Raines Law Room

Tucked down and away, out of sight from street level, the Raines Law Room is a welcome addition to the speakeasy trend in New York. Just off Union Square, the Law Room is all sexy, boudoir velvet complete with fantastic drinks. To gain entrance through the unmarked door that leads to the bar, imbibers must ring the bell to be admitted by the host.

Once inside, and shed of coats, you are led into a very cozy room, described as the “Parlor” room on the bar’s website. With exposed brick on one wall, and a seemingly fleur de lis-patterned wallpaper (look closely!) on the other wall, the space begs for intimate discussions and luxuriating in the specialty drinks either on the large, velvet banquettes or the intimate cafe chairs and armchairs. Through the parlor is the kitchen, where specialty drinks are mixed by hand—no soda guns here. With names like Corpse Reviver #2 (there doesn’t seem to be a Corpse Reviver #1), Smoke and Mirrors and Hanky Panky, the menu intrigues with possibilities. And utilizing ingredients such as absinthe, rye and green chartreuse, a less-experienced drinker (vodka tonic, please!) can be easily intimidated. When in doubt, go with the specialty drink of the day–it was fabulous and seemed to consist of scotch and ginger and all manner of other ingredients unknown, but no matter. While specialty drinks are a little pricey at about an average of $13, wine and beer are at a very respectable, New York-affordable price range of $7-$10. The wait staff is very friendly (one person in my party, jaded New Yorker that she is, was even a bit suspicious of the lovely service), from host to waitress. Either looking to impress, or just a fun, sexy night out, the Raines Law Room is a must.

The Raines Law Room
48 West 17th Street Between 5th, 6th Aves.