In New York City's rebellious East Village, Paradise Lost transforms the traditional tiki bar into a theatrical tropical hellscape where John Milton's literary masterpiece meets Beelzebub's cocktail party. This audacious concept redefines luxury bar experiences through maximalist design, innovative mixology, and an irreverent spirit that has earned recognition on the World's 50 Best Discovery list.

Founded by the visionary trio of Kavé Pourzanjani, Phillip Kirschen-Clark, and Raymond Sakover, Paradise Lost emerged from their collective expertise across New York City's most celebrated establishments. Pourzanjani brings bartending mastery from Nitecap and Middle Branch, while Culinary Institute-trained Kirschen-Clark contributes his culinary artistry from Milling Room and Café Cluny. Sakover's hospitality prowess, honed at Ray's and The Happiest Hour, completes this formidable team. Together, they've crafted a destination that subverts tropical escapism with gothic theatricality, creating what industry insiders describe as "Tiki-meets-hell."

The cocktail program elevates classic tiki libations through bold reinterpretation and dramatic presentation. Signature drinks like the "Saturn" blend gin, passionfruit, orgeat, and Falernum with smoking dry ice theatrics, while reimagined mai tais and piña coladas arrive in custom demon-themed mugs. Each cocktail triggers interactive lighting changes throughout the space, transforming guests into active participants in the bar's immersive narrative. The premium craft cocktails are complemented by globally influenced cuisine, featuring tiki popcorn, Caribbean snapper ceviche, and Japanese kakigori desserts that extend the tropical theme with sophisticated execution.

The experience unfolds within a maximalist wonderland where an eight-foot altar dominates the space alongside oversized bat taxidermy and snakeskin banquettes. A giant LED canvas streams animated scenes across the bar, creating a dynamic environment that evolves throughout the evening. White fur doors and interactive lighting systems respond to cocktail service, blurring boundaries between guest and performance. The surf punk soundtrack amplifies the raucous energy while maintaining the sophisticated edge that attracts New York City's most discerning cocktail connoisseurs.

Service philosophy centers on "door to check" curation, ensuring every moment delivers theatrical hospitality without sacrificing attention to craft. The team's playful yet professional approach creates an atmosphere where luxury meets irreverence, making reservations highly coveted among those seeking New York City's most original bar experience. Smart casual attire suits the venue's approachable sophistication, though the experience itself is anything but ordinary.