An underground, hole-in-the-wall Village joint that will let you escape from the hustle and bustle of the street. Look for the 124 above an unmarked black door, walk down the dark and dank steps, and prepare to enjoy some superb beers (many rare) and chat with amazingly friendly bartenders.
This is a hidden gem that deserves a visit on any night when you're bar hopping around the Village. The bar itself is so unassuming that at first you're not quite sure what you've gotten yourself into, but the second you sit down, embrace the dark, narrow, and intimately inspiring space, you know you've made the right decision. While decor is pretty much limited to a few rabbits painted on the walls and an old tin ceiling that could very well come down on you any minute, it all still works to create an old-world, idealized, secretive, romantic space perfect for great conversation.
The staff here is also superb. The first time I was here with a friend we just sat at the bar and described the kind of beer we were looking for, and the bartender pulled out a couple spectacular Belgian bottles that answered our calls. They enjoy taking the time to talk and get to know you, making for an all around enjoyable time.
Anyone could walk into the Old Rabbit Club and feel comfortable, proud that they've discovered such a secret spot. It's a great place to start, end, or just take a break from the night, and I look forward to each time I get to visit. It's just the kind of bar where I fantasize about writing the next great American novel over some solid beer.
124 Old Rabbit Club
124 MacDougal St
New York, NY 10012
New York, NY 10012
