Raines Law Room Chelsea

- 48 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011

Since its opening in 2009, Raines Law Room Chelsea has become an institution in the New York City speakeasy scene. This isn't your average bar; it's a meticulously crafted experience that transports you to a bygone era of elegance, mystery, and expertly made cocktails. To enter, you must ring a doorbell and be granted entry, adding to the allure and exclusive atmosphere. Once inside, the bustling city streets fade away, replaced by a dark, intimate, and romantic setting perfect for a sophisticated night out.

The environment is truly a highlight. As a professional content writer, it's easy to see why this spot has captured the imagination of so many New Yorkers. The space is filled with plush, spread-out couches separated by curtains, creating private nooks for conversation and connection. This design makes it an ideal venue for intimate gatherings and special occasions, a far cry from the loud, crowded bars that dominate the city's nightlife. The ambiance is upscale yet cozy, with dim lighting that sets a romantic mood. This is a place for those who appreciate a well-crafted drink and a space that values conversation and a sense of occasion.

Beyond its reputation as a cocktail bar, Raines Law Room Chelsea is also a premier event venue, offering an elegant and unique backdrop for a variety of private events. It's a women-owned business that has successfully built a brand synonymous with quality, class, and a memorable experience.

Raines Law Room Chelsea is located at 48 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011, USA. Situated just a few blocks from Union Square and a short walk from the heart of Chelsea, this location is easily accessible from multiple subway lines, including the F, M, L, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, and W trains. This makes it a convenient meeting spot for people coming from different parts of Manhattan and beyond.

For those who drive, a variety of parking options are available, including free street parking (though often difficult to find), paid street parking, paid parking lots, and paid parking garages. However, given its central location and the nature of the venue, most patrons find public transportation or ride-sharing services to be the most convenient way to arrive.

The venue is also committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair accessible restroom and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their visit comfortably. While the entrance may have its own unique charm of a speakeasy, the staff is known to be kind and efficient, ready to welcome you and make your experience as smooth as possible.

• Expertly Crafted Cocktails: The bar prides itself on its "wonderful" and "worthwhile" drinks. The menu features a wide range of cocktails, from seasonal mixes to unique, spirit-forward creations, all made with precision and skill.

• Private Event Venue: Raines Law Room Chelsea is an excellent venue for private events. It offers spaces for groups of various sizes, with options for partial or full buyouts. The Drawing Room can host up to 25 guests, while the Garden can accommodate up to 20. The entire venue can be reserved for events of up to 75 guests, making it suitable for a variety of occasions, from corporate gatherings to birthday parties and mixology classes.

• Outdoor Seating: The venue features a beautifully decorated patio area that offers a different atmosphere from the inside. It's brightly lit and airy, providing a great space for groups of friends. Blankets are also provided to ensure guests are comfortable during cooler evenings.

• Reservations and Walk-ins: The venue accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for groups or on busy nights. A portion of the bar is also held for walk-ins, accommodating spontaneous visits.

• Food & Nibbles: While primarily a cocktail bar, the menu includes a small selection of food items, such as a Nibble Tray with gourmet olives, aged gouda, soppressata, and crackers, and assorted macarons for dessert.

• Speakeasy Vibe: The unique concept of ringing a doorbell to enter creates an exclusive and thrilling start to the evening, setting a memorable tone. The interior design with its private, curtained-off couches and dim lighting makes for a truly intimate experience.

• Award-Winning Cocktails: The bar's drinks are consistently praised by patrons as being "wonderful" and "worth it." With an extensive menu of both classic and signature creations, as well as an impressive list of sipping spirits, there's a drink for every palate.

• Diverse Event Spaces: Whether you need an intimate space for a small group or a full venue for a larger party, Raines Law Room Chelsea has a dedicated area to suit your needs. The versatility of its event spaces, including the Drawing Room and the Garden, makes it a highly sought-after venue.

• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance is perfect for a date night. The dark, intimate interior and the cozy seating arrangements create a sense of privacy and romance that is hard to find in a city bar.

• Attentive Service: Customers consistently highlight the staff's kindness and efficiency. The service is fast, and staff check in on guests often, ensuring a pleasant and well-attended experience.

• LGBTQ+ and Transgender Safe Space: The venue is a welcoming and inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community, which is a significant highlight for many patrons seeking a safe and accepting environment.

To inquire about private events or general questions, you can visit their website or contact them directly. The address is 48 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011, USA. For reservations, it is best to use their online booking system, as a wait is common. For specific details on event packages, it is recommended to reach out to their events director.

Raines Law Room Chelsea is worth choosing for any occasion, but particularly for its ability to provide an intimate, upscale, and memorable experience that feels distinctly New York. The speakeasy concept is more than just a gimmick; it’s the foundation for a night focused on conversation, high-quality drinks, and a sense of shared discovery. Patrons consistently praise the drinks as being "definitely worth it," a testament to the skill and quality that goes into every cocktail. The prices may be higher, but as a review states, it's for "a good reason. The drinks are wonderful, and the whole experience is worthwhile."

For those planning an event, the venue's various spaces offer a level of elegance and intimacy that is perfect for everything from small cocktail receptions to larger celebrations. The ability to book the entire venue or just a private room provides flexibility, while the availability of in-house catering and expert cocktail preparation ensures a seamless and impressive event. The outdoor patio, with its blankets and airy feel, provides a beautiful contrast to the intimate interior, offering guests a different experience in the same venue.

Ultimately, Raines Law Room Chelsea is a venue for those who value quality over quantity, and experience over a simple transaction. It is a place to celebrate, to connect, and to savor a well-made drink in a beautiful, hidden space. Whether you're a tourist seeking a quintessential NYC experience or a local planning a special night out, this establishment consistently delivers on its promise of a sophisticated and unforgettable time.

Raines Law Room Chelsea

48 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011, USA