Apotheke in Chinatown has such an intimate, cozy vibe -- the perfect hidden gem for a night out. The cocktails were absolutely amazing -- creative, balanced, and beautifully presented. The service was top-notch too -- attentive without being overbearing. I loved that the atmosphere wasn't too loud, so you can actually enjoy your drink and conversation. Definitely one of my favorite spots in the city for craft cocktails and a chill, classy evening! read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

What to say about this place, looks like you entered in a different century, everything there is so unique!!! About the drinks was amazing but then last time we went there was not that tasty.. hope they change the menu soon! Service was efficient. read more

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Crazy unique and interesting cocktail flavors. Popped in on a Thursday night to live music and a good energy crowd. Was able to grab a seat at a low table and sipped on a sesame oil and cucumber cocktail while chatting with friends. Definitely a must try if you like interesting cocktails. The ambiance is elevated and nice but still you can be casual when you come here read more

Honestly this place was super fun to explore! I loved the cool menu and the music they were playing. The crowd of people when we went set up the perfect atmosphere for bringing a small group to dance and drink. Sure the drinks were pricey but we each had one to taste and they were delectable! Very well done bar!! I took my chemistry loving friends and although it didn't boast the most nerdy chemE decor/drinks theme we still had a wonderful time. The only thing I would be wary about is the location. I felt a tad bit unsafe walking here from the train station we took at night so would definitely uber or come in a group. The line to get in wasn't too long at the beginning of the night and the actual location of the bar didn't feel particularly unsafe, just the journey to get there. Enjoy! read more

Long wait line for mediocre cocktails at an outrageous price. There are about 6 tables so everything else was standing room only. It's not a place to go dancing nor is it a place to catch up with friends as the music is too loud. No dancing since there's no space for it. It's just a gimmick read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

The drinks were amazing. I tried out the shadow roll. Even though it's always packed the service was good. They bartender try to get to me as quickly as they can. Ambiance at the place is amazing for a date for sure. I remember last year when I took a date here, she would love the speak easy vibe. If you want a place where there's not just music blasting but a good vibe of just the right music then I would totally recommend. The drinks are amazing as well! I'll have to go back to try other drinks here. read more

Apotheke - Menu - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Amazing drinks and ambiance! The cocktails are well worth the price and so is the service. The ingredients used alone make it a must try. read more

Apotheke - Menu - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

We came by on a Sunday night just before it got crowded. The Chinatown location doesn't have reservations, so it's first come, first serve. We headed for the bar to grab a drink. I had the Word on a Wing cocktail while he had the Dead Poet. The drinks are creatively made, but I did find mine to be too sweet and his was too bitter. We spend a good 20 minutes standing around at the bar, which wasn't very comfortable. There aren't a lot of seating with 3 booths and 3 couple tables. I was almost going to leave after our first drink, but luckily we were able to snag a table soon after. Since we did score a table, we had a second round of the Vanilla Saffron Old Fashioned. This drink was better than our first round. Overall, the atmosphere is intimate and dark, but the drinks are pricey and the lack of seating didn't help. We paid over $100 for 4 drinks, which is quite pricey as well. read more

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Super cute little cocktail bar to end your night! My husband and a friend walked in here on a Thursday night and was able to get served rather quickly but did not get a table. Drinks are really good and quite unique! Pretty strong yet good so if you're someone who likes to try different cocktails, this is the place for you. Really nice staff and great vibes. I can see this being a place for a catchup or date! read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Prepare to wait in line for a while. Is it cool? I'll say yea. Good cocktails? Yes. Worth $24 a drink? No. No price on the drink menu. my final tab for 2 drinks, after tax and tips was $49. Damn. I get it Manhattan is an expensive place to hang out, but almost $25 for a drink? You stay there for an hour, and will easily spend 90 bucks per person. The whole experience was just alright, not too incredible makes me wanna go back. read more

An amazing find in Chinatown! A bit hard to find because of the small sign but we were with NY natives. Upon entering, imagine a dimly lit space with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Behind the bar, shelves are stocked with with bottles of various shapes and sizes and the mixologists are dressed in pharmacist-style garb ready to mix up some crazy cocktail concoction. I ordered the Devil's Playground - a mix of gin, dragon fruit, prickly pear, lime and absinthe mint. My friends ordered the Sitting Buddha, Here Comes the Night and Siren's Call. Tried a few of their drinks and you really can't go wrong. We came in past 10pm on a Sunday so there was no line. We were lucky enough to find the last seat. By 11:30PM, there were more available seats. It's definitely the perfect background for a post-dinner date drinks or a small group. Music is playing a little loudly (not deafening) in the background and patrons lean in close to talk creating an intimate yet lovely vibe. A little bit on the pricey side for cocktails but the ambience more than makes up for it. I would definitely be back when I come back to New York! read more

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Such a cool, moody bar in chinatown. This spot is dark with yellow ambient lighting and live music. The bartenders are really helpful with recommendations and suggestions on drinks. Their beet cocktail, last train to brooklyn is a mix between a beet juice and whiskey. They also do standard cocktails like martinis and whiskey sours well. read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Need a late cool spot to go on a Wednesday Night? Worth the wait if you are visiting New York. Open til 3am.

Went to @apothekenyc around 8pm and very happy that it was pretty empty then and we were able to easily grab seats. Fun menu and my drink was surprisingly tasty - fruity but not too sweet! read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Came here unexpectedly on a Saturday night after leaving Peachys and I must say, it is such a better vibe if you are in your late 20s or in your 30s ! The music and drinks were very good ! I had the bartender make me whatever drink he wanted as long as it was spicy and had tequila and he definitely delivered ! Next time I'm in New York, I def will be stopping by again on a Saturday night ! read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

The atmosphere was very warm and vibey. It's definitely a hole-in-the-wall are to impress your date. We both ordered cocktails (I got the blue velvet), and that drink was a safe choice with some flavors but lacking in the fruitiness and sweetness I was expecting. I also would never comment on the bathrooms, but having what looks like a speakerphone as a sink faucet was very interesting - definitely was worth at least a 5 minute conversation. read more

Wow! What an experience. You walk into a dark bar and are immediately greeted with amazing live music. The bar looks beautiful behind the live musicians. They are a specialty cocktail bar so you have to open your mind and try something you normally wouldn't. I had a cocktail that they light on fire and it was so cool and also so delicious. The service is great and the experience is amazing. I highly recommend this place. read more

Apotheke's playin dress-up as a chemistry lab or vice versa. It's in Chinatown, behind a "Chemist" sign--Bartenders are in lab coats, mixin cocktails like they're about to invent fire. The menu's got "Painkillers" and "Aphrodisiacs"--I'm like, "Cool, I'll take one of each, but don't tell my mom." My drink showed up smokin like a cloud with an attitude. I love this place.... Not sure what else to say. Just go. read more

I'm a bit shocked that this place isn't a 5 star rating. But after thinking about it, I sort of get it. This place fills up QUICKLY! So your best bet here is to get there early and wait in line. I was shocked (shocked) that our server was able to navigate the sea of people and pretty much keep our drinks flowing as soon as the last sip was taken. The cocktails are very inspired and I wouldn't hesitate to make this the single reason you visit this area. read more

Apotheke - Siren's Call - A very inspired cocktail. GET THIS! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Found this little treasure from being at the Nom Wah Tea Parlor next door and stopped by with a few friends. Delicious cocktails with really great themes. I had the moonage daydream and it was well balanced, flavorful and not too sweet. Prices aren't listed so you don't know how much they are until you get the tab. I was surprised at how pricey they were. Not outrageous for New York standards, but pricy for the environment (I think it was about $22/ cocktail?) It's really cute, but it's so packed and busy with no place to sit so you spend your time there yelling at your friends and sipping your cocktails standing up the whole time. I think this place would be lovely on a less busy night but not a Friday or Saturday night. The service was okay. I think the staff was either new or just wasn't sure how to handle a large crowd because they were overwhelmed, inattentive, and agitated. Understandable, but for the service and environment, the cocktails should be cheaper. read more

Drinks were fire. Service was great. Good ambiance in the spot. Was surprised the music was so good too. Definitely pulling up there again. read more

Came here after so many years and still love the ambiance. The door is a non-descript wooden door under a "Chemist" sign on Doyers street. It's best to make a reservation in advance as space is now limited due to covid. The mixologists wear lab coats are there are meant chemist pieces throughout the space. The drinks are amazing and ambiance is perfect for a date or night cap. Open now with safety measures in place. Please support your local businesses! read more

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Absolutely in love with the ambiance of this place, the light up marble bar is such a vibe, along with the live music they have in this small space. The drinks here are pretty expensive but creative; the flavors were a bit too heavy. We came here with a group of 6 and this spot is not cut out for larger group since there's probably a total of 4-5 tables available and staff doesn't help with seating. read more

Apotheke - love the bar area - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Initially I went to the nomad location which was just as appealing as Doyers st. All I wanted was the sirens call lol. Absolutely amazing . The drink was very refreshing and it snuck up on me . I also had the sitting Buddha so good as well. The drinks were very refreshing and def give you a nice buzz. Staff was beyond pleasant. My new hide out spot. Shout out to Andre , Jermaine, and Gustavo. read more

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Apotheke is no longer the tucked away, electrifying underground Chinatown hidden gem that comes alive during the dark hours that it probably once was, perhaps 15 years ago. Whatever it was during its early years, I was not fortunate (old) enough to experience them in their heydays. By now, everyone and their mothers know about Apotheke--so much that it has expanded to two more locations in the past 5 years, one even being in LA. I first checked out Apotheke back in 2015. I wouldn't be able to tell you if the cocktails were good or not back then because I was just a starry-eyed recent college graduate who was just eager to drop money to cement my "adulting" crisis, only to complain about being a "broke bitch". I can't say that I have changed much but this time, I'd like to say that I drink to taste now, but that's also debatable. I took my friends visiting from Chicago on my most recent visit and it was disappointing for them--the drinks and the atmosphere, coming from a city that has true speakeasies and a remarkable bar scene. The crowd during my recent visit this year vs back then is staggering. Lines, lines, linesssss! And a drawing of pretty terrible crowds, at that. This place is so well known and draws so many tourists now that etiquette seems to have been lost--you have groups of people rolling out of Ubers and trying to cut the line as if they're on a VIP list. First of all, this ain't no LAVO or 10OAK--sure, there are tables and the music now resembles a club that it might as well be one. I do appreciate that they're still keeping this place at capacity (as they should), but it was very different from what I experienced a few years ago and it was still overwhelming with the capacity. While the drinks weren't memorable (and I can't even remember which one I had anymore), I didn't have high hopes when I realized how popular this place has gotten while I was standing on line. The mixologists looked overwhelmed while they were still trying to serve as many people as best as possible, but drinks should be enjoyed for how expensive they are these days. read more

Loved the drinks, music and overall ambiance of this place. Will definitely be returning again soon. read more

Overall rating: 4.45 Tbh average rating of 4.4 feels accurate. I absolutely hate all of the reviews mentioning a speakeasy and! the fact that this is on so many "speakeasy" articles. This is not a speakeasy. -_- Anywho, I walked in with my friend when it opened. Really cute, fancy, bar. Extremellyyyy expensive.. like $25 for one cocktail expensive. I know I should probably rate less stars because of the price but I mean it's a high quality bar. But I am pretty torn given it's IN Chinatown. Like, these drinks should be $17-$18 max. I am curious to know what it's like at night, and what that crowd is like..Since I went in the very beginning only a few people were there & it was mostly dates. I would probably come back if I was in the area and on a date. Doubt I'd come back on my own or with friends. Doesn't seem worth the trek for me personally. read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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I've been to Apotheke twice now and both times I can confidently say I was served the best alcoholic beverages in New York City. The menu is sectioned off into different types of perfectly synced drinks - I tried something similar to what I would normally order, and something very unique - and both were epic. The drinks are so balanced that the buzz you feel is airy, comfortable, and electric - no headaches, no drinking discomfort - they really have the bartending down to a science. I want to also mention how cool the atmosphere here is - it's modern, classy, exotic speakeasy. The music, the lighting, the interior design, the staff, and the large featured bar in combination with the amazing drinks creates a really, really cool vibe. Also, the outside is "hidden" with a simple potion-esque hanging sign outside - this really adds to the illusion as well. The biggest thing to note if you plan on checking it out would be to arrive early - otherwise you might not get a seat. read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Coming with a group on Thursday evening, we found this speakeasy/lounge to be a warm, inviting space with a cool, old-school apothecary theme. The drink list is cocktail-focused, with a broad range from fruity to smoky to boozy. There is sometimes a live Latin band that brings a lighthearted vibe. The service is good, though not exceptional. Would recommend! read more

Swing by Apotheke and transport back in time when you step into this 'speakeasy' joint. Each drink is an experience -- I had the devils playground, which had an interesting licorice kick thanks to the absinthe mist included in the drink. The bar is stunning and it doesn't get **too crowded**. Going out in the city can be a stuffy endeavor when you find yourself at most bars, but that's just not the case at Apotheke. read more

Apotheke - The interior - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Apotheke has such a cute theme of being an apothecary. Bartenders are dressed in short-sleeved, white lab coats. Drinks are considered cures for ailments. I brought my pharmacist friend here and she really enjoyed the concept. Like most speakeasies in NYC, drinks here are pricier. But they taste unique and look beautiful. The service was also great! One of my friends struggled with choosing a cocktail. The server helped and later even brought another cocktail (the server's favorite) on the house for my friend to try. We had a lovely time and the space at Apotheke is much larger than other speakeasies that I have been to; I didn't feel cramped at all. Very Victorian interior, too. Head down to Chinatown and look for a little "Chemist" sign! Relax and have a drink or two! read more

Apotheke - Devil's Playground, A Daisy If You Do, Pink Panther (from left to right) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Excellent drinks. The menu has some real balance in terms of options: spirit forward or easy drinking and everything in between. I really appreciate the craft they execute here. Not a single drink we had was flawed in any way. Everything had perfect proportion and finish. We arrived early and got a whole booth/couch section. The vibe inside is super chill. Wall sconces, marble lit bar counter top, back lit bar shelves and low lighting make this place super easy to hunker down. The server also gave bulls eye recommendations every single time. I will be back. The location also offers easy access to noodly goodness from two restaurants in the same alley. read more

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One of the first speakeasy type bars I experienced when moving to NYC a few years ago. Their theme is along the lines of mixology/chemistry, so you'll see the bartenders dressed in lab coats. When you've been here multiple times, the entrance doesn't seem so "hidden," but I guess if it's your first time, look for the erlenmeyer flask picture above the door. It's right next to Peachy's, and will most likely have a grumpy looking bouncer at the door. Depending on what time you go, it could be empty with available seating and a chill vibe, or super crowded and loud with nowhere to sit and very cramped. I've also seen live performers here some weeknights! I'd recommend going earlier if possible. Drinks are very unique and everything I've had has been delicious. Normal cocktail prices, aka $$$. read more

Cute speakeasy in an alleyway in Chinatown that's known for it's "apothecary" themed menu and absinthe. Make sure you dress semi-nice, since the first time my friends and I went, we got turned away for someone wearing sneakers and sweat shorts. The ambiance inside is classic bar - dimly lit and mildly loud music. The drinks were good! I ordered a Siren's Call - gin, cucumber, ginger, lime, seaweed. It was pretty refreshing and really aesthetic looking. We also split some absinthe which was my first time trying it and I'm not super sure I'm a fan. It's very licorice-y and bitter. There isn't that much seating so I'd recommend getting there early-ish (9:30 maybe?) to ensure you can get a table. read more

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Visited Apotheke for after dinner drinks on a Wednesday. Apotheke is a speakeasy bar, hidden on Doyers St. in Chinatown, marked only by a sign that says "Chemist" It's small, with a few couches, armchairs, and coffee tables. The lighting is dim, the "mixologists" are dressed like pharmacists, and they had a jazz band playing. I got the Sitting Buddha and Golden Hour. I really enjoyed the Sitting Buddha, which had some cilantro in it. Drink prices were average for a speakeasy, at $18 a drink, but they may be different depending on the drink. I'd give em the fifth star if they had more seating, or if they only let enough people in to fill the seats. read more

Apotheke - Golden Hour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Cocktails are so original and out of this world. Even though it is a busy bar the service was phenomenal. I just wish there were more places to sit- however this place use to be a speakeasy so it is suppose to be small and secretive. It is absolutely a hidden gem and worth a trip. Great ambiance- low lights, back lit bar, and comfy sofas and chairs. read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Great spot for an intimate cocktail experience. There is little seating, so expect to stand around, but the music is lively (and loud) so feel free to dance! The staff were professional and made drinks as quickly as they could. Highly recommend the Sitting Buddha! Cilantro was quite refreshing, and the lemongrass added a nice zing to the drink. read more

Apotheke - Sitting Buddha - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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**My review is for the non-alcoholic versions since my body hates me and refuses to allow any intake of alcohol :( ** I came here with a large party on a Saturday night, and it was already fairly crowded. The atmosphere itself is really nice and the theme was interesting! Since I can't drink, the menu itself was all alien to me, but the bartender behind the bar (I wish I got his name!) was super kind and suggested multiple drinks he can make for me without the alcohol! I got the Sitting Buddha, Devil's Playground, and Golden Hour. For just $8 per mocktail, I was super happy considering the alcoholic versions were $18 each! The service was awesome and the bartenders were super intricate with each drink they made. Not sure if I'll be coming back soon, but I'd recommend a drink or two here for anyone in the area. Great tasting drinks (mocktails anyway) and really cool bartenders! read more

Apotheke - Sitting Buddha (Non alcoholic in the middle), Dr. Ruth, and Golden Hour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

I've been on a speakeasy mission these days, and this was next up on my list! We were inside the bar within 5 minutes of waiting, but I also think it was not a long wait because you're not given a table when you come in. Either you had a table or you were standing at the bar. Inside, the place is gorgeous -- lots of gold, low lighting. The workers here wear short-sleeved white coats. The idea is that they are chemists! The music is kind of loud, so you may be raising your voice quite a bit. I remember them playing more hip hop/rap music as well. Ya girl has had too many drinks recently, so I decided to get a mocktail here instead. They can make any drink on the menu a mocktail -- you just have to ask for it. For me, I chose the Devil's Playground. Granted, I know I basically ordered juice, but I can just tell that if they spiked it would still be perfectly fruity/sweet for me still. The flavors were definitely on point. I liked the theme of this place as well as the drinks, but I would not say it's my go-to speakeasy just because I prefer places where it's not as hard to hear what the other person is saying. Also, I felt awkward because there wasn't a place for us to sit. By the time we finished our drinks, we were still standing and no table was opening up, so we left shortly after. That being said, I did enjoy the refreshing theme, low lighting, and flavorful drink. read more

Apotheke - a man standing at a bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Cool concept , drinks are selected as if you were at a pharmacy - see my attached menu. Space is small , we went on a weekday but I heard weekends gets packed. They had live music which was nice but the place started to fill with younger drunk kids. Drinks were nothing special. read more

Apotheke - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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