- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Little Branch
- Nearest Transit:
-
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
544 reviews for Little Branch
Review Highlights
-
"Bartender's choice last night was truly amazing." In 69 reviews -
"and the live jazz sets the mood up perfectly." In 49 reviews -
"Overall, a lovely cozy little speakeasy." In 99 reviews
Loading...
542 reviews in English
-
Review from Melanie L.
Miami, FL
5/21/2012
I have frequented many speakeasy-type places in NYC and none in my opinion, can compare to Little Branch. Friends constantly ask me, "what's a good place to take this girl on a date?" as I know the trendy spots to hit up in that glorious city of lights and I tell every single one, make sure to end the date at Little branch. I don't care if the girl is a model, student, or homeless person, everyone and their extended family would love Little Branch.
The random door on the street that no one sees is the beginning of the most amazing experience. Immediately as you walk down the stairs you are transported into the days of the prohibition, circa 1920's/early 30's. The mixologists are dressed in suspenders and have an extremely vintage look (obviously). On some nights you can even be lucky enough to have the background music of a jazz band playing in the extremely low lit "speakeasy".
I recommend the bramble as that is my drink of choice here but honestly everything is amazing. I have yet to not like a drink made at little branch. The skilled mixologists can please any picky client's palate. Yes it is a little pricy but you get not only amazing drinks but great ambiance as well.
There are two options
* The bar
* Booths surrounding the establishment
If you want a really intimate experience, try to make a reservation for a booth as those are not easy to come by. If you want to just have the speakeasy experience, squeeze yourself into the bar and be prepared to have a great experience. -
Review from C. E.
Manhattan, NY
5/5/2012
Little Branch is cute, it gets 3 stars for the very good service alone. The doorman and bartenders are quick, polite and attentive. My water was refilled without my asking - unbelievable!
My drink was okay, too sweet, but that was probably the fault of my vague request more than anything else. I appreciate the crowd control.
I was underwhelmed by the decor and ambiance, my companion made the comment that it feels and smells like a pool house - echo-y subterranean chlorine-y, not necessarily in a bad way, but not cozy, modern or distinct in any way. The live jazz was a nice touch in theory, but I think the whole layout needs rearranging. I would have liked to check out the section with booths but we didn't have reservations & didn't want to wait. Maybe next time.. -
Review from Douglas P.
Manhattan, NY
4/30/2012
Nice cocktails with large ice cubes that won't water down the drink.
One Drink Ahead -
Review from SiliconValleyShoeGirl l.
Santa Clara, CA
5/18/2012
I asked for a cognac drink and was given the Champs-Elysees. It was spectacular. I like the low key ambiance, and the entrance is awesome. The drink prices are high but worth it. I didn't come on a Fri or Sat night but I can imagine how crowded it can get in the tiny space.
-
Review from Heather L.
New York, NY
4/26/2012
This is a solid speakeasy. The dark, 1920's-esque ambiance is ever present.
Outside, 15+ minute wait on a Friday night. My friend was already here so we got in faster. Inside, rows of 2-seat mini-booths and a bigger booth in the back.
You can tell the waitress/bartender an ingredient, and they will include it. Or, they'll surprise you. For $13+/drink, I like their surprises - refreshing, yummy, and complex. They go down easy. -
Review from Joshua V.
Ever gently tapped my finger tips on the unassuming door to this joint. Me and a good lady friend of mine were greeted by the doorman, garbed in Prohibition era attire (with a plaid newsboy cap as the finisher), who quickly guided us to the downstairs.
Atmospheric and brooding was the space, with dim candlelight serving as the primary source of illumination. On a late Thursday night (about midnight) we were promptly seated upon our arrival. A number of two-seat booths lined the wall, and it was at one of these booths that we were allowed to ease ourselves in for what the bartender had in store for us.
The lady friend spoke but two ingredients when we came into the attention of our server... "pomegranate" and "St. Germain." I on the other hand was more simple with my request, "rum" was my curt reply. The libations were craftily assembled by the barman, and were hastily delivered to me and the lady in-waiting.
Sour would be an apt description of the lady's libation of choice. Stiff would be a proper word to describe the libation which was mine. Such libations were crafted in order to be enjoyed in the manner of a slow burn, rather than that of the proverbial flash in the pan; the calm and pleasant ambiance, coupled with jazz tunes, allow for such an experience to be easily enjoyed. -
Review from Madhuri I.
New York, NY
Updated - 4/8/2012
Okay. I've been here on weekdays, and on weekends. On crowded nights and jazz nights and both.
Really, every other cocktail bar owned by our man Petraske does a much better job at the ambience, service and the cocktails. On a particular night my friend asked for something not sweet, and she was handed something only cloyingly too sweet, and when she requested it be remedied, the mixologist basically just poured an inappropriate quantity of lemon juice in the same glass.
The jazz band does play interesting music but they're sort of hidden away in this little crevice, which is a bit sad.
I know I've been a bit schitz with this place but in New York City, where beautiful drinks and friendly service isn't hard to come by, I have no choice but to downgrade this little branch.Listed in: Cocktails and Conversation
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
-
5/28/2009
No queue to enter + surprisingly delicious ginger cocktail with rose water
=
an extra star + I'm a… Read more »
-
-
Review from Sumito A.
Manhattan, NY
4/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
Get to the Chase:
Pros:
1) Love the hole and the wall kind of feel...think of speakeasy, artsy, library meets bar
2) One of the few bars where their toilets don't smell like a subway piss station
3) REALLY strong drinks, and a large variety
4) Polite bartenders
Cons:
1) Can get very cramped...small space
2) If you want a table either have a reservation or wait 45 min
3) There is a line outside to get in as well as a bouncer
4) From the outside the establishment looks like a jailhouse -
Review from Tiffany Y.
New York, NY
4/5/2012
I guess I never caught onto the whole speakeasy thing. We came here on a Wednesday night at like 10pm and there was a line! A line for a place in the West Village?! That was confusing.
Anyway, once we got inside, we sat at this cute twosie booth and ordered a few drinks. The live jazz was a nice touch--we could hear it but couldn't see where they were actually performing. What did I order, you ask? I can't remember--perhaps a sign of a good night, haha. My drinks were strong.
Cash only. -
Review from JJ G.
Manhattan, NY
4/24/2012
Adorable little speakeasy! I'm a fan of the speakeasy ambiance in general, so I may be a little biased, but this place is pretty cool - from the drinks, to the tiny, almost cavern-like feel, to oh, the live jazz!
Not to mention, the drinks? Oh, the drinks are fantastic. The bartenders definitely know what they're doing here - don't be afraid to let them get creative with your order! I had a ton of fun just giving an ingredient or two for every round; every single cocktail that came to my table was amazing. -
Review from Kristie C.
Atlanta, GA
4/17/2012 1 Check-in Here
Yay -- cool little "speakeasy"-type place. No electrical lighting, jut oil lamps and candles. Love the vibe, not too swanky, chill.
Our waiter was really friendly, suggested a really great drink since their menu is pretty plain. I got a vodka-based drink that had mint, and a few hints of lime/lemon. Super delicious!!
Average $/Drink = $13
ATM available, cash only
--------------
2nd time around - no seating on Tuesday night, but had 2 great drinks:
1.) vodka, rose water, honey, ginger -- perfect zing to this!
2.) the aviation - gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and lemon juice. -
Review from Lauren B.
3/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
I've never met a speakeasy I didn't like. Which is probably why I was thrilled to drop in here on a Tuesday evening, and even the 15 minute wait didn't bother me. Of course I am jittery with excitement as we walk down the long set of stairs to the basement lair...I can't wait to see what it's like down there!!!
Whelp, it was packed. We tried to sidle up to the bar, which proved difficult. I don't want my $15 cocktail with a side of elbow to the face, thank you very much.
When we finally made it to the bar, there were no bar stools, and nowhere to hang your coat. This means I have my heavy winter coat slung over my arm, and people behind me are already pushing in...le sigh. I miss the coat rack at Raines Law Room and the oversized leather barstools at PDT.
But come on you guys, you know how I feel about artful cocktails, and Sasha Petraske never, ever let's me down so we started to order. One of my favorite things to do when I don't fall instantly in love with anything on the menu is ask the bartender to make me something with bourbon or whiskey, add cinnamon, cardamon or clove-like flavors. This method is fairly fool proof, as these bartenders usually know their stuff inside and out.
My drink was alright, but nothing more than that. it was mainly too damn strong. Excuse me bartender? If I wanted bourbon on the rocks, I would have ordered that. Cocktail fail.
The others in my party were enjoying themselves, but they are both from out of town, so they think anything hidden is a real gas, and I just know better.
I couldn't believe how freaking packed it was - and stayed - through the end of our time there. It was also hot, and not in a "sexy, let me just remove my sweater and show some extra skin in winter - hot", it was more like "I don't think I can take off enough layers to stop sweating and ruining my $40 blowout - hot". I was unimpressed.
There are so many other kick ass speakeasies out there that will rock your socks right off, why bother with Little Branch? Then again, you might have to remove said socks anyway, to keep the heat at bay.
Speakeasy Fail. And I never say that.Listed in: You Must Be Kidding Me
-
Review from Ji I.
Manhattan, NY
4/17/2012
Had an awesome dark and stormy! :)
A little too dark for me. -
Review from Abby S.
New York, NY
3/27/2012
have been obssessed with Speakeasies eversince I moved to New York. I love the secrecy and mysteriousness. They also serve phenomenal elixirs which is a huge enough reason to go spend 18 dollars for one drink. They are sexy and dark and takes you back in time. They also usually have a nice back story.
My latest discovery is Little Branch. This little secret hideaway is in the West village in a very random building jutting out of Leroy St. there is an iron door and the sign is very small carved on a steel plate. It's very easy to miss! When you open the door, you go down this creaky staircase that leads down to this dungeon-like place filled with booths, a piano on one side and the tiny bar on the other. The walls are completely raw, it is extremely dark, and the side of the booths have little hooks for coats (always a plus).
A patron told us that if you have a favorite ingredient or liquor, you just tell the bartender and they will make you the most amazing concoction with it. So I said "My good man, make me something faaahhhncy with gingerbeer!" He ran off and came back with my drink.. Ohhhhhhh soooo good! Gingerbeer and whiskey with some orange juice and other magical things that I cant seem to remember right now... Only the goodness. My friend had ordered the Hot Butter Rum drink. I have to say it was even better than mine. Sweet and warm and delicous. Makes a cold night a little bit better. It reminded us of the butterbeers from Harry Potter! mmmmmm
This is not really a place to meet people since the booths are so private that you cant see anyone except the top of their heads! But, a very very nice date place. Quiet and dark and secretive where you can whisper sweet nothings in each others ears while sipping a nice cocktail. -
Review from Yibing Q.
Manhattan, NY
4/12/2012
Average speakeasy experience. I was there at 9pm on a Thursday - waited approx 30 minutes before getting a table (you have to queue outside then get into the bar then put your name down on the waiting list then wait around by the bar).
I requested for a drink that reminded me of "cherry blossoms" (so something flowery) and was served a cocktail with rose syrup, ginger and rum. It was all right - nothing too special about it.
There was live jazz music ... but it was slightly lacklustre (the way the cubbyholes were located did not allow us to 'watch' the band).
There was a huge crowd waiting for a table by the bar and outside ... felt obliged to leave promptly after finishing our drinks ... so it's not somewhere to linger around for long conversations. -
Review from Erik D.
Manhattan, NY
5/17/2012
This is a wonderful, unique, and cool speakeasy. They have live jazz music from Sunday until Wednesday, which is always enjoyable. The cocktails are great, service is good. It's great that it rarely gets overcrowded.
-
Review from Joyce H.
4/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
This place would have gotten 5 stars if the owners didn't keep everyone waiting outside in line for 35 minutes. Despite a ridiculous wait, I am still giving this speakeasy 4 stars because the drinks were really great and mostly, the bartenders were so nice. Watching them make the drinks was like watching an art show. I had the blackberry drink and I also tried a cucumber concoction. The wait was around 45 minutes for a table for 4 when I went at 10 pm on a Friday night, but we ended up getting seats at some barstools. Small place but I think could be a cozy spot to catch up over some yummy drinks
-
Review from Jiyea C.
Cambridge, MA
4/23/2012
Went there on a Friday night about a quarter past 10 and were in by 10:45. We went down a rather steep flight of stairs into a dimly lit (even the bathroom was candle lit, kinda cool) and low-ceiling'd room. The noise level was average, a little loud but not boisterous. I love the vibe about this place (and speakeasies in general): dark, mysterious, hole-in-the-wall. We decided to hedge our bets with a table and were pleasantly surprised to be seated even before our first drink orders were completed. (could be because we were just a party of two) Hostess said our drinks would be brought to us.
We started off with the bartender's choice (he told them that he liked scotch, and I said I like mai tais), thinking that it'd be more fun that way. The drinks are strong and delicious (be careful, you might be consuming more alcohol than you think!). Even the sweet-ish drinks are well balanced by this bitter stuff that they add to the top.
To top if all off, their service is phenomenal. Fast, attentive and friendly. They brought us water even though we didn't even ask for it, and refilled it periodically. At other speakeasies that I've been to (not in NY), I had to get up and go to the bar to order another drink if I was seated at a table, but this place takes orders and brings the drink to you. Nice! -
Review from JoAnna D.
3/10/2012
Last fall, our little thirsty group of four walked back ... and forth ... and back again while trying to find this anonymous bar in the West Village. My boyfriend's friend's out-of-town girlfriend -- (I'll give you a second to trace that in your head... Ok.) -- had heard of it from a friend, and we were determined to find it for her.
"Wait! What about that place? There's a guy with suspenders standing in front of a door for no reason. He looks like he's from the '20s."
"Yes! That's it!"
Comparing ourselves to the patrons exiting the bar, we felt alternately under- & over-dressed for the occasion. But, we figured, averaging it out, we looked just fine. And after a 10-minute wait, we headed down the stairs into the dark, crowded abyss.
Cash only?! -- This bar truly honors the traditions of the 1920s speakeasies; a simpler time when Visa & American Express didn't exist. So, my BF ran out quickly to find an ATM while the three of us found a clear spot at the bar to order.
I was overwhelmed with how quickly the small space became crowded & stuffy, so I found a quiet corner & let my boyfriend order for me. In hindsight - and after seeing some of the Yelpers' pictures - I probably should've been a little more adventurous & ordered on my own. I can't remember what I did drink, but I remember that it was incredibly strong. Thumbs up to the heavy-handed, generous bartenders!
Perched on the small staircase by the bar, sipping my drink, I quickly befriended two Canadian tourists. They were having the time of their lives, experiencing everything they could in NYC: they caught a Yankees game, a Mets game, and visited almost every tourist trap within the city limits. We struck up a conversation that may or may not have begun with flirtation (on their part!), and ended with the six of us exchanging lively stories of life in Canada, NJ, San Francisco, and everything in between. It was a night to remember, for sure.
If it had been a little less crowded & hot, I would've been more open to experimenting with drinks & seeing the bartenders make their creative concoctions. For that reason alone, I think I'd come back. And hey, who knows who we'll meet next time ...Listed in: Ethanol for one & all!
-
Review from Esther W.
Manhattan, NY
3/13/2012 1 Check-in Here
Get there early, get there early, get there early!
Yes you will look like an alcoholic waiting outside a bar to open in the early evening but at least you'll get a nice table with a nice waiter to bartend you. Their drinks are pretty interesting and the sugary ones are really surgery which resulted in a major hangover the next day, however, I was happy with my cozy little corner, sitting down when I had painful stilettos, with the waiter coming to us to get us our drinks.... because we got there early!!! -
Review from Alka J.
3/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Fantastic drinks, great vibe, perfect place to begin or end the night in the west village. The bartender's choice is the way to go if you are torn between options on the menu.
Say the words "grapefruit, vodka, mint' and you will be happy. the bartenders know their stuff and make some interesting concoctions.
if you tip a little more, you're set for the rest of the night.
only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is because waiting in the cold is no fun. the place is also super small, so it gets pretty cramped in there during peek hours if you happen to get in. -
Review from Sarah B.
Charles Village, Baltimore, MD
4/29/2012
What a find! If it wasn't for yelp, I wouldn't have found this place. No sign, no glamour on the outside. Cover pic from yelp helped find it and the short line outside gave it away. From the bouncer outside, Chris, to the bartenders and other patrons: nice, nice, nice! Great ingredients and knowledgeable staff make for excellent cocktails.
-
Review from Juelz K.
Brooklyn, NY
3/24/2012
A. The Service here is Quality!
B. Tasty Cocktails
C. Friday night at 8pm is a 15 minute wait -
Review from Sam A.
Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY
2/12/2012
What a place!
Had to wait a little bit in the snow before getting in, but boy was it worth it!
First drink i had included tequila, cucumber, lime, hot sauce (and some other things I'm sure I'm forgetting now)-- what a brilliant way to start off the night after waiting in the cold. My second drink was somehow even better: pisco, egg whites, almond syrup, and club soda. The bartender still hadn't come up with a name for it, but my oh my, it was DELICIOUS! Definitely go with the bartenders specials, and let them know what you're craving!
As others have mentioned, it'll run you about $13 cash only a drink (totally worth it in my experience... these bartenders actually enjoy their craft!). Also if you put your name down for a booth (after you enter), there is PLENTY of space to hang your jackets and scarves! -
Review from Leslie M.
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 John-Paul P.
Madison, NJ
3/1/2012 3 photos
Located on an empty street corner in the West Village, Little Branch could perhaps be called the Poor Man's Milk & Honey. Not that there's anything poor about the place, but for those who want to try the flagship M&H spot, but are unable to gain access, the drinks here are just as good. Not to mention that the bartenders who work at M&H also take turns mixing at Little Branch.
After leaving Employees Only, I met one of my friends here around 7pm last Saturday night. There were three others standing outside, besides me. After the door was opened, we descended the stairs into the basement like area. The space that awaits you is surprising. It's cozy, warmly yet dimly lit, is uniquely (but sparsely) decorated and best of all, doesn't smell like a damp, musky basement.
After being seated, my friend poured over the menu, as he'd never been to a place like this before, where drinks are tailored to your liking. He kept asking what their most popular drink was, before asking to have something with rye in it. I can't remember his first drink tho, but for my first drink, I asked for something with egg whites and received the Harvest Sour, which contained Rye, Apple Jack, Simple Syrup, Lemon Juice and Egg Whites. It was a strong drink, but it didn't make you gasp or cringe and had good mixtures of sweet and sour. The egg whites added a nice layer of fluff as well.
For my friend's second drink, my friend had the Chet Baker, which I'd previously had upon the barman's choice a few weeks back at Please Don't Tell. PDT and Little Branch both make an excellent Chet Baker, with PDT's being on the stronger side and Little Branch's being on the smoother side. It just depends what your preference is. For my second drink, I asked for a Bee's Kiss, which I'd heard was a staple of the M&H and Little Branch empire and while it was good, I was a bit disappointed. I'd just come from Employees Only and had a Bee's Kiss there as well, only the bartender who'd made it had never heard of it before and proceeded to really knock it out of the park and even asked if I'd like fresh nutmeg grated on it. While the Little Branch version was good, it lacked the fresh nutmeg and was mixed a bit differently. I'd still recommend it tho.
Just remember this place is cash only and if you're hoping to be seated at a booth, your entire party must be present. Don't forget that if you'd like a booth, get here early. I arrived at 7 and by 7:30, all the booths were filled. When I stepped outside to make a phone call around 8, all booths were filled, the bar area was packed and there was a line outside, with blustering wind and snow falling. The drinks are that good tho. There was no bouncer when I arrived at 7, but when I stepped outside to make a phone call, one was present. He was a really friendly guy too.
Little Branch definitely qualifies as a speakeasy from yesteryear, but the more of these places I go to, the more I find out that the drinks aren't always unique to a specific venue. -
Review from Zach K.
Manhattan, NY
2/23/2012
Great date spot because of the intimate atmosphere and fun drinks. I'm a fan of the live jazz when they have it -- although sometimes it gets a little loud. Definitely kind of a scene once you're in, but maybe that part of the speakeasy allure.
I agree with the other comments here about the wait, but it hasn't stopped me from coming back a few times. I would recommend, though, waiting for a warmer night so you aren't standing out in the cold. -
Review from Chantal D.
New York, NY
5/10/2012
Friendly bartenders, good "Bartender's Choice," fast line. Not very crowded on a Wednesday night and live jazz all week except Fri-Sat. I'm not a big fan of the layout - table area then small bar where it feels a little too close to your neighbor.
-
Review from miriam h.
Brooklyn, NY
3/3/2012
I have only been here a handful of times, but each time has been pleasant and memorable. It's a small place and there is almost always a line after 9pm... so make sure that your guests (should be an absolute max of 2) is not whiny, as no haute couture cocktail is worth whiny company. When you come in, put your name on the list for a table, then order the bartender's choice and observe the mystique of lovely cocktail making. Make sure you bring enough cash, just in case your friends didn't bring enough and are too drunk to go to an ATM.
The crowd is more mellow than most places in the area and is a great place to make new acquaintances. The place is so small, that if you don't have a sense of humor, you might get grumpy. -
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 Ed R.
Manhattan, NY
4/15/2012 1 Check-in Here
I came here the day I got married for an after dinner cocktail. They use ginger in their cocktails and my mouth just watered thinking about them.
-
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 John L.
New York, NY
4/11/2012
Amazing speakeasy. Excellent cocktails and excellent for a date.
-
Review from Nisha C.
Manhattan, NY
4/8/2012
Probably the best drinks I've had in the city. Usually when bartenders ask me what I like and I give them some vague answer (sweet but strong, tart and strong, etc) they screw it up. But at Little Branch - they got it right every time. I never ordered off the menu - just gave the bartender a really obscure description of what I like and every cocktail he concocted was amazing. We went on a Thursday and had to wait about 15 minutes to get in - its really small but I like that they regulate how many people can go inside. I can't wait to go back.
-
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 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 becomes a bit of 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, Mixology is Cooking for…
-
Review from Carrie W.
Hoboken, NJ
4/2/2012
I don't get it. This place is a tiny, smelly basement lounge that looked and smelled so bad, I didn't even order anything to eat or drink. Maybe I was grumpy after waiting 30 minutes to get in at 12 midnight on a friday night, or maybe I just don't get this place all-together.
-
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 Elizabeth A.
Brooklyn, NY
5/1/2012
Best first date ever was had here! The music is great, the drinks are great, and the crowd is very cool...no drunk idiots spilling drinks all over you. Excellent for a date or a small group of friends for an after dinner drink, even on weeknights. The only downside is waiting for a table, but other than that you can't go wrong here.
-
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
Read more reviews for this business:
German (1),
Swedish (1)
