Legendary speakeasy w/ incredible cocktails, late-night hours, and a hidden vibe. A classic NYC experience, but expect a lively, sometimes hectic atmosphere.
This West Village institution is a celebrated speakeasy known for its masterfully crafted cocktails and late-night vibes, often staying open until 4 AM. While the drinks are consistently praised, the atmosphere can be hectic, making conversation difficult. It's a go-to spot for classic cocktails and a unique experience, though dining reservations come with expectations of ordering a full meal.
The primary focus is on expertly made cocktails, with a specific mention of a well-regarded espresso martini. While some dishes like steak tartare have received mixed reviews (overhyped), the overall culinary experience is secondary to the bar offerings. Patrons with reservations are expected to order food, which can be a point of contention for those solely seeking drinks.
"While primarily known for its cocktails, the espresso martini and classic cocktails are frequently highlighted as exceptional. The steak tartare has received mixed reviews."
Customers generally praise the exceptional quality of the cocktails and the late-night availability. However, some find the atmosphere can be overly hectic and recommend managing expectations regarding reservations if not planning to dine.
Important Note
Reservations are for dining only and expect patrons to order a full meal. The bar can be very hectic and difficult for conversation. Some dishes, like steak tartare, have been described as overhyped.
"This user agreed with the negative sentiment about Employees Only, mentioning they have only had bad experiences there."
Negative"Further elaboration on the dislike for Employees Only's environment, citing it as often too crowded and poorly laid out for the volume of patrons."
Negative"Despite disliking the environment, space, and vibe, the user acknowledged that Employees Only serves a really good espresso martini."
Neutral"Employees Only is mentioned with a positive reaction ('fire')."
Positive"Slurp ramp in the Meatpacking district is recommended."
Positive"This user confirmed that the name EO is indeed a nod to where food service employees go after a shift."
Positive"This user inquired if the food at EO is pretty solid, noting they would be arriving after midnight on a Sunday."
Neutral"EO is suggested as a late-night dining option. The name is confirmed to be a nod to where food service employees go after a shift."
Positive"Employees only is recommended."
Positive"This commenter warns against booking a reservation for a dining-only slot at Employees Only if the intention is not to dine. They state the establishment fully expects patrons with reservations to have a meal and prioritize customers who will spend more."
Negative"This user confirmed that at Employees Only, they were required to order entrees despite already ordering multiple drinks and a few appetizers."
Negative"The commenter visited Employees Only with a reservation and felt pressured to order food, though they acknowledge this might have been self-imposed. They did order multiple drinks and some appetizers."
Neutral"The commenter notes that for Employees Only, only the dining room takes reservations. If seated there, dining is expected. Cocktail-only or snack service is available only at the bar on a walk-in basis."
Neutral"The user suggested walking to Hudson and grabbing a drink at Employees Only as an alternative to the Meatpacking District."
Positive"This user implicitly agrees that Employees Only fits the description of a beautiful cocktail bar sought by the original poster, by agreeing with the overall list it is part of."
Positive"Employees Only is recommended as a beautiful cocktail bar that fits the original poster's request for atmosphere and cocktails."
Positive"Employees Only is good, but not particularly unique. The classics are the best thing there."
Neutral"NayNay1020 describes Employees Only as having overhyped steak tartare."
Negative"Employees Only (EO) stays open until 4 AM every night."
Positive"Warns that Employees Only can be very hectic and difficult for conversation. Suggests Dear Strangers as an alternative with potentially better drinks and a chiller vibe, noting some staff overlap."
Negative
