PDT

PDT, short for “Please Don’t Tell,” is an iconic speakeasy-style cocktail bar hidden behind a vintage phone booth inside the renowned Crif Dogs hot dog shop at 113 St. Marks Place in New York City’s East Village. Established in 2007 by Jim Meehan, Brian Shebairo, and Chris Antista, PDT is widely regarded as one of the originators of the modern speakeasy renaissance and a pivotal influence on America’s cocktail culture.

The entrance plays into its clandestine charm: guests step off the busy street into Crif Dogs, pick up the receiver on a classic payphone tucked into the booth, then wait for a hostess to slide open a concealed door. Once inside, the experience shifts to a dimly lit, intimate lounge of exposed brick walls, a slatted wooden ceiling, and plush stools at a polished backlit bar. Eclectic taxidermy pieces reinforce the speakeasy atmosphere without overpowering the refined elegance of the setting.

PDT balances professional precision with laid-back charm. The bar offers expertly crafted takes on both timeless classics and bold originals. House signature cocktails include the curry-spiced Sixth Street—mixing guava, house-made ginger beer, and kaffir lime cordial—and inventive riffs like the bacon-washed Old-Fashioned. Standard classics such as a Sazerac or Manhattan are executed flawlessly, and the knowledgeable bartenders take pride in walking guests through any drink on the menu.

Alongside their cocktail artistry, the bar also serves gourmet snacks from the adjacent hot dog kitchen. Indulgent options like bacon-wrapped franks, tater tots, and waffle fries complement the drinking experience—perfect for late-night cravings. Guests can choose to order directly at the bar or have selections brought over seamlessly from Crif Dogs.

PDT’s influence has consistently been recognized: a James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program, a ranking among The World’s 50 Best Bars in 2011, and numerous mentions as a top US cocktail destination. In 2010, GQ named PDT one of the ten best bars in America. These accolades reflect the bar’s impact on setting new standards in service, creativity, and ambiance.

The physical layout encourages connection. With capacity tightly capped to about fifty guests, the environment feels like a private club. Booths, stools, and intimate tables facilitate conversation and discovery. Despite its allure, the vibe remains relaxed—reservations are handled via phone and Resy, but same-day seating and walk-ins remain possible.

Over the years, PDT has maintained and expanded its legacy. In 2016, it launched an international location inside Hong Kong’s Landmark Mandarin Oriental, preserving the signature entry ritual and aesthetic while tailoring cocktails to local tastes. Meanwhile, the original New York venue continues to evolve under Chief Owner Jeff Bell, a former barback turned award-winning bartender who has continued to refine the cocktail program while honoring its core spirit.

Even after nearly two decades, PDT retains its reputation as a speakeasy that feels authentic rather than contrived. Whether it’s the thrill of dialing the hotline, the glowing glow of the bar, or the allure of expertly balanced drinks, PDT provides a sense of discovery and community. It is beloved by devoted cocktail enthusiasts, date-night seekers, travelers chasing nightlife legends, and anyone who values craftsmanship, tradition, and a touch of secrecy.