A true icon of the modern speakeasy movement, Please Don’t Tell (PDT) offers a playful and unforgettable entry into a world of expertly crafted cocktails. For any tourist seeking that quintessential “secret bar” experience, the fun begins before you even take your first sip. Hidden in plain sight within a beloved East Village hot dog joint, PDT is a must-visit for its novelty, history, and, of course, its world-class drinks.
The Experience
Your adventure starts at Crif Dogs, a legendary spot known for its creative deep-fried hot dogs. Make your way to the vintage wooden phone booth tucked inside. Step in, pick up the receiver, and dial ‘1’. A host will greet you through a hidden panel in the booth’s wall, which then swings open to grant you access to the stylish and intimate bar.
The contrast is immediate. You leave the lively, casual vibe of a hot dog shop for a dimly lit, taxidermy-adorned lounge. The space is cozy and exclusive, perfect for a memorable night. Once inside, you can enjoy their innovative and classic cocktails, and yes, you can even order gourmet hot dogs and tater tots delivered right to your table from Crif Dogs.
How to Visit
A little planning is essential to experience this popular spot. Reservations are highly recommended and are often booked up quickly.
- Website: pdtnyc.com
- Address: 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009 (inside Crif Dogs)
- Reservations: Reservations are released seven days in advance and can be made through the Resy app or website. Set a reminder, as spots fill up fast! While they sometimes have limited bar seating for walk-ins, making a reservation is the best way to guarantee entry.
The History Behind PDT: A Speakeasy for the Modern Era
PDT opened in 2007, created by bartender Jim Meehan and restaurateur Naren Young as a response to the growing craft cocktail movement in New York City. The concept was ingenious: combine nostalgia for Prohibition-era speakeasies with modern mixology expertise and playful hospitality. What started as a novel idea has since become a legendary destination, winning numerous awards and helping to define the speakeasy trend that continues today.
The bar’s name itself is a nod to discretion and the thrill of the hidden experience. Unlike the original speakeasies of the 1920s, PDT doesn’t operate illegally—it operates with a sense of theatrical fun and exclusivity that transports guests back in time. The vintage phone booth is the original one still in use today, and it has become one of the most Instagram-famous entrances in New York City, making it an iconic symbol of the East Village’s creative bar scene.
Over the years, PDT has expanded its influence beyond its single intimate location. The bar has become a training ground for some of NYC’s best bartenders and has influenced how bars across the city approach hospitality and cocktail craft. If you’re interested in the history of cocktail culture in New York, PDT is ground zero for understanding how the modern speakeasy movement transformed the city’s drinking scene.
The Cocktail Menu: Craft Drinks Worth the Wait
PDT’s cocktail program is where the real magic happens. Head bartender Jim Meehan and his team create drinks that balance creativity with classical cocktail traditions. The menu changes seasonally, featuring both signature cocktails and daily specials created with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Expect drinks that are thoughtfully crafted, beautifully presented, and served with genuine expertise.
The signature cocktails showcase the bar’s philosophy: innovative without being pretentious. You’ll find unique twists on classics like the Pisco Punch, which features pisco (a South American brandy), pineapple, lime, and a touch of Angostura, alongside entirely original creations. The bartenders take their craft seriously and are genuinely interested in tailoring drinks to your preferences. Don’t hesitate to tell them what you enjoy—they’ll create something perfect for your palate.
One clever feature: you can order hot dogs and other Crif Dogs items directly to your table without leaving the bar. This unique pairing of elevated cocktails with casual food creates a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. The Crif Dogs menu includes their famous deep-fried hot dogs, loaded fries, tater tots, and even hot dog-inspired items—all surprisingly delicious complements to craft cocktails. It’s this blend of gourmet and casual that makes PDT feel special rather than stuffy.
Best Times to Visit and What to Expect
PDT’s small, intimate space means it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. If you’re serious about visiting, plan ahead. Weekday visits, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded than Fridays and Saturdays. However, weekdays also mean you’ll have better access to the bartenders’ time and attention, which can be a real advantage if you’re looking for personalized drink recommendations.
Arrive promptly for your reservation—the bar operates on a tight schedule to manage turnover. Most reservations are for two-hour windows, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a couple of cocktails and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The staff is professional but friendly, and the vibe is sophisticated yet welcoming. Don’t wear athletic wear or sneakers; business casual or nicer casual attire is appropriate. The bar maintains a certain aesthetic, and dressing up slightly shows respect for the experience.
If you can’t snag a reservation, the small bar seating area sometimes accommodates walk-ins during slow periods, typically before 8 PM on weeknights. However, this is never guaranteed, so don’t count on it. The location in the East Village means you can easily explore the neighborhood before or after your visit—St. Marks Place has plenty of other bars, restaurants, and shops to fill your evening.
Nearby Attractions and Dining Options
The East Village is one of New York City’s most vibrant neighborhoods, and PDT’s location puts you in the heart of it. St. Marks Place itself is lined with eclectic shops, vintage clothing stores, and other bars worth exploring. If you
