The Back Room

- 102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002

Welcome to The Back Room, a truly remarkable and historic bar that stands as a living testament to New York City's Prohibition-era past. Tucked away on Norfolk Street in the vibrant Lower East Side, The Back Room is more than just a cocktail bar; it is one of only two original speakeasies in the city that survived the ban on alcohol. Stepping inside feels like traveling back in time, and the experience is a must-see for anyone interested in history, unique experiences, or simply a great cocktail. We are a bucket list destination for both locals and tourists, offering a genuine glimpse into the city's hidden underbelly while providing a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere.

Our mission is to transport our guests to a different era, with an interior that is absolutely stunning and makes you feel like you've truly stepped back to the 1920s. With its plush velvet decor, antique furnishings, ornate chandeliers, and a working fireplace, the space exudes a sophisticated and nostalgic vibe. The commitment to historical accuracy is a key part of our charm, with period pieces and a secretive entrance through an underground alleyway. This unique experience, combined with our fast service and great cocktails, has made us a popular spot for groups looking for an evening that is both fun and historically significant. We are a place where you can grab a drink, snap a photo, and truly feel the history you are standing in, all while enjoying a perfectly crafted beverage.

The Back Room is strategically located at 102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002. Finding the entrance is part of the adventure, as the bar maintains its speakeasy tradition of being a hidden gem. You'll enter through an unassuming gate marked with a "Lower East Side Toy Company" sign, walk down a subterranean corridor, and find the door to a truly unique world. This prime location in the heart of the Lower East Side makes us easily accessible. The area is well-served by public transportation, with the F, J, M, and Z subway lines all within a short walking distance. For those who drive, paid street parking is available in the vicinity.

While the bar's historic nature and multi-level layout, including a staircase to enter, may present some challenges for wheelchair accessibility, we are committed to providing a welcoming experience for all guests to the best of our ability. Our central location and unique entrance make us a landmark destination, drawing a diverse crowd of locals and tourists alike who are eager to experience a piece of authentic New York history. Our spot is a great way to start or end a night out on the Lower East Side, known for its vibrant energy and abundance of other bars and restaurants.

At The Back Room, we offer a range of services designed to provide a unique and comfortable experience. Our services are focused on delivering a high-quality, intimate evening for our guests.

• Dine-in: Our primary service is a full-service, in-restaurant dining experience. We provide a cozy and spacious environment where you can relax on plush couches or find a spot at the bar.

• Live Performances: We are known for our live performances, particularly live jazz on Mondays. We also feature DJs on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, offering a variety of music to enhance the atmosphere.

• Reservations: For those who want to guarantee a spot, we accept reservations. Due to our popularity, especially during peak hours, booking ahead is a great way to ensure a seamless visit.

• Group Friendly: Our spacious interior and flexible seating options make us an ideal spot for groups. We cater to groups of all sizes, making it a great place for social gatherings and special events.

We also offer amenities like restrooms and Wi-Fi, and we accept various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making the checkout process quick and easy.

The Back Room is celebrated for several key features and highlights that make it a truly special place in New York City.

• Authentic Speakeasy History: The Back Room is one of only two original speakeasies in NYC that has survived since the Prohibition era. Its history is a major draw, with the bar having been a headquarters for famous gangsters like Meyer Lansky. This authentic history is something you can't fake.

• Unique Drinks and Presentation: Our cocktails are served in teacups and beer in brown paper bags, a nod to the secretive way drinks were served during Prohibition. This unique presentation adds to the cool, authentic vibe. While some experiences may vary, many patrons find this a neat and enjoyable part of the vibe.

• Stunning Interior and Atmosphere: The interior is truly a standout feature. The vintage decor, from the velvet couches to the crystal chandeliers, transports you to another time. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and trendy all at once, creating a unique backdrop for your evening.

• Live Music and Entertainment: We offer live performances, including live jazz on Mondays, which provides a fantastic backdrop for a low-key evening. The presence of DJs on weekends also caters to those looking for a more lively atmosphere.

• Hidden Entrance: Finding the secret entrance is a fun and intriguing part of the experience, adding to the mystique and authenticity of the speakeasy vibe.

For inquiries or to make a reservation, you can contact The Back Room directly.

Address: 102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002, USA

Phone: (212) 228-5098

We recommend checking our website or social media for the most current information on live performances and reservation policies. Our friendly staff is always ready to assist you with any questions you may have, whether it’s about our menu, event schedule, or booking a table for your group. We are dedicated to providing a great experience and look forward to welcoming you.

What is truly worth choosing about The Back Room is its unparalleled historical significance and unique, immersive atmosphere. In a city where many bars call themselves "speakeasies," we are one of the rare few that actually were one. This authenticity, combined with a stunning interior that feels like a time capsule, makes us a truly special place. While some may find the drink quality or the service from the doorman inconsistent, the overall experience of being in a space steeped in such rich history is undeniable. The unique presentation of drinks in teacups and the live entertainment, especially the live jazz, add layers to the experience that make it a great time.

The spacious and unique venue is perfect for a wide range of outings, from a casual drink to a special event. We are a great spot to bring friends or family, particularly those who appreciate history and a fun, quirky atmosphere. The Back Room is not just a place to grab a drink; it's a living piece of New York City history that you can step into and enjoy. For a truly unique and memorable night out, The Back Room is a must-visit.

The Back Room

102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002, USA