Phil M.
Yelp
This one may take a while.
Madame George is really special. While searching Yelp for ideas on where to go while in a recent trip to Manhattan I soon stumbled upon it, along with the sister locations Valerie and Lolita, as an interesting and unique speakeasy-style spot for cocktails. I quickly decided to book a reservation but had a somewhat difficult time finding a time slot that wasn't already booked. Seems this is a VERY popular place. Finally got a reservation on a night following a Broadway show. Unfortunately it was later cancelled by Madame George due to a private event having been booked. Bummer! But to put a positive spin on what seems to be a poor start for this review, I received a call from a gentleman named Finn apologizing for the cancellation and looking to see if another time would work for us. We found another time on another day, the next Saturday evening after a show. When we wound up being a bit late for THAT, they still accommodated us and once we were seated Finn stopped by with another apology for having to change and a couple of complementary aperitifs. Not at all expected or necessary but wholly appreciated. So, needless to say, the service at Madame George is well above par, from the hostess showing us down to the space, to our servers. All were very friendly and professional.
So, with that long-winded preamble out of the way:
After your short trip down, the elevator opens up into a gorgeous dimly lit yet colorful, atmospheric space with a nice bar area and a wide variety of tables and lounge spaces to accommodate whatever setting you prefer. I wish I'd taken the time to wander about a bit because it just looks amazing. Do yourself a favor and check out the website. You'll likely be immediately inspired to visit. There was some pretty great live music as well to add to the vibe; not too loud but just right to set the mood.
The menu offers an amazing variety of spirits crafted in honor of the rich history of New York libations with some modern twists. For our cocktail selections I chose The Pickpocket, consisting of (and here I'm stealing straight from the menu) "Fig infused Speyburn 10yr scotch, punt e mes, px sherry, elote liqueur, madagascar vanilla rinse". My better half selected the Penicillin, comprised of "Monkey Shoulder blended scotch, lemon, honey, ginger, islay scotch float". Both were quite tasty and I would recommend them without reserve. Of course, on out next visit we'll have to expand on the selection; so much to choose from.
As for something to eat, Madame George offers a nice selection bites / shares to enjoy. We landed on the Mott Street Bang Bang Shrimp, very tasty!, and the outstanding Pastrami Cured Salmon Lox atop everything NY bagel chips. Just order it. Seriously. The menu, itself, is a treat to read - offering nice descriptions of the various themes of cocktails on offer and is nicely laid out.
Well this is probably long-winded enough but suffice to say Madame George should be a must-stop when in New York and in search of a great cocktail spot with ambiance, class, and elegance. I know it will be very high on my list of necessary stops while in Manhattan. Makes me wish I lived there so I could be a regular.