Musical Box
(212) 254-1731
219 Ave B
New York,
NY
10009
40.7289
-73.9782
Neighborhoods: Alphabet City, Downtown, East Village
Last updated 4.01.09
What People Are Saying About Musical Box
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
The Scene
Clearly money has been invested in this bar: The exposed brick walls are immaculate, the couches in the spacious back room have an air of the chaise-lounge about them, the pool table has an abundance of elbow room, and the subdued designer lighting probably comes from a swank Soho boutique. The back room also opens onto a sofa-furnished parking lot--hey, it's still the East Village--for those hot summer nights.
The Draw
The theme (there are framed black-and-white photos everywhere of rock greats famous and obscure) feels slightly spurious, but you'll impress the bartenders if you recognize the Nick Drake picture. If you're looking for the East Village of rock-and-roll legend, you'll hate this place, but if you want to get your lounge on, sip cosmos or play a quiet game of pool in a stylish but not oppressive atmosphere, you can't miss here.
User Reviews
sersim25
March 05, 2008
I've been to the Box several times and I always enjoyed myself. I like it because it's got a good mix of everything. Not too big, yet not too small. It's always full of people yet never overcrowded. The decor is East Village yet with a twist of a lounge. They have comfortable couches and places to chill. Nice and dark. I've never thrown a party or anything here so some of the reviews I cannot comment on. This place can turn into your regular hangout.
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mcmurphy27
November 26, 2006
I moved to this neighborhood a couple years ago, I frequent alot of different bars in the neighborhood and always end up at the Musical Box. The fact that there is no sign and it looks closed probably keeps away college kids and the types of people that pretend they are too cool to socialize with people that aren't ironically hip hipsters. The best way to describe "The Box" which is what us EV regulars call it, would be smooth and unpretentious. It's a clean, comfortable, fun place to chill with buddies while watching the game or playing pool, yet moody and ambient enough impress a date. I always feel welcome and I enjoy the self-deprecating bartenders, they laugh easy, and make a wicked libation.
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mnbones
November 15, 2006
The Musical Box is one of my favorite spots in New York City. I like that it is relaxed and unpretentious. I love the decor, the pool table, the patio, the couches...I read all the reviews in the past and was so surprised. If the things they said once were true, they certainly don't apply anymore... I've been coming here for at almost two years and have had nothing but a great time. The music is a good mix of rock, the service is great, drink prices are reasonable and the doorman is polite and does his job. (I've never met a "Bathroom Nxzi" here, although I think it would be pretty funny!) I don't think that the things people have written about this place are accurate . Come see for yourself, you'll have a great time!
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Category:
Lounges, Nightclubs, Bars & Pubs, Bars & Clubs, Billiards Bars
