When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Lovers of Today
Why Lovers of Today is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lovers of Today is a snug and intimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar located in the East Village of Manhattan, New York City. Tucked discreetly below street level with a distinctive neon heart sign outside, it offers a cozy and romantic ambiance that makes it an ideal spot for friends and couples to meet up and unwind. The dark, moody interior with intimate seating encourages quiet conversation and a relaxed vibe away from the city's bustle. The bar is known for its creative and specialty cocktails, including notable drinks such as the Hong Kong Garden, which features gin and lychee liqueur, showcasing their artisanal approach to mixology. With a happy hour from 5 to 7 pm offering great deals on signature drinks, it attracts both locals and visitors seeking a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. Located across from Tompkins Square Park, Lovers of Today also provides an option to reserve private party rooms, making it suitable for special occasions and private gatherings. The venue prides itself on being gender-neutral and welcoming to all, with parking validation and options for street parking to accommodate guests. Overall, Lovers of Today presents a unique hidden gem experience combining quality cocktails, intimate setting, and a romantic yet casual vibe, perfect for socializing with friends or enjoying a date night in New York City.
Here's what people think of Lovers of Today
As of recent, Lovers of Today holds a 3.8-star rating based on 204 reviews.
Reviews of Lovers of Today reveal a generally positive perception mixed with some notable criticisms. Many patrons praise the bar as a hidden gem in the East Village, highlighting the intimate and cozy atmosphere that fosters easy conversation, making it highly suitable for dates or quiet nights out with friends. Positive notes frequently touch on the quality and creativity of the cocktails, with particular appreciation for specialty drinks like the Hong Kong Garden. The setting, tucked away below street level and adorned with a neon heart sign, adds to the exclusive and speakeasy charm that draws both regulars and newcomers. Happy hour deals and the welcoming vibe also resonate well with customers, contributing to repeat visits. Conversely, negative reviews primarily criticize the management and service. Some customers report unprofessional and aggressive behavior from staff, including instances of being asked to leave without clear explanations, which left them feeling uncomfortable or unwelcome. These experiences contrast sharply with the otherwise warm ambiance described. Additionally, the small size of the venue can sometimes contribute to cramped conditions. In conclusion, while Lovers of Today excels as a cozy, romantic cocktail bar with excellent drinks and ambiance, potential visitors should be aware that service inconsistencies have impacted some guests' experiences. Prospective patrons might find the bar delightful for intimate socializing but should be prepared for occasional service challenges.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Belinda Mok
Very intimate and dark inside. Ordered a fan mail and a marquee moon. Both were delicious. Good music.
Nick K
We always have a fun time here. The vibe is great. The drinks are delicious. The bartenders are friendly and chill. Never had a problem with the door people. It’s a definite stop when I’m in the area.
Isabella Grandic
Vibes cocktail bar. Packed on a Saturday but good energy. Late twenties crowd. Jazzy music. I think the “tall” cocktails are more interesting than the “up” ones. Very flavourful. Fun girly spot for drinks with friends
Fred L0
Lovers of Today is the definition of a hidden gem. Dimly lit, super cozy, and full of character. Their cocktails are creative and delicious. The Astral Plane with is floral and refreshing without being too sweet. The Handsome Devil is dangerously smooth. Bonus: happy hour from 5 to 7 pm makes trying more than one way too easy. Great vibes, great service, and drinks that taste as good as they look.
Zimmi Coker
First of all- this place has the best vibes and is so so cozy if you have a date. It definitely is VERY dark, so before showing up I’d definitely already be a drink or two in. I ordered the Marquee Moon, and the blackberry preserves made it so so delicious. These are craft and quality cocktails, so every time I go I am always super impressed. They have a wonderful happy hour that goes into the weekend as well!!! 9.5/10
How to reach Lovers of Today
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Why Lovers of Today may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lovers of Today with your friends? Lovers of Today offers a uniquely intimate and cozy atmosphere that makes it an exceptional choice for gatherings with friends, couples, or family groups. Unlike loud, sprawling clubs or touristy bars, it is a small, dimly lit speakeasy-style cocktail bar nestled in Manhattan's East Village that feels like a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. This tucked-away vibe naturally cultivates conversations and closeness, an environment perfect for those who want to enjoy good company without battling noise or crowds. The bar’s ambiance, enhanced by subtle lighting and cozy seating alcoves, invites relaxed, meaningful interactions. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply meeting for a casual evening, Lovers of Today combines a sense of calm with cool sophistication that will make your get-together feel both exclusive and comfortable. Its moderate popularity, reflected by a solid 3.8 rating from over 200 reviews, suggests it has charm and authenticity that locals appreciate, making it a great spot if you want to share something truly New York with your friends.
What activities and experiences does Lovers of Today offer that make it ideal for your group meetup? Central to its appeal is the expertly crafted cocktail menu, offering innovative and classic drinks that appeal to a broad range of palates. The bar frequently receives praise for the quality and creativity of its cocktails, making every sip a delightful experience that encourages savoring the moment with friends. Since it is a quiet, basement-level establishment, the setting is intimate and cozy, lending itself well to deep conversations rather than noisy distractions. The small size means you can secure a secluded table or alcove for your group, allowing privacy and a shared moment away from the bustle of Manhattan nightlife. The bar also has a friendly, welcoming staff who enhance the experience by providing great service with a personable touch — essential for a memorable meetup. Whether you want to toast something special or simply catch up over expertly made drinks, Lovers of Today creates an environment that feels personal and thoughtful.
How does the location and setting contribute to group enjoyment at Lovers of Today? The bar is cleverly hidden near 132½ East Seventh Street, which adds an element of discovery and exclusivity to your outing. As you descend the stairs into the basement venue, you are transported away from the typical East Village streetscape into a quaint, snug hideaway. This off-the-beaten-path charm means your group can enjoy a peaceful retreat without worrying about the noise pollution common to many Manhattan venues. The speakeasy style setup with minimal but evocative décor fosters a vibe of nostalgia mixed with modernity. Because of its size, it ensures that groups can easily find a quiet corner to chat and connect, rather than yelling over loud music or crowds. The location is also central and accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for friends coming from different parts of the city. This combination of seclusion and accessibility makes it a brilliant pick for groups seeking both intimacy and convenience.
What makes the menu and drink selection at Lovers of Today stand out for group gatherings? The cocktail offerings at Lovers of Today are designed with care, reflecting a strong commitment to craft and balance that sophisticated drinkers will appreciate. Each drink is meticulously prepared, showcasing seasonal ingredients and creative combinations, which can spark fun conversations and shared tasting experiences among your group. Because the drinks are well balanced and flavorful, even those less familiar with cocktails will find something to enjoy. The bar also occasionally features happy hour specials, adding extra value if you plan to spend an extended evening with friends. While it is not a full restaurant serving meals, it does offer late-night bites, ensuring that you can keep the energy up without leaving the spot. This focus on quality over quantity in the menu aligns with the overall vibe — relaxed, elegant, and centered on enjoying the moment together. Sharing flights of cocktails or comparing favorite concoctions can add a playful and interactive element to your gathering.
Why do guests praise the atmosphere and service at Lovers of Today for hosting meetups? Reviews consistently highlight the impeccable service and attentive staff who contribute significantly to the positive experience. The bartenders not only craft excellent drinks but also engage guests warmly, making even first-timers feel at ease and welcomed. This personalized service enhances group meetups by creating a relaxed and friendly environment where everyone feels taken care of. The bar’s ambiance is also repeatedly described as cozy, inviting, and magical — qualities that transform a simple outing into a memorable event. The dim lighting and carefully curated décor create an intimate shelter from the fast pace of city life. For people who prioritize conversation and connection over loud music or flashy surroundings, this soothing environment is a breath of fresh air. The combination of warm service and comfortable atmosphere ensures groups can linger for hours, deepening bonds without feeling rushed or crowded.
How does Lovers of Today cater to diverse groups and occasions? Whether your meetup is a casual catch-up, a romantic double date, or a small celebration, the bar’s versatility and charm make it a terrific choice. It caters well to singles, couples, and groups alike, thanks to its welcoming, low-key vibe that suits a range of moods and dynamics. The space is gender-neutral and inclusive, reinforcing a sense of safety and acceptance for all guests. Its late-night hours offer flexibility, making it easy to plan spontaneous or scheduled outings with friends or family. In addition, it accepts credit cards and validates parking, practical conveniences that simplify visit logistics. The manageable size means it is perfect for intimate gatherings without the anxiety of large crowds or overwhelming noise, yet it maintains just enough energy to feel alive and exciting. These attributes make Lovers of Today a dependable spot for varied social occasions where your group can relax and genuinely enjoy each other’s company.
In summary, Lovers of Today’s combination of a secretive and charming location, expertly crafted cocktails, intimate atmosphere, and excellent service makes it a superb destination for gatherings with friends or family. Its thoughtfully designed space encourages deep connection and fun, away from the chaotic energy typical of larger city venues. Whether you're looking for a safe, cozy spot for meaningful conversation or a stylish backdrop for toasting special moments, this East Village speakeasy delivers. The moderate 3.8 rating, based on authentic reviews, underlines a consistent quality and appeal without pretension. For groups seeking both style and substance in their meetups, Lovers of Today offers a remarkable balance that transforms a simple night out into a memorable experience.