When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Please Don't Tell
Why Please Don't Tell is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Please Don't Tell (PDT) is a distinguished speakeasy-style cocktail bar nestled in the East Village of Manhattan, New York City, renowned for its unique hidden entrance and intimate atmosphere. Accessed through a vintage phone booth inside the unassuming hot dog restaurant Crif Dogs, PDT offers patrons a secretive yet warm environment, comfortably accommodating no more than 48 guests. This cleverly concealed entrance is a cornerstone of its appeal, recreating the clandestine allure of Prohibition-era speakeasies. Beyond its entrance, the bar boasts a carefully curated menu featuring innovative yet approachable craft cocktails that reflect the pinnacle of cocktail culture. PDT's offerings extend to gourmet snacks such as perfectly crafted hot dogs, tater tots, and crispy french fries, blending casual comfort food with sophisticated mixology. Open late, until 2:00 AM nightly, PDT serves as an ideal venue for late-night gatherings with friends, where the ambiance fosters vibrant conversation and memorable experiences. The bar’s style and approach have significantly influenced New York City's cocktail scene, credited as a pioneer of the modern speakeasy trend. Whether seeking a celebratory night out or a cozy spot to enjoy expertly crafted drinks, PDT’s remarkable blend of secrecy, quality, and conviviality makes it a compelling destination to meet up with friends.
Here's what people think of Please Don't Tell
As of recent, Please Don't Tell holds a 4.3-star rating based on 2321 reviews.
User reviews of Please Don't Tell overwhelmingly praise its unique speakeasy concept and exceptional cocktail craftsmanship. Many visitors highlight the thrill of entering through the phone booth entrance, describing it as a memorable and fun experience that sets PDT apart from typical bars. Positive feedback consistently notes the creativity and balance of the cocktails, often mentioning the knowledgeable staff and attentive service that enhance the overall visit. Reviewers also appreciate the cozy, intimate setting that encourages close conversation, alongside the well-executed bar snacks that complement the drinks menu. However, some negative reviews cite challenges such as the difficulty of securing reservations due to the bar’s popularity and limited seating capacity. A few patrons mention that the space can feel cramped at peak times and that the prices, typically around $16 per cocktail, are on the higher side, which might not fit all budgets. Despite these minor concerns, the consensus is that PDT offers a distinctive, high-quality speakeasy experience that justifies the effort and cost involved. The combination of innovative mixology, authentic ambiance, and the novelty of its secretive entry make it a standout venue in New York City's vibrant nightlife scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Janai Sullivan
probably my fav bar i’ve been to in nyc, definitely takes the cake for coolest entrance. didn’t eat anything here but i told the bartender what sort of cocktails i like drinking & he made me something fantastically citrusy & absinthe-y! highly recommend checking this place out, the drinks & the vibes are amazing.
Jesse Yuan
Hidden Speakeasy within Criff Dog. Enter the phone booth, dial one to gain entrance. I do suggest reservation as they tend to get very busy throughout the evening. This is one of the top speakeasy in Manhattan. All the bartenders are super knowledgeable and their cocktails are on point no matter what you order. PDT should definitely be on your list if you’re planning to be in the area.
CAMI FILMS
I finally had the chance of visiting here and it’s a good vibe. Great drinks and good food. Can never go wrong with a good speak easy. The bartenders are cool and attentive. The music was jamming and the setting is very intimate. Great for a nice date.
Dhwani Babla
Unfortunately, the highest ranked NYC bars are often the most mediocre? Our first drink here, the Nanie Ma's Achar was not very good. However, the server then gave us another drink with a basil and tomato and it was amazing! I'd recommend this for hype and most of their staff was very welcoming but not sure a very long wait is worth committing to!
Avery Bargar
These were some of the best, most interesting cocktails I’ve ever had. The Fountain Cobbler is fascinating and delicious. Sam was a sensational bartender, and the food, though not at all the star, was very tasty. The Nordic Root grew more delicious and complex with every sip, and by the end of the night, might have been my favorite.
How to reach Please Don't Tell
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Why Please Don't Tell may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Please Don't Tell with your friends?
If you're looking to host a memorable gathering that combines intrigue, exceptional drinks, and a cozy yet exclusive atmosphere, Please Don't Tell is an unparalleled destination. Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's East Village, this speakeasy-style cocktail bar offers more than just a night out — it is an experience that feels like stepping back in time while enjoying some of the city's most acclaimed craft cocktails. What makes Please Don't Tell especially compelling for group meetups is the unique thrill of entry: you and your friends must discover the secret wooden phone booth inside the bustling Crif Dogs hot dog shop, pick up the receiver, and call to gain access through a hidden door. This clandestine entrance naturally builds anticipation and excitement, transforming a routine night into an adventurous event. Once inside, the intimate setting with space for fewer than fifty guests fosters a warm, relaxed environment perfect for engaging conversations. Pair that with expertly crafted cocktails and gourmet snacks like upscale hot dogs and tater tots, and you have a venue that encourages connection and enjoyment. This blend of secrecy, quality, and conviviality means your meetup transcends the ordinary, making Please Don't Tell a top choice for rallying with friends or family for an unforgettable night out.
What activities can you enjoy at Please Don't Tell that make it ideal for a group meetup?
Please Don't Tell specializes in delivering a multi-sensory experience centered on socializing over exceptional cocktails and food, making it perfect for groups. First and foremost, the bar’s hallmark is its carefully curated cocktail menu, created under the guidance of renowned mixologist Jim Meehan and influenced by the classic Pegu Club style. This ensures innovative yet accessible drinks that delight both cocktail aficionados and casual drinkers alike. Watching the skilled bartenders craft each cocktail at the bar can serve as a lively conversation starter and a shared spectacle for your group. The intimate seating arrangements, including bar stools, booths, and tables, accommodate small gatherings, enabling close interaction while maintaining a cozy ambience. Alongside drinks, the food menu complements the cocktails with gourmet hot dogs, tater tots, and french fries, ideal for sharing and casual dining. The space’s speakeasy character — hidden behind a phone booth — also invites a sense of playful exclusivity that can make your meetup feel special and private, allowing your group to bond over the novelty and ambiance. With its late-night hours, it easily fits into evening plans, making it a seamless choice for after-work or weekend get-togethers.
Why is the secret entrance through Crif Dogs an essential part of Please Don't Tell’s appeal for groups?
The unique entrance through the phone booth inside Crif Dogs is arguably the most talked-about feature of Please Don't Tell, and it plays a major role in elevating the bar as an ideal venue for group outings. The fun and exclusive process of dialing into the bar adds a layer of excitement and mystery that sets the tone for the evening. It transforms the arrival into an event in itself, sparking anticipation and lighthearted camaraderie among friends as you discover and enter the hidden space together. This elaborate entrance was originally born out of necessity — PDT shares a liquor license with Crif Dogs since it doesn’t have a separate street entrance — but it has since become a quintessential part of its identity and charm. In practical terms, coordinating the group’s arrival at the hot dog shop adds a playful challenge that quickly becomes a talking point and memory. The contrast of stepping from a casual, vibrant eatery into an exclusive, dimly lit speakeasy creates a striking and memorable atmosphere for your gathering, reinforcing a sense of secrecy and exclusivity that friends and family will cherish.
How does Please Don't Tell accommodate groups socially and logistically to make meetups comfortable?
Despite its intimate size, Please Don't Tell is thoughtfully arranged to make groups feel comfortable and engaged. The bar can host up to approximately forty people, with seating options including bar stools, cozy booths, and small tables, allowing groups to choose their preferred style of socializing — whether that’s huddling around a table or perched at the bar watching cocktail-making artistry. The layout encourages interaction without overwhelming noise, fostering conversations that can flow naturally into the night. Also, the staff are adept at facilitating seatings and reservations, helping to coordinate groups when possible; given the bar’s popularity and limited space, booking ahead is strongly recommended to ensure your group can be accommodated together. The shared gourmet snacks are served in portions that encourage communal enjoyment, making them perfect for groups wanting to nibble while chatting and sipping. The rich but laid-back atmosphere, unpretentious yet refined, creates a perfect setting for reconnecting, celebrating milestones, or simply spending quality time with friends or family.
What makes the cocktail and food experience at Please Don't Tell stand out for group events?
Please Don't Tell is celebrated for its world-class cocktail program, which is a major draw for any group interested in a refined but relaxed drinking experience. The bar’s creative mixologists prepare drinks that fuse classic techniques with inventive flavors, ensuring every cocktail is both a visual and taste delight. The attention to detail in ingredient selection and presentation elevates the experience, making it ideal for groups who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship in their drinks. This attention is mirrored in the thoughtfully curated food menu, which, despite its seemingly simple offerings like hot dogs and tater tots, is executed with gourmet flair—perfect as satisfying accompaniments to cocktails that help keep the night flowing. Sharing these distinctive bites adds a friendly, informal element to the evening that complements the sophisticated beverage program. The offering strikes a balance between a gourmet yet approachable menu, supporting a social atmosphere where everyone in your group can find something to enjoy without fuss or formality.
Why is Please Don't Tell highly rated and well-reviewed for group gatherings?
Please Don't Tell’s solid rating of 4.3 stars from over two thousand reviews reflects broad and consistent acclaim, much of it highlighting the bar’s unique ambiance and quality offerings as perfect for shared outings. Reviewers frequently praise the venue’s combination of exclusivity and warmth — its speakeasy mystique paired with friendly service — which makes it stand out among New York City's crowded nightlife scene. Its reputation as a pioneering speakeasy has helped shape modern cocktail culture, testifying to its enduring influence and appeal. Additionally, its East Village location places it in a vibrant neighborhood known for an eclectic mix of culture and nightlife, providing a lively backdrop that complements any meetup. Patrons often remark on the sense of discovery and the communal vibe fostered by the intimate setting, specialty drinks, and the playful entrance ritual. For groups, these qualities translate into a unique, shareable experience that is repeatedly recommended for those seeking a place with character and quality where lasting memories can be forged.
How can groups make the most of their visit to Please Don't Tell?
To ensure your group has the best experience at Please Don't Tell, a few tips can help optimize the evening. Given the bar’s limited seating and high demand, making a reservation well in advance is advisable—lines for phone reservations open early, so timely booking enhances your chances of securing a spot for your group. Aim to arrive together, as the entrance process through Crif Dogs’ phone booth requires coordination and makes for a fun group activity. Consider sitting at the bar if your group is smaller or flexible, as this allows you to witness the cocktail preparation and interact with bartenders, adding depth to your visit. Sharing several cocktails and food items encourages social interaction and lets everyone sample the diverse, innovative menu. Lastly, embrace the speakeasy vibe — enjoy the low lighting, vintage décor, and the air of exclusivity, which together create the kind of intimate setting where conversation and connection thrive. With these approaches, your gathering at Please Don't Tell can feel exclusive, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable.