Bar Centrale Reviews

An absolute gem within an unmarked brownstone in theatre district. Stylish, calm and comfortable with really lovely staff and superb food of the plate-sharing variety.

As an unmarked (aka "secret") bar and restaurant amid many other fine options, we were expecting more. Once inside, the hostess graciously seated us at the bar. We were 2 of 4 people at the 8 seat bar. Other than to take our order and answer one question, the bartender made no attempt to interact with us or any of the other customers. Instead he was focused on talking to other staff members or standing and staring into space. The restaurant was fairly empty with only 3-4 tables full of the 15 or so that we could see. The drinks were pretty good although nothing particularly special.

After having had dinner nearby we decided to look for some 'speak easy' bars. Most of them are located down town but after a quick Google of these bars in Hells Kitchen I found Bar Centrale. I'm pleased there was a photo for us to see where to go as it would be so easy to miss this place! Once inside we were greeted with a warm welcome and invited to sit at the bar. The barman made some nice drinks and we enjoyed the chilled atmosphere. Would recommended to others in the area.

Visited this bar wanting to experience a speakeasy bar in New York. The bar itself and location are fantastic, was just a shame the staff were borderline rude, the glasses were dirty and the barman was chewing his nails between making cocktails. We booked a table for an hour and after 30min were reminded we only had a short time left. The bar wasn't busy and there were plenty of spare tables, not sure what the rush was? It left a sour taste in our mouths which was a shame as it was an experience myself and my fiancé were really looking forward to.

It’s very rare that I write such a negative review but I must! Avoid this place at all cost. This bar is owned and operated by Joe Allen, yes also the owner of the resturaunt downstairs. I’ve tried to come here on several occasions with no reservation and was denied, and hey I get it I did not have a reservation totally understand. But tonight I had a reservation and when my date and I entered the haggard lady didn’t even greet us just explained that “they were all booked tonight” after saying I understand but I have a reservation she said “no” all reservations have been honored. She didn’t even ask for my name or anything, just unbelievable so with all that said take my advice avoid this bar and this guys resturaunt Joe Allen, ZERO on the hospitably front

You have to make a reservation and you can only do this one week in advance. Bar is a first come first serve but not really big. Fairly easy to find if you know the unmarked door. Drinks were excellent and served a little differently. Stated with appetizer Blue Cheese and chips, chips were to die for, we could have eaten those all night. Not a large place and definitely not a speakeasy feel if that's what your looking for but the staff was very friendly and the ambiance fantastic. Don't miss this place...if you can find it.

Without a post-theater reservation, I was able to score a seat at the bar recently, and (as always) enjoyed this discreet and sophisticated establishment on Restaurant Row. The charred octopus was excellent; the shrimp and Chinese mushroom dumplings less brilliant but still satisfying. It's easy to be drawn into lively conversation at the bar about (what else?) theater. This place is a class act.

Difficult to find but worth hunting out (the door is up several steps), this little bar serves great wine and quality food and has a great atmosphere. A phew celebs were in when we went but luckily they didn't bother us!

We love going here after a play and enjoying a small place with good drinks and great tapas. Very popular with the locals. Reservations encouraged. Not too far a walk from the theater district.

Very nice atmosphere, classy and elegant feel. This bar attrracts the Broadway crowd for pre-show dinner or drinks, so it's quite packed at 7-8 pm. The service is really good.,

Townhouse converted into restaurant (make sure you have the exact address or you'll miss it, no signs outside). Atmosphere is amazing, feels exclusive. Reservations recommended. Maine Lobster quesadillas were amazing!

I just love going to Bar Centrale especially after having seen a Broadway show. It is a lovely, elegant room with some of the best cocktails and food in town. Plus, the excellent wait staff and bartenders just can't be beat!

This was my first time at a "Speakeasy" bar, and I was hesitant to open the brown door, and walk inside as there is absolutely no signage. Luckily I was with a friend who was bolder than I am, and we made our way inside. I really liked the atmosphere inside, very friendly staff, and while I didn't expect much from the food, the flatbread pizza was quite outstanding. So, much so, that we had a second one!

I hesitate to review this bar/restaurant only because I don't want to spoil a great thing. Wonderful atmosphere, great food, drink and service and never too crowded.

A great place to have a light meal and a drink before or after the theater. Menu consists of a lot of small plates, basically appetizers. Cocktails are excellent.

To those who are more interested in exclusivity and care not for actual dining or costs this is fine for you For the rest of us who do care what we eat beware The menu is all small plates and not really suitable to share at all The grilled cheese sandwich is just that- nothing else on the plate You have to ask for bread and then get a few slices of ordinary bread Drinks are expensive but the wine is a nice size pour Joe Allens downstairs is a far better option

got taken here for a bday treat, sadly very disappointing the kitchen gass wasn't working so no steak we went there as we were veg and meat eaters.very limited menu on offer, bad call, asked for bread and were told they had rations for their cheese and wouldn't even let us buy some...sadly i would say up its own..... one of the worst places to go in new york. it is living on a past reputation.

We stop by on our yearly girls trip. Call ahead-- several days. Great drinks & a great menu. Cozy atmosphere on a cold night.

Despite the hype (hidden bar frequented by Broadway stars!), Bar Centrale was a letdown. The room is gloomy, drinks not even good, menu limited and service average at best. The only appealing aspect of Bar Centrale is the feeling of being “in the know” by being able to find the place. Next time I’ll spend my drinking dollars elsewhere.

Tried to have a drink here after a show on a Saturday night. Got there around 10 PM. Cool looking place. Essentially empty inside and we were quickly told that if we didn't have reservations they couldn't seat us or have us stand at the bar. Really? Reservations for a drink at the bar? This isn't the Cafe Carlyle or Bemelman's Bar. There's no entertainment. Just a snotty host.

Four of us enjoyed excellent dumplings, potato skins, and guacamole during the time between pre and post theater crowds. Drinks were excellent too. The woman who greeted and seated us was very welcoming (we had a reservation) as was our server. Love the quiet atmosphere here even when it is crowded (I've been here post-theater too).

My husband and I stopped in before seeing a play after hearing about the specialty drinks from a friend. A hidden gem amidst the noise of Restaurant Row. We didn't have reservations but we're able to sit at the bar. The buffalo cauliflower was unique, light and tasty, and the cosmos didn't disappoint. Probably because there is no sign and you need word of mouth to end up here, the crowd seemed sophisticated, but not in a snobbish way. Looking forward to our next time here.

Loved this little hole in the wall!! Didn't see any celebs, but hear this is the place to be. The food was really good, a bit pricey though.

Super food! Friendly family run business! Freshly home cooked meals! Freshly cooked pizzas...The best in the area! Outside seating area, child friendly and away from the road! Wide range of meals...and also vegetarian meals! Large selection of beauitful fresh handmade pastries, fruit tarts, fresh cream cakes...Prices are very reasonable! English menu available...friendly english speaking staff. 100% recommend...

This wonderful tapas-style speakeasy bar is hiding behind an unmarked door in Manhattan. The drinks menu is uncomplicated and the drinks are crafted with care. Im fairly certain the maraschino cherry in my Manhattan was house-made. It tasted like a true, drunken sour cherry instead of the ubiquitous, candied, electric-red grossness you find elsewhere. The food was tasty but be sure you save room for the Vin Santo and biscotti dessert! It's so hard to find Vin Santo in the states, this was a special and unanticipated treat!!

This feels like an old school insiders bar in the theatre district. We went for drinks after the theatre on a freezing winter night and enjoyed the warm intimacy of the room.

First, you have to know that there is no sign on the brownstone building, but it does have a number. Really, that’s all you need. We were greeted warmly and our table was ready. They have a nice bar with good selections. The restaurant is known for it small plates, which, honestly, are not that small. Our meal was wonderful, with Smoked Trout salad (outstanding), Tuna Sushi Roll (good) and Smoked Salmon with corn cake and cream fresh (also outstanding). The service was wonderful. Absolutely make a reservation. Great for pre or post theatre.

Trendy upscale bar-food and atmosphere, but we were able to have a quiet after-theater meal. Shrimp & mushroom dumplings and fish tacos were favorites. Would definitely come back.

We visited after seeing Hamilton on a Thursday night. The atmosphere was lovely and our service was good. We ordered a few different things to eat and had a few glasses of wine. Food was good and wine was nice. It is a very small place and is somewhat private.....resting on a nice environment. I had already heard that it is hard to find so I was ready for the front door hunt. We would return for drinks and late night eats.

We thought we would find a unique speak easy place for dinner. The building was cute and the layout cool. The service was basic and cold. Our server was not very friendly and I was a little upset as when I got a FaceTime call from my twin brother in Singapore who I have not seen or spoken to in over 6 months I was asked to go talk outside (in the snow) as it was distracting. We were in a restaurant everyone was talking if I was in a Spa I understand. I was not next to anyone and tucked in a corner. The friendliest person there was the coat check guy. I think this is a place with regulars not tourists. When we booked they basically told us when we needed to be out as they had another booking. May be that should have been a clue. The food was good but more like bar food menus, Guacamole, hummus, chili, potatoes skins etc. I had the guy next to me cursing yet they were worried about me talking to my twin on my birthday.

It isn't easy to find, so trust yourself! But a great spot to pop into before a show. Expensive wine but the glasses are BIG, and that's what you pay on restaurant row. Enjoyed the guacamole.

We had a super early 5:30 dinner here. Great drinks, atmosphere is charming, food is great but expensive...although where isn't it in this city? Fish Tacos and Pizza (small) gave us enough to get us through the play. They have a fun way of serving drinks 'up'...small glasses and then another glass with your extra in it's own mini 'ice bucket' glass. We were very happy we found this place.

If you aren't a star , forget getting in or getting good serice...the food is mediocre...the wait staff is terrific but they are hampered by the management. Our waiter gave us last call at 8:30 because our table would be needed atfter 9.. When we finally left at 10 seveal tables were empty. The manager even stated she "bent over backwards to get ius in". Well I don't need to be told I should be grateful when there are restaurants and bars that would be truly appreciative for my patronage. If you want to star gaze,it is the only reason to go, but be Aware it may not be worth it when you are asked to,leave because you don't have the right name or connections.

We went after show. reservation recommended but they were able to seat us. Used to be a spot for actors after show but haven't seen them recently, BUT very good light food and drink and a quite atmosphere for after play... will go back

We went to Bar Centrale after reading the hype of a speakeasy type bar. It's located in the theatre district therefore great for before and after shows. We went during show hours and the bar was dead with very few patrons. Therefore service was great and fast but it lack ambiance being so quiet. The drinks are good and is the small plate food menu, absolutely no question. Need reservations for before and after showtime but probably not need during show hours.

I used to love this place but no more. They apparently think themselves above it all. We called for a reservation and was told there were no tables, but we could sit at the bar. When we entered, three tables were empty however, we were not permitted to sit there. When we left an hour later, two of the tables had remained empty the entire time. The bartender claimed that they didn't have a cocktail menu, which they did after I insisted that they had some drinks whose names I didn't recall. Snooty staff. Go elsewhere; there are plenty of options in the area.

Loved it! If you are looking for a solid pre or post theatre drink/food this is a great option. Cool vibe, up the steps above Joe Allen… I was impressed but their very reasonable wine prices! We had an excellent bottle of Bordeaux for around $60, which for NYC is great! Ordered oysters, which were lovely, polenta fries that were super good and addicting! And also dumplings that were very good. Totally would return and loved the vibe. Great service and all in all a perfect pre theatre option!

just upstairs from Joe Allen is Bar Centrale, a cool, unlabled restaurant. Gotta call them for a reservation! Food is good, but nothing special, and they get you in and out in a hurry (no dessert options) so great if you don't have much time before a show!

I've been a patron of Centrale since it opened – long before it was 'discovered." There's something really special about coming through the unmarked door, through the interior curtains into its very charming atmosphere. It's unique in this city. There's something calming about the place- the decor, the service, etc. Without fail, whenever I take a visitor to NYC to Centrale for the first time, they're always surprised and delighted. Gotta be there to understand. Because it's not a large space and is in the theater district, one's best bet is to go there between 8 and 10 PM-before the theater crowd rolls in.You can, of course, make a reservation for pre and post theater, but, it's very often booked. The food is excellent, as well as, oddly, clever. Try my favorite: The "Cauliflower Wings." Delicious!

Bar Centrale is just awesome. The service is great and the atmosphere is quintessential old New York but go for the food. The small plates are just fantastic. The guacamole is better than what you find in most Mexican restaurants, the shrimp and Chinese mushroom dumplings have a delicate wrapper, are plump and delicious, and the charred skirt steak has a perfect crust and is tender and juicy. The drinks also deserve high marks! Although a pre/post theater favorite, make it a point to go when you are not going to the theater and enjoy the experience.

As others have said, I hesitate to say much about this place because I think it's perfect just the way it is. We ended up here after seeing a Broadway show that our friend was in. Intending to go for drinks and appetizers only, we ended up ordering lots of small plates off the menu and visiting with our friends for hours. It was the perfect setting for us. We weren't rushed, they kept our glasses full, and the food was amazing.

What an excellent find tucked away in an old brown stone in Manhattan. The staff makes you feel as if you just stopped over at their house for a drink and dinner. Steven will be sure to quench your thirst with the perfect cocktail. The chickpea fries are a must try for a change of pace and the lobster crab roll was incredible. Get there early or you won't get a seat at the bar. Enjoy!

Everyone loved this place. The menu is small but nicely executed. The cocktails are very well made. The service was charming and attentive. And you quite likely will see some recognizable Broadway talent after a show. Its small, so reservations are helpful. I cant think of a better way to end a theater night.

This is the place where Broadway stars go out after shows... and you are welcome to join them! It's in an unmarked row home (you have to look at the address on the door) and when you open the front door you see a giant curtain. It's very disorienting, but just open it up and you're there. You almost definitely need to call for reservations around 2 weeks in advance. We went to people watch (and were delighted by the excellent if mildly overpriced cocktails) and we were not disappointed. For anyone who loves Broadway, this is the place to check out!

Heard about Bar Centrale from a friend, it has no sign and doesn't advertise so someone has to tell you about it. You book a week in advance, so we called last Saturday for a reservation for last night. Nice space, with a small dining room near the front door, a bar area, and then a larger dining area. Eclectic menu, things are "NYC Priced", so $100 (with tax/tip) got us a salmon sushi roll (fair), a crabcake (excellent) kale and beet salad ("with pistachios", it had 4 pistachios), and a Cuban Sandwich and one Diet Coke ($7). Food was good, but we felt a bit overpriced. No dessert options and service is efficient so we were out in about 75 minutes. You will see famous people here if you are good at recognizing them!

Visited on our first night in NYC. My friend and I shared three appetizers for dinner and had a couple of drinks. We tried the potato skins, crab dip, and shrimp quesadillas. We both agreed the potato skins were our favorite. There’s something about the cheese… is New York cheddar somehow different from regular cheddar? It was delicious. We liked the vibe of the place and the service was very good. The nondescript door was kind of fun.

We arrived just before midnight on a Friday night. The place was full of people - all with drinks. We had just come from the Opera and were in suits. We sat at the bar were there were lots of seats and the hostess/manager came up said they were closed for the night. We said it looks like you are full and everyone around us has drinks. She said we had to go. These are the people that give NYC a bad name as she obviously didn’t like our look. Won’t be going back.

You have to know where this place is as there is no sign on the door and you need reservations. So as long as you have that straight, it's great. Very busy and evidently popular with celebrities. We didn't see any so I'm not sure this if this is just hype. But still fun. Try the octopus - delicious! Unfortunately, they do not have a dessert menu and their wine by the glass is pretty boring.

Loved it. Will definitely go back. Quiet, unmarked, inside was relaxed with very laid back staff and great service.

We went to a matinee and our concierge recommended the Bar. It is a little difficult to find but we did. You go upstairs to the address and walk in. The cocktails were good . I had a Manhattan. We shared several appetizers and all were good .the fried chicken was delicious as was the guacamole. I would highly recommend.

Go by the address: nestled between Joe Allen's and Orso, this is a very small, friendly, lovely place on Restaurant Row convenient to the Theatre District. Excellent food and drinks. I understand that post-theatre, it's difficult to get into, as it's filled with actors.

Went for appetizers before our show. Easy to get a reservation - by phone only and no more than a week in advance. A little pricey but would still go again. Service was great. The menu is pretty limited. We tried the fried brussel sprouts - amazing! Guac - fairly standard. Curried deviled eggs. Potato skins. Shrimp and mushroom dumplings. Very good. Loved the ambience. Also loved that there’s no sign marking the restaurant. It felt like we were visiting somewhere very exclusive. Would definitely go again.

came here to warm up from the cold on our way to a party. You may think it's not there, but the bar is behind the wooden brownstone door. Small lounge, great spot for socializing and a light bite. Classic drinks only. No umbrella cocktails here- it's old school but clearly hopping amongst those "in the know". We plan to make reservations for our next visit to the theater district as the bar food looked good and the tables fill fast.

This little bar is great for some pre/post dinner drinks or even for some cheeky nibbles. My Fiancé and I were in New York last year and found this place by chance, as we walked past the it on street level and saw some people drinking by the window. we ordered a bottle of wine and had some snacks at the bar, the bar tender was excellent and was up for a chat.

Once we finally found Bar Centrale it was worth it. There are no signs, you just need to look for the number on the door and walk in. Feel like you are walking into a residential building. But behind the door is a hostess and a restaurant. We sat at the bar. I asked bartender if he could make me a "Sidecar" and he said, "the best you've ever tasted". I have to admit, he was not wrong .It was an excellent drink. (and Sidecar's are one of those drinks that are often made wrong). My friend had a Margarita. But instead of it being a "spring break on the beach" type margarita it was a "classy NYC speakeasy bar" margarita. It was so clean and fresh tasting, I loved it. Gave me a whole new appreciation for the often maligned margarita. we did not try any of the food, it did not look very inspiring. But I will definitely come here again for cocktails.

Nice tucked away bar. This bar was within walking distance of my Airbnb. It was a nice surprise great drinks and really good customer service. The bartenders are all very pleasant and gave great recommendations for dinner the next day. If you’re in town near 46th St. I would definitely check them out.

Avoid this place unless you are truly desperate. Very aggressive, rude and nasty hostess. Threw me out when I stated I had made a reservation and gave my name. Nope. You can leave now. No discussion. This after rrain and snow and an empty dreary dark and uninviting space.

We stopped by after-theater for drinks and conversation - seated at the table up front by the window, feeling cozy and warm, sipping a fine wine, feeling totally speakeasy and above the fray; we'll what better way to spend a late evening in New York City? Hark back to the forties and enjoy the night.

Great spot for after theater drinks/appetizers. Very small and intimate, you definitely need a reservation. Great selection of appetizers/small plates. Food and drinks were very good. Typical NYC prices.

Looking for an old fashion classic cocktail this is the place to go. Menu items are always good but our original intention has been for a great drink and light app before a show

Great appetizers, great drinks, great pours, stupendous service, very quaint. Loved, loved, loved it and can't wait to go back! I am a person who usually likes to go to bed early, but we stayed until 1:30 am, after the theater, as it was so fun and such a good place to hang out and visit. But, don't go, as I like it just the way it is--lively but small!

We heard about Bar Centrale from a waitress at another restaurant in the city who used to work here. She heard us talking about the play we were going to see that day and she recommended that we try it. We're glad we did! It is hard to find and has a cozy, intimate atmosphere that makes it feel more like a club than a restaurant. Small plates were tasty and fun to share. Good cocktails. A bit expensive for the amount of food you received. We arrived post-theater on a Sunday, so no star gazing, but the atmosphere was worth the visit. We would return, but would be sure to make a reservation as the place is really very small -- probably about 8 tables plus the bar.

I really don't want to review Bar Centrale because I don't want others to know it exists! It's a great hide-away for before or after the theater. The food is good -- appetizers and small plates to share. But the best part is just feeling like one of the "in" crowd. Reservations are a must.

We just love this place. Dark, intimate little place with very stylish decor. We go for drinks and a bite, and the little plates are delicious. Although the food and decor are wonderful, the real stand outs are the specialty cocktails...a nice menu of very unique and well crafted cocktails reminiscent of the 40s and 50s.

If you go during the busy time - before and after the show, you will need a reservation - even to sit at the bar. Cool little place. Got some drinks and snacks and they were all very good. I would recommend this place to anyone.

Small, hip place, but pathetic food offerings. Cheese plate had nothing but six pieces of cheese on it, no fruit, crackers, bread, etc. Also it was a windy freezing day in NYC, but they would not let anyone in until 5pm sharp, even though about 10 of us were outside the door freeeeezing!

Walking into a bar and restaurant with no signs outside makes you feel like you've found a hidden gem! The bar is great! The vibe is very cozy and elegant. If you're in the mood for a pre- or post-theater drink, look no further...Except you'll actually have to look for it!

Love this hidden gem. Once you're past the curtain, it is stunning. Unexpected. Excellent food, drinks, & service. Had a wonderful visit with a friend at the bar. As others have noted, it's quiet, no pulsating music or loud guests. It's sophisticated & very enjoyable.

I am glad I found this place, very laid back and amazing bar. There are no signs outside, it looks like someones home. Make sure to make a reservation. Chances are you will see some hotshot. Best martinis in NYC. Excellent staff.

Jack and I sat at the bar on Sunday night. We were 2 of the 5 whole patrons in the place. We ordered a couple a beverages and some food. The menu was ok. We were expecting something spectacular due to who owns the joint, but average is how I would describe the selections. I ordered little neck steamers, however I received top necks or better. They were huge, not sweet and dry. You could dip them in broth or butter...but who serves dry clams? And will someone please tell the chef what a LITTLE neck looks like so he or she can order properly the next time. We also ordered the sushi, which was good. Nothing to write home about or gotten in the supermarket sushi counter. The barratta and tomatoes was good. However we had to ask for bread because they don't think to give you something to pick up the soft milky cheese. The flatbread was also ok. The issue was the service. The bartender wanted nothing to do the her bar patrons. She would rather hold court with the three servers who had nothing to do and stood next to the bar for the entire 90 minutes we were there. When you only have 5 ppl at the bar and your customers need to ask for water 4 times, that's pathetic. Not sure how this place is ranked in HKs top places to eat. The service at empanada mamas is better!

Advised of a little bar that had the feel of a speakeasy and it didn't fail to live up to the expectations. Situated next door to Joe Allen it felt like we entered somebody's house. The atmosphere was brilliant and cosy. Great time to go is when everybody is at the theatre, great place for a drink.

I went to Bar Centrale on the recommendation of my acting tutor, "Try the Margarita" she said. My girlfriend and I went for a luxe dinner for two and it was the bomb. Elegant, intimate dining, perfect for a post show drink, it's the after hours New York haunt you've been looking for... and the margarita! - it's still the most talked about cocktail between my girlfriend and I. I can't wait to return to New York to return to the gem that is Bar Centrale

Bar Central goes out of its way to be very cool/hip. There is no external sign and even the address numbers are hard to find. The television in the bar shows old black and white movies. Small plates, some of which are very good, some just so-so. Average bar and wine selection. And reservations are definitely required for pre and post theater times. I know, sounds like a two or three star place. But it warrants a fourth star because you will feel so cool while you are there. It's the kind of place where you fully expect a couple of Broadway stars to come waltzing in and taking the table next to you. Go for the experience; you may not go back again but it is worth a try.

Our friends took us on a walkabout which ended in front of a walk up brownstone. What a wonderful surprise to discover Bar Centrale behind the doors. This is an intimate bar full of booths and good music. The service is very professional. The food is far from typical bar food. It's well presented, delicious and reasonably priced for the quality. We had a number of share plates. My favorite were the Maine Lobster Quesadillas and the shrimp and chinese mushroom dumplings.

We asked our concierge where to go after our matinee, and she sent us to this establishment. It was my definition of a speakeasy. It had a nice bar, and several tables and served delicious tapas / bar menu food. We had the Lobster quesadilla and Potato skins. Both were super yummy. The wine is poured in a small carafe so slightly bigger than your typical pour and choices of the house wine were nice. We heard, but did not try , that they had a superb dirty martini! It was too early and we still had dinner reservations later, so needed to stay awake! All in all a perfect stop for after theater snacks, and nice atmosphere.

If you don’t know where to look for this spot you will never find it. It’s an affiliate or sister restaurant to Joe Allen’s in the theatre district. Very cool vibe inside this small place. Reservations are required I believe and they accept them a week in advance. Classic cocktails only and wine, not sure the have beer but they may. Martinis are served in these cool glasses with an ice bath. The food is small plates and good for sharing. I like it better than having a big dinner before going to a play. Food is good. They are a little pretentious. For instance not only don’t they take requests for their pricey drinks, like a fruity martini, they don’t serve coffee! That’s surprising.

Bar Centrale, a secluded, unmarked bar housed in an old brownstone apartment, this spot is serving up speakeasy vibes and classic cocktails. Feel like you are walking into a residential building. But behind the door is a hostess and a restaurant. We sat at the bar, had a couple drinks but didn’t have a chance to try their food (was after dinner drinks). Great time to go is when everybody is at the theatre, great place for a drink.

If you can find it, it's a great, quaint place to stop in for a beverage or 2. We didn't eat, but the few tables that have we're full. We actually came back after having dinner elsewhere for a nightcap we liked this place so much!

Better get great directions because restaurant is not Marked. Quaint brownstone with fabulous appetizers and light bites. Not noisy, not touristy. Loved the coolness of the place and the great service

One of New York's best kept secrets right in restaurant row. A great bar and lounge for drinks and food.

There is no sign. You just have to know. You open the door, hoping it is the right place, there is a curtain. Pull it aside and you enter a neat restaurant with diner style booths but good lighting and ambiance. The wait staff could not be more attentive and the food (appetizers selections - my favorite) was awesome. Be aware, the drinks are classic cocktails and tend to the sweet side. They run $16 each but are made with generous servings of top shelf liquor. Enjoy!

tucked away, unmarked cozy spot w prohibition era classic cocktails, wine, beer, and snacks. we enjoyed the sidecar and manhattan.

stopped by for a late dinner along with a cocktail! Food was wonderful-small plates but enough to share! Had the chicken, flat bread; antipasti plate. Really nice with great atmosphere.

Wonderful pre theatre small plates and cocktails. Super tiny space so make reservations. Kind of fun that it has no sign so you have to "know" where you are going. Great service. A bit of a speakeasy vibe.

We are in town for a low key girls weekend. We booked reservations after reading great reviews. It was terrible. The servers had no personality and looked miserable. The food was terrible and expensive. I had a nonalcoholic cocktail and it was delicious. My friend had a glass of Prosecco and it was warm. Skip this.

It feels like you are going to someone's​townhouse. The place is somewhere to have a nice conversation without all the noise you usually get when having drinks at a bar Great Spot !!

We went early evening and late at night and on both occasions we were welcomed and had a good time. Nice New York vibe with friendly staff.

I will keep this short...I went here because I was looking to have a fully immersed in Broadway experience and it was recommended as a place not to miss. I knew it was a bit exclusive, a hang out for the stars, etc. However, if you have a reservation to get in then everyone should be treated like welcomed guests. However, the hostess had this way too cool for school attitude that dampened the whole experience. We were seated in the set of tables closest to her, so her vibe could be felt at our seats! The server was nice but a bit reserved. As other noted, insanely expensive, even for Manhattan. The place itself is cool inside, feels like you are inside an old brownstone living room. A great atmosphere if you could have a better front of the house person, hence why I rated it only average. My advice, go next door to Joe Allen..they are fantastically nice and the whole place has a much more approachable vibe, yet they also get celebs as Tom Hanks left just before us. Let Bar Centrale stay behind its blue velvet curtain.

We went with friends who live in the city for drinks after a nearby show. Cool to go to a bar where you need to know someone in order to get in. Would not have known a bar existed behind the large brown doors of this row house. Loved the intimate atmosphere, felt like I've always imagined a speak easy. The drinks were special with prices to match. Thought we saw a couple of famous people. Would enjoy going back purely for the experience.

Hidden, does not even have a sign.. We came across this bar when searching for places which serve New England Steamers. It is really a cool bar. Retro. Like it has been left from the 50's. Food is only bar plates but enough if you order plenty. All dishes we ordered were great. The ambience was really unique. We like it very much. Would recommend before or after theatre.

You will need a reservation. Great post theatre hang out. Expensive but worth the price for the experience. I love this place.

While the food really is nothing special, it's certainly edible. The atmosphere is what you should come for. I very much like how some of the drinks are served (i.e. straight-up martinis and manhattans). While the spot is small, it seems like a place to see and be seen. We had reservations, and I'm thinking you won't get a seat without one.

Bar Central does a very good job of being a classic, post broadway cocktail place. Don't expect crazy mixology of modern decor. Enjoyed it for what it was, but I like the previously mentioned kind of bar so probably wouldn't return. Won't give away the secrets of this place to help keep it's mystique. Even ran into a famous celebrity there. Check it out if you want a casual low key place. Reservations suggested.

The idea of no signage is intriguing in itself. Make sure you make reservations as the entire restaurant row is perfectly located for attending the theater. Small plates, wonderful drinks and cozy atmosphere make us look forward to returning.

On this particular night we were meeting up with our Australian family who had flown across, as we had also done from London. Knowing we would all be tired we just wanted a casual meal so had booked at Joe Allen. Before that we went to Bar Centrale for drinks. I cannot remember where but in some travel article I had read about this 'secret bar' above Joe Allen so I was intrigued. Knowing their one week booking policy I rang one week out and asked for a table just for drinks before our dinner booking at Joe Allen and the telephonist was perfectly charming and made the booking. Certainly in London when you ask at any place 'just for drinks' you never really get a booking so I expected the same here! I suppose since they are in the Joe Allen family it was fine. On arrival we were shown to a booth and we enjoyed several bar snacks to share (fish tacos and shrimp & mushroom dumplings both really tasty - actually better than the food at Joe Allen we decided!) and some incredibly large glasses of wine - I think the largest pours we had in our whole trip! I really loved the fun way they serve their cosmo cocktails too! Thanks for a really 'happy' welcome to NYC - a great 'hidden' vibe to kick things off.

This bar is next to Joe Allen restaurant (though well hidden as there are no signs). We walked here from the theater for after dinner drinks and dining, but we did not get past the door because we hadn't reserved in advance. Had I known that I would have let them know we were coming while we were eating at Joe Allen (earlier that night).

This place is the perfect small get away from The City. There is no sign outside to be sure to note the address. The brilliance of this is that in the bustling neighborhood there are no pop ins, just folks who are already in the know. This is not a family place at all! It is a fairly large theater hangout so don't be surprised if you recognize someone in there. The drink menu is divine. We orders about 8 small plates over the course of about five hours. Each one was better than the next. They did not give us enough veg with the hummus and did make us order a whole additional plate instead of just bringing us more veg but this is a small gig on what was a fabulous night. Make a reservation! They have very few intimate and comfortable tables. While the food was superior the atmosphere and bar menu takes the cake. I am a whiskey drinker and these folk know how to pour whiskey. My dining companions both had wine. We did not have desert but next time I will for sure partake. This is surely a place to step out of the hustle bustle of tourism and see where the real New Yorkers go.

Nice place to people watch as many theatre people come here to relax after performing. Entry way is unassuming.

Went after dinner at Joe Allen, did not have reservations, walked in asked the Hostess if we could sit at the bar, she said sure. She was nice and friendly. Saw the bad reviews so was expected to be turned away. She was friendly and sat us right away. It might of helped that it was while shows were going on so the place was slow. The interior is delightfully done. The bar tender was not very talkative, but if you engaged him he did converse with you. When in New York do as the New Yorker's do. We had a good time.

I guess I assume if you’re behind a bar and have Amaro on the shelf you would know what to make with it. If you agree, then skip Bar Centrale. Apparently the bottles on the wall are for looks.

With a hidden no sign entrance this bar is a cool concept for the theater district. Food and drinks are nothing special but is a good place for a theater pre drink if you like the speakeasy concept

Great hideaway! Will surely go back. Eclectic menu, something for everyone. Service was great and atmosphere was relaxing

I received a gift card for Bar Centrale. Made reservations just to be sure. Its a little hard to fimdbut worth it when you do. It was like a secret bar. They were very welcoming and the service was great. Cant wait to go back when i visit in march

The menu was short but the quality was very good, albeit a bit pricey. We had no idea what to expect as we had been refered by the 'guy' at Stub Hub... The best feature of our meal was the folks 2 tables over.... Tom Hanks, John Krazinski, Emma Blunt, and Damian Lewis... That really over shawoded everything else!

A friend of mine "in the know" recommended that I check out Bar Centrale after seeing Kinky Boots. Thankfully I had the address because there's no sign on the door. We actually wandered up and down the block a couple times before realizing which door we were supposed to go into. And we actually wouldn't have even gone in (it looks like the entrance to a townhouse) except we saw other people walking in. We sat at the bar and had a couple cocktails and split the crab cake sliders. The sliders, though small (only came with two), were really good as they weren't loaded down with dressing, and the crab was VERY fresh. And the bartender was very classy and sweet. Overall, it was a good experience. Although we were here early (we stopped in after a matinee). I imagine it gets pretty crowded later on, especially after the shows nearby let out.

This restaurant has a horrible food selection. They do NOT SUB at all. I took bacon off the pizza and wanted to sub goat cheese, no they do no substitutions. I think this is the worst meal I have ever had in NYC

My mom and I visited before we went to see "Book of Mormon." It's a neat little spot and has a cozy atmosphere. They offer small plates and drinks. It was nice to share a few things vs. eating a huge meal and feeling stuffed. The food is pretty basic...you're not going for gourmet quality...just bar food/drinks. Our server was very nice. It wasn't jam-packed inside which was nice. It was the perfect place to relax before a show. There didn't seem to be an abundance of tourists which was also nice.

There are only about 30 seats in this small hidden speakeasy, so reservations are a must... I've always called a day or two in advance and never had an issue. A great spot to grab a drink and some apps before or after a show... The people on the phone always ask if you're seeing a show and so will know what time to make your reservation for... Drinks and food here are pretty great, though being what it is expect high prices ($7 for a soda water and $14 for a vodka cran... Chips and Guac were $16 but delicious the last time we were there)... You're paying for atmosphere and location - Both of which are solid if you're looking for a quiet and laid back place to unwind. Service upfront is always cheerful and pleasant... Wait staff seems to be hit and miss. We've had fantastic service there before, though when we were there last the waiter never returned to check on us and overcharged us on the food portion of our bill... He was apologetic and happy to correct the error, but after waiting five minutes for him to come back I was the one who had to track him down. Not the worst but could have been better On the whole, a nice spot with a neat premise... You'll never find it if you just go looking, so make sure to grab the address online.

No doubt about it: This place has a big-time cool factor. It's hidden, it's very nicely appointed, and there's even a chance that you'll run into a celebrity or two. It's that last item, I suspect, that has led them to institute a major change in policy: to wit, reservations only, no walk-ins (as far as I can tell). On a recent Friday night, we entered Centrale and were turned away, despite the fact that the entire front room--about six to eight tables--were completely empty AND there was no one at the bar. A young woman entered behind us, was also turned away. She too was informed that they had no room due to reservations. "Even at the bar?" she asked, then craned her neck as if she was missing something. "That's right," she was told. What gives, Centrale? Last time we visited NYC several years ago, if they had room, you were in. The food was good, the drinks classically well prepared. Now it seems to have become a semi-private club. Okay, I get it: There's no signage so they're not exactly welcoming you. But, come on. Although the hostess was friendly enough, the attitude here was vaguely insulting. I won't be back.