
Undercote
Speakeasy lounge
16 West 22nd Street, New York, NY 10010
OUR SCORE

4
ACCOLADES
- Named one of "The World’s 50 Best Discovery Bars" by The World’s 50 Best Bars in 2020
- Included in the list of "America's 100 Best Wine Restaurants" by Wine Enthusiast in 2019
- Featured in Esquire's "Best Bars in America" in 2019
REVIEW & BAR SUMMARY
Beneath the acclaimed Cote Korean steakhouse, Undercote New York City emerges as a subterranean sanctuary where shadows dance with moonlight and cocktail artistry reaches new depths. This captivating New York City cocktail bar transforms the concept of underground luxury, creating an immersive jungle oasis that feels worlds away from Manhattan's bustling streets.
Conceived by restaurateur Simon Kim, the visionary behind Michelin-starred Cote, Undercote embodies the philosophy that "the best secrets are told in the dark." Principal bartender Sondre Kasin, formerly of Oslo's renowned Morgenstierne Bar, leads the cocktail program with international expertise and innovative techniques. Under the guidance of beverage director Victoria James, this luxury bar New York City has earned recognition as a top-five international travel destination by Surface Magazine and inclusion in The World's 50 Best Discovery list.
The cocktail menu showcases Kasin's masterful approach to both classic and contemporary creations, featuring signature drinks that incorporate customized spirits like sesame-infused Tokki soju. Standout cocktails include reimagined margaritas and boulevardiers crafted with behind-the-scenes techniques that elevate familiar flavors. The extensive Champagne selection focuses on Special Club grower Champagnes, curated to complement the bar's sophisticated atmosphere. Premium craft cocktails are paired with elevated bar snacks from Cote's kitchen, including gochujang-glazed chicken nuggets and steak tartare with caviar and milk toast, creating a complete luxury experience.
Designed by Modellus Novus, the space captures the ethereal qualities of moonlight through walls of living plants dramatically illuminated against industrial-terrarium-chic surroundings. As eyes adjust to the darkness, navy blue walls emerge from apparent black surfaces, while veined green marble tables materialize from shadows. Reflections in black glass multiply points of light throughout the space, creating depth and mystery that encourages lingering conversations. The entrance, hidden past Cote's illuminated dry-aging meat locker, reinforces the sense of discovery and exclusivity.
Service at this best cocktail bar in New York City maintains the polished standards of its Michelin-starred sibling above, with understated hospitality that allows the drinks and atmosphere to captivate guests. Complimentary Korean rice cakes glazed with gochujang accompany cocktails, reflecting the generous attention to detail. The space is designed for intimate conversations and late-night revelry, with lighting and layout that naturally encourage guests to settle in for extended evenings.
For discerning cocktail connoisseurs seeking an extraordinary New York experience, Undercote reservations offer access to one of the city's most distinctive drinking destinations. This subterranean jewel seamlessly blends Korean influences with international mixology expertise, creating an unforgettable luxury bar experience that stands apart in Manhattan's competitive cocktail landscape.