When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Osamil Upstairs
Why Osamil Upstairs is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Osamil Upstairs, located on the second floor of 5 West 31st Street in New York City’s Koreatown, offers a refined yet inviting destination for friends and cocktail enthusiasts. This intimate venue features a 12-seat bar, a cozy private living room-like area, and a communal lounge, making it an ideal spot not only for casual meetups but also for special occasions. The atmosphere skillfully merges modern and traditional Korean aesthetics, creating a sophisticated backdrop that complements both the food and drink experience. Open from early evening until late night, Osamil Upstairs is well-known for its innovative craft cocktail program led by mixologist Lion Seo. Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu showcasing unique gin-based cocktails, smoked whiskeys, and creative twists on classic drinks. Beyond cocktails, the venue also emphasizes Korean flavors with a Ko-chi (Korean style skewers) grill, offering authentic Korean gastropub cuisine featuring bold and soulful tastes. The combination of expertly crafted drinks, Korean-inspired dishes, and the warm, stylish setting makes Osamil Upstairs an outstanding choice for social gatherings, where friends can connect over flavorful cocktails and delicious eats in an ambiance that feels both exclusive and welcoming.
Here's what people think of Osamil Upstairs
As of recent, Osamil Upstairs holds a 4.5-star rating based on 435 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Osamil Upstairs for its outstanding cocktail creativity, warm atmosphere, and exceptional service. Many users highlight the bar's inventive signatures and the expertise of the staff, especially admiring the balance of flavors in the drinks and the uniqueness of the smoked whiskey selections. The intimate size of the bar and the cozy, lounge-like spaces receive favorable mentions, with many appreciating that the place feels private yet sociable. Positive reviews also often mention the food, noting that the Korean skewers complement the drinks perfectly and enhance the overall dining experience. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the limited seating and high demand for reservations, which can make spontaneous visits challenging. A few guests have noted that the price point reflects the upscale nature of the venue, which might not suit all budgets. Additionally, while most enjoy the ambience, the small size can sometimes make it feel cramped during peak hours. Overall, reviews convey that Osamil Upstairs excels as a top-tier Koreatown cocktail and dining spot, successfully combining creative mixology with authentic flavors and a welcoming environment, despite minor drawbacks related to space and cost.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Billy Rodriguez
Tucked above the fantastic Osamil restaurant, you have a standout sophisticated speakeasy bar. Intimate and upscale, you have a perfect setting to impress a date or out of town guests. Cocktails are creative and delicious mixing unique Korean ingredients. Each drink is a work of art, beautifully presented and perfectly balanced. However, be prepared for a high end experience to come with a high end price tag. Cocktails are above $20. Service could be improved for the type of establishment and price. I felt a bit rushed while we were there and was never checked on. As much of a fan of the Osamil restaurant, I expected better service. Regardless, worth the visit if you’re in the area and looking for a unique cocktail experience.
Sean Lee
A stylish and cozy bar with a great selection of cocktails and whiskey. It wasn’t too loud, which made it easy to have a comfortable conversation. The woman who took care of our table was incredibly kind, and Enock, who also stopped by to check on us from time to time, was just as friendly. The quality of the bites menu was also excellent!
Mia Huynh
I came here to meet up with a friend and grab a quick drink. Located above the restaurant Osamil, this is a stunning cocktail bar. The ambiance here is amazing and the service is even better. They have a fairly big cocktail menu and there's bound to be something for everyone. Although I thought that it was a good ambiance, I did feel like the cocktails were a bit overpriced for what it was (~$30), and I thought that mine was okay. Overall, good ambiance but I'm not sure it was worth it.
Jea Kim
A hidden speakeasy near K-town that my friend insisted we check out. At first, we thought we’d been duped. We walked into what looked like a regular Korean pub downstairs and thought, this can’t be it. But we soon realized there was a staircase leading to an entirely different world upstairs: moody lighting, mellow jazz, and just enough secrecy to feel cool without trying too hard. We showed up a little after midnight on a Saturday and somehow snagged the last table (they were leaving as we went up). The place was slammed, so our drinks took over 20 minutes to arrive, and by 1am, they were already calling last orders (even though closing time is listed as 2am… suspicious, but fine). We only had time for two drinks (Baebae and the Harubang) both fruit-forward and easy to sip, without the overwhelming sweetness. Not life-changing, but definitely a good time if you’re in it for the vibes.
Dean
If you’re over loud, crowded bars where you have to yell to order a drink, this spot is a welcome change. I made a reservation about 30 minutes after opening, and it was the perfect place to sit, talk, and actually hear my friend. It started to fill up as we left, so I’d recommend going early and definitely booking a table if you can. We were just grabbing a quick drink before dinner, and table service made the experience feel relaxed and easy. Our server was friendly and walked us through the Korean-inspired drink menu without any pressure to order food. There are some small bites, but the tables are clearly more for drinks and conversation. The cocktails are creative and a little pricey, but you’re paying for more than just a drink… you’re getting great service and a chill, stylish atmosphere. I’ll definitely be back.
How to reach Osamil Upstairs
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Why Osamil Upstairs may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Osamil Upstairs with your friends?
When you’re considering a place to gather with friends, Osamil Upstairs stands out as an exceptionally inviting venue that marries style, comfort, and a unique cocktail experience. This upscale speakeasy-style bar offers a cozy, dimly lit ambiance sprinkled with a subtle Korean influence that adds an exotic twist to your usual meet-up spot. Its hidden upstairs location, accessible through an intriguing inner staircase at Osamil’s main restaurant, lends an exclusive, secretive vibe perfect for groups wanting a private yet vibrant atmosphere. The decor is plush and classy, designed to make every guest feel like they’ve found a hidden gem in the heart of New York’s Nomad district.
Beyond just the setting, Osamil Upstairs presents an array of imaginative craft cocktails that are carefully crafted by skilled bartenders who treat mixology as an art form. The staff's attentiveness, combined with their polished appearance and knowledge, elevates the entire experience, making it not only about the drinks but the social interaction and personalized service you and your friends will appreciate. The bar is spacious with a mix of seating options, including a stylish 12-seat bar and a lounge area filled with comfy chairs and couches ideal for conversations and relaxation. The combination of great drinks, ambiance, and service makes Osamil Upstairs an unbeatable choice for gathering with friends, whether for a casual catch-up or celebrating something special.
What unique drinks and cocktails can groups enjoy at Osamil Upstairs?
Osamil Upstairs is renowned for its inventive cocktail menu that merges Korean flavors with elevated New York hospitality, making it a delight for groups seeking something beyond the standard bar fare. Each cocktail is crafted with precision by expert bartenders who demonstrate a passion for mixology — from the exacting stir and shake motions to the thoughtful garnishes and aroma-enhancing atomizers. This attention to detail means every drink serves as both a visual and sensory experience, sparking conversations and shared enjoyment among friends.
The bar features cocktails using Korean-inspired ingredients such as plum, omija (five-flavor berry), and shiso leaves, lending a refreshing twist that sets these drinks apart from typical cocktails. Signature options like the "Harubang Highball" and other creatively named drinks offer a unique flavor profile. While some cocktails are priced at the higher end (starting around $21), the craftsmanship and taste typically justify the cost for those looking to indulge in high-quality beverages. Additionally, welcome shooters offered at the entrance create an immediate toast-worthy moment for groups arriving together, setting a festive tone from the start.
Whether your party prefers to enjoy lighter, refreshing highballs or more complex, robust concoctions, the staff at Osamil Upstairs excels at customizing drinks, taking requests seriously to suit individual palates. This personalized approach makes it easy for groups with diverse tastes to find something each person will enjoy, adding to the appeal of why Osamil Upstairs is a perfect cocktail destination.
What activities and ambiance make Osamil Upstairs ideal for group meetups?
Osamil Upstairs offers more than just great drinks—it provides an immersive experience designed for socializing and comfort. The upstairs lounge is spacious and elegantly decorated with soft, ambient lighting that creates an intimate and private setting. Comfortable seating options include swivel chairs and cozy couches arranged to encourage conversation and connection within groups of varying sizes.
The vibe here is both cozy and sophisticated, striking a balance between laid-back and upscale. Dim lighting paired with a stylish yet discreet décor helps create a relaxed atmosphere where guests can focus on their company without distractions. The music, often featuring classic R&B and smooth tunes, enhances the overall mood, creating a mellow backdrop for conversations or lighthearted fun.
For group meetups, Osamil Upstairs excels because it feels like a secret retreat right above the restaurant buzz downstairs, where you can escape the noise and enjoy a more serene environment. The space is well-suited for celebrations or simply unwinding after a long day, accommodating parties comfortably without feeling cramped. The staff’s attention to detail and smooth service ensures that your gathering flows seamlessly, with drinks refreshed promptly and any special requests handled professionally. This combination of ambiance, service, and setting makes Osamil Upstairs a sought-after venue to rally with friends or family.
How does the food complement the experience at Osamil Upstairs?
While Osamil Upstairs primarily focuses on cocktails, the food offerings complement the drinks and social vibe, perfect for sharing with friends during your visit. Unlike the main Osamil restaurant downstairs, the upstairs bar serves “Upstairs Bites,” a selection of small bar snacks, including options like mixed nuts and popcorn, mixed olives, macarons, and a modest charcuterie board. These light bites provide ideal accompaniments for cocktails, allowing groups to nibble while chatting without the formality of a full meal.
Though the food upstairs does not rival the restaurant’s extensive Korean-influenced menu downstairs, it contributes to the overall experience by meeting the expectations of a speakeasy-style cocktail bar. The snacks here ensure that guests can stave off hunger while continuing to enjoy their drinks in a social and relaxed setting. If your group wants to extend the evening into dinner, you might consider starting your meal downstairs with some of Osamil’s celebrated Korean pub fare—like the Korean market fried chicken or kimchi fried rice—and then migrating upstairs for post-dinner drinks in a more intimate environment.
The food-drink pairing at Osamil Upstairs is a thoughtful addition that rounds out the experience, making it suitable for everything from casual gatherings to celebratory nights out with friends or family.
What is the location and accessibility like for group visits to Osamil Upstairs?
Situated at 5 W 31st Street in New York City’s Nomad neighborhood, Osamil Upstairs benefits from a convenient and accessible Midtown Manhattan location. This central spot is easy to reach by public transportation, making it a practical choice for locals and visitors alike who want a stylish place to convene without hassle. The neighborhood itself has been revitalized over the past decade, boasting a wealth of quality restaurants and bars, but Osamil Upstairs distinguishes itself with its distinct vibe and quality.
The bar is located upstairs from Osamil’s main Korean restaurant, accessible via a discrete inner staircase. This hidden aspect adds to the speakeasy allure, suggesting a special, almost secret destination you can show your friends to impress them. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for groups, to secure seating at the popular 12-seat bar or in the cozy lounge. The venue’s well-planned layout ensures that large groups or multiple smaller gatherings can coexist comfortably without interference.
Additionally, the prompt, professional service and spacious setting mean groups don’t have to worry about being rushed or uncomfortable, allowing for extended visits that can stretch from early evening into late night. This combination of location, ambiance, and thoughtful service makes Osamil Upstairs an ideal spot for group meetups in the city.
Why is Osamil Upstairs highly rated by customers?
Osamil Upstairs consistently earns high marks, with a 4.5-star rating from over 400 reviews, reflecting widespread customer satisfaction with the overall experience. Reviewers frequently praise the elegance and private charm of the bar’s atmosphere, highlighting it as a “beautiful speakeasy” with a “cozy and sexy” vibe that is perfect for escaping the bustle and enjoying quality time with friends. The creativity and quality of the cocktails receive particular acclaim, with many compliments given to the bartenders’ skill and artistry.
Service at Osamil Upstairs also garners specific praise; guests note attentive, knowledgeable staff who provide personalized recommendations without ever rushing the party, even on busy nights. The polished uniforms and professional demeanor of the team further elevate the experience, making it feel curated and special. While some reviews mention that the price point can be on the higher side, most agree that the ambiance, quality, and uniqueness justify the investment for a memorable night out.
Some visitors suggest the food offerings upstairs are modest, but this is generally seen as fitting for a cocktail-driven venue rather than a full-service restaurant. The combination of discreet luxury, quality drinks, expert service, and a comfortable, inviting environment explains why Osamil Upstairs is considered an excellent choice for group gatherings and why it continues to attract loyal fans and new visitors alike.