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- Nearest Transit:
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Houston St (1, 2)
Christopher St - Sheridan Sq (1, 2)
W 4 St (A, B, C, D, E, F, M)
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 7 pm - 3 am
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Mon, Tue, Thu
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
505 reviews for Little Branch
Review Highlights
"Bartender's choice last night was truly amazing."
(in 71 reviews)
"and the live jazz sets the mood up perfectly."
(in 49 reviews)
"Overall, a lovely cozy little speakeasy."
(in 101 reviews)
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504 reviews in English
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Review from Rachel L.
Los Angeles, CA
1/29/2012
I ventured to the west side with a couple of friends and we ended up at Little Branch later in the evening. From start to finish this place was terrific. While there was a line, the guy at the door gave us an accurate estimate of 10 minutes and before we knew it we entered the basement managing not to fall down the extremely steep stairs.
I highly recommend ordering the bartenders choice; they really know what their doing and will take some direction if you provide (ie. type of liquor). It was pretty crowded but not overly crowded, we got a table after being there for about 20 minutes and sat at a great booth in the back. We received excellent service, the entire staff is fantastic and very friendly. Little Branch has a relaxed atmosphere and I will definitely be coming back during the week for the live jazz band. -
Review from Leslie M.
Manhattan, NY
2/5/2012
On an eerie street corner...
A friend and I were walking around west village trying to find something that wasn't a bro-bar full of frat guys, but instead something chill where you could enjoy good music and have a nice drink. As we walked by the door of Little Branch, we noticed 4-5 people lined up against a wall as though they were waiting for something so we stopped to ask what they were waiting for. A girl let us know that they were waiting to go into Little Branch, which we had never heard of, and she told us that although you need a reservation to get in, since it was only two girls they would probably let us in.
So we jumped in line and after 10 minutes we were let in. In those 10 minutes that we were waiting in line about 20-30 more people showed up, so you could say we had perfect timing (around 10pm). When let in, you follow the dark stairwell into what is essentially a basement lit with candles. There are about 10-15 tables that sit 2-4 people max, and for which you need a reservation. The bar area is pretty small as well, with only about 10 seats but can accommodate a few other people standing.
We had some kind of bourbon concoction that was garnished with a granny smith apple wedge and was by far the STRONGEST drink I have ever had in a NYC bar. Well worth the cocktail price of $15. I would easily say that for someone with a high tolerance, 2 of those and you are in for a good night. I would go back to enjoy a drink before going out. The only con I can say is that it is a little small, then again that adds to the exclusivity of a speakeasy.
Take aways:
-Cute spot for a date or catch up drinks
-CASH ONLY
-If you are planning dinner, make a rezzie
-Try the bourbon drink! -
Review from Clint H.
1/24/2012
Speak...EASY.
Truly one of a kind, and definite awesome Speak Easy feel. There was a bit of a line when we went one FREEZING Friday night (i hate lines), but after an OK wait we got inside and I decided to get something warm, because of course I was freezing. I got myself a Hot Toddie to start. Best Hot Toddie ever? Yea maybe. I took one sip of it and wanted to go to sleep! Kind of felt like when you're sick and your mom is taking care of you...in a glass!
Once you get inside it doesn't mean you get a seat. You go in and then you put your name down and wait for a table. We didn't get to sit until we reached drink number 2 (an Old Fashioned of course), but the seating is very Speak Easy-esque as well. Honestly this spot is 4.5 stars, and when I return and have a few more drinks on the menu (or off) I will change the score accordingly. -
Review from Jeff E.
New York, NY
1/16/2012
Are people really calling this a "speakeasy"? The queue outside rather kills the secretive allure, but it moves swiftly and justly. Bouncer is kind. When told I was waiting for two friends, he let me proceed in and told me they could jump the queue by saying they were with me.
Bar itself is intimate. Cant fault the jazz. The menu is accessible, all drinks explained and categorized by main flavor. The girls liked the Rum Bramble, which reminded me of a muffin with a fresh blackberry on top. Rum Swizzle was a fresh citrus tall stick of dynamite.
Bartenders are noteworthy. Professional, hard working. One shakes so many drinks that he wears an elbow brace. Is there such a thing as mixing elbow? And of course, there is the pretty Asian bartender with the full sleeve tattoo and blunt bangs that almost got me in trouble with my girlfriend for stealing glances. From her, I ordered the Bartender's Choice. And she returned with a cocktail she called "Son-in-Law". Game set and match, bar keep. -
Review from Phil L.
Astoria, NY
1/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
"secret bar". Definitely divey looking on the inside so I'm not really sure why people line up to get into this place. Their cocktail list was not super creative and Apotheke would put it to shame.
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Review from Valentina L.
Manhattan, NY
1/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
If I told you there was sweet place on my block, underground, unmarked, difficult to get into, no cover, you would end up in my basement. Don't mind the recycle bin or the washing machine!
The decor in here was lacking, but those drinks were damn good. I had the penicillin. It will cure anything that ails you. Its strong, but not so strong that its un-drinkable. It was sweet and smokey. I didn't know what I ordered until I needed my next one. The bartender remembered us and made it again perfectly. Apparently there was a band? They were in a recessed area near the bar and barely noticeable. But the drinks make up for that too. They just need to slap some art on the wall and put the band in visible spot and BAM! 5 Stars.
P.S. Cash only -
Review from May L.
12/26/2011
If you are on a quest to try all the speakeasies than yes, you need to stop by Little Branch. That said, I can't give it high marks relative to others.
The Door: It's a process. Come early and it's less of a problem. Later it because a show.
The Atmosphere: I am not a fan of the tables which result in limited seating for large parties. They were super nice about allowing more than the limit for us, but that was because someone in our party knew the owner. The bar is just a bar and standing room. Very college-esque. I'm just too old to stand around like that.
The Mixology: It's ok. It's not amazing like some of the others on my "Hide & Seek" list. I had them make a cucumber drink. The bartenders are competent. It's just not as creative as a few other places on my hide and seek list.
I just don't think it's quite relaxed enough for my tastes. There is no theme, other than a hidden underground bar. I feel like the others just do so much more to make it interesting.Listed in: Hide & Seek
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Review from Wen V.
New York, NY
1/27/2012
Classic speakeasy, very dark, strong drinks and live jazz music. Too old soul for me but I can definitely dig it for the people I'm with.
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Review from Christopher P.
Hoboken, NJ
1/22/2012
Definitely a fan. Stumbled upon this locale by accident with my cousin and have been back twice. Check-out the bourbon and cider drink.
As for standing/sitting room, I recommend getting a drink at the bar after putting your name on the list to be seated at one of the booths. By the time you finish your first drink, you'll likely be seated and placed in a more intimate setting with friends or significant other. -
Review from Mishkin L.
Long Island City, NY
12/5/2011
An M&H sister bar, with incredibly talented mixologists. Order off the menu, you will not be disappointed. A fun twist on an Old Fashioned? Here you are! An awesome Old Cuban? Voila! Having said that, our fourth drink had WAY too much honey in it. Both my husband and I had hard time drinking it, but it was around 2am at that point so I am sure the bartender was, probably, tired. Still, the first three cocktails were superb.
The place is tiny and cozy, definitely has a certain bohemian quality. I liked the steps around the bar - a good place to perch with a cocktail without blocking everyone else from the bar. Great concept.
Cash only but remember that the nearby McD ATM only charges $.99! -
Review from Lily P.
12/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
I like this place! It's small but on a Sunday night we had a birthday party happy hour that fit 30 people or so. The seating normally maxes out at 6 people per booth and they are pretty strict about this. I like the drinks that have ginger or fruit on them. Some of the drinks came and were on fire (turned orange inside out and lit it on fire). The irish coffees or etc looked good. The drinks weren't badly priced at $13 and you could tell the bar tender to make you whatever you liked. The pretzels were good but I don't know if it was because we were starving. It is cash only with the closest chase 0.25 miles away and this place is sorta hard to find but beyond that...I'd def come back again.
Listed in: Favorites, Out with the Girls!, Where I'll be drinking
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Review from Huong L.
Astoria, NY
11/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
Bartender asking my friend for his choice of spirit
My friend: What should I get?
Me: Vodka? (may be)
My friend: Vodka please
Bartender: Boring
Bartender asking me for my choice of spirit
Me: Tequila
Bartender: Interesting
Me :)
My Bartender's choice drink was pretty good. It was sweet and gingery, perfect for a cold winter night.
If you don't know what do pick, just pick the bartender's choice drink and tell them what you like.
Very cute and cozy. Good spot for a date. If you can a cozy booth that would be perfect. A little jazzy live music in the corner for those awkward moments when you want to pretend to enjoy the music and may be... text (jk)
I have been here with date, girlfriends, guy friends many times and it's still one of my favorite speakeasies. Very chill and low key.
Since it's such a small cozy place I wouldnt go with a group of more than 4 people. The line can be pretty long on the weekends.
And CA$H only though -
Review from Michelle M.
New York, NY
1/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
The dreary atmosphere actually adds to the appeal of this place for me. Walk up to the joint and the unassuming door would never clue you in to the treasures inside. We decided to try this place when there was a 3 hour wait at PDT. Glad that we finally made our way over to Little Branch. The server was friendly and answered all of our questions easily. He was attentive without being pushy, sacharine or hovering. The drinks were the real star of the visit. A tequila lover myself, the Diablo hit the spot in such a way that I have been having fantasies about it ever since. My companion enjoyed his Sazerac as well, even though it was a bit too strong for me. They don't skimp on the expensive ingredients, and come on, they have cloth hand towels in the bathroom... how could you not love that?!?!?
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Review from Vinita H.
New York, NY
11/27/2011
Cleverly hidden behind a back-door entrance, Little Branch is a blink-and-you'll-miss-it spot, just like any other speak-easy. Curious to the idea of a hidden bar, my bf and I ventured in one Thursday night and were quickly swamped by a large crowd hovering near the fully-stocked bar (most in business attire). Feeling under-dressed (we came in jeans and tees), I was surprised we were let in by the bouncer. This place has a trendy, romantic vibe that made me feel like I was in a secluded cave. Extra points for jazzy music and booth seating, which you do need to rsvp for.
The drink menu was quite interesting and I felt compelled to order every one just to try them all. I had a ginger-infused cocktail with orange bitters and although a bit spicy for my liking, it was definitely a creative combination. The next time I come back, I'll make sure to bring good company, dress to impress, and a cocktail dictionary. -
Review from Rebecca G.
Manhattan, NY
1/8/2012
If you're in the mood for a unique bar experience, Little Branch may be right up your alley. One of the city's numerous speakeasies, it's unmarked exterior gives way to a bleak interior, but it's cocktails add all the color that is needed to liven up your night.
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Review from Ian R.
New York, NY
11/28/2011
The drinks we ordered - the Diablo and the Casino - were really bad. Not mediocre, not ok, but barely drinkable. We did not order a second round because those drinks were on the "recommended" portion of the menu.
The space itself was kind of interesting, hence the two stars, but if you want good cocktails I would suggest Death and Co. -
Review from Valery C.
11/5/2011
A surprisingly bad first experience garnered this rating and review, but I intend to give it another try. Little Branch has long been on my list of cocktail lounges to hit up, so much anticipation for a nice experience when we finally went. Quite easy to miss the unmarked door on a triangular corner block. A doorman controls the entry here, where down the flight is a waiting area with a small bar and limited seating, outside the table section. Ambience up to the waiting area very much plays to a hidden in a basement speakeasy style, neither comfortable nor stylish, but cool in its own way, and the bar and staff are dressed period style.
Despite being only 30 minutes after opening and a weekday, there was already a big crowd and a 40 minute wait for a table. We decided to go for a drink first, which presented a challenge, with one bartender for the horde there, and not much rhyme or reason to him turning his attention to you, mostly if you happen to right there when he handed someone a drink.
Eventually we procured a menu, which had a small selection of house creations, but seemed to favor having something made for you by the staff. That would be our preference but we decided to save that for after sitting, so we picked two cocktails from the menu instead. Can't recall the specific drinks we had, but definitely recall that he made and discarded one of our drinks twice, each time tasting it and making an unreassuring expression. We sampled and were similarly unimpressed. Both drinks were odd-tasting, not balanced, and something I'd expect to get at a second-rate bar or from someone who doesn't know what they're doing.
Although premature, these drinks made us decide to skip our turn in line and head over to Pegu Club to finish our night on a high note. Still, considering the high regard for their expertise at cocktails, I will give them another try. -
Review from Mercy A.
9/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
Love how low key and simple this place is. No fancy decorative features, no stuck up waitresses or bartenders (and yes, they are called bartenders here), no douche bag crowd. We loved Eliza, our waitress, who smiled a lot and was easily accessible. I told her I like tequila and spice and she came back with the perfect cocktail. My boyfriend had an old fashioned with a twist. Drinks were 13 dollars- quite fair, I'd say.
The music in the background transported us to classy, jazzy times. They even played a little vintage salsa. I saw a piano hidden under a cover. Perhaps they play live music sometimes? Nonetheless, fantastic place. Had to wait in line for a few minutes as they do not over crowd the tiny space, but other than that, a great way to end our date night!Listed in: Date Nights, Great Bars!
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Review from Josh W.
10/22/2011
Great place to a grab a drink. The line to get in or get a table can be really long on the weekends, but usually worth it. Drinks are what you would expect for a nice cocktail type place ($11-14), but they are well made and delicious. Whether you like your drinks stiff or on the sweeter/tart side, the bartenders are pretty good at helping you out. Every time I've been here I haven't been disappointed by any of their drinks.
Overall, great place to grab a drink with some friends or go on a date. Beware though, it's cash only. -
Review from Nathan L.
1/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
live music. check. good cocktails. check. a feeling of going into your basement to find a cool bar. check. So why not more stars? Its a cool bar with a cool concept but this place is a bit boring inside.The walls are blank and it litereally feels like a basement with tables around the awkwardly shapped room. The live jazz came from a weird cubby hole in the middle where less than half the bar can see the musicians. The 13 dollar penecilin drink was deliciously strong but doesn't compensate for the bars short comings. Its not a bad spot to hang out and see for yourself, just have to give it the approriate stars here. Id be willing to come back with some friends, but I want to sit where I can see the live music next time.
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Review from Allen Y.
Cambridge, MA
12/19/2011
Pretty cool speakeasy! At first, we didn't know it was a speakeasy, so we walked by the door maybe two or three times without realizing it was the entrance. And even when we considered that sketchy door on the corner as the entrance, we were a bit hesitant to walk down the steep, old-looking, alcohol-smelling stairs. But when we finally got to the space, we were pleasantly surprised. It was dark and cozy, with a good number of people in it for a Sunday evening.
The bartenders are really more in the "mixologist" category, and looked like they really knew what they were doing. Drinks on the menu all sounded really interesting; I tried the house ginger beer, which really tasted like ginger and had a little ginger gummy candy on the side too. What caught me off guard was being asked what kind of liquor I wanted in my drink, which was listed on the menu; probably should have asked the mixologist for her recommendation!
A bit pricey, but that's to be expected for a "hip" place like this. Cocktails on their menu run $13, and at least when we went it was cash only. -
Review from Tiffany H.
Manhattan, NY
12/13/2011
Who doesn't love a "secret" speakeasy with amazing drinks and a jazz band? You would never know this place was here - its a random door attached to an oddly shaped graffiti-ed brick wall. But downstairs its like you are in the 1920s. Drinks are amazing - just tell the bartender what you like and he'll whip up a concoction for you. Small, but intimate and really emptied out by midnight. Highly recommended.
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Review from David S.
ASTORIA, NY
9/4/2011 1 photo
"I wonder what's down there?" was our invitation to one of the best cocktail spots in Manhattan. In true speakeasy style, if you don't see someone walking in you might never find this place, which is perfectly alright by me given it's size and dedication to mixing outstanding cocktails.
I went here with two other people who are very discerning about their cocktails. One immediately commented on the quality of ice they used. If you know anything about cocktails then you know that it is a hallmark of a quality place to use the proper kind of ice in your libations. I immediately noticed the fresh juices used. Nothing compares to using freshly squeezed juices in cocktails. They also use high quality spirits and liquors, nothing second tier here.
The preparation was also outstanding. Care is put into making the balances perfect. Presentation was also perfect.
Some people may balk at $13 cash of a cocktail, but this is beyond a simple drinking establishment. This is art, and I will willingly pay for such. -
Review from Kelly O.
Miami, FL
12/2/2011
For $13, a bargain in any big city, you get an expertly mixed drink. I was quite excited that they made sours with egg whites here and that they had a whiskey fix on the menu. My boyfriend discovered his new favorite drink, a vodka Fitzgerald at Little Branch. The bartender was knowledgeable and willing to please our palates. A few of us got the bartender's choice and he promised us to change it I we didn't enjoy the creation. I loved Little Branch and hope to be back whenever I visit NYC again.
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Review from Li Y.
9/7/2011
I love this place for lots of reasons.
A friend took me here after work one day, so we got there super early, shortly after opening.
First of all, the entrance is a bit of an experience. The door looks like a random door that you would otherwise never notice. Then the stairs down makes it feel like you're either going to the wrong place or being kidnapped. Once you get down there, it is not a pretentious trendy looking place like a lot of these other lounge/speakeasies. Rather, it feels like a very authentic place in a Spanish speaking island frequented by only locals (they were playing salsa music). In fact, some of the walls and furniture look really worn down and I actually appreciated how that added to the atmosphere. It's tricky because sometime it can just make you feel like you're paying for crap.
I really loved the way the place takes you out of New York for a moment.
Drinks are also delicious, bar tender super nice in making you unique drinks if you just say what type you like. -
Review from Patrik D.
CANAL STREET, NY
8/25/2011
If i compare this place with, milk n honey, angels share, Raines lawroom etc then its nothing special.
Drinks are not that good as the other places.
Decor nothing special this feels more like a regular bar than a speakeasy place.Listed in: Best Speakeasy/Hidden bar in…
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Review from Jasmine L.
Los Angeles, CA
8/12/2011
Using well vodka and gin to make the drinks when you're paying $15 for it, c'mon really?
Beefeater Gin and Absolut Vodka... get some real liquor and I might come back until then, I'll stick with the better places like PDT, Angel's Share, Pegu Club and any of the other hundreds of great speakeasys/cocktail lounges in NYC. -
Review from Anna T.
Brooklyn, NY
9/14/2011
Yes, yes, yes! This place rocks. My brother took my mom and me here in May to celebrate my graduation. So dark you can hardly see but for a few strategically placed lights - perfectly relaxing. My mom wanted her usual bourbon and ginger, but my brother encouraged her to get a bartender's choice. She told the guy that she liked bourbon and ginger, so he took that into consideration when he made a Gentleman's Buck. Freaking delicious and aromatic. And I have been asking for that ever since at every bar I go to! I have found no one who knew what it was (so if anyone on here knows about the drink and has had it elsewhere, let me know!) It had bourbon, orange zest, and some other ingredients I can't even remember. That night definitely created a great memory and I plan to go back soon when a good reason comes along...
So the bartenders know what they're doing. It isn't cheap, but this is a place to go for special occasions. It's a really cool place to take someone for a fun "New York experience." -
Review from Katie S.
Manhattan, NY
9/19/2011
Probably massively overrated. But having waited outside for 15 minutes, we didn't have the patience to wait another 15 minutes to place an order, nor the energy to elbow past the kids at the bar, so we never actually got to try the cocktails. It just can't be that good... it smells like a dank basement. Oh, wait, it IS a dank basement!
Fedora or Employees Only are moments away, way nicer, less pretentious and serve killer cocktails.
http://transatlanticta... -
Review from Lama B.
7/14/2011
This place is a little nugget of joy when it comes to cocktails and fantasy. I dislike waiting in line. This is my disclaimer. For Little Branch I gladly wait, patiently, in anticipation of the exquisitely prepared bowl of happiness I plan to imbibe upon my arrival at the end of the bar. The drinks here are delectable to say the least, and are unadulterated. Here, you can be transported to the 1960s world of Mad Med (where I secretly desperately want to be) and good quality liquor crafted to perfection. The jazz bands are great and the geniuses behind the bar are friendly. It is cash only so bring a lot of it if like me, one usually leads to three.
I wish I could be there right now... -
Review from Max M.
Washington D.C., DC
9/13/2011
Pretty fantastic place. Love the West Village corner location, which is a little different than what you might expect from a typical downtown speakeasy. I went late on a Friday night and there was a line, but my friends and I were in within 15-20 minutes, and it was well worth the wait. Of course, the line gives it away, but if there is none, you would never know that this place was there. Anyway, it was crowded, but that was OK because the amazing drinks made up for it. Little Branch truly is Milk & Honey West.
I would definitely go back, but probably at a different time so that I wouldn't have to wait in line and so that I could get a seat in the area behind the bar somewhere. The ambiance is pretty cool, it's pretty dark and there is live music, which adds the perfect touch. "Rules of the Bar" sign in the bathroom is also a nice complement.
Little Branch is definitely small and mostly often crowded, but it definitely packs a real punch. -
Review from Brion R.
7/6/2011
"People, please disperse....there is nothing to see here"
This is what I call "AFSE" -- Another F' Speak Easy. And know I don't want to argue the order in which they appeared. Or the relative location (everyone 'hood z gotta have one!").
It is not that Little Branch doesn't have that certain mysterious speakeasiness with its unmarked door or symbolic, solitary light outside the door. Or eluding that coolness, since you have to descend a number of steps before you see anything that resembles a bar. Or that the drinks aren't up to a high standard. Or that the requisite ambiance, decor and dress of the waiters doesn't match expectations. And I totally not holding it against this establishment that it was an OK Cupid date gone awry with a dominatrix revelation.
But Its just, well, it's all been done before. And a few places are better. In other neighborhood. But if was in the West Village, getting a jammy git about going to a Speak Easy, yes I would pick Little Branch.
Some suggestions:
- Leave the weekends alone here for the B & T and tourists
- Come early
- Cash only
- Order gin, rum, bourbon or even better rye. Don't pay $15 + for something you can get at the local bar.
- Wear something stylish (and maybe even retro). I swear you get better service -
Review from Jessica D.
New York, NY
7/29/2011
Just another speakeasy type place, nothing amazing. Solid drinks.
Service is not exactly slow, just a bit of a relaxed pace. Not super friendly, but nice enough. The metal straws are cool touch, as mixology bars try to do. Bourbon based drinks are the best. Make it the bartender's choice.
Ceilings are super low and it feels a bit claustrophobic. I'm 5'10", and in four inch heels, the ceiling was only a few inches above me. -
Review from Vas S.
New York, NY
11/8/2011
A speakeasy with great atmosphere, great bartenders, great cocktails. They take being a speakeasy seriously, serving classic speakeasy cocktails. This the place where I discovered I liked gin.
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Review from Erica D.
Brooklyn, NY
9/13/2011
This is the hidden gem of NYC. You'd never know it's there based on the tiny sign on the door but that makes it kind of fun. If you go thursday through saturday night there will definitely be a wait outside to get into the bar area... and once you get inside there's another wait for a table but it's well worth it.
It's in the basement... it's humid, it's real dark, you feel the rumbling of the subways underneath you. The decor and wardrobe of the staff makes you feel like you've gone back in time and when there's live jazz, even more so.
The drinks are fabulous and unique. Tell them what you're in the mood for, what you like and don't like and they'll whip up a drink unlike any other that you've ever tasted. If you stick with something on the menu, I always love the hot butter rum during the winter months. It warms you right up.
I take anyone visiting New York to this place and it's always a hit!:) -
Review from Andrea L.
The entrance is an unmarked door, and on this freezing New York night in April we were forced to suffer the cold in line outside the bar to get in here. I stood out there for 20 minutes glaring at my girl Naomi whose boyfriend told us to meet him here. In LA I never wait in line. Especially in the cold! However, if you come here and there is a line, wait in it. Trust. It's worth your time. This secret low-key spot is so tight.
The taproom was dark. The crowd was varied. Everyone was chillin, having a good time. The bartenders and everyone working at this joint were dressed like it was the 20's. Perfect glossy hair, suits, trousers worn with matching suspenders over white well fitting shirts. I have to say the men here were beautiful, but I'm a sucker for a well groomed man. The cocktails were authentic old school recipes. I've never heard of egg whites going into a whiskey sour before... Watching the bartenders work was completely entertaining. They used these huge ice cubes and drinks were served with this really cool steel straw/spoon/stirrer thing. I realized that the reason this joint is unmarked and secret is to authenticate what visiting a speakeasy may have been like back in the day.
I had the most amazing cocktail ever here. The drinks and service was awesome. Bar is cash only. If you're looking for a sexy, dope little spot to enjoy a fantastic drink- find Little Branch. Experience this fly speakeasy for yourself. B.Y.O.G. Bring Your Own Gangster...Listed in: Travel
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Review from Alex P.
Manhattan, NY
8/19/2011
Little Branch was the first speakeasy that I've ever been to, but it was highly recommended by my friends. "The drinks are $13, but trust me, it's worth it", they said. Who wouldn't worry?
We arrive by taxi and my first thought when looking at the front of this place was, "You guys can't be serious." But looks can be deceiving! You walk downstairs and it's a small candle-lit bar with some some seats in the back. I would definitely recommend bring your dates here because the ambience is perfect.
The best part about Little Branch would have to be the drinks. I ordered the Hot Butter Rum ($12) and I'll be damned if it wasn't the best drink I've had in the city. It gave me a pretty decent buzz too! My friend was telling me that if you don't want anything on their drink menu, you can simply tell the bartender what you like (vodka, whiskey, rum, whatever) and they will make you a drink based of your preferences. That is some serious skill right there.
There was even a jazz band! Talk about classy. I used to be in jazz band in high school (slappin' the bass), so it was kind of a walk down memory lane for me. The musicians were very talented and the acoustics were fantastic. -
Review from JennyKayt C.
New York, NY
5/22/2011
So, in terms of speakeasy-ness, I'd give this place a 3. It's pretty cool, but compared to some other places, it's just not that exciting.. Perhaps, I've become jaded by nyc...
... But! The one good thing about this place is that it is a little more accessible than other speakeasies, in that you can wait by the bar for a table. Most other places don't really let you do that... (though, I can see potential issues if the bar were to become packed)
My friend told me that there's live jazz on some nights, which would make it AMAZING.
I'll be back for live jazz night, and perhaps boost this up to a 5!Listed in: Speak easy, boys! Speak easy!
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Review from Ryan R.
Little Branch is a great place to go if you feel like you need of fix of the 1920's, or maybe you're delusional and think you live in the 1920's. This is definitely the place for you.
This place feels like one of those places that you go in NYC where you expect to get treated like crap, but in actuality, they treat you real nice.
Directions for how to have a good time here:
1. Try not to come past 10pm on a Fri or Sat night, if you hate standing in lines.
2. Do NOT come here with anyone you wouldn't want to sit and talk to all night long.
3. Do not come here if all you want is a vodka & orange juice or a beer. This is a bar with extremely talented mixologists, take advantage of that!
If you follow those directions you're sure to have a good time. -
Review from Jonathan L.
Manhattan, NY
10/22/2011
Probably the time of night pushed this from 3 stars to 4 stars, considering what other reviewers have said about its crowdedness. For us it took a while to get in because we had a party of 10+, but it wasn't as crowded as I was expecting on the inside. Very interesting cocktails that take a long time to make and are a bit mesmerizing to watch being made. I would go back but definitely on the earlier side. And I don't care what some other people say -- I like the dank basement ambience once in a while.
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