803 NYC ensures a level of quality and atmosphere that is intended to be both immersive and memorable. The speakeasy setup, with its secret entrance, adds an element of adventure and exclusivity to the experience, making it a favorite for those in the know. The bar’s chic ambiance and dedicated space are designed to be an ultimate hideaway, creating a unique nightlife destination in the downtown area. It is a place that strives to offer a slice of the Big Easy, right here in the Big Apple.

Bon Courage is located at 78 Reade St, a prime address in the Tribeca South Historic District. This location is easily accessible from multiple parts of the city, making it a convenient destination for a night out. The bar is situated near several major subway stations, including those serving the A, C, 1, 2, and 3 lines, which are all within a short walking distance. The proximity to these transit hubs ensures that whether you're coming from Midtown, Brooklyn, or anywhere else in the city, getting to Bon Courage is straightforward. The street itself, with its historic architecture, provides a beautiful backdrop for a night out. The establishment also strives to be accessible to all patrons, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for every guest.

Bon Courage prides itself on a wide variety of services and offerings, with a strong focus on its impressive beverage program. The menu is a highlight, featuring a range of meticulously crafted drinks and a selection of food options that complement the libations. Here's a closer look at what they offer:

Specialty Cocktails: The cocktail menu is a major draw, with creative and unique concoctions that pay tribute to New Orleans. Drinks like the "Hurricane," "Legba's Potion," and "Tribeca In Manhattan" showcase a blend of classic and innovative mixology. There is also a variety of mocktails and non-alcoholic options available.
Beer, Wine, and Spirits: The bar offers an extensive selection of beer, wine, and liquor. The wine list includes sparkling, rosé, white, red, and skin-contact wines from various regions. The beer selection features both local and international brews, and the spirits list includes premium brands of vodka, tequila, whiskey, and gin, available for both by-the-glass and bottle service.
Food at the Bar: As a speakeasy attached to 1803 NYC, Bon Courage offers a variety of food options. While some reviews mention that the food may be available as part of a larger menu from the restaurant upstairs, the offerings include dishes that are designed to pair with drinks, making it possible to have a light bite or a full meal.
Private Events: The intimate setting of Bon Courage makes it an ideal location for private events and gatherings. The space can be reserved for parties and special occasions, providing an exclusive and memorable experience for guests.

While Bon Courage's atmosphere and menu are often praised, it's important to provide a comprehensive and factual overview, including highlights and potential drawbacks as reflected in public feedback. Here's an honest assessment:

Ambiance and Decor: Many customers find the bar's interior to be "beautiful" and "stunning." The chic and cozy atmosphere creates a great backdrop for a date, a special event, or a night out. The speakeasy concept adds a sense of exclusivity and charm that is a definite highlight.
Great Bartenders and Drinks: Reviews consistently highlight the quality of the drinks and the friendliness of the bartenders. The "great cocktails" are a key feature, and the service from the bar staff is often described as "great and friendly," demonstrating their skill and professionalism.
Challenges with Management and Service: It is important for potential visitors to be aware of some public feedback regarding the management. Some reviews mention negative experiences, including perceived disrespectful behavior from a manager and issues with a reservation, as well as an "unpleasant service experience" from a waitress. These instances, as reported, have led to significant dissatisfaction among some customers. It is advisable to take note of this when planning a visit, especially for special occasions.
Accepts Reservations: For those planning a night out, the ability to make reservations is a key feature, helping to ensure a spot in this popular and intimate space. However, as noted in a public review, it's important to confirm all details to avoid potential misunderstandings.

For more information or to inquire about a visit, you can contact the bar directly:

Address: 78 Reade St, New York, NY 10007, USA

Phone: (212) 267-3000

Bon Courage is worth choosing for those who are seeking a unique and intimate bar experience in the heart of Tribeca. Its speakeasy concept, coupled with a menu of creative, high-quality cocktails, provides a refreshing alternative to the city's larger, more bustling venues. The aesthetic appeal of the space and the skill of its bartenders are undeniable draws. For a night out with friends or a significant other, the chic, cozy, and trendy atmosphere offers a great setting. However, it is also important to consider the mixed public feedback regarding service. For a visitor, this information is crucial for setting expectations and planning a visit. If you prioritize a unique ambiance and skillfully made drinks and are prepared to navigate the possibility of a mixed service experience, Bon Courage offers an adventurous and memorable choice in downtown NYC.

Bon Courage Photos

Bon Courage Location

Bon Courage

New York New York County New York Reade Street

78 Reade St, New York, NY 10007, USA

Bon Courage Reviews

I have never left a bad review before. I went to this bar for my friend’s birthday party, who made a reservation in advanced, and was told the space was double booked on the week of the event. So a deal was worked out that we would come later and the bar will close at 1 am and not 12 am. At 12:10 AM, all of a sudden, the music stopped and the manager is yelling at everyone to get out and speaking to my friends in a very disrespectful manner. I will never suggest anyone to come here or 1803 in the future. The bartenders were great and friendly. The problem was the manager who clearly knew that the party was supposed to end at 1 am, accused the entire party of being drunkingly, and spoke very disrespectfully to everyone. He was bitching about working for 14 hours. My friend was in tears on her birthday.
September 09 · Jessica Currie
Unpleasant service experience. The waitress seemed perturbed by our presence from the start and only checked on us once. We were quiet and respectful so I’m not sure what the issue was. When we closed out, she watched over our shoulders as each of us gave our tips, thanking only the one who gave 20% and taking the card reader without a word from the two of us who gave 18% (which still felt generous given her apparent annoyance with us throughout our time there). She then told us at 11:55 that they were closed when they close at 12:00.
November 09 · Jillian Paige
So happy a new Speakeasy/jazz bar opened😊Located on the lower level of 1803, the bar is very intimate and very cool with amazing decor.My drink was ok but i wanna go back to try more.They will have live misic from the 27th of February around 8.30pm to celebrate Mardi Grass.
February 23 · Kiariladyboss
We were very excited to check out this new speakeasy bar, having been to over 60 in NYC, but left disappointed with the service.We called the day before to make a reservation for drinks. They told us there was a private event until 9pm, and the bar would be open to the public afterwards. We got there at 9:15, and the hostess told us that the bar was going to close after the private event but needed to confirm with the manager. The manager came and said we can order drinks as long as we don’t mind sharing the bar with the private party. But when we tried to order drinks, the bartender said the register was closed because of the private party. After about 20mins of confusion, the bartender said she was getting conflicting messages between the managers, apologized, and gave us a drink.I liked the tropical decor with New Orleans theme, but the place seemed very disorganized and gave customers conflicting messages.
March 17 · Yilin Zhang
Totally disappointing. Went there for dinner. The server was extremely rude. Was told we had to leave in an hour and a half. Very rarely came to our table to take order. Ordered a Tito cosmopolitan and had to send it back. All you tasted was lime juice, enough to make you pucker. Awful.The spinach and artichoke dip tasted like dirty grass. The Cajun shrimp was just ok. Asked for a burger medium rare, got it and it was cooked well . Asked for coffee. Got the coffee right away but waited 10 minutes for the milk. Hence, had iced coffee. Never again will this establishment get any of my money. Save yourself grief and aggravation.
January 26 · Marc Rybstein