Dear Irving Reviews

4.4

19 of 213 Bars & Pubs in New York City


Reviews

Don't bother

By soccermomtraveler |

Walked in and nice decor. Was recommended by a Cosme server. Dear Irving server was not polite and grumpy. My martini, although not on their drink menu, was small, overpriced and not good.

Sweet spot!

By Logan W |

Kelsey the bartender and Chris were amazing. The cocktails were expertly made. I took m parents here for a New York experience and they loved it, even though they are not big drinkers . We waited for a minute but it as well worth it. 10/10 highly recco.

Speakeasy

By Lolly’s Look |

The outside gives nothing away for the entrance to this very private speakeasy style bar. Each room is decorated to a time period. Reservations are definitely needed. We were guided through the Gatsby rooms with beaded curtains, to the Lincoln room to a velvet. We pursued the unique drink menu and pressed the discrete buzzer to summon our waitress to order our libations. It has a smokey dark prohibition feel. It's a great spot for after dinner drinks and history.

Upscale cocktail parlor with unique design

By Phayao13 |

Themed rooms and detailed décor and a whimsical cocktail menu, a place for fancy cocktails.Great for dates or small groups of friends. I

Pricey, Stuffy Hipster Wannabes

By S H |

'Dear Irving' at 55 Irving Place is mid shelf quality liquor at top shelf prices with a heaping dose of attitude. This pretentious hole in the wall with its 'trying too hard' decor features an older, stuffy crowd and sullen wait staff. Everyone thinks they are much cooler than they actually are. Our waitress, 'Paige' with her cheap red henna Marge Simpson beehive and 60s eyeliner, never once got our order correct and could not answer any of our questions regarding the menu. SKIP IT!

Nice after dinner place

By Mr. Stephens |

Very cool place for after dinner drinks. Love the lounge and vibe. Bartenders could be more professional and outgoing, as they did not match the ambiance and vibe.

Fabulous place for a few cocktails!

By EYoshida21 |

Truly my favorite speakeasy in NYC thus far...unpretentious host behind the front door, doorbell-like buzzers by each sitting area to alert your server, extensive book of classic drinks and the best damn Gibson martini, with a house pickled sherry onion, that I've ever had! The service was fantastic and the decor was on point - make sure to take a closer look at the wallpaper for a good laugh.

Understated Elegance without Pretension

By Melissa F |

Might be a little behind on the whole, "speakeasy" trend, but I think this place is great. Very similar to Raines Law Room - I believe it's the same owners. I feel like I stepped back into the 1920s. The music, lighting and decor were all fantastic - very understated glamour. Think: slow jazz, murmured conversations, lots of crystal, beaded curtains and deep red plush seating. The cocktails were delicious - and the list was varied. They also offer spirits on their own, as well as small bites. The perfect place for a quiet romantic evening with your sweetie.

Late dinner after theater

By Patricia F |

We went to see Blue Man Group and wanted to find a place to have a late light dinner after theater. This speakeasy bar was a great choice. The ambience is good, food was very good, and drinks were ok. Good overall experience.

Great place for cocktails

By Paul |

You have to know to look for this place as easy to walk past... Friendly smart staff at the front made me think we might be underdressed but they showed us through ok. Various different style rooms all of which look great...we sat at the bar and watched the 3 bartenders at work. The quality of the cocktails they make is excellent with lovely fresh ingredients and nicely balanced combinations. Great place to take your wife or a date.

Ok

By LAFAMILLEG11231 |

Nothing to shout out about but it is a pretty place. Service was fine and choices of drinks as well.

Dig It

By SandBAtlanta |

LOVE that you can press the button when you need something. Yesss, this is awesome. We lucked into a two spot near the front. Cushy club chairs, good music, excellent cocktails in a speakeasy-ish type setting. It was the perfect place to have a pre dinner cocktail. Would definitely come back.

Cute cocktail bar near Union Square

By Janice601 |

If you are tired of going to W hotel in union square just to have a sip of cocktail then come to Dear Irving ~ Nice cocktail, great service and very Marie Antoinette style of decor inside. It's not a speakeasy like Rain's Law Room but have very similar ambience. (They are sister cocktail parlors) One more cute thing is that ~ there is a button next to each sitting area for you to call on your server, others they won't bother you. :)

Cool place

By Ttttraveler |

I've never been to any place quite like this! What fun. It's very dark and cozy. It was so dark though that we had a hard time seeing the menu. With enough movement of the candle, we finally succeeded in reading the wine list. I think this is more of a place for cocktails, but I could be wrong. The people at the table next to us, younger than us!!, turned the light on their phone in order to see the menu. I'm not sure I would return, but it was fun to visit once.

Best Bar in NYC

By Antionio10 |

This is one of the best bars in NY. The cocktails are interesting and well made. Service is very good. The rooms are beautiful. You do need to make a reservation, even on a Tuesday night. It is always crowded.

Quaint little place with great cocktails

By Nez D |

Dear Irving is a quaint little place. I highly recommend making a reservation as there are only four rooms. Each room has a different decor which adds to the charm. My wife had the espresso martini which was out of this world. It does cost $16 but well worth it. I stuck to whiskey as I was afraid of how fast I would have drank the mixed drinks. You are not rushed, so you can just talk and take in the ambiance. The service and the atmosphere are great.

Quick Stop

By Willie10c |

When we got off the elevator, we approached the hostess. She asked if we had a reservation and when we said "No," she huffed at us. I suppose we were not her kind of people, although we were dressed sharp. We were told to follow her, so we did and she showed us two seats at the bar. We walked to the open air portion nearby to get a look at the view, which was great. We left without ordering. We did not stay as the crowd was younger (Me and my friend are both 50+ straight men) and the "James Bond-inspired theme" was weak, IMHO.

awful

By Kendall R |

Terrible service by the hostess Jeneika. Beyond being unkempt, she was rude, inarticulate and obnoxious. I live in the neighborhood and I have taking many business associates to Dear Irving in the past. I was there to entertain and associate from out of town and her demeanor and behavior was so off putting that my guest requested to go elsewhere. This hostess is beneath the dignity of this establishment and I am sure will cause the loss of many dicerning guests.

Dope Gatsby Room

By amrisab |

I was dying to come here and we decided to put names down as we had time to kill before a birthday. 40 mins later we got a table in the Gatsby room which I loved!! The drinks were good, the decor is fab, and the service is attentive. I ordered some food which took forever and that's the only reason for docking them one star. It must have taken half an hour for my croque monsieur and some nuts. They could have just brought the nuts out for us to snack on until the food came. Oh well. I'd still return.

LOVE LOVE LOVE

By frankie h |

This was easily my best find in New York. It hadn't been open too long when I first visited but felt like it had been a very long established bar. It is very discreet, no signs outside, just the number 55 to identify you are in the right place! I think we walked up and down the road a couple of time first! You're greeted in the entrance by 2 hosts who are very welcoming. I had a reservation each time but on one occasion we were very early but they accommodated us no problem. The interior feels like you've walked back in time to the 1920's. Dimly lit and a demure atmosphere, it just feels so special and exclusive. We had espresso martinis and they were spot on, I struggled to find a decent one in New York but these were made perfectly. I would prefer to keep this place a secret but it's just too good not to recommend!

Be in the know with this great speakeasy

By Jreindorp |

Unless you're a local or super tuned into the craft cocktail scene in Manhattan, you won't know this place is even there. That's one of the many things that's great about it! Cool interiors, friendly staff and great drinks. The menu's extensive but the folks behind the bar are also happy to riff on anything you put out there.

5 Star Service from Everyone!

By jackiepaddy |

Visited with a friend on a cold Monday evening - made a reservation on Resy for a cocktail table - first time visit - climb the outdoor brownstone steps and greeted in a small non descript lobby - seated in the front room - comfortable chairs and small table - dark - fun music - service was incredible - by a number of servers - each one was excellent - we enjoyed 4 starters to share and all were delicious - Billy was the best - made us feel like we were valued regulars - and it’s my favorite neighborhood - will be back

Cocktail Lover’s Treat

By Bcdoc |

We stopped in for a cocktail, having heard some solid comments about the ambiance and cocktail menu. Our bartender was Emanuel, and if we lived in NYC, we would likely return for his mixing every weekend! Great bartender and very welcoming. Terrific service. The rooms demonstrated great attention to detail. Thanks for a wonderful nightcap!

Beautiful Cocktail Lounge

By Antionio10 |

Drinks are interesting and creative. Service is spot on, along with a bell to fetch the waitress. The bar is simply beautiful divided into four sections.

Thoughts from a Bit of a Nonresident Local

By Mfgib197 |

A client and friend recommended Dear Irving, and I've become a bit of a regular in recent months. My favorite drink is the Butler Service (you can see a couple of old IG posts under @mfgib197), but everything I've tried is very good. As I'm usually there when it is super busy, I do recommend reservations. Hanging around solo in the bar being my M.O. there en route to somewhere else, I've become an observer. I noticed on last visit or two that a lot of success should be attributed not just to the bartenders, who do a good job, but also other staff. Snappily dressed Damon at the front door and roving barback superhero Dave are noticeable for being in constant motion, getting customers seated, keeping em happy, hydrated, and moving on to the next thing. Bravo, guys, you work really hard!

Great drinks

By bokee88 |

The drink menu was exceptional. I tried the Whisky Business and the Gin one at the top of the menu. Both were exceptional. My friends had drinks they liked as well ( the pear one and the Vice Versa).

Idyllic speakeasy from old NY

By Landmarkfinder A |

One of those hidden jewels that breathe speakeasy and old New York. On the second floor of a typical brownstone, up the steep steps near Gramercy Park, one enters a lounge area with a fireplace and sees behind the doors to other rooms tables of diners. Sitting in the lounge one can enjoy light plates like the renowned devilled eggs and top shelf whisky choices.

A secret cocktail parlour

By Blondsteve |

What a beautiful bar. Elegant and tasteful surrounding, friendly clientele and best of all wonderfully mixed cocktails by friendly expert staff. Oh and don't miss the cheese plate. A delight!

Cocktails With Friends

By Kyle F |

This hidden gem is rare! A friend from NCY introduced us to this sexy speakeasy. We enjoyed delicious crafted cocktails and scrumptious bacon cracker jacks. The servers were extremely hospitable and very knowledgeable. Dear Irving is a definite Do Not Miss!

Amazing

By Ali D |

We could have stayed here all night. It was SO cozy and comfortable. The definition of a true lounge and what a lounge is meant to be. The drinks are amazing. I'm a rum guy so the Three Little Birds were amazing.

Good cocktails; average service

By brmusicman |

We had a reservation for a party of six at 7pm in January 2019. Our table wasn't quite ready when we arrived; a very nice host invited us to stand near the bar for a few minutes and our table was ready shortly thereafter. No big deal, though the bartenders were so busy that you couldn't really order a drink while you waited. We were seated in the back room, which had a French feel. I prefer the other rooms in the bar. Our experience was somewhat negatively affected by two other large parties that were often obnoxiously loud; that's not really Dear Irving's fault, but it did detract from the 'classy cocktail bar' vibe. The cocktail list had a nice array of options that felt seasonally appropriate; everyone enjoyed their drinks. The gin martini was excellent, as was the fall spritz, which bordered on tasting like sangria but wasn't quite as sweet. My complaint would be the service; it was indifferent and a bit on the slow side. Given the price point of the cocktails, I wanted service that was more welcoming.

Cocktails and ambiance

By Nena |

We walked in one Saturday evening without reservations, and were luckily seated within 10 minutes in this hidden gem. The only way to contact them is through email, as they have no published number. This is the perfect spot for cocktails with friends, dates and to finish off your romantic evening. Each spot is decorated in a different motif, there's a button on the wall to call your server and they have yummy munchies to soak up the alcohol. A special spot in NYC that should be treasured and loved.

What terrible service

By OnAir27158580247 |

Such a bizarre experience. Came with 4 friends and a 5th was meeting us - they wouldn't let her in! How awkward. It's not uncommon that you'd be unsure of your total party number when going to bar. So, to have a bar where only one number can be accommodated despite clear capacity for more was frankly unacceptable (and let's be honest, this is no social club. The demographic here was a mixed bag at best). Let me emphasize: there was plenty of space for more people, and in fact, the place seemed empty. Perhaps it's fallen out of fashion? Beautiful interesting space but horrible policies. Honestly, doesn't seem sustainable. Also, the drinks tasted like cough syrup.

Cozy, quaint, prohibition era vibe

By Skych8ser |

We loved the drinks and unique appetizers. The lobster rolls are amazing! Highly recommend for a romantic date or drinks/apps with friends. There are four connected rooms, each with it's own decor. Party room in back would be great for larger get-togethers. The bar seats approximately 20 and was full when we arrived.

Very cool

By David c |

Dear Irving had a bit of a Hollywood feel where the music is not too loud that you can't hear the people you are with, but loud enough that you can't really hear the people around you. It also had that crowded but not too crowded feel to it. I had a couple of old fashioneds, and thought they were pretty good. I would definitely go back. Seems like a very good place for a date or smaller intimate group. I would definitely make a reservation even if you are just having drinks at the bar.

Fabulous cocktails

By F.L |

Atmosphere, great cocktails, fancy snacks... A great spot for before or after dinner or really, anytime!

Rooftop bar is excellent. Great cocktails

By Harry_18_till_I_die |

Rooftop bars are so cool in NYC. This one in particular serves great cocktails. Enjoy the great view by night. Don't need to go to Empire State Building to watch the great view. There may be private parties, so I recommend to reserve a good spot for the best view.

great cocktail bar

By shai p |

I really enjoy good cocktail and in every city the first thing I am doing is look for the best cocktail bars in town, my friend is living in NYC and recommended Dear Irving, so we went at the evening there two couples, you enter through a door after waiting to the host and there you have many different sitting places, we sat in a cosy corner of the bar each of us tried two cocktails and each of the cocktails was refreshing and tasty. if you are in the area I would recommend visiting if you are in a mood for a nice cocktail

Fun & funky

By lovestotravel013 |

Loved this fun cocktail bar! Interesting menu and personalized service. Highly enjoyed our drinks and it wasn’t too crowded on a Wednesday night. Will definitely return!

Good Gin Joint

By Kate M |

Exceptional atmosphere, pleasant servers, and creative approach to dining makes it easy to overlook the few limitations it has. Cons: 1) Expect a wait on a weekend night; make a reservation (via yelp) if at all possible. 2) Lots of gin/rum/mezcal cocktails, so if you're not into those spirits, the craft cocktail list is a bit limited. 3) Noise level is unpredictable; at least when you're a walk-in, you don't get to pick what section of the place you sit in. Pros: 1) The service is summoned by pressing a little button; its clever and gives you more agency over experience. When pressed, its prompt. 2) Themed decor and standards music selection is tasteful. 3) You can stay for as long as you want without feeling pressured or rushed in any way. Neutral: Don't be surprised if you get communal seating (make some friends!). Limited but inventive/unique menu.

Very cool.

By Sophie L |

Visited this place whilst on holiday in NYC. We've always wanted to visit a speakeasy type place. The whole experience was very enjoyable. Drinks were a bit on the expensive side but we knew we weren't going to make a full night of it anyway so we weren't too bothered by that. Lovely staff. Great service. Thoroughly enjoyable night.

Speakeasy Drink Well - Great Ambiance, Great Drinks and Marie Antoinette

By Patrick C |

Like any good speakeasy, when our party of 6 arrived; we were informed that there would be a wait; handed a pager and dismissed to another bar for pre-Dear Irving drinks. Luckily there are many around and we popped downstairs to Adalya. Our cocktail hors d'oeveres done, we went up to Dear Irving and were seated in the corner of the far rear room - the Marie Antoinette Room. Decadent and luxe with fantastic ambiance and drinks. We had to walk through the JFK Room, the F. Scott Fitzgerald Room and the Abraham Lincoln Room and all were beautiful in their own right. Our server was phenomenal, attentive and could be summoned at the press of a lighted button. Great drinks and nibbles and a lot of fun.

Cool and classy!

By CrookeGirl |

It took a while to find the entrance as there is no sign outside, but once we were seated in the comfortable chairs with great cocktails and discreet background music we could have stayed for hours. The cocktails are the main reason to go, but the wine is also very acceptable and the ambience is brilliant! Calling the waiter with a discreet push button beats waving your hand to attract attention!

SCRUMPTIOUS

By LAFAMILLEG11231 |

Beautiful hidden bar. Great cocktails. Friendly staff not pretentious. Good place for a pre or post drink.

Great Place for a Cocktail

By Nicole H |

Stopped here with a friend for a cocktail. Reservations are definitely needed. Nice cozy, intimate setting with good appetizers and delightful cocktails.

Come for the view - Stay for the ambiance and drinks

By jessehendon |

The view from the top is amazing! Full disclosure, it’s billed as a restaurant, but the food is mainly apps. You’ll want to come for the drinks (delish) and the view. Also, it’s a scene! That adds a little fun😁. If your looking for a fun spot for a drink and a view, hit it up, you won’t regret it!

Cool vibe and decor

By honestreviews1752 |

I always have a great time here. It is a cool place to bring friends visiting from out of time. It's a hidden gem in midtown where normally it's hard to find a place. Definitely important to note that you do want to make a reservation ahead of time. If you are flexible on time you can go and the host can take your number and text you when something is available. I'd recommend going to Broken Shaker while you wait.

A Lovely Find

By redmeatandwhisky |

We did not eat here but stopped in for a few cocktails after a show at Irving Plaza. Were were originally seated in a cozy booth section but after discovering 4 seats at the bar, we moved. The booths are attractive in their own right, but we wanted to see the pros in action...and we did. Andres was our bartender and impressed with his savvy knowledge of cocktails. The establishment's list of creations proved flavorful and the atmosphere is inviting. If the back room had a fireplace, I would never leave.

Classy lounge

By Amanda T |

I got together for a fun reunion with dear friends and Dear Irving did not disappoint. It is a beautiful lounge atmosphere with several eras represented in the different areas of the establishment. The service is fantastic---there is a switch for each table so that you can request service when needed and enjoy your company uninterrupted as well. The drinks are delicious. I highly recommend😊

A great vintage-style bar with great cocktails

By Michael M |

Been to this place around 5pm which was great as it's been quite empty and we could've pick any place we wanted. The vintage design is brilliant and it was hard to pick the perfect spot. With their permission we went to the room at the back of the bar named 'Marie Antoinette' and it was a great experience. The Whiskey Business cocktail was nice. However my favorite was the Spicy Margarita which had a Jalapeno touch up that really opened up its flavours. Definitely a place I'll come back to numerous times. Highly recommended!

Speakeasy Bliss

By sepowell1 |

Definitely in the top 10 NY speakeasies for ambiance. Each room represents a different era from the 1960s- 1800s. Complete with call buttons, chandeliers and private booths, you'll definitely feel prohibition at its classiest. If that's not enough history for you, Oscar Wilde even used to live in the building. Cocktails are good, food options are nibbles/appetizer only. Great for solo tasting or for birthdays but bookings are essential.

Great, different,cocktail bar!

By Timothy P |

Having found this by chance as we were looking for a bar near Gramercy Park, we were seated in a booth promptly, surrounded by hanging chain curtains. ordered interesting cocktails by QR code and were served pretty promptly. Had some spicy tequila and fruit juice mixtures - excellent!

Great cocktails

By Liz B |

We had to wait and give our name for 2 on a Saturday night (not unexpected). After 20 minutes, we got the text that our table was ready. Neat ambiance but dark and a bit loud. Service is impeccable: just press the button and the server is there within seconds. Cocktails were split between old standards and new creations. I had one of each and they were both excellent. Rusty Nail was nice and strong and Whiskey Business had a nice bit to it. Would definitely go back and explore all the rooms (and try some of the other cocktails)!

Unique cocktail bar/speakeasy.

By Kelsey Reed |

This is one of the coolest, hidden cocktail bars in the city! Must make a reservation in advance. Great service and quality drinks! Highly recommend.

Classy Cocktail Bar

By Michelle M |

Faboulous,appointed cocktails with a relaxed elegant atmosphere. Its tucked away upstairs under a formal black awning here bartenders craft each cocktail with care referred here by a local.

Dear Irving...you are my hero!

By divalento |

Went here for a last minute date spot and retreat from the freezing February cold. Immediately felt a warm reception from the hostess and our table was cozy. Delicious cocktails and great cheese plate! All in all, I can't wait to go back the next time I'm in the city.

Historic Setting for Cocktails

By Kimberly A |

Set in O. Henry's former residence, every room is decorated from a different era. We set in the art deco room and had wonderful wines by the glass and cocktails. One of the drinks was too sweet and the waiter happily took it off the bill and recommended another, which was delicious. You push a button to call the waiter. Incredible ambiance and service. Will be coming back!!

Love, Love Love

By Jem575 |

I just love Dear Irving. I'm a speakeasy fan and this is one of my faves. There are 4 rooms, each with a theme - 1960s, Great Gatsby, Marie Antoinette and Abraham Lincoln. My favorite is the Gatsby room. There is a button to press for service, so you never have to feel like your chasing someone down. The atmosphere is great, all of the cocktails have been wonderful. Service is fantastic. Also had the lobster roll and cheese plate as snacks. Both were very good. Tip: They won't take a party larger than 6. The only way would be to reserve a private party.

Wonderful atmosphere and service

By CodaCadenza |

This bar is really a very unique place. The cosy, speakeasy vibe creates an intimate atmosphere which is enhanced through the attentive table service (called through the touch of a button by your table). Despite our initial cocktail order going quite wrong (it was a very long wait) we were compensated with free champagne and were given the cocktails on the house. The cocktails here are excellent and I would recommend this to anyone in the area for a wonderful post-dinner drink.

Not worth wine bar

By Nyckhan83 |

It’s bad when you have tables and tell customer to wait for 30 min on Wednesday night. At lest you want to put a customer at the bar. Very bad service

Hidden Speakeasy with Great Cocktails

By Candler C |

This Gramercy speakeasy came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. It has 4 rooms from different time periods, the JFK Room, the F Scott Fitzgerald Room, the Marie Antoinette Room, and the Abraham Lincoln Room. The drinks were high quality and so was the atmosphere.

Very cool Speakeasy Feel

By Marisa D |

Really enjoyed the drinks and atmosphere at this cool spot. Interesting mixed drinks and light bites. Your server is accessible by ringing the bell. (Like a doorbell)

love this place

By curvyskiergrl21029 |

Wow, it is like walking back into the 1920's --very good wine list but they are known for their craft cocktails and they did not disappoint. You need to make reservations and it appears to be a hot place. They play great old school music from the 40-60's which was awesome. I love the little lit button you press to call your server-what a neat touch! will definitely be back.

Lovely, quiet bar with yummy cocktails tucked away on Irving Place

By Rebecca H |

Quiet and charming space located at the top of a small set of stairs near Union Square. We popped in on a weekday night without reservations and had to wait around 20 minutes for a table. The place is reminiscent of the original Raines Law Room on 17th Street. The space is long and narrow and the areas are separated by the seating arrangement or curtains of clear crystal beads. The seating toward the front of the establishment is more modern. As you move toward the back of the room, the seating/little rooms appear to have a more European, somewhat Baroque-like charm. The patrons push a buzzer located next to the table when they are ready to order. The cocktails are creative and the overall space is intimate and fairly quiet. Highly recommend for a place to have nice cocktails and good conversation with dear friends.

Great bar, exceptional service.

By Smh26 |

My husband and I called in here for some pre dinner drinks. The staff were very attentive from start to finish. The setting is lovely - really nice decor and table service for drinks. The cocktails were delicious and we just generally had a very enjoyable visit! Would definitely recommend when visiting NYC.

Great Space with Great Cocktails

By Patrick |

This speakeasy setting is wonderful. The cocktail list is just the right size a dozen excellent choices in addition to several wines by the glass. The space is divided into several distinct areas each with a unique feeling. You can sit in the lounge, or in a booth, or at the bar. Each with a completely different feel. The seat was had came with a call button to summon the staff when you needed a refill. Simply perfect. There is a full menu, but I think you'll find cocktails with bar snacks the best choice here.

Excellent bar

By Dilukshi |

This is a really cool quirky bar. An excellent cocktail menu with a good range of wines to supplement it. Well worth a visit.

Check this place out if you can

By Michele F |

I went for the lobster rolls & stayed for the drinks. The young bartender was amazing. I told him what I typically drink & to surprise me, and he did! Amazing cocktails, fun atmosphere…I’ll be back the next time I’m in town. Don’t let the empty seats dissuade you. I was there at opening.

Great Cocktails

By Sneha B |

Small place with some really great cocktails. Ask for recommendations, worth trying a few at least..

nice, cool cocktail bar with quiet atmosphere

By Christine Z |

Desr Irving are one of places that does not look lige much from the outside. But once you get inside you are met with an elegant interiour. The music is quiet. Drinks are good. A good place to go for a drink with a friend or a date...

Great view

By Frankay85 |

Nice place, soooo friendly staff, perfect drinks. View is great but you need to stand up ti see it. i felt cold... not performing windows! High prices but very relaxing place.

Fun place for a cocktail

By brmusicman |

Prior to a late dinner reservation, we wanted to start the evening off with great conversation over a great cocktail. After doing our research, we settled on Dear Irving. It's in a delightful part of Manhattan that was fun to explore before dinner. We were a little nervous--we were unable (due to no availability showing-up online and the inability of our hotel's concierge to make contact with the bar) to make a reservation for a Saturday night. However, we were pleasantly surprised when we shown right inside at 7pm and shown a lovely booth; perhaps the lesson is to go on the earlier side. The interior is cool; there are three distinct spaces, each with its own decor. Our section had a Victorian vibe and we were in a semi-private space with two couches facing each other. It was perfect for conversation. The bar was buzzing--which was a great way to start your Saturday night--but was still quiet enough for us to hear one another. Service was fine. You used a little switch to indicate when you needed service; I found this a very efficient system for getting service when you needed it and yet not having a waitress interrupt your conversation, constantly ask if you wanted a second round, etc. We ordered four drinks and a nibbles platter; the server forgot the nibbles platter but was very apologetic when reminded. The cocktail menu was small enough to handle and had an appealing list of options that included both classic and creative offerings. All four of us were happy with the cocktails we received, though I have to say that I wasn't totally blown-away by them--i.e., I've had better cocktails. We visited in October and the featured list of cocktails still had a summer emphasis; I guess (perhaps it was the fall nip in the air) I wanted something boozier and with the more robust flavors I associated with autumn. A small gripe, however. The nipples platter (some olives, cheese, and cured meat) was unremarkable and I would skip-it next time. I'd definitely return. It had potential to be obnoxious but due to a smart interior layout and pleasant service ended up being a great way to kick-off a fun night in Manhattan.

Hidden cocktails

By Fox_travelling |

You will miss it if you don't pay attention to the address. A hidden place inside an apartment building. You will need to reserve. Nice selection of cocktails. With some bar food choices but expensive and small portions. Comfortable seats and well done Victorian style in the back. Service a little bit slow.

Bar with a capital B

By JessieNorway |

When you walk up the outside stairs and are met inside by 2 lovely ladies you feel a bit like what the prohibition bars must have been like in the 30's. A full crowd even on a Monday, but then again this is NY. We stayed at the bar and enjoyed the work of 2 super efficient bar tenders as well as the dry martini and a Tom Collins variant. Before or after dinner in the Irving Place area, try it out, you will not regret it.

Great cocktails and private bar

By Rachaelmusk |

I love the prohibition bars , always a sense of mystery. You would completely walk past this from the outside. We sat at the bar which was great and watched the barman make such Great cocktails. I had something similar to a pina colada but instead of creamy texture it was with a light beer. Quite expensive but I really enjoyed it in here. Really nice decor and atmosphere. Will definitely return when I am in New York.

Dark Corners for Intimate Conversations

By Melissa F |

I have been here multiple times and always enjoy it. I have always had an affinity towards anything prohibition, flapper, and general 1920s-esque. The seating is perfectly arranged, and while it may seem your neighbor(s) is/are too near, the ambience itself suggests stifled conversations and low-noise levels. The cocktails are varied and expertly crafted; and the staff is on-hand to suggest a drink not on the menu, tailored to your tastes. I have not had the food here, but the menu looks good - simple, easily executed dishes. I plan to return again and again - especially when I need my fill of a Gatsby night. Be sure to notice the wallpaper. (!)

Amazing place and service

By Karla P |

Amazing place, awesome view and great service. Especially Devin in the Aliz hotel who recommended amazing drinks.

Good cocktails - uninterested staff

By CocktailbarGuiden |

🇬🇧 Dear Irving has now expanded to Times Square, but we visited the original location in Gramercy. The plain entrance is easy to miss, but once inside, the lounge is like a decadent wonderland. The bar itself is more traditional. The cocktail menu was divided into the sections Classic Inspiration, Hot Ones, Earth Elements and Nightcaps. We first tried the Xantolo, mainly because of the reposado tequila and mezcal, which turned out to be a mistake cause it was so spicy it dulled our taste of the next drink. Which was the Godfather Part 2, an interesting twist on the original with Amaro Abano bitters and Barolo Chinato fortified wine. We usually like to sit at the bar and have a chat with the bartenders to find out more about the establishment and the inspiration for the cocktails. This turned out to be the wrong place for us, as the bartenders mostly talked to each other in Spanish. We think this is a bar better suited for dates or groups of friends who have fun in the lounge. 🍹👍 🇸🇪 Vi besökte Dear Irvings ursprungliga bar som döljer sig bakom en anonym ingång. Bakom den döljer sig en spännande lounge med pärldraperier som känns som hämtat ur en mystisk film. Innanför döljer sig en mer normal bardisk med spanskspråkig personal som mest pratar med varandra. Detta är uppenbarligen mer en bar för dating eller vänner som har kul ute i loungen. Drinkarna är det inget fel på, även om vi inte kan rekommendera att starta med någon av de kryddigare, för de sparar inte på chili. 🍹👍

Great atmosphere, enjoyable drinks!

By barbaran515 |

What a very nice place. Hidden in plain sight, exceptional service. We were greeted immediately and shown to our cozy table. The vibe was very chill, with low music, making it easy to carry on a conversation, vs other louder speakeasy's we've been to. Would definitely visit again.

Different - awesome

By Neil914 |

Great cocktails (strong and tasty). Easy service, and very cool decor. I sat in The Lincoln room (room with the bar). Very comfy and easy to hold a conversation. Great for work/leisure/whatever.

Loved It

By Ed C |

This is a review for the location on Broadway. You take an elevator about 5 floors or so up. Just all around great. Nice, pleasant staff, good appetizers and drinks, great ambiance. Really set a nice tone before and after our Broadway play. We liked it so much we went back after our play ended. Our play was in the Broadway Theater about a block away (Great Gatsby), so very convenient too.

Time travel

By Laura R |

Feels super glam and fun. Great drinks. Loved the cocktail menu. Hard to find but just look for the address.

Fun and Elegant

By rphilly |

Such a fun place! Dear Irving is an elegant speakeasy. I went with my daughter and her friend for a drink after a Broadway matinee. We were seated in a back room with elegant, vintage decor. Sofas and tables. Great to relax and talk. The drinks are pricey, but definitely top shelf.

Wonderful Cocktails and Setting

By Sarah D |

My husband and I popped in here for a few cocktails while in town. It was a perfect way to unwind and chat- sitting in causal chairs in the themed setting was much better than a loud bar. The drinks and service we’re impeccable.

Cool speakesy take place

By Ashley Y |

Very cool place. Very busy but for a reason. 3 different style rooms. Great cocktails and bartenders. Just a neat atmosphere.

Night Cap

By Sweetaswee |

Popped in on our way back from dinner in Chinatown to our hotel in Midtown. Drinks were very good - I recommend the Pearl Collins. The swanky speak easy decor was nice but the seating arrangements and ambiance was lacking. The place was mostly full yet the vibe was disappointing.

What a place!

By SI_B_UK2016 |

I would definitely recommend a visit here, when in New York. Be sure to make reservations though, as this place is amazing and can get quite busy. Nothing is to much for the staff. Could not have asked for more. Thank you for a lovely night.

Nice bar, excellent cocktails

By Sabrottina72 |

Spent early evening with a friend chatting. Location is central and nice, waiters are friendly and willing to help choosing a nice drink.