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New York City, New York / Bars and nightlife

The Back Room

A rare, authentic 1920s Prohibition-era speakeasy hidden behind a fake toy company storefront, featuring cocktails served in teacups and a secret VIP lounge hidden behind a bookcase.

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What is The Back Room known for?

The Back Room is one of only two surviving speakeasies from the 1920s Prohibition era in New York City. It is known for its authentic atmosphere where cocktails are served in teacups and bottled beer is served in brown bags.

How do I find the entrance?

The entrance is disguised as 'THE LOWER EAST SIDE TOY COMPANY' on Norfolk Street. To enter, look for the sign, pass through the gate, walk down an alleyway, and go up a set of stairs.

What are the hours?

The bar is open Sunday to Monday from 6pm to 1am, Tuesday to Thursday from 6pm to 2am, and Friday to Saturday from 6pm to 3am.

Is it free to enter?

Yes, admission is always free with no cover charge.

Is there an age requirement?

The age policy is 21 and up from Sunday to Thursday, and 25 and up on Friday and Saturday. Those under 21 are not permitted.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Back Room is a historic landmark of New York City's clandestine nightlife, serving as one of only two surviving speakeasies from the 1920s Prohibition era. Originally opened in 1920 under the name The Cirque d'Paris, the venue was once a premier destination for the city's most influential businessmen and actors. To maintain its authenticity, a masterful restoration was completed in 2000, which preserved original features while updating the site to meet modern fire codes. Located at 102 Norfolk Street, the entrance is intentionally discreet to mimic the secrecy of the 1920s. Visitors must locate a sign for 'THE LOWER EAST SIDE TOY COMPANY,' pass through a gate, and navigate an alleyway before ascending stairs to a dimly lit den. This entrance is tucked behind the former site of the legendary Ratner's kosher dairy restaurant, adding to the layered history of the Lower East Side. The experience inside is designed to evoke the era when alcohol was forbidden. In a nod to historical concealment, cocktails are poured into teacups and bottled beers are served in brown bags. The main room features a gleaming bar and upper-level seating with reserved couches and cocktail tables. For those in the know, a trick bookcase in the main room opens into a secret VIP-only lounge known as the 'real back room.' Today, the venue blends history with modern entertainment. Monday nights are dedicated to Jazz, with music playing from 9pm to 12:30am, while Thursday through Saturday feature DJs playing an eclectic mix of R&B, soul, disco, and hip hop from 9pm until close.

Visitor tips

  • Check the official website for the weekly password before visiting, though it is not always enforced.
  • Adhere to the dress code: no baseball hats, flip-flops, men's tank tops, or real fur are permitted.
  • Note the age restrictions: 21+ from Sunday to Thursday, and 25+ on Friday and Saturday nights.
  • If you have a wait, look for the old Mickey Mantle pinball machine to pass the time.

Nearby context

Situated at 102 Norfolk Street near Delancey Street, The Back Room is a cornerstone of the Lower East Side's nightlife. It sits on the ghost of the former Ratner's kosher dairy restaurant, embodying the neighborhood's transition from immigrant hubs to a center of eclectic bars and hidden gems.

Sources

Evidence and links