A Subterranean Speakeasy Surfaces in Midtown

Midtown is easy to hate.

It’s drowning in a sea of skyscrapers with few dining and drinking options.

Then there is The Volstead. Set to open next Wednesday (8/8), this new, upscale restaurant/lounge from the crew behind PS 450 and Vig 27, combines an excellent comfort food menu (preview the food menu) with a sophisticated cocktail list (check out the cocktail menu).

It’s a modern day speakeasy with all the right touches. The restaurant and lounge both embrace the swanky speakeasy feel with dark mahogany and cherry wood finishes in an underground setting. The secretive feel is flushed out with tables, banquettes and ottomans in nooks and partitioned sections.

Since the lounge is named after Prohibition founder Congressman Andrew Volstead, a classic-meets-modern cocktail list is presented. Ladies will love the Cantaloupe Daquiri (fresh cantaloupe, simple syrup, fresh lime, light rum, dark rum), and the Strawberry Caiproska (lime, strawberries, simple syrup, Level Vodka, club soda). Gents will gravitate to the The Original Dry Martini (Plymouth Gin, sweet vermouth, orange bitters, orange zest garnish) and just about everything else on the menu.

They will feed you at The Volstead, too. Bring on the Mini Tilapia Fish Tacos, the Buffalo Pops (buffalo wings served on a stick), and the Lobster Roll Sliders. And leave room for the Chocolate Fondue or Banana Ice Cream Sandwich.

The only thing missing is you.


The Volstead opens next Wednesday (8/8).


The Volstead
125 East 54th Street (between Park and Lexington)
Tel: (212) 583-0411