Cubbyhole

- 281 W 12th St, New York, NY 10014

In the heart of New York's historic West Village, Cubbyhole stands out as a legendary institution, a small but mighty bar that is celebrated for its wild, welcoming, and wonderfully queer-friendly atmosphere. This is not just a bar; it's a vibrant safe space and a landmark for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. As a proud LGBTQ+ owned and women-owned business, Cubbyhole has a special place in the city's nightlife landscape. It’s a spot where the decor is a visual feast of rainbows, twinkle lights, and hanging toys, creating an environment that is both wildly imaginative and genuinely cozy.

The atmosphere at Cubbyhole is its defining feature. It is a place of "joyful" energy and a "fantastic vibe," a perfect example of a "queer-friendly dive bar." The decor, while dense, is expertly crafted to create a unique and memorable experience that never feels kitschy. The space is often described as a whirlwind of color and personality, a place where people can truly be themselves. It's an excellent spot for groups, tourists, and anyone looking for a fun and inclusive night out. The bar’s commitment to being a "transgender safe space" further highlights its dedication to providing a welcoming environment for all.

Despite its small size, Cubbyhole is packed with highlights. The bar offers a "great beer selection" with a variety of options on tap and in bottles, including popular choices like "Dyke Beer" and "Brooklyn Pilsner." The "Great cocktails" are also a major draw, with one customer noting that their "Long Island ice tea was $14 and solid. Strong." Beyond the drinks, the bar provides entertainment with "Bar games," "Trivia night," and live performances and music. An "electric jukebox" adds to the retro, fun vibe. While the space is compact, leading to a "shoulder-to-shoulder" experience on busy nights, the energy and atmosphere are infectious, making it a place where a close crowd is part of the fun.

It is important to note that Cubbyhole is a cash-only establishment, a throwback to classic dive bar traditions. This is a key piece of information for first-time visitors to ensure a smooth transaction. The bar also offers Wi-Fi and has a gender-neutral restroom, further demonstrating its modern and inclusive approach.

Cubbyhole is located at 281 W 12th Street, New York, NY 10014, USA. This prime location in the heart of the West Village places it in one of Manhattan's most historic and vibrant neighborhoods. The area is renowned for its lively street life, charming brownstones, and its long-standing history as a hub for LGBTQ+ culture. Its proximity to other popular venues and landmarks makes it a great spot to visit as part of a larger night out in the neighborhood.

Accessibility is a key feature, with a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that the bar is welcoming to all patrons. While parking can be a challenge in the West Village, with only paid street parking available, the neighborhood is very well-served by New York City's public transportation system. The convenient location makes it an easy and fun destination to get to for a night out without a car.

The cozy and intimate nature of the space, while it can get very packed, contributes to its unique charm. It's a place that feels like a hidden gem, where the community and the unique decor create an unforgettable experience. The bar also allows outside food, providing flexibility for guests who want a bite to eat while they enjoy their drinks.

Services Offered:

• Dine-in: Enjoy drinks and the bar's unique atmosphere on-site.
• Delivery: A convenient service for having drinks delivered from the bar.
• Bar Games and Trivia Night: Regular entertainment options for a fun night out.
• Live Music and Performances: The bar hosts various forms of live entertainment, adding to the lively vibe.
• Happy Hour: Specials on drinks and food are offered during happy hour, making it an affordable choice for an after-work outing.

Features / Highlights:

• Iconic Atmosphere: Known for its fantastically wild, dense decor that creates a unique and unforgettable experience.
• Inclusive Safe Space: Identified as an LGBTQ+ owned and women-owned business, it is a well-known transgender safe space and LGBTQ+ friendly establishment.
• Great Drink Selection: A solid selection of beer, cocktails, wine, and hard liquor.
• Fast Service: Despite being a popular spot, the service is praised for being quick and efficient.
• Cash-Only: A unique feature that adds to its classic, no-frills dive bar charm.
• Dog-Friendly: The bar allows outside food, and while not specified, dogs are often welcomed at outdoor seating in this neighborhood.
• Wheelchair Accessible: Ensures the space is accessible to all.

Contact Information:

Address: 281 W 12th St, New York, NY 10014, USA

Phone: (212) 243-9041

What is worth choosing?

Cubbyhole is worth choosing for New Yorkers who are looking for a bar with a truly unique and welcoming personality. Its most compelling draw is its legendary status as a queer-friendly dive bar with a fantastically quirky atmosphere. The sense of community and acceptance is palpable, making it a must-visit for anyone who wants a fun, judgment-free night out. The fact that it is an LGBTQ+ owned and women-owned business adds to its importance as a staple of the West Village.

Beyond the vibe, the bar offers a great selection of drinks at reasonable prices, particularly during happy hour. The entertainment, from bar games and trivia to live music, ensures that there is always something fun happening. While the space is small and can get crowded, this only adds to its intimate and high-energy charm. For a genuine, no-frills, and incredibly joyful bar experience, Cubbyhole is a top-tier choice that promises a night you won't soon forget.

Cubbyhole

281 W 12th St, New York, NY 10014, USA