Raines Law Room

Raines Law Room invites guests to escape the bustle of Manhattan via a discreet buzzer entrance leading into a hushed, plush sanctuary—an ambiance rich in vintage glamour and whisper-soft sophistication. The original Chelsea location, tucked at 48 West 17th Street, offers a candlelit parlor that feels like an intimate house party made for whispering over bespoke cocktails. Every detail feels thoughtfully curated: velvet armchairs, dark wooden interiors, and soft lighting create a setting perfect for lingering conversations or a romantic rendezvous. The Midtown “at The William” branch on East 39th Street echoes the same elegance through multiple snug rooms and cozy nooks—ideal for anyone seeking refined seclusion in Midtown East. The cocktail menu—overseen by Bar Director Meaghan Dorman—features time-honored classics alongside seasonal innovations, plus a curated selection of spirits, wine, and beer. A small assortment of elevated bar bites rounds out the experience. Reserving ahead is recommended: both locations accept reservations (Chelsea for up to parties of 6, Midtown up to 8), though walk-ins are occasionally accommodated depending on availability. Raines Law Room is more than a cocktail bar—it’s a nod to the Prohibition-era resilience of NYC nightlife, its name derived from the 1896 “Raines Law” that birthed discreet saloons above hotels.