Pick up a phone booth receiver in a hot dog shop. The wall opens. You're welcome.
Why go
The cocktail program has been influential since PDT opened in 2007 — these are the people who helped kick off the whole speakeasy revival. The space is intimate: dark wood, taxidermy on the walls, maybe 40 seats. Reservations are technically available but walking in and trying the phone is more fun. If you have to wait, you're waiting in a hot dog shop, which is honestly not a bad consolation prize.
Pro Tip
Try calling the phone at 5:30pm right when they open on a weeknight — best chance of walking right in.
Best Time
Early weeknight, 5:30-7pm
Getting There
🚇 6 to Astor Place or L to 3rd Ave, walk to St. Marks Place
Bonus stop nearby
While you're in East Village
You're on St. Marks — the whole strip is worth exploring. Grab a Crif Dog while you wait (the Spicy Redneck is the move).
Vibe and price
What locals are saying
“Brought my parents here from Ohio. My dad picked up the phone and his face when the wall opened was priceless.”
— Sarah, Murray Hill
“The Benton's Old Fashioned is still the best cocktail on the menu. Don't sleep on it.”
— Dave, Williamsburg