Please Don't Tell

- 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009

In a city filled with bars, some places become legends not just for what they serve, but for the experience they offer. In the East Village, there is a bar so iconic that its name is a command: Please Don't Tell, or PDT for short. This world-renowned cocktail bar has been a pioneer in the modern speakeasy movement, captivating New Yorkers and visitors with its clandestine entrance and impeccable drinks. From the moment you step into the phone booth inside the hot dog joint next door, you're not just entering a bar—you're stepping into a unique and unforgettable piece of New York City's cocktail history.

PDT has achieved a rare feat: maintaining an aura of exclusivity and a "hidden gem" status while being widely celebrated. It’s a place that effortlessly blends a trendy and upscale vibe with a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a romantic date night or a special outing with friends. The ambiance is relaxed but has a buzzing energy that is truly "spot-on." The focus is on the craft, from the meticulously balanced cocktails to the creative food menu that features gourmet hot dogs and tots. It's this dedication to excellence that has earned PDT a reputation for being a "one-of-a-kind" speakeasy and an "absolute must" for anyone seeking a truly special night out in NYC.

Please Don't Tell is located at 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, USA. Its location is part of its mystique and charm, as the bar itself is not visible from the street. The entrance is cleverly hidden within Crif Dogs, a popular hot dog shop next door. To gain entry, patrons must walk into Crif Dogs and use a vintage phone booth in the corner, which serves as the secret door to the bar. This immersive experience is a key part of the PDT lore and a major draw for both locals and tourists. While the bar’s entrance is unique, it is situated in the heart of the East Village, a neighborhood that is easily accessible by public transportation and is highly walkable. The intimate space has a few seating options at the bar and in booths. While specific accessibility details are not widely available, the nature of the entrance and the intimate layout of the bar may present challenges. However, for those who can navigate the entrance, the bar offers a secluded and sophisticated urban escape.

PDT focuses on a streamlined, high-quality experience centered around its signature drinks and food. The service is fast and attentive, ensuring that once you are seated, your night is smooth and enjoyable. The offerings are curated to provide a top-tier speakeasy experience.

The core services and offerings include:

• Dine-in and Table Service: The only service option is dine-in, as the entire experience is designed to be enjoyed on-site. The space has dedicated seating, either at the bar or at a limited number of tables and booths.
• Craft Cocktails: The main draw of PDT is its expertly crafted cocktails. The menu features a variety of unique and classic drinks, prepared with "creativity and precision." The bartenders are highly knowledgeable and can provide excellent recommendations, ensuring every cocktail is "perfectly balanced and delicious."
• Beer, Wine, and Hard Liquor: While cocktails are the star, the bar also offers a selection of beer, wine, and other hard liquors to cater to all tastes.
• Food at the Bar: In a clever collaboration, PDT serves food from its neighbor, Crif Dogs. The food menu offers a variety of gourmet hot dogs, burgers, and tots, providing the perfect accompaniment to the craft drinks. Menu highlights include the bacon-wrapped CHANG DOG, the B.L.T.A., and various tots, including the indulgent Truffle Shuffle and Nacho Tots.
• Reservations and Waitlist: Due to its limited capacity and high demand, PDT "accepts reservations" and "usually has a wait." Making a reservation is highly recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a spot and avoid a long wait.

Please Don't Tell is celebrated for a combination of features that create its distinctive identity and make it a must-visit destination in NYC. These elements are what elevate the experience from a simple night out to a memorable event.

• The Secret Entrance: The iconic phone booth entrance is the most famous feature of PDT. The thrill of being "let in" through a hidden door adds to the speakeasy charm and makes the visit feel exclusive and special.
• Exceptional Cocktails: The bar is known for having a "great cocktails" program. The bartenders are described as "attentive" and "knowledgeable," and the drinks are praised for being "incredible," "unique," and "memorable." This commitment to mixology is a major reason for its fame.
• Atmosphere and Vibe: The ambiance is a key highlight. Described as "intimate," "stylish," "cozy," "romantic," and "upscale," the setting provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed yet lively evening. The dimly lit space with its unique decor, including taxidermy, creates a distinctive and inviting mood.
• Gourmet Bar Food: The unusual pairing of high-end cocktails with gourmet hot dogs and tots from Crif Dogs is a fun and delicious feature. It provides a casual and satisfying food option that perfectly complements the sophisticated drinks.
• Friendly and Professional Staff: The service is consistently praised as "outstanding." Customers note that the staff is "welcoming," "friendly," and "dialed in," which significantly enhances the overall experience.
• Inclusive Crowd: The bar is noted as being a "transgender safespace," and while it draws tourists, it maintains a friendly, local-feeling atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.

To secure a spot or learn more about this one-of-a-kind bar, you can use the following information:

Address: 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, USA

Choosing to visit Please Don't Tell is a choice to prioritize a truly unique and memorable New York City experience. While the wait for a table can be a challenge, the payoff is more than worth it. What sets PDT apart is its masterful blend of novelty and substance. The speakeasy entrance is not just a gimmick; it’s an integral part of the narrative that makes the night feel like a special event. Once inside, the quality of the cocktails and the professionalism of the staff prove that the hype is well-deserved. Unlike many trendy spots that rely on their atmosphere alone, PDT delivers on its promise of "fantastic drinks." The casual pairing of high-end cocktails with classic American comfort food adds a touch of playful genius to the menu. The bar's commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, where the focus is on the drinks and the company, solidifies its status as a timeless classic. For anyone in New York looking for an intimate, stylish, and delicious evening that feels a world away from the busy streets outside, Please Don't Tell is not just a recommendation—it's a destination.

Please Don't Tell

113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, USA