Chumley’s NYC was a prohibition restaurant and as a published author of Eat What You Want! Stop When You Want! A No-Diet, Weight-Loss Program I knew I had to check it out. Chumley’s is near The Cherry Lane Theatre in Manhattan’s West Village. It’s rumored that in the 1920s, Chumley’s was a speakeasy frequented by some illustrious writers.
I ventured out into the pouring rain.
Upon entering, you sense history and the passing of time…
Hemingway was a regular and there are 273 spaces for author’s book covers. Very cool!!
Saving room for dessert, I ordered the Little “Gem” Caesar salad. On top of the fresh greens were Garlic Chile Bread Crumbs, Pecorino ( the name given to all Italian cheeses made from sheep’s milk.), and Smoked Trout Dressing served on the side. My dining partner ordered the double patty burger.
I had a Rhubard Foster for dessert, which I split with my friend. This mouth-watering dish was flamed with Jamaican rum and accompanied by strawberry ice cream and chunks of rhubarb seasoned with brown sugar.
Chumley’s NYC
86 Bedford Street
New York, NY 10014
Menu: chumleysnewyork.com
Readers may also enjoy our reviews of Franchia Vegan Café, BG at Fifth in Bergdorf Goodman, Lokal Mediterranean Restaurant, Cathédrale French Restaurant, Nice Matin, Oceans New York, Edgar’s Cafe, Via Quadronna Off Madison, and Tea Around Town.
One Response
I live in LA but have traveled to NYC, nearly monthly, since the 90’s. I don’t recall how I happened upon Chumley’s but was hooked on the first visit. I was shown, what appeared to be an apartment courtyard entrance, on Barrow with a circular topped unmarked door that stepped down into the actual bar. I went many times after this, even alone. Or course, I exited at the 86 Barrow entrance to complete the visit and walked a couple of blocks north to get the #1 subway to Columbus Circle where I still stay on 59th. Chumley’s was small but always crowded and there were books on shelves, not jackets in display cases, as shown in these pics, as I recall. It was a special place.