Thrillist, Eater, et al posted yesterday about a new speakeasy - yes, narrow space, downstairs, unmarked door, yada yada - called Raines Law Room (48 W. 17th Street) and immediately a couple of skeptics weighed in. Seems some people are tired of speakeasies and we can understand that - everything from tiny PDT, the world's most promoted speakeasy, to Woodson and Ford, the open but not basement joint on Bleecker Street, has started to grate on folks. These days, people want to drink and they kind of prefer places that a) they can get into and b) they can find.
One of the bartenders hastily leapt to the spot's defense, promising "it's not like any other bar in town." Now it's arguable that was even necessary since only two commenters initially posted their skepticism and it was hardly the usual Eater vitriol. Of course, the bartender's response opened him up for further criticism and a good bit of hole was dug, though he was certainly diligent and fair in his comments. However, it might serve folks working at speakeasies to be a little less sensitive to internet comments.
From our perspective, the place actually sounds intriguing and we don't mind the concept - assuming they have a policy of actually letting people in. We'll let you know how that Old Fashioned tastes, it does sound like a delicious version.
Raines Law Room
48 W. 17th Street, downstairs, unmarked door
One of the bartenders hastily leapt to the spot's defense, promising "it's not like any other bar in town." Now it's arguable that was even necessary since only two commenters initially posted their skepticism and it was hardly the usual Eater vitriol. Of course, the bartender's response opened him up for further criticism and a good bit of hole was dug, though he was certainly diligent and fair in his comments. However, it might serve folks working at speakeasies to be a little less sensitive to internet comments.
From our perspective, the place actually sounds intriguing and we don't mind the concept - assuming they have a policy of actually letting people in. We'll let you know how that Old Fashioned tastes, it does sound like a delicious version.
Raines Law Room
48 W. 17th Street, downstairs, unmarked door
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