Legendary speakeasy w/ incredible cocktails & late-night vibe. Hidden gem for expertly crafted drinks.
This West Village institution is a renowned speakeasy celebrated for its expertly crafted cocktails and late-night atmosphere. While it boasts a legendary status and a hidden bar experience, be prepared for a lively, sometimes crowded environment. It's a go-to spot for classic drinks and a vibrant scene, though dining reservations require a commitment to a full meal.
Known primarily for its cocktails, this establishment is also noted for dishes like steak tartare, which some find overhyped, and chicken soup. While drinks are a major draw, diners with reservations are expected to order full meals, and bar seating can be crowded.
"While primarily known for its cocktails, the espresso martini has received specific positive mention, despite some users finding other food items like steak tartare to be overhyped."
Customers generally praise the exceptional quality of the cocktails and the bar's legendary status. However, some find the atmosphere to be too hectic and the reservation policy to be restrictive for those only seeking drinks.
Important Note
Reservations are for dining only and require ordering a full meal; bar seating is walk-in and can be very crowded, making conversation difficult. The environment may be too hectic for some.
"Employees Only was suggested as a fun and special dining option."
Positive"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."
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