Personal space
People’s (Greenwich Village)
BARS & GALLERIES • First Round
The Skinny: The cool new gallery in town is also a bar in the basement of a brownstone on West 13th St. People’s opened in December in what was once the home of Downtown Gallery, dating from 1926.
The Vibe: A cross between an evening club and an art salon. The unmarked facade leads to a red-lit vestibule where a host awaits. From there, a literal curtain is pulled back to reveal three distinct, well-designed rooms. First, a parlor complete with a long, mahogany bar, cozy booths, and roaring fireplace. Second, a spacious lounge with mauve velvet walls, vintage fabric lanterns, and plush striped couches that's used for private events. Third, an elevated atrium room with another bar, silky cream drapes, and a few smaller tables. Each room has a rotating roster of pieces on display from up-and-coming artists, all available for purchase.
The Food: The Raf’s/Musket Room team assembled the food menu, which includes a quick hit list of snacks, full-size plates, and small selection of sweets. The cheddar and onion jam toastie and seasonal eton mess (this month made with banana) were both excellent.
The Drink: Eight house cocktails as well as martinis three ways — The Classic (gin/vodka, vermouth, olives or a twist), The People’s (Tanqueray, dry vermouth, garnishes), or The Rockefeller (Belvedere, umami bitters, brine, EVOO). The wine list is heavy on champagne, which fits the mood. Alternatively, there’s Guinness and Moretti on tap.
The Verdict: A chic respite for anyone looking for somewhere special to order a nightcap or more, People’s feels like the best kind of locals spot. –Caitlin Pangares
→ People’s (Greenwich Village) • 111 West 13th St • By appointment only.