Outstanding Bar Program James Beard Foundation, World's Best Bar from World's 50 Best, World's Best Bar Tales of the Cocktail
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Please Don't Tell (PDT)

4.3
·2k reviews·New York, United States

Enter a hidden world through a phone booth for expertly crafted cocktails and an intimate speakeasy experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weeknights

Fewer crowds, easier to get in

CrowdLow
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Outstanding Bar Program James Beard Foundation, World's Best Bar from World's 50 Best, World's Best Bar Tales of the Cocktail

Please Don't Tell (PDT)

Best Time

Weeknights

Fewer crowds, easier to get in

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Enter a hidden world through a phone booth for expertly crafted cocktails and an intimate speakeasy experience.

4.3
(2k reviews)

"A truly unique speakeasy experience with expertly crafted cocktails and a secretive vibe."

Vertical photo
TIP

📞 Dial for Entry

Enter via the phone booth in Crif Dogs and dial '1' to request entry.

📅 Book Ahead

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Phone Booth Entrance

The Phone Booth Entrance

Step through a classic phone booth into a hidden world of expertly crafted cocktails. A truly unique speakeasy experience.

Signature Cocktails

Signature Cocktails

Experience the artistry of mixology with innovative and perfectly balanced drinks, often featuring unique ingredients and presentations.

Intimate Speakeasy Vibe

Intimate Speakeasy Vibe

Enjoy a low-light, comforting atmosphere perfect for conversation, away from loud music and distractions.

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Planning Your Visit

The Phone Booth Secret

Access PDT through a vintage phone booth inside Crif Dogs. Dial '1' to enter. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as walk-ins can face significant waits. InstagramReddit

Cocktail Craftsmanship

PDT is renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails, often described as 'science projects' due to their intricate preparation. Expect unique flavor combinations and a focus on quality ingredients. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weeknights
Why
Fewer crowds, easier to get in
Crowd
Low
When
Early Evenings
Why
Catch the vibe before peak hours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dont tell them i told you 🤫 #vtyellow #nyc #nypd
@vtyellow
642.3K likes • 22M views

📞 Dial for Entry

Enter via the phone booth in Crif Dogs and dial '1' to request entry. InstagramReddit

📅 Book Ahead

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits. Reddit

Unwind with the signature cocktail and snacks 🍸 PLEASE DONT TELL (PDT) @pdthongkong @mo_landmarkhk
wingfsw
25 likes • 599 views
Please Don’t Tell (PDT) - An iconic speakeasy accessed through a phone booth inside Crif Dogs. #PleaseDontTell #PDTNYC #Speakeasy #HiddenBar #NYCNightlife #SecretSpot #CocktailLovers #NYCSpeakeasy #HiddenGems #MixologyMagic #NYCDrinks #SpeakeasyVibes #NYCNights #ProhibitionEra #UndergroundBar #HiddenNYC #NYCSecrets #CrifDogs #Drinkstagram #CocktailCulture
cityboytimes
16 likes • 2.7K views

🍸 Ask for Recommendations

Bartenders are knowledgeable and can craft the perfect drink based on your preferences. Reddit

🐶 Embrace the Hot Dogs

Don't forget Crif Dogs next door offers delicious hot dogs as a pre- or post-drink snack. Instagram

만다린호텔에 위치한 bar 속의 숨겨진bar(#speakeasybar) 이름도 PDT(please don't tell) 오빠가 전화하는모습 사진찍어주겠다고해서 버튼 누른건데 문열려서 넘나당황🤣 이게 출입문이래요ㅎㅎ 하이엔드 호텔바에 이렇게 재미난공간이 있다니! 내부도 작고 힙합음악에 칵테일들도 엄청 맛있어요👍🏻 인기bar 답게 웨이팅도 많고 정말 힙한곳에 갔던 임산부😅 . . . . . . . . #2023홍콩 #mandarin #mandarinhotel #mandarinlandmark #만다린 #호텔 #bar #홍콩 #홍콩여행 #홍콩맛집 #홍콩라이프
lucky_yoon_
109 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📞 Dial for Entry

Enter via the phone booth in Crif Dogs and dial '1' to request entry. InstagramReddit

📅 Book Ahead

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits. Reddit

🍸 Ask for Recommendations

Bartenders are knowledgeable and can craft the perfect drink based on your preferences. Reddit

🐶 Embrace the Hot Dogs

Don't forget Crif Dogs next door offers delicious hot dogs as a pre- or post-drink snack. Instagram

💡 Request Flavors

If a signature drink isn't quite right, tell the bartender your desired flavors for a custom creation. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

PDT offers a unique and memorable speakeasy experience with expertly crafted cocktails and an intimate, low-light atmosphere. While reservations are highly recommended and seating can be cozy, the quality of drinks and the novelty of the phone booth entrance make it a standout destination. InstagramReddit

"Fun experience for a first timer. Sat at the bar and enjoyed the show. It’s a science project happening with every drink. I had 2 and enjoyed both. The second one was better as I requested the flavors I was desiring, voila here is a perfect cocktail. I enjoyed the phone and looked forward to returning. Try the citrus ginger spicy drink for a kick."

MATTHEW SODIKOFF

"PDT holds a special place in my heart. It was the second speakeasy style bar I ever visited (the first being Attaboy), way back in 2014. I've only been back a handful of times since then, but every time I'm able to, I'm excited. I know the food will be on point, the vibe low-light and comforting, and the cocktails made with meticulous care and precision. It's an intimate setting where you'll sit with your party and actually be able to speak with each other instead of shouting over loud music or blaring TVs. Overall, it's a really well done cocktail program, in a cool secretive setting. The staff are very friendly and knowledgable and the service is quick and efficient. Thank you!"

David

"We went to get some drinks after dinner but we didn't have reservation so we had to wait until they contact us for table which was about 30 minutes.
The 4 of us got seated on the small table, half the size of some tables that 2 people being seated (table under the bear) and right next to the bathroom and you can see the bathroom through the curtain which was certainly not nice. Since it was very dark people always hit the table we were at whenever they go in and out of the bathroom 😞
And since the table was small, 4 of us were very cramp in there, not at all comfortable.
We had a drink each then left."

Penny Gaffney

What People Like

Unique phone booth entrance
Exceptional craft cocktails
Intimate speakeasy vibe

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Small tables
Wait times without reservation

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

PDT is famously hidden inside Crif Dogs at 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009. You enter through a vintage phone booth inside the hot dog shop. Dial '1' on the phone to request entry. InstagramReddit+1

Street parking in the East Village can be challenging. It's recommended to use ride-sharing services or public transportation to reach Crif Dogs and PDT. Instagram

The closest subway stations are Astor Place (6 train) and First Avenue (L train), both a short walk away. Instagram

Yes, you can try walking in, but be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours. Calling the phone booth is your first step. Reddit

The entrance is through a phone booth, and the bar itself is an intimate space. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility concerns. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for weekend evenings, to secure a table. You can call the phone booth inside Crif Dogs to be added to their waitlist or to try and secure a reservation. InstagramReddit

The primary method is by calling the phone booth inside Crif Dogs. They will take your name and number and call you back when a table is available. Reddit

PDT typically opens in the evening and stays open late. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most current hours, as they can vary. Instagram

There is no separate entry fee to access PDT beyond the cost of your drinks and any food you order. Instagram

If you don't have a reservation, you'll be placed on a waitlist and contacted when a table becomes available. The wait time can vary significantly. Reddit

🎫 🍸 Onsite Experience

PDT is famous for its expertly crafted, innovative cocktails. They offer a wide range of signature drinks, often with unique ingredients and presentations. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, PDT serves delicious food, including popular items from Crif Dogs. Many visitors enjoy pairing their cocktails with snacks. InstagramReddit

The atmosphere is intimate, low-light, and comforting, designed for conversation. It's a classic speakeasy vibe, often described as cozy and secretive. InstagramReddit

Absolutely. The bartenders are highly knowledgeable and skilled, known for their meticulous preparation and ability to create custom cocktails. InstagramReddit

Yes, the intimate and secretive atmosphere makes PDT an excellent choice for a date night. The focus on conversation and quality drinks enhances the experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive flash photography, especially in the dimly lit environment. Instagram

The phone booth entrance is an iconic photo opportunity. The unique cocktail presentations also make for great shots. Instagram+1

Yes, the intricate cocktail preparation is part of the show and makes for fascinating photos. Just be respectful of the bartenders' space. Reddit

The lighting is intentionally dim to create ambiance. While challenging, it can lead to moody and atmospheric photos. Using your phone's low-light capabilities or a camera with good low-light performance is recommended. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, it's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid taking photos that might intrude on other guests' privacy or the bar's atmosphere. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

PDT is primarily an adult-oriented cocktail bar and may not be suitable for families with young children. The intimate, dimly lit atmosphere and focus on alcoholic beverages are geared towards an adult clientele. InstagramReddit

However, if you're visiting with older teenagers or young adults who are of legal drinking age and interested in the unique speakeasy experience, it could be a memorable outing. Consider visiting earlier in the evening when the atmosphere might be slightly more relaxed. It's also worth noting that Crif Dogs, the hot dog shop next door, is a more family-friendly option for a casual meal. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

PDT is a speakeasy known for its craft cocktails, which generally come with a higher price tag than standard drinks. While the experience is unique, it's not the most budget-friendly option for a night out. Reddit

To make it more affordable, consider limiting yourself to one or two signature cocktails, or perhaps sharing a few small plates. You could also enjoy a more budget-friendly meal at Crif Dogs before heading to PDT for a single, special drink. Instagram

💑 Couples

PDT is an excellent choice for a romantic date night. The intimate, dimly lit ambiance, coupled with expertly crafted cocktails and the thrill of a secret entrance, creates a memorable and sophisticated experience. InstagramReddit

Make a reservation if possible to ensure you get a table. The focus on conversation and the unique setting make it easy to connect and enjoy each other's company. Don't hesitate to ask the bartenders for recommendations to find the perfect drink to share or savor together. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Speakeasy: PDT's Unique Entry

PDT, or Please Don't Tell, is a quintessential New York City speakeasy, and its entrance is as iconic as its cocktails. To gain entry, visitors must first step into a vintage phone booth located within the popular hot dog joint, Crif Dogs. Once inside the booth, you dial '1' on the rotary phone. Instagram+1 This simple act is the key to unlocking the hidden bar. The experience of making that call and waiting for confirmation builds anticipation, setting the stage for the exclusive atmosphere that awaits. It’s a playful nod to the Prohibition era, where secret entrances were the norm. Instagram

This unique entry method is frequently highlighted by visitors and creators alike, emphasizing the element of surprise and discovery. It’s not just a way to get into a bar; it’s part of the overall narrative and charm of PDT. The phone booth itself has become a symbol of the bar, often featured in social media posts and travel guides. Instagram+1 The process is designed to be a memorable part of the visit, making the journey to your cocktail as exciting as the destination itself.

For those planning a visit, understanding this entry protocol is crucial. While walk-ins are possible, the wait can be substantial, especially during busy periods. Calling ahead and being patient is often the most rewarding approach. The phone booth isn't just a prop; it's the gateway to an experience that many consider a must-do in NYC's vibrant nightlife scene. Reddit

Craft Cocktails: PDT's Mixology Mastery

PDT's reputation is built on its exceptional cocktail program. The bar is celebrated for its innovative and meticulously crafted drinks, often described as 'science projects' due to their complex preparation and unique ingredients. TikTokInstagram Bartenders at PDT are not just servers; they are artists who take pride in their craft, ensuring every drink is a masterpiece. Visitors often rave about the bartenders' knowledge and their ability to create personalized cocktails based on individual preferences. Reddit

The menu features a range of signature cocktails, each with a distinct personality and flavor profile. From refreshing citrus-infused concoctions to spirit-forward classics with a twist, there's something to suit every palate. Many reviews highlight specific drinks, like the 'Mezcal Mule' or a 'citrus ginger spicy drink,' as must-tries. Reddit The presentation of these cocktails is also a key part of the experience, with many featuring elaborate garnishes and unique glassware that add to the visual appeal. Instagram

Beyond the signature offerings, the ability to request custom drinks is a significant draw. If you have specific flavor preferences, don't hesitate to communicate them to the bartender. They are adept at creating a bespoke cocktail just for you, ensuring a truly personalized and memorable drinking experience. Reddit This dedication to quality and customization is what sets PDT apart and keeps patrons returning. Reddit

The PDT Vibe: Intimate Ambiance and Conversation

Step away from the bustling streets of the East Village and into the cozy, dimly lit embrace of Please Don't Tell. The atmosphere at PDT is intentionally designed to foster intimacy and conversation, a stark contrast to many louder, more boisterous bars. InstagramReddit The low lighting, comfortable seating, and absence of blaring music or TVs create a sanctuary where patrons can truly connect with their companions. This makes it an ideal spot for dates, catching up with close friends, or simply enjoying a quiet drink. Reddit

Reviewers consistently praise the bar's ability to maintain a relaxed yet buzzing energy. It feels exclusive without being pretentious, and the close quarters encourage a sense of camaraderie among guests. Even when busy, the space manages to feel personal and inviting. Reddit The staff also contribute significantly to this welcoming environment, being friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Reddit

While the intimate setting is a major draw, it's worth noting that the tables can be small, and seating can feel a bit cramped, especially for larger groups or if you're seated near high-traffic areas like the restrooms. Reddit However, for many, this slight coziness is part of the charm, contributing to the speakeasy's unique character and the overall memorable experience. Reddit