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Angel's Share
- Nearest Transit:
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Astor Pl (4, 6, 6X)
8 St - Nyu (N, R)
3 Av (L)
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 7 pm - 2:30 am
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Tue, Wed, Thu
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Classy, Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
721 reviews for Angel's Share
Review Highlights
"Earl Grey infused Vodka with Ginger Beer: Delicious."
(in 28 reviews)
"The cocktails are consistently delicious."
(in 261 reviews)
"Stormy Weather : Excellent and very fresh."
(in 27 reviews)
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721 reviews in English
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Review from Denise C.
Pacifica, CA
1/27/2012
Went to this place last year with my boyfriend while we were on vacation (in the midst of winter) and seriously... OMG. Best. Speakeasy, I have EVER been to. The reviews do not lie. I'd never had a chance to experience the nightlife in New York before (been quite a bit when I was younger), and this was the best introduction to it. If it weren't for Yelp, I would have never discovered this place. We were actually in the area to try Ippudo NY, but as usual, the wait was two plus hours... so we headed nearby to check this speakeasy out; did not regret this one bit!
It is discreetly hidden in a Japanese restaurant. It's not your "typical" speakeasy as it has a distinctively different feel. To get to it, you go up the stairs to the Village Yokocho restaurant and semi ignore the waiter/waitress (seriously, before it gets awkward and they think you want a table...) and veer to the left. There's this unassuming wooden door that you reach for... and then suddenly you're in the bar. We were crazy lucky to have an extremely short wait for bar. They do not let you stand... no seat... you pretty much get kicked out.
The rules are simple. No loud noises like screaming and shouting (this is a classy place) and no groups larger than four. That's it. This is a great place for intimate conversation and to relax and enjoy the atmosphere (and the drinks, of course). This is one of the few speakeasy type bars I've been to that actually keep strictly to the noise rule (which is great!). It was dim inside, almost to the point of being dark, but it was perfect. We got seats by the window overlooking the streets of New York (highly recommended if you can, quite romantic for a date and really cosy) and stuck with just the drinks.
We ordered five drinks; each one was better than the last. Drinks are expensive, ranging from $14 to $18 depending on what you get, but then again, this is New York. The cocktails are all artfully put together, each drink was composed of unique flavors that really make them worth the higher price. This is not a rum and coke place, that's for sure (the cocktails are actually quite well done and thought out). Most of the cocktails have a little Asian flair to it (it is a bar hidden in a Japanese restaurant after all) which is pretty interesting as I've never seen anything else like it.
Our first two drinks were good, but not particularly memorable. I think we had the Opus and the... uh... don't remember... XD The second round is what really impressed me though. We got the Summertime and Evidence.
Summertime was a smooth blend of daiquiri-esque ice (sorbet) surrounded by light blue liquid and the waiter (or was it the bartender...) finished it off with a little bit of champagne when he brought it over. There was also a lychee and some mint to go with it. Spectacular drink. The presentation reminded me of an island in the midst of the vast deep blue sea. It was incredibly refreshing; a nice blend of the lychee against the contrast of the champagne which wasn't too sweet.
Evidence was an Earl Grey infused vodka drink that was combined with a ginger beer and fresh lemon juice. This drink was simple in execution (great for guys), but entirely complex in taste. I've never had anything like it. If there's one thing this place does well, it's really knowing how to combine complimentary flavors (even textures) and make each of their individual creations shine! Hats off to the mixologist here indeed.
We finished off our visit with the Cheek to Cheek, which was also quite tastefully done. This is definitely a dessert drink (sweet). It had some kind of berry puree, rum, and a special house made yogurt mascarpone (dessert in a glass!). Definitely worth getting dessert before our meal :D
The staff were very attentive and were always around when we wanted another drink. When we were just about done and enjoying the view, they swooped in with glasses of water without us having to ask for them (and refills too), which was very nice. Since this was a small place (and not crowded like it seems to usually be), the staff seemed to be perfectly in tune with our needs.
With the great staff, the classy atmosphere, the amazing drinks, I can really say this is about as good as you can get! The small touches in the drinks were really what made this place great. I'm definitely going back here if I get the chance again! -
Review from Nancy L.
New York, NY
2/8/2012
Finally had a chance to grab drinks at Angel's Share after a second attempt at the place. The space is small and intimate, and I appreciate the speakeasy "sittting room only" concept, but unlike other speakeasy establishments, Angel's Share has not figured out the associated logistics (i.e. they don't take your number and call you back when seating becomes available, people line up in a small space next to the bar, you have to hope that the waiter remembers the order of who showed up first).
After waiting about half an hour, we were finally seated (after the waiter first seated a couple who arrived after us), but the drinks made up for the wait (not sure I'd feel the same if I had to wait any longer). The menu is extensive, but all the drinks are hand-crafted and thoughtful. I adored my cocktail, which had gin and truffles...it smelled great and tasted refreshing. Definitely the most original and tasty drink cocktail I've had in a long time.
If Angel's Share were to figure out how to avoid the pushing, shoving and crowding that seems unavoidable with the place, I'd definitely go back. -
Review from Tim L.
2/4/2012
The strict "rules" here are what make this place a great spot to casually sip away the night with amazing company and amazing drinks. Like other "speakeasies" in my opinion are far more enjoyable on weeknights instead of weekends when everyone is free to attempt to get a seat here.
The drinks here are consistent and hence see a lot less change in the menu compared to other similar establishments, but that's what keeps people coming back here.
Service is typical Japanese, very succinct. Polite but assertive in interactions and very laser focused in execution. It's perfect for keeping the negative vibes you hate at other drink spots.
No rowdy folks talking so loud their conversation remixes yours. No people pushing past you at the bar to order.
The atmosphere is enticing with the dark floral decor and hints of woodsy masculinity seeping through. Perfect for two people and doable at four, it's perfect for bringing a few out of towners or having a date where you'd like to actually be able to hear what the person has to say. -
Review from Joe S.
1/31/2012 1 Check-in Here
The rowdy may find this place boring, BUT I love it because it's unique. The drinks are about $15 each, but they have a huge cocktail list and it's just nice to come, relax in an atmosphere where people aren't screaming, and act like your sophisticated and super mature for a night.
I love that it's hidden, and that of course I couldn't find it. It was cool! -
Review from Jason P.
Manhattan, NY
1/28/2012
Every year, there are rare and specific days when all the bars and speakeasies of East Village are empty. Unfortunately, you'll have to discover the dates yourself, but I can share with you what happened on one particular night.
After an old Irish bar with sawdust on their floors, we had arrived at Angel's Share, picked a booth, and began arguing about whether a jukebox could be sadder than a coffin. The topic was, of course, stolen from Mr. Kerouac's introduction to "The Americans." The gentleman was pontificating about how an unused jukebox was indeed sadder than an unused coffin, and I kept screaming, "Have you ever been inside a coffin?" The lady was very practical, exclaiming how we were all just full of shit. Then our orders came. One Dark & Stormy, one concoction with jasmine vodka and lychee, and one cocktail that escapes me. We drank and stewed in our thoughts. It was quiet, until someone said, "Hey, this is pretty good." "Yeah." "Fuck yeah!"
The trio then left for the next place to play a few games of air hockey. But along the way we were stopped. With the homes of 7th St as our audience, we started to sword fight with our index fingers and play a three-way version of that game where people try to push each other without moving their feet. To the youngsters on Yelp, let this be a lesson about the sort of nonsense that alcohol will make you do. -
Review from David B.
Arrival timing is key.
Coming after 9 on a Friday night and you are at the mercy of the crowds.
One way to combat that is to bring a flask to warm up after the jaunt through Village Yokocho. Pre gaming is highly recommended.
Drinks are craftily concocted and prepared
In a reasonable time frame... While waiting enjoy the mural above the most gorgeous back lit bar in the East Village. Definitely sexy.
Look out over the city as it goes by... There are no bad seats here so enjoy the ones you get when you finally get them. The Japanese guy with the blonde streak in his hair is the gatekeeper to the Angels lair...
I'll be back to enjoy again, perhaps earlier in the evening... Cash only!
Love the East Village!!Listed in: The Places I Go Out, NYC
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Review from Emily R.
1/16/2012
Had no idea this place had a name besides "secret Asian bar in the back of Village Yokocho." Learning new things every day.
Tom brought me here as the finale to a fantastic date on a Saturday night, and we had a great time trying inventive cocktails while overlooking the East Village in an all-Asian crowd. To find it, you walk up to the 2nd floor of Village Yokocho and simply point at the unmarked wooden door that presumably leads to a storage closet - but actually leads to an amazing, skinny, exclusive speakeasy with picture windows and a fantastic view of the street below.
When you walk in, a hostess will greet you immediately to ask for the size of the party - and doesn't mess around. When we were told to wait for a few minutes, I tried my luck at sneaking around the lounge to squeeze my way into a spot, and was promptly greeted by several straight-faced waiters who could kill me with their bare hands to put me back into my place in line. They do not mess around with their line at Angel's Share. Defeated, I returned to my place - but was kind of grateful for it, as it keeps the bar atmosphere relaxed and luxurious when you're actually sitting. Nobody is bumping against your chair, subtly trying to slide their way into your table, while you're enjoying your $18 cocktails. Respect.
Once we were seated, I ordered the most absurd-sounding, pretentious vodka cocktail I could find - dressed with real white truffles. That thing was potent. It was the size of a thimble, priced at $18, and the scent of truffle did not leave my clothing for the entire night. Perfection. Ridiculous, exactly what I wanted at a hidden Asian lounge. Tom had something more reasonable that seemed like a margarita - still absurdly priced but more generously portioned - that came with a metal straw in a frosted tin glass that showed our fingerprints when touched. Amazing.
Definitely bring a date when you're trying to show how savvy you are in NYC.Listed in: Secret Spots
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Review from Maia D.
1/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
Pretentious in its secrecy.
Don't bother asking anyone in the restaurant where the door to Angel's Share is - they will not tell you. Go up the stairs and once you enter into the restaurant, make a left and go through the closed door that looks like it could lead to a closet or room you aren't meant to go into (you are).
It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the rules - no loud talking, no standing. Great martinis, decent cocktails, tasty Japanese bar food.
Angel's Share is a good place to begin or end your night. -
Review from Jennifer C.
Newark, CA
This hidden gem is located between sunrise Mart and Panya, upstairs in a Japanese restaurant.
They practice the art of great mixology here. The drinks are strong but you can't taste the alcohol at all. All drinks should taste like that.
SERENITY is probably one of my all time favorite drinks ever. At $14, it's pretty pricey but its quality, uniqueness, and refreshing flavors make it well worth it. It consists of CITRUS & HERB-INFUSED VODKA, HOMEMADE LYCHEE LIQUER, TAMED FRESH RUBY RED GRAPEFRUIT JUICE, FRESH LEMON JUICE, AND A DASH OF ROSE WATER. oMG so good...
Soo sooo soo good. I also tried the Nardis, which was some type of lemony cocktail that came in a champagne flute. That was forgettable.
I usually stick with vodka mixed drinks, but i also tried my friends' whiskey cocktails and they were really good too. Very well mixed and not "harsh" tasting at all.
Because they're always so busy, the service here could be a bit more attentive. But hey, you still get what you ask for. Minus the photo I asked our server to take for us. He said he'd be back, but never remembered to. Oh well! -
Review from Mister O.
Updated - 1/2/2012
After unsuccessfully trying to get a seat at the bar my last couple of trips, I finally snagged one last night. Apart from the horribly inept hostess who (1) asked me to move to a stool right next to the door when there were four others available (I declined) and (2) brought me six bucks in change when I paid my $28 tab with a hundred-dollar bill (got *that* fixed, lemme tell you), these guys are still the varsity. Had them make me both dry and ordinary Manhattans, with different ryes and different bitters; both were utterly delicious.
Most carefully-made and correctly-presented classic cocktails I've found in Manhattan, in one of my favorite barrooms. Just go.Listed in: Where to eat at the bar in…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/1/2007
For my last night in Manhattan, I decided to go somewhere a bit special for my pre-supper drink.… Read more »
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Review from Dave H.
Angel's Share is where you sip drinks with paramours.
That this speakeasy is an easy jaunt through Village Yokocho doesn't detract from its allure. Smartly-dressed staff and an elegant decor provide an unexpected contrast with the yakitori. Guests are served on a first-come, first-served basis, so impatient types may want to arrive early. For a more intimate experience, wait for window-side or back room seating.
The concoctions I've experienced here are deceptively light; you may start feeling the effects into your second glass. My personal choice is the Evidence ($14; credit cards accepted), Earl Grey-infused gin with lemon juice and ginger ale along for the ride - think iced tea with armor-plating. Feeling whimsical-yet-manly? The Del Sasser (14) ought to do the trick: bacon-infused bourbon, plum liquor, pomegranate and lime juice, plus bitters. Yes, bacon-infused, but it's a smoky delight you won't soon regret.Listed in: NYC Favorites, NYC Drinkeries, Unisex Bathrooms in NYC, NYC Speakeasies
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Review from Kevin L.
1/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Any cocktail that comes with a five-paragraph essay easily suckers me in. There's even a video of Shingo Gokan making you his Japaneezy tea ceremony in a glass microcosm online: http://www.youtube.com.... Whisk and all.
So yeah, the Speak Low is a jiggle of rum, Ximenez sherry, and matcha over cubes of ice. I am such a fan of the mossy green color. Bitter and creamy and the aftertaste of matcha is pretty much awesome.
One of those open-secret speakeasy joints that seem to be popular nowadays. You walk through a Japanese restaurant and pop into a side door to a dark little lounge. To work here, you definitely have to have sweet hair and a penchant for being on the quiet side.
Drinks are on the pricier end of things ($15-17), but I figure you're paying for ambiance and wotnot. -
Review from May L.
12/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is the second highest rated speakeasy thus far on my Hide & Seek list. It is more a solid 4 vs. bathtub gin, which is inferior in mixology and slightly lower than Apotheke, which is as good a mixology place, but beats Angel's share on its ability to have larger groups and the slightly better vibe of multi-racial, hidden-ness.
How to find it: Go up the stairs to Village Yokocho. Turn left and view the wood door. From there, enter into a non-Asian location. In many ways, knowing that Angel Share is there gives me a better understanding for why the Village Yokocho ratings are so inflated.
The Crowd: Yuppy with the occasional Asian, the type that would give Village Yokocho a high rating. The attire was not particularly fancy. People were just chill and non-pretentious. Oh, you'd really have to be tricky if you wanted to have more than 4 people there. I think the vibe would be ruined.
The Drinks: Organized by liquor type. Delicious and creative. I want to go back at some point try more of them out.
The Food: Eh... it's coming from Village Yokocho... but who cares, you're suppose to be there for the drinks anyway.
The Service: They are nice, but slow. They are busy pretty much every night, so you can't really blame them on that regard. I entered fairly parched and it took about 15 minutes to get a glass a water after sitting.
Sometimes you get a view of the square, but on the evening in question this was closed off. Definitely worth checking out given how seriously they take their drinks.Listed in: Hide & Seek
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Review from Tina C.
Sharing is caring... as it goes without further ado.
Sore wa sugoi desu ne! A Japanese speakeasy lounge hidden in St. Marks Place with only access through a discreet door inside a Japanese restaurant, Village Yokocho. As my party of four waited patiently for an eternal forty minutes for a booth table, we were served well to par. Guests are indeed served on a first-come, first-served basis as there is no reservations thus arrive early in the evening alas the wait can be an eternity of approximately up to one hour, perhaps even more. The foyer area can easily be packed with patrons waiting for a table and the few trying to make their way to the facilities or exit. In the spirit of sharing my insight for this review, I highly recommend while one waits for a table or seats at the bar to use the facilities for fear of loosing your seat. A separate secluded lounge room is available, but rather difficult to secure a space. Facilities are clean with an elegant atmosphere that is inviting. Wait staff are dressed sharp and attentive service in true Japanese fashion. The concoctions surely did not disappoint as my Serendipity drink was very luscious with a subtle Lychee flavor and not overpowering sweet. Our waiter, Shingo later surprised us with Japanese plum sake to finish our night of merriment in a elegant shot glass.
Angel's Share surely appease me for a happy ending to retire a long hard week in conjunction with poetry open-mic recitations. Yet with my party of four (three active Yelpers: Dave H., David B., and myself) ergo, I need not to share three men being the only lady of the wondrous merriment evening!! A gargantuan drink menu is printed on Magna Carta Parchment 8 1/2" X 11" at 60 lb. text in aged color of 30% Post-Consumer, which as any avid paper aficionado can easily recognize. Majority of Angel's Share drink contents are wine, whiskey, gin, or vodka base as the core ingredient for a speakeasy prohibition era. Pricey but well worth a good fluid revelry merriment to salve the long hard week by enjoying life as our party of four totals $57.60. I need an Angel to salve me further to dispel poison as I awaken to new return visits!
Elegant decor of an upscale lounge of Angel Cherubim theme. Yet, the Cherub mural depicted on the ceiling wall above the bar appears ill-spirited and unpleasant as it do not appear authentic sweet Cherubim paintings. The paintings appear Seraphim, NOT sweet Cherubim. Sleek and chic atmosphere with a roaring 1920s soft jazz music played in the background.Listed in: The Places I Go Out
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Review from Ann K.
New York, NY
1/29/2012 2 Check-ins Here
there is a bit of a wait but it all depends on what day and time you get there.
great cocktails. what more do i need to say? -
Review from Karim Q.
12/20/2011
If you can find this place on the first try, a drink is on me. We hadn't even begun drinking yet but still couldn't find this place, but that's part of it's enamor, I guess. Once you do traverse through a mild-mannered, run-of-the-mill Japanese restaurant and find the secret door to Angel's Share, you'll be pleasantly surprised.
This is the kind of place where you forgo your typical drink and let them brew something up for you. Most of the the cocktail creations sound good on paper, and some don't, but once you order them you'll end up liking those too. It's tight quarters in here, so don't plan to have a college reunion here. It's a perfect place for a date.
Well, there was that one time though...
Date: "Karim, where's my purse?"
Karim: what purse
Date: "the one I had on the floor between my feet?!"
Karim: hmmm.
Date: "we need to call the police!"
Karim: ok hang on.
***Enter: The Heat***
Karim: yes officer, I realize we are taking you away from quelling riots and rapes in progress, but my friend here seems to have had her purse stolen.
The Heat: "where, in that restaurant?"
Karim: well actually there's a hidden wall with a small bar on the other side, and it's dark in there, and since it's a Japanese restaurant, the culprit may indeed be a ninja.
Date: "why are you not taking this seriously?!"
The Heat: "we're gonna go. here's a business card. swing by the precinct in the morning to fill out a report."
There was no third date. -
Review from Andrew N.
12/6/2011 2 photos
I have an amazing friend living in the city who knows all the best bars/speakeasys and she showed a lot of them. This was actually one of my favorite places (I loved them all really, though) because the drinks are delicious and the atmosphere is super chill.
I came here after spending most of the night at apotheke in china town (which was way too crowded). We were just looking for a place to sit, drink, and talk without having to yell across the table. We ventured to east village (mostly because we wanted food after) and ended up at Angel's Share. It was late so we were quickly seated to a small two seat table lit by a small candle.
They have a pretty extensive menu. I decided on the Summertime and it was great. The waitress brought out a huge wine glass with a lychee daquiri ice slush inside and poured champagne on top of it. It looked kind of like an island in a wine glass and it tasted sweet, refreshing, and delicious.
The place is great and the ambiance was really nice. The place is small, dimly lit, and intimate We got there pretty late so it was empty with just a few couples and groups of people (they have a strict maximum of 4 people per group). The crowd wasn't loud, obnoxious, or pretentious so my friend and I were able to relax and have a good conversation.
If only I went to NYU and lived in the dorms down the street.... I would be here ALL the time. And I would probably get pomme frites and pizza afterwards all the time too.... Let's just say living in East Village wouldn't be too healthy for me. -
Review from Giacomo C.
New York, NY
1/22/2012
Village Yokocho's pretentious cousin. I prefer having dinner in the restaurant than being overpriced here, but it is a cool option if you are on a promising date and feel like mingling before the real mingling. At least your clothes won't smell like grilled meat.
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Review from Stacy T.
Elmhurst, NY
12/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
This secret bar resides in the Yakitori restaurant. No standing room, just sitting. I imagine helps to maintain a more classy atmosphere, although many guests were unhappy about this.
Be warned: drinks start at $14, most are $15, and some are even more. The food selection is also limited. I ordered a Speak Low, which won an award, and a friend ordered the Stormy Weather. The Speak Low reminded me a of a dark chocolate with layers of complexity.
I would come back again, but maybe when I make a little more money and can justify the cost of a drink. -
Review from Thalia K.
New York, NY
12/28/2011
"Artfully composed" would be an accurate description of the cocktails here. They range from playful and light to complex and strong, but all are beautifully done. I prefer the latter category so I tend to go for the tea infused drinks or anything with rye whiskey. If you're the type who likes to walk through museums reading every placard, then you will thrill at the drink menu descriptions which include backstories for every drink. You know who you are.
Unlike so many other "secret" bars, Angel's Share scores extra points in my book for being a speakeasy that doesn't go out of its way to keep business out. That might mean you have to stand in a crowded entrance for twenty to thirty minutes until a seat clears out, but at least you don't have to jump through hoops like dialing secret numbers that are always busy in the middle of a workday to make a reservation.
Ply your date with fancy cocktails and impress her with the knowledge of what "Angel's Share" means (wikipedia). Classy, sophisticated, and smart. Who wouldn't be impressed? -
Review from Ramone B.
Westlake, OH
1/27/2012 1 Check-in Here
There really is not much to say that other has not already been said since there are 700+ other reviews of Angel's Share... it is exceptional.
I was visiting friends in NYC for a long weekend and ended up in Angel's Share for cocktails after dinner at Max's in the village. To get there we hopped out of a cab on Stuyvesant St, walked through a very non-descript door, then up the stairs, through a Japanese Restaurant (Village Yokocho) . We then proceeded through another non-descript door into a room that was about the size of a shoe box. We stood for 25 minutes shoulder to shoulder with other thirsty twenty somethings in this very trendy intimate cocktail lounge waiting to be seated. The rule at this establishment is if you are standing then you can not order a cocktail, an interesting change from the "bar" scene where you have to fight for the attention of a bartender whom may or may not get your order correct. This may seem a bit draconian but it works, you do not have to yell your order across the bar and bartenders are spot on everytime this is a good thing for bartenders and patrons. The result is a less chaotic environment, better service and higher quality cocktails.
When we finally sat down I ordered the award winning speak low and an earl grey infused vodka based drink called the evidence. The evidence was spicy and smooth. The earl grey had the kick of a Moscow mule but was not as hard on the palate. The speak low was nice and light with a flavor that reminded me of summertime.
I thoroughly enjoyed the experience at Angels Share and i will most certainly be back with friends. -
Review from Chad W.
12/21/2011
I'm torn. I want to give them 5 stars. But the service was so poor at the bar that I just can't bring myself to do it. At a bar, I presume there is one rule paramount to all others; if you take my drink, ask me if I'd like another. They're apparently too cool here, or just don't want my money.
We stopped in at 1am, only a few drinks deep, & waited patiently by the seats at the door until space opened up. (Good luck finding this place, btw. We paced back & forth in 20 degree weather looking for "8 Stuyvesant" for a few minutes..hint..look UP) The first drinks were no problem, and both were delicious, and very well executed. You'll have a good conversation topic by just sitting by the bar & watching the mixologists in action.
That being said...you don't want to interrupt them, but they ARE bartenders. Once you finish your first drink, it takes at least 5 minutes, up to 15, to get someone to acknowledge you to ask if you'd like another. That's AFTER they take your glass, so you're sitting there looking like a douche. I ended up having 2 drinks, and my drinking partner had one because after 15 minutes no one had asked if she wanted another. I also asked if we could order sushi (it was on the menu) and I was told "No" without the bartender looking up. Okay, then.
Will I be back? Yes. It may have been an off night. I just wish the first time could have been better. -
Review from Angeline P.
Manhattan, NY
Updated - 12/11/2011 3 Check-ins Here
The first time I came here, I was with a friend who had never been, and we were meeting a friend who came here often. I just found the address on Yelp, and given that I had no idea it was supposed to be hidden, found myself sitting in Village Yokocho for a few minutes until I noticed people walking in and out of a nondescript door with far too much traffic to just be a bathroom.
The drinks here are delicious! At $15 a cocktail (roughly, give or take a few dollars), they'd better be, but I have definitely been to other pricy cocktail places whose drinks didn't taste as refined as the ones they've had here.
Cocktails I recommend:
Speak Low: premium dark rum, pedro ximenez sherry, and matcha (finely milled green tea)
Opus: Pisco (Peruvian brandy), fresh muddles dtrawberry, cassis liqueur, fresh lime juice, cranberry juice, and lightly roasted thyme.
Champs Elysees: cognac, yellow chartreuse, fresh lemon juice, and angostura bitters
Seating is limited, and you will probably wait if you show up on a weekend.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/25/2011
If you have trouble finding the place, just look for a door that seems to lead to nothing, but has… Read more »
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Review from dr r.
New York, NY
1/24/2012
These guys are sticklers for their rules (e.g. refuse to seat parties of more than 4 people, will kick you out if you try to split your party to game the system) but the cocktails are amazing.
Creative, beautifully balanced and generally put all the other snooty Bowery cocktail spots to shame (I love you Peels but you've got nothin' on Angel's share).
Try the Evidence or it's sister cocktail Bergamoni so the most incredible tea-flavored concoction with gin or vodda or go for one of the myriad whiskeys or whiskey cocktails on the menu... some of them come with the glass resting on smoking anise or wood embers to fill the glass with flavored smoke before adding the cocktail! Very cool!
Be warned that it's tough to get in and get a seat... below reviews explain this well enough so I'll spare you. -
Review from Jess K.
11/21/2011
Walking up a nondescript staircase, we were greeted by a crowded Japanese restaurant... oh but wait, that's not where we were going. There's a door off to the side of the back wall, which opens to a 'secret' back bar/lounge. Dark and low lit, you definitely feel like you're in a backroom, but I loved it. It had a sexy, clandestine aura. You may have to wait for a table or seat at the bar, but well worth it. Light fare is served in addition to creative list of cocktails.
The sashimi was delicious and very fresh, I definitely recommend it... and the Earl Grey Tea cocktail, it was light, yet flavorful and very good.
Would definitely go back, great date spot and if the person your with suggests it, be impressed, they know their way around the city.Listed in: Date Spots
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Review from Anya A.
Manhattan, NY
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
horrible place !!!i i went there cuz of yelp rating with my bf, but i am very disappointed !!! why its so ratted ??? probably asians voted !!!
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Review from Manuel R.
REGO PARK, NY
1/8/2012
I think a rating should reflect an establishment as it compares with similar businesses of the same kind.
Let's just say that with other "top Japanese cocktail/whisky bars", whether in Tokyo, Hong Kong, or Taipei, Angel's Share comes at the bottom, even though it is charging similar prices. Even though Angel's Share is better than your average dive bar (it really is), it underperforms against similar peers, hence the low rating.
The drinks are not spectacular, but rather an overdone mix of exotic flavors, like mango sushi from Sushi Samba - this makes the taste experience interesting for a whole 5 minutes.
The service is atrocious, to put it kindly. Servers are inattentive, one must wait 15 minutes from simple requests for a menu to actual receipt of said menu, which makes one wonder why they don't just make more damn menus.
When I think in particular about my experience at Executive Bar in Hong Kong's Times Square - the much more upscale atmosphere, the incredible professionalism of both the wait staff and the very skilled bartender, freshly squeezed peach juice, impeccable service - I wonder if maybe this was once a good establishment that got ruined by the obnoxious "hip" NY crowd.
Whatever the reason, this place ain't worth a visit. -
Review from Daniel M.
New York, NY
12/11/2011
Usually the "angel's share" refers to the volume of alcohol that evaporates over time when wine/whiskey is aged in oak barrels, leading to a mellower more complex profile. In the case of this East Village hideaway, it seems we have found where the angels have been stashing their pilfered potables.
I actually like Angel's Share more than PDT but because of the ambience rather than the drinks. The high ceilings, large windows, intimate lighting, and no standing policy on weekends all combine to give the feeling of space in an otherwise small area. I could sit at those windows and people-watch all night!
The tea-infused liquors used in the drinks are inspired, and although the unorthodox creations may be slightly intimidating (especially at around $20 per drink) do not fear. The ever-changing menu ensures that one will have a novel experience each time they visit. -
Review from Huong L.
Astoria, NY
12/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
"Let's sit by the window so we can watch people passing by" I told my date
Excitedly walking toward our seats near the window.
"Uhm, I don't see a lot of people, I only see garbage" my date told me
Whatever. It is still my absolute favorite favorite hidden bar in the city.
Very chill atmosphere, delicious drinks, quiet enough to carry a conversation, loud enough to prevent an awkward silence...
Definitely suitable for a low key night, a date (and not have to scream at each other's faces), a place where you want to do a lot of talking (and drinking too of course), catching up with friends....
When they said 4 people max they meant 4 not 2+3 or 1+4
It doesn't matter whether you or your friends are from Madagascar or outer space, they won't let a group of more than 4 people in especially on weekends. I have seen so many people trying to explain to the hostess/waitress that they are from this and that far far away land in order to persuade her to let them in but left frustrated because she wouldn't let them in (I tried once but failed too :)
(Although I thought I might have seen a group of more than 4 sitting in the back once but that was on a Tuesday night around 1-2am)
Delicious drinks:
Stormy Weather: Apple and cinnamon infused rye whiskey, lime juice, ginger flavored wine, ground ginger and giner ale. It's so light and refreshing. I'm not a whiskey person but this is one of my favorite cocktails.
Another Star: I don't remember what in it but if you like sweet drinks then this is the drink for you. You will love it.
Opus: Pisco, strawberry, cassis liqueur, fresh lime juice, cranberry juice, and thyme.
Summertime: lychee, champagne, mint, frozen slush drink :)
Cheek-to-Cheek: white rum, crushed mixed berries, and plum wine, puréed and topped with yogurt -
Review from Sarah X.
Manhattan, NY
12/20/2011
Amazing.
We first came here for a drink to wait for a same-day reservation to come through at Milk & Honey. Apparently being a keyholder there is not enough to get you a reservation on the night of, so we stayed.
The drinks are amazingly delicious. I can't recall everything I've tried, but a few comes into mind:
I had a couple of desert alcohol choices: Summer Time, which had sorbet in it, Cheek to Cheek raspberry puree, rum topped with yogurt. I had a sip of my friend's Bacon infused whiskey, it was super yummy.
The ambiance is really nice with low light and lounge chairs, really intimate and perfect for a date. I would say it is almost too intimate of a place to come with casual friends. I was here with 3 other friends, but all I saw around the bar were couples.. ( a lot of white hair dudes with 20 somethings... ).
The drinks are not light on the wallet at $15 a pop, but I just couldn't stop... -
Review from Carson Y.
New York, NY
1/19/2012
In a city full of bars, this one rises above the rest. It's hidden behind a izakaya and their drinks are well-balanced. Prices range from $12-$16, which doesn't bother me too much since you don't want to lose it's charm by going to often. It's damn SEXY in here so bring a date, shoot an oyster, have a deep conversation, and I promise you it will be a good night.
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Review from Ron C.
After years of coming to Village Yokocho and peeking into the doors. I have finally went in and enjoyed some pretty tasty cocktails, A good friend of mine decided to take me out for pre-birthday drinks. I wanted something low-key, relaxing and a place where we don't have to shout at each other. This was the perfect place!
Angel's Share is located inside Village Yokocho on Stuyvesant St. It's kinda confusing at first to find the place, but it's there. You walk in and it's a nice cozy place, dimly lit and very RELAXING.
I had two drinks there. I hate to say it, but I forgot the names of it. It was too damn good. All I remember is that once was infused with Bacon and I LOVED IT!
I need to go back there to refresh my memory. -
Review from James W.
1/10/2012
Probably the coolest thing about this place is that the entrance is an unmarked door inside on the othe coolest izakaya's in manhattan. The staff takes their drink making seriously, no icecubes here, all drinks served with ice carved from a huge ice block. Dimly lit with ornate artwork behind the bar. No standing policy makes this a great place for a date.
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Review from Liz B.
1/8/2012
I'm becoming obsessed with speakeasies, and so far Angel's Share has the best drinks. With floor to ceiling windows looking down on the floor below, it has more of a loungy than speakeasy feel, but I just love the atmosphere. The Dark & Stormy is one of my favs, and the gin drinks are also amazing.
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Review from Jane K.
10/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
My original revivalist speakeasy in Manhattan, Angel's Share still scores high marks despite the flurry of competing copycats that have come through. First, it's not much of a secret: the host in the Japanese restaurant is all too eager to point out the gilded door to the left of the stairs. And you can watch the revelers - and judge the crowd - from standing in the street below and looking up at the large, wide-paned wall of windows. But it's still cool, and the drinks are still perfect, and for that I give them props.
Recently a friend had heard tell of the wings and Old Fashioned combo at AS so we went in search of a snack and a strong libation. Perfect timing and good karma handed us a wait of 2 minutes and a seat at the window overlooking the rain soaked 9th Street intersection. Asking about the food options, the waitress disappeared without comment and handed us a pretty hefty bar menu stocked with Japanese tapas clearly prepared next door. We ordered and ordered and enjoyed two orders of flash fried wings (no accompanying sauce, sadly) and some sashimi. Portions are tiny and paired with the heavy handed cocktails, you'll surely need more of a meal before hitting the town.
But still, I always enjoy being surprised by an old friend.Listed in: It's FRY-day!, Chicken Wings - Not Just In…
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Review from Paula L.
11/4/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This place doesn't seem to be as well known as Please Don't Tell...(which had no space for us so we had to go somewhere else).
Hidden in a Japanese restaurant/bar you just go through a door on your left just after you enter. Not a nifty experience like Please Don't Tell but still pretty cool.
I loved the vibe & decor of this place. There's seating so you can look out at the street, tables, and just regular plain bar seating. Their whiskey menu is crazy expansive (with a what seems to be an emphasis on Japanese whiskey). Most of their special cocktails are over $13.
Pricey I know, but these bad boys are strong and made with care.
Service was excellent...if not a little creepy. Each of the waiters secretly checked up on us which made me a little paranoid. Almost as creepy as that cherub drawing on the wall. WHY DOES IT KEEP STARING AT ME?!
For a Tuesday night...the crowd was a little interesting. Lots of drunk couples which normally is cool...but when a guy says to a girl "baby, are you scared?" that just makes me want to dial 9-1-1.
My first speakeasy and definitely not my last!Listed in: BEERS + CHEERS!
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Review from Craig B.
Brooklyn, NY
10/23/2011
Terrible. The staff is cold and rude and the space is without atmosphere. The drinks are over-priced and not that good - by which I mean, their menu is bad. They have skilled cocktail-makers, but their specialty cocktail recipes are not interesting and/or just a fruity mess. If you are going to charge this much a) create a high-end experience - the space and the staff need to be on point and b) give me a taste experience that I can't get anywhere else.
There are many far better cocktail bars in New York! -
Review from Vicky L.
10/24/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This was one of the many speakeasy bars that Hubs and I were hitting up on our NYC trip earlier this year.
This isn't as out there as PDT or Milk+Honey but they had a good crowd waiting for tables and bar space.
We waited and nabbed awesome seats in front of the awesome Shingo who whipped up some amazing drinks for us.
It's hidden in Village Yokocho (which is an AMAZING restaurant on its own.)
Ambiance was awesome at the bar; Hubs and I definitely enjoyed ourselves there and proceeded to gorge ourselves at Village Yokocho afterwards.Listed in: NYC 2011 Trip!
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Review from Sarah P.
Manhattan, NY
12/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out but note that this best-kept secret (bar) is situated within a Japanese restaurant. Since my first visit years ago, I've been waiting for this place to expand or open another location. This speakeasy bar is discretely comfortable and romantic. Besides than their wide variety of non-cheap exquisite cocktail beverages, they offer great ambiance for first dates which is conducive to good conversations, thanks to their no-standing, no-flash-photography, no-screaming and no-over-4-people rules. 4-stars for the notable quality drinks and friendly service. Feel free to order the off-menu seasonal drinks (if you can remember the names) because they'll be happy to make them nice and strong!
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Review from Wendee M.
Brooklyn, NY
10/25/2011
Very cute comfortable place.
A date brought me here for a nice cup of "Stormy Weather". It was cold and windy out, plus I had the flu! Hmmm ... makes you ponder, doesn't it?
I love the waiter here. I see him buzzing around at Village Yokocho and he always stood out at me.
Anywho, it's a great place for an intimate dinner or a social gathering. I say, go pass the big wooden door.
