Some friends and I were in the area for some drinks to celebrate a birthday. We were pleasantly surprised when we walked down the steps and entered Basement! Everything from the vibes and the kettle corn to the drinks were top notch. We ordered the Monkey King, Smoke and Mirrors, and the Chinatown Old Fashion and all the drinks were great and unique when it came to presentation. The service was great too. Even on a packed Saturday night, our server was very attentive. If you're in Chinatown and you're looking for a new bar to try, definitely add this to your list! read more

Basement - Smoke and Mirrors, The Monkey King - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

This spot is so cute - especially the way you enter through the Coca Cola dispenser door. Look for the 'basement' sign on Mott Street to find it. The drinks were really good and looks like pre-covid they had a lot more games etc. Staff was friendly and service was great. Very cute spot to take friends or a date! Open now with safety measures in place. Please support your local businesses' read more

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It's a small space with seating, free caramel corn, and darts in the back. Drinks are around $20ish. I got a Made in Brooklyn, which was sweet. My friends got Translcuents, which tasted strong. read more

Basement - Seating area - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

If you're looking to go out in Chinatown with a group of friends, this could be on the list. Several different activities to choose from - darts, beer pong. Pretty empty imo and the vibes were kinda eh. It's supposedly a speakeasy but gives more club bar vibes? Free popcorn but the shots are tiny. They forgot to give me back my credit card and when I tried calling, no one picked up. I ended up cancelling that card and requesting a new one. read more

Overall rating: 4.3 Average rating seems accurate. Not sure a nicer way to say this.. but I think I'm too old for this bar haha (early 30s). Really love the speakeasy vibes, but def more of a bro/ chilll spot than a typical speakeasy. I went with a friend and extremely enjoyed the popcorn, but probably won't be coming back. If you're looking for a nearby spot to hang with your 'homiez' - this is it, hands down. Def not a date spot (unless you're attempting to friendzone 'em). read more

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I had a great time visiting the Basement. We came here for a friend's birthday party. It is located right in the heart of Chinatown. Once you walk past the bouncers waiting in front you are greeted by a large Coca Cola door. Once you open the door you enter a wonderful speakeasy filled with games and alcohol. They have several games available such as darts, beer pong, etc. I loved the vibe and the crowd was great. It was a Friday night so all of the tables were packed. Luckily our friend reserved a table for his birthday so we had our own area. The servers brought out bottle orders with sparklers. As the night passed more and more people were coming in. They played a lot of the hits on the speakers while people were dancing in the middle. By the time I left around 1 am most of the surrounding area was filled with people. After a year of staying at home it was nice to feel like things were back to normal. I would come back here again if I was in the area and wanted to pop into one of my favorite speakeasys. read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Fun speakeasy where you enter through a vintage Cola machine that serves cocktails, beer and wine served in a unique, dimly lit bar that has beer pong, dice games and darts. There is a great beer selection if you like beer and creative cocktails. Music is great. Interesting artwork on the walls. Decent ambiance. read more

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Pretty fun bar to get some soju and chill before heading out. Not a bad pregame spot. It's hella Asian but expected of the area.

Nice neighborhood bar/speakeasy-- bartenders are entertaining and the drinks are reasonable.

Cool bar. I liked the drinks. I had a pineapple mezcal which was good. The bar had some games to play as well. I'd recommend a drink here. read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

I came here with my gentleman on a trip to NYC for yoga and dinner. We were looking for something to do after and ended up here. The drink was probably one of the best-tasting cocktails I ever had in my life! My goodness, it was delicious. My gentleman enjoyed his too, so the drinks are exceptional. What got me was the vibe. It was supposed to be a speakeasy-stylee place and it had that decor. You walk down some stairs and pull a fridge door to enter, walk into a dark and mysterious speakeasy-style bar. But there as a lot missing from what they were trying to accomplish. First, it was virtually empty. Two people behind the bar, a group sitting by the door and another two couples sprinkled here and there. There were no bar stools against the bar. It is 2023, most joints have returned the barstools to the bar, this was my one and only trip here so I don't know if they moved them for some reason or not but there was no way to sit at the bar. We grabbed a little table and didn't know what was next. Does someone come to us? Do we order from the bar? How does this work? The two bartenders were chatting with one another and no one noticed us. My gentleman went to the bar and ordered the drinks for us, so ok, no problem. The drinks were not served to us at the same time, they brought over his - then mine a little bit later. I thought that was odd that the drinks were not brought out together. We enjoyed our drinks but looking around the place lacked energy or vibe. Reading some of the other reviews this place seems to be unsure of who their target client is or if they are sure, they seem unsure of how to attract them. I don't even remember if there was any music playing - that's how not memorable it was. read more

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Came here on two separate Friday nights. Not really a hidden secret as it appears everyone knows of this spot. Overwhelming with a large crowd, even after dinner around 8PM. All tables are full, darts and beer pong table all occupied. Will take some time to get bartender's attention to order drinks. They have a cool entrance where they use a Coca-Cola machine as a door. You can spot night-lifers filming it for IG or Tik-Tok. For me, I'll need to come back on a weekday night to see if I'll enjoy the vibe if it's even less crowded. But, if you're looking for a college crowd, then this is for you. read more

Went there on a Saturday night and it is a good bar to get a couple of drinks. The bartenders were friendly and the drinks were tasty, we were able to sit at the table across from the bar and they also have soju. read more

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From the moment that you enter through the secret entrance, to the really cool lighting and beer pong tables inside, Basement is definitely a vibe. Some drinks were better than others; I think my favorite that I tried was the mojito. I also liked the popcorn that was brought to each table. The one slightly upsetting thing was that I had to constantly had to get the server's attention, even though it was not a particularly busy night and many times it appeared she was just standing around by the bar. I know a good number of friends who come here regularly, so I'll probably be back sometime soon. read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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We dropped by this inconspicuous little spot on a late Sunday afternoon. They have 2 beer pong tables you can play for free, which is nice. They just have the cups filled with water. The place was empty, so we were able to play multiple games at our leisure. The drinks were solid and we thoroughly enjoyed the free caramel popcorn that they provided for us. It was addictive. I'll be coming back the next time I'm in the area and looking for a place to hang out for a bit. read more

Basement is a charming speakeasy bar with great bites. I loved the fun lights, dart tables, beer pong tables and the huge hashtag sign. The best part was the surprisingly good food. K and I had dinner here one week day night and it was so fun and good! It is so bold to have Portuguese tapas in Chinatown. The shrimp chorizo empanadas were so flavorful and had a beautiful flakey crust. It had cheese and all these savory fillings. The tigela de frutos do mar (seafood bowl) was like a mini paella without the rice! The seafood sauce was so rich and amazing! I could not stop sticking my fries and baguette slices in the sauce. I would return just for this. Frango frito de vovo (grandma's fried chicken)- this was crunchy fried chicken with piri piri sauce. The sauce could have been spicier but it was very good. Perfect to go with your drinks. Carne a la plancha- chunks of tenderloin beef with piri piri sauce. This was ok. The beef could have used more seasoning. Angus beef sliders- this was so flavorful in a small bite! I loved the smoked gouda and slice of crispy bacon. I would def reorder this. Picaduras de chorizo (chorizo bites)- this was a solid dish. I would def return for the seafood bowl, the angus beef sliders and the empanadas. read more

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Basement is great spot for drinks if you're in the Chinatown area. This place gets packed by 8pm so I suggest coming early to snag a seat. They have creative cocktail menu which is standard NYC prices. They also have darts and beer pong set up in the back. I wish they served some appetizers like wings or fries. After all the drinking I worked up an appetite lol. The complimentary popcorn held me down though. read more

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One of my favorite NY speakeasy! It's hidden downstairs, and there's a secret Coca-Cola machine that's actually a door when you first enter! Inside, there are a handful of seating, a nice bar, a few beer pong tables and darts in the back. They have a good selection of drinks which taste pretty good as well! A great place to hangout after dark if you're in the chinatown area! read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Been here a few times and thoroughly enjoyed each visit! The staff here are very friendly even when they're busy. Tons of games, great throwback music. Cocktails were tasty as well - a bit on the $$$ side for what they are but you're also paying for the atmosphere. Free popcorn that kept coming too! The speakeasy aspect is cool and i definitely bring a lot of out of towners here :) read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Such a VIBE! Located on Chinatowns beloved Mott St you will find the cutest lil speakeasy down a set of stairs, the flickering yellow basement light will guide your way. You will be greeted with a classic, old school Coca Cola machine however you won't find any glass coke bottles here, you'll find a classy bar beyond the "coke machine" door This bar/speakeasy bar is seriously such a hot spot! From the lighting, the atmosphere, the bar itself and the drinks you should definitely pay it a visit if you're looking for a good drink in Chinatown We stumbled in on a cold January evening and were able to coze up to the "let the good times roll" sign, we loved how it had a subtle cute carnival vibe, nothing over the top. They serve you a complimentary cute little popcorn and waters without asking! Great service. The drinks were phenomenal, a bit pricey but this is Manhattan so about average but well worth it in the flavor department! I tried the 5 spiced life because I'm a tequila girl at heart and I gotta say this was the smoothest most refreshing cocktail I've had in awhile. The guys ordered the Chinatown old fashion which has hibiki Japanese whiskey in it! And is served with a mini popcorn on the side, ADORABLE! Presentation is an A+, also the drink ware was such high quality and even the ice cubes screamed aesthetically pleasing Overall, highly recommend checking out this bar! Whether with a group of friends or for a date this spot will leave you with a whole lotta happy :) read more

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The Basement is a low-key speakeasy in the heart of Chinatown and I was pleasantly surprised by my visit! PROS + They offer happy hour from 5-8pm with a few beer, wine, cocktail and $1 oyster specials. There's also a food menu which we did not try. + The complimentary kettle corn was delicious + In the back, they have games such as beer pong, other table games and darts (additional charge for darts) + Perhaps I'm just old, but I appreciated that I didn't have to yell in order to have a convo + Ambience is really great and there's plenty of seating. They decorated it for Halloween so you might see a scary surprise when you immediately walk in CONS - Service. I came on a weeknight and it was not crowded at all -- they weren't that busy but service was really mediocre as we had to constantly ask for things. It's a cool place to check out if you're ever in the area. You can't miss it once you've seen the flashing neon lights and the coke machine! read more

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Fun spot. Service was inattentive. Good cocktails. Music played was wide ranging and enjoyable.

Loved this spot!! Super cute speakeasy around Chinatown. I loved the entrance as well! really well hidden. This place does get crowded quite a bit I by night so it might be safer to go in a bit early and secure yourself a spot. I really liked the cocktails as well - the beer cocktail was great and so spicy, I loved it! read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

One of my favorite stops when in Chinatown Definitely a great vibe. Remind me of Singapore. Drinks are great too read more

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A fun hangout spot in Chinatown. Bartenders are super friendly and nice. They give you water as soon as you sit and some delicious kettle popcorn. They have a interesting and maybe unique drink menu. I asked for a mock tail. My friends liked their drinks. Mine was a little too sweet for me so I drank only about half of it. The bartender noticed and offered to make me a new one but I said it was okay. He kindly took it off the bill without me asking. That kind of service alone will bring me back. There are two sanitary beer pong tables. You throw the balls into cups of water but drink from your own drink. Call me old but I found the music a little loud. Overall I really enjoyed the vibe and service. It was surprisingly busy in a Tuesday evening. read more

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Fun drink venue. Beer pong and delicious popcorn. Great cocktails - especially the old fashioned. Good amount of seating and the music does get loud. read more

Very nice place to go to for drinks, mingling, networking, or meeting with friends. They have a game table in the back. The decor is sleek, upscale, mature, but fun. I asked the bartender to make me a drink, and he made the tastiest passionfruit margarita. I went there as part of a meetup group, and I would def. Go back. read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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This bar is great. Drinks are great & lots of options. We had tons of fun playing water pong at the tables with the balls and cups that they provide. We went on a week night (Thursday) so it wasn't crowded & there wasn't a wait to use the pong tables, although the bar was still decently populated in a fun way. There are 2 pong tables. The seating is also nice and comfortable. We stayed for a long time and had lots of fun - only left because we were hungry. Their kitchen is being renovated, so they only served popcorn (kettle corn), but luckily that was free with free refills! I ordered the spicy marg & liked it a lot. Definitely will be back but will make sure to eat more beforehand until their restaurant is renovated. There are also darts in the back which we didn't use but other people were having fun with. I definitely recommend this spot! Giving 4 stars only because they don't do happy hour and don't have food but definitely would increase to 5 if that changed! read more

Stopped by Basement on a Saturday night to check out the speakeasy scene, and we had a great time! I loved the chill, laid-back vibe while still offering trendy, upscale cocktails. You enter by going down the steps and opening the refrigerator door, which was such a cool feature and reminded me of the speakeasies in Los Angeles! It was definitely packed with people when we got there, but we were still able to get drinks and walk around a little bit. Basement has beer pong, darts, and other games that you can play - as well as seating areas near the front to hang out with your friends. I just got a mixed drink, but my two friends got cocktails from the menu that looked pretty good! The vibe was definitely youthful young adults, and the music was top 40s and 2000s/2010s hits. read more

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What a disappointment, I was really looking forward to going to this bar and what a let down . This place has been so highly advertised and looked so cool . Don't get me wrong , I got some great pics and the drinks were good , but what horrible service and smell they have going on down there. My group and I could not stay longer than 30 mins . The place reeks like poop ! Not sure what is happening there , but someone needs to fix it ASAP . As for the service , the waitress never came to get our order at our table, we had to go to the bar ourselves and order- it wasn't even busy . The music was also awful . I would not go back here unless these things improve . read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Really cute speakeasy! Went early evening during a weekday with a friend for drinks and it wasn't busy at all - a lot of fun games including beer pong if you want to do something interactive. I really liked their cocktails too, cute presentation and unique flavors! read more

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You would think I would give it a 5 just bc it one of the secret Hidden Speakeasy in NYC but... It wasn't such a secret. Not knowing what to expect I got a referral from a site I keep on hand when I'm in the city. Found out it was an 8 minute walk and kind of thru the San Gennaro parade. I ventured thru gritty back streets of Chinatown and found it with 3 friends after a candle making experience a few blocks away. The second I opened the soda machine I was like huh this isn't a secret. It was packed not bursting so we made our way to the bar for some pricey not so tasty drinks. I was like damn 3 orders and they all sucked. All game tables were occupied they were like 4 or 6 but we sat down to enjoy the vibe when we got lucky bc someone left. The music was fire. That I'll say. I would go back and find out more about the drinks but not with a group. Maybe just one on one. I would definitely go back but I guess ppl hyped it up to much and I expected more. When the bartender suggested I pour my own water I was like well ok... It's the type of place you need to get to know. read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

I'm visiting town staying a couple blocks away. Decide to stop by. Place was cool. It smells wonderful, clean & soapy. That illusion is ruined in the bathrooms, but I don't judge a place on their bathrooms. What I DO judge them on, however, is they over served to an extreme degree & didn't make sure that person is safe. Here is a picture of a girl passed out inside. She didn't JUST pass out, she was clearly beyond drunk the entire time I was there, in full view of the bar. There were like 6 people in there, it was impossible to miss. Passed-out-girl was being attended to by someone who - I hope! - was her boyfriend. I don't know tho, she's just a clearly passed-out girl at the bar to me, possibly being taken advantage of. I finished my beer & as I left my empty glass on the bar, I said to the bartender "the passed out girl is really ruining the vibe around here, maybe you should do something about that." The two dudes the bartender was talking to all night were like "sorry that's our friend" & nobody did a thing. Thumbs down, be careful, don't go here ladies. read more

Basement - Passed out girl - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

I recently visited the lounge with a group of friends on a Saturday evening around 7pm (bar was pretty empty fyi) - and it was a very traumatizing and quite disturbing experience. From the moment we entered and got seated we felt VERY uncomfortable. We got seated to then being told we have to leave for a reservations soon (which was 3 hrs away...) then weren't offered any water, or complimentary popcorn. Despite that, we ordered our drinks and were asked to immediately pay for them. To my surprise, i said - may i at least get a sip? But what if i wanted to keep a tab open? The waitress kept saying "my boss told me to, my boss told me to" I mean she had the card machine ready in her hands - as if we were going to run away like uncivilized people. Then i started looking around and focused on the table next to us who just arrived. The service was day and night... but more, realized we were the only group of Black women in there. Instead of assuming, I asked to speak to a manager to get some clarity and was met with the bartender with a short bob, bangs and bad hair color (black / blond? Or something like that) who clearly had no interest and said "There is no manager". Well my second best option was then to speak directly to the waitress herself. Poor girl - English isn't her first language and attempted to explain herself and THEN magically a manager appeared. Long story short - after tears and not much of an explanation and very minor apologies, i explained to that manager that 1) protect your employees - don't give them directions that appear to be profiling, racist and discriminatory and let them fend for themselves 2) have some decorum and customer service and provide clear explanation and apologies 3) fix the problem by offering at least a round of drinks... But there's more. I called them weeks ago and have yet to receive a call from someone... so clearly you DON'T GIVE A FUCK. How sad knowing this establishment appears to be AAOI owned - yet as POC ourselves, were clearly mistreated and overlooked. I am disgusted and will NEVER returned. If you don't like to serve dark-skinned patron just say so, put it on the door and show your face. read more

This is the second time coming to basement and it's now our must go to spot in China town. We love the little Coco-Cola door that once you open up, your in a wonder bar. Very speakeasy type place. The bartender Ricardo is amazing, makes the best drinks and is so good at beer pong. Great space, lots of table and pretty popular on a Saturday. Super mellow on a Sunday. read more

A very cool speakeasy right in the middle of Chinatown! Loved the fun drinks and atmosphere. The complimentary popcorn was a fantastic touch while waiting for a reservation nearby! read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Cute speakeasy! The opening to go in is very tiktok/Instagram where you open a coke fridge to go downstairs. There are some pong tables to play pong and anyone can just join in. If you have the Apollo ID app you can get a free shot. The waiters were very nice at giving recommendations for their favorite cocktails. read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Fun place in Chinatown with pretty good crowd. Cocktails are interesting and delicious. It gets super crowded during weekend though. read more

Basement - Wine Bars Near Me - New York, New York

We were in the area & after leaving another bar since we needed to kill some time we came across this place & decided to check it out. U are walking into a "basement" pretty ironic of course fits the name Loll.. we came in & the place was not crowded which was just right since we were looking to just enjoy some drinks before heading to our dinner plans. We sat by the tables, they have a late happy hour till 8pm , we went with the white wine, Sauvignon blanc not bad. Decent music playing, they have a few games to keep you entertain beer pong & darts, I noticed not too bad. Decent place for drinks, we enjoyed our selves. read more

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Nice bar, has a young energy about it, a line of a dozen low tables against a booth and the main bar room, no stools at the bar which I thought different, gives it less of a bar and more of a lounge feel. P Free popcorn as you sit down at a table, wish it was warmer. Staff were friendly and beer pong was a nice option to have. read more