When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Club Macanudo
Why Club Macanudo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Club Macanudo in New York City offers a premier social setting known for its upscale cigar lounge experience. Located on East 63rd Street, it is a refined venue where patrons can enjoy hand-rolled premium cigars alongside a curated menu of food and drinks. The lounge features elegant décor with mahogany furniture and leather chairs, providing an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a classic gentleman's club. Beyond cigars, the club pairs delicious dinners, desserts, and drinks to enhance the sensory experience. It serves as a go-to spot for socializing, hosting events such as whiskey and wine tastings, pairing events, and private parties. The dress code is business casual, enhancing its sophisticated vibe. Club Macanudo caters to both casual visitors and members, with membership fees available for those seeking a longer-term experience. This place is ideal for those looking to impress clients, enjoy a night out with friends, or immerse themselves in a unique cigar culture and hospitality environment.
Here's what people think of Club Macanudo
As of recent, Club Macanudo holds a 4.5-star rating based on 695 reviews.
Reviews for Club Macanudo highlight its luxurious and welcoming ambiance, markedly upscale with décor such as tapestries and fine furnishings. Many reviewers praised the friendly staff and knowledgeable bartenders, noting the lounge's excellent service and rich atmosphere. Positive comments emphasize the quality of cigars, the robust drink menu, and the unique pairing of cigars with food and beverages, with some repeat visitors appreciating the bar’s social vibe. However, some negative feedback centers on the high price points, particularly for food and cigars, which some feel can be prohibitive. A few guests also mentioned that the smoke can become overwhelming, especially during busy or late hours, recommending patrons arrive early for a better experience. Overall, reviews commend Club Macanudo for providing a distinctive and sophisticated night out, with most customers believing the upscale environment and quality offerings justify the premium prices.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
James Zorn
The beautiful wood interior and warm inviting vibe is awesome. The Club allows walk-ins, but there is a $40 minimum per person, and $20 of it has to be cigars. My wife and I had a drink and dessert. The warm chocolate truffles were delicious, and the coffee was also tasty. The service was friendly and helpful, they kep the ashtrays clean.
Carmen Guzman
Went here on a date with a special gentleman during my visit to NY and I must admit that I had an amazing time. Both the atmosphere and the company were phenomenal! I’m not one to drink but during my visit to NY I did make exceptions 🙈. I order The Godmother, I forgot which drink he had but it was very tasty. We also ordered appetizers and an entree that we shared, I’m not a big eater. He was such a gentleman. He even fed me 😜. We each enjoyed a cigar. He had chosen something light for me, one a bit bolder for himself. It was a very relaxed crowd. I had such a great time. We closed out the place. The staff was attentive as well. I would definitely recommend this place hands down.
Ms. Marilyn
A very handsome place to visit for drinks, cigars, dinner, and music! It's the perfect compromise to take a date and comfortably smoke a cigar and have drinks. I'm not a smoker but my hubby is, so whenever I go with him he knows it needs to be a place that has a good ventilation system. And this one does. I was able to enjoy dinner while he looked forward to trying sum of their signature cigars. I would definitely visit here again! We were in NYC for two weeks and we enjoyed our time here so much we went twice! Thank u for the diverse playlist! It kept us singing and vibing all night!
Miguel A. Collado
Wanted to try a different cigar lounge than the one I go to and came here. The place is just fancy but service not what was expected. Excellent location but I feel like there’s nothing that stands out. I am used to a walking-in humidor and picking my own cigar and here, all the cigars are on the menu and I wasn’t too pleased with that. I stayed for only a cigar and glass of wine.
Steve Gomes
Been to several cigar lounges from Boston to Atlanta and hands down this is still my favorite. Cigar selection is phenomenal and the atmosphere matches it.
How to reach Club Macanudo
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Why Club Macanudo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Club Macanudo with your friends?
Club Macanudo stands out as an exceptional venue to gather with friends due to its unique blend of upscale ambiance, quality cigars, and a convivial atmosphere that invites relaxation and socializing. Located in New York City’s Upper East Side, this cigar lounge and bar offers an elegant escape from the everyday where you can enjoy premium cigars alongside crafted drinks and tasty food. What makes it particularly appealing is the environment—rich wood décor, stunning tapestries, and a setting that feels both luxurious and welcoming. Whether you and your friends are cigar aficionados or simply looking for a classy, comfortable spot to catch up, Club Macanudo provides a perfect backdrop. The staff’s friendly, knowledgeable service enhances the experience by guiding you through the menu of cigars and cocktails. Although it’s somewhat pricey, the quality and ambiance justify the expense, especially when shared with a group looking to make memories. Its longstanding reputation and high rating underscore why many choose to rally here for special occasions or simple relaxing get-togethers.
What activities can you do at Club Macanudo that make it ideal for group meetups?
At Club Macanudo, the centerpiece activity is undoubtedly enjoying premium cigars in a refined setting. The establishment is known for its extensive cigar menu, featuring fine brands like Macanudo, Partagas, Ramon Allones, and many more. This variety ensures that every group member can find a cigar aligned with their taste, whether novice or connoisseur. Beyond cigars, the club’s bar offers expertly crafted cocktails and a selection of drinks designed to complement different cigars and personal preferences. This perfect marriage of cigars and beverages creates a shared sensory experience that invites discussion and camaraderie.
Additionally, Club Macanudo serves a modest yet flavorful menu by Chef Bette Publicker. The food, while not the primary focus, includes satisfying options like spicy lamb and goat cheese quesadillas, fried calamari with lime-curry mayonnaise, and a grilled filet mignon that pairs perfectly with a fine cigar. The barbecued salmon salad is a lighter choice that balances the richness of other offerings. This food selection is ideal for groups looking to enjoy small plates or snacks without leaving their lounge experience. The presence of desserts like Jack Daniels pecan chocolate torte further rounds out the visit with indulgent options.
The layout and ambiance also foster group connections. Though the club is somewhat small and intimate, its comfortable seating allows groups to gather at dining tables or at the bar to chat and enjoy their evenings together. The sophisticated yet relaxed vibe encourages extended visits, making it easy for friends or family to settle in and enjoy long, meaningful conversations without interruption.
Why is Club Macanudo’s atmosphere perfect for a friendly or family gathering?
Club Macanudo creates an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting, which makes it an ideal spot for gatherings that seek both style and comfort. The lounge’s rich wood interiors, exquisite tapestries, and plush furnishings suggest a sense of warmth and luxury. Visitors often remark on the upscale ambiance that doesn’t feel intimidating but rather welcoming, which encourages a relaxed social dynamic. The setting naturally lends itself to both casual catch-ups and special celebrations, as the décor and lighting provide a comfortable balance between sophistication and intimacy.
The staff plays a key role in enhancing this environment. Their knowledgeable and friendly approach ensures that guests feel well cared-for, whether it’s offering guidance on cigar selection or preparing drinks to suit your mood. This attentive service reduces any potential awkwardness in a group setting, allowing everyone to feel at ease and enjoy themselves fully.
A caveat is the smoke-filled environment inherent to cigar lounges. It does create an element unique to the experience, appreciated by cigar lovers but possibly challenging for some non-smokers. However, patrons often suggest arriving early to enjoy the space before it becomes smokier and busier, which can be a nice way to ease into the evening in a calmer atmosphere before larger groups arrive.
Being open late—operating from noon until 2 a.m. on most nights—makes it flexible for groups with variable schedules who want a late-night spot to continue celebrations or relax after other events. This extended timeline offers a reliable venue for post-dinner meetups or weekend late-night plans without the loud, chaotic noise of typical clubs.
What should groups expect regarding pricing and service at Club Macanudo?
Expect a premium experience at Club Macanudo, which is reflected in the pricing. The food is described as "decent but pricey," indicating that while the menu items are thoughtfully prepared and of good quality, they come at a higher cost than many casual dining spots. Portions tend to be small, leaning more toward upscale bar snacks and fine dining plates rather than large meals. For groups, this means it's wise to plan ahead regarding food orders—perhaps going for shared plates or appetizers paired with drinks and cigars rather than expecting a full dinner experience.
The drinks, including expert cocktails and fine wines or spirits, stand out in quality and contribute to the higher price tier. The bartenders are praised for their expertise and good service, which adds value to the experience. Groups should anticipate attentive and knowledgeable service that enhances the vibe and keeps things flowing smoothly. This level of detail in service is part of what makes the lounge a respected and sought-after location for upscale gatherings.
Given the indulgent nature of the venue, a group meetup at Club Macanudo often involves spending more than at a typical bar or casual restaurant, but those expenses come with an ambiance, product quality, and personalized attention that justify the splurge.
How accessible and convenient is Club Macanudo for group visits?
Situated at 26 East 63rd Street in Manhattan, Club Macanudo is located in one of New York City's prime neighborhoods, making it accessible for locals and visitors alike. The Upper East Side is well served by public transportation options including metro lines and buses, making it easy for groups to coordinate meeting points and travel plans. For those driving, street parking can be found nearby, though it is advised to arrive earlier in the evening to secure parking spots.
The location’s upscale nature means it is quiet and refined compared to many of the city's louder nightlife hubs, which can be a big plus for group conversations and relaxed enjoyment without the distraction of booming music or crowds. Its position near luxury hotels also serves well for groups coming from out of town, offering a refined nightcap option within walking distance or a short cab ride.
In terms of space, while the lounge is not very large, it provides a cozy, intimate setting that makes groups feel like they’ve found a private, special spot. Booking ahead or arriving early can help ensure that a group can secure seating together, especially during busier weekend evenings.
What types of groups and occasions suit Club Macanudo best?
Club Macanudo is perfectly suited for groups seeking a luxurious yet comfortable environment for socializing, making it an excellent choice for friends catching up, family celebrations, or business gatherings with a relaxed vibe. The upscale cigar lounge aspect makes it particularly attractive to groups that appreciate cigars and fine drinks, as well as those who enjoy a quieter, more refined atmosphere than a typical bar or nightclub provides.
It's ideal for milestone events such as birthdays, anniversaries, or small reunions where the goal is to enjoy quality time together in a beautifully appointed setting. The capacity for late-night hours allows for both early evening dinners and late-night drinks, fitting diverse schedules and group preferences.
The lounge’s elegant style also suits groups that want to impress guests or clients, combining sophistication with a laid-back charm. However, given the smoking environment, it may be less suitable for family gatherings involving young children or guests sensitive to cigar smoke.
In summary, Club Macanudo offers a unique and upscale retreat in New York City where friends and family can rally to enjoy premium cigars, excellent drinks, and a tantalizing menu in a warm yet elegant atmosphere. Though priced at a premium, the club’s ambience, service quality, and carefully curated offerings make it a standout venue for memorable group meetups in the city.