Ritz Bar and Lounge

Dancing · Cocktail Lounge · New York, NY

About

"They finally fixed up their backroom that lacks a bar." Yes, Ritz Bar and Lounge has updated its space, but the real draw here is the lively multi-tiered setup. This Hell's Kitchen venue on Restaurant Row features a street-facing patio, a packed bar area, and a dance floor that draws a mixed crowd of 20-somethings and 30-somethings. Bear nights and drag shows keep the calendar full, and the vibe leans casual but energetic.

The music leans 80s (not always the sing-along hits), and while one visitor noted no champagne available, most reviews focus on the fun dance floor and easy socializing. The space is intimate, so expect close quarters dancing. If you want a quieter night, nearby spots like Please Don't Tell offer a different scene.

Located in Hell's Kitchen on Restaurant Row, Ritz Bar and Lounge is surrounded by dining and nightlife options.

Features

  • Multi-tiered venue with street-facing patio
  • Bear nights and drag shows on rotation
  • Close quarters dancing on two floors
  • Mixed crowd of 20s and 30s
  • Private party space available

Good for

Drag ShowsLive EntertainmentCasualGood For GroupsLively20 Somethings30 SomethingsBearsDancingCocktail LoungeDive BarsNightclub

Practical

Mixed LGBTQClassy
4.1

What people say

Rated from 8 reviews. 136 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp

From the community

They are still as terrible as ever, charging customers for drinks they didn't order. The bartender said that the customer's friend should learn how to order properly. Just because the staff can't tell orders apart doesn't mean people should pay for their mistakes. If one person orders and then another does, why assume they're on the same tab? And then making the second person pay for a stranger's drinks without even apologizing? This place was shut down for ripping off innocent people and should have stayed closed. Also, ignore the fake five-star reviews that are clearly paid to boost their rating. Consider yourself warned.

A visitor · 2 months ago

“best in NY”

I'm from Brazil. This is the best spot to go. Enjoy happy hour and the club at night. Good music and not too many older people. The best one!

A guest · Over a year ago

“Cool place in Midtown”

Had a great time here before heading to another venue on our last night in New York. The crowd was diverse, with cute college guys and lots of dancing on both floors. A fantastic place—we immediately started talking to people and had loads of fun. Only issue was no champagne, which seems odd for a bar or club.

A recent visitor · Over a year ago

“great music”

Great music, usually crowded, reasonably priced.

A local visitor · Over a year ago

“Tight and not in that good way”

The place is small, it can be fun. The bar staff was always fun when I've been. The music was 80's (not fun 80's that you sing along to, lame unknown 80's). They finally fixed up their backroom that lacks a bar.

A visitor · Over a year ago

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ritz Bar and Lounge have drag shows? +

Yes, drag shows are a regular feature. Check their website for the current schedule.

What's the crowd like? +

The crowd is mixed LGBTQ+, with a focus on 20-somethings and 30-somethings, and bear nights also draw a dedicated crowd.

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