Midtown isn’t exactly hurting for places to grab a drink, but The Bar Downstairs has managed to carve out something rare: a speakeasy-style bar that actually delivers on discretion and quality. Tucked beneath the Andaz 5th Avenue and hidden in plain sight across from the New York Public Library, this cellar-level spot has quietly become a go-to for locals who know better and visitors who luck into it.
Open from breakfast through last call, The Bar Downstairs offers a sharp cocktail list, a full breakfast menu and seasonal dinner selections that show off a kitchen with both skill and restraint. The drinks menu is inventive but self-aware, featuring house infusions, low-proof options and subtle takes on the classics. The space itself is intimate without being fussy, dimly lit in a way that flatters everyone and staffed by people who know what they’re doing without being performative.
Dinner rotates with the seasons, featuring high-quality ingredients and composed plates that are thoughtful and confidently executed. It’s well-suited for a relaxed evening, whether you're catching up with friends or winding down solo. You won’t find a DJ or a guest list here, just good drinks, well-made dishes and a space that encourages you to settle in and stay awhile.
Convenient to Grand Central and Bryant Park but far enough removed from the tourist churn, The Bar Downstairs makes a strong case for becoming your new regular spot, even if it’s not the kind of place you broadcast to everyone. Which, frankly, is the point.
Reservations are available on Resy, but walk-ins are often rewarded. For menus, hours and seasonal specials, visit bardownstairs.com or follow along on Instagram at @thebardownstairs.