Silver Lining

Always on that quest to find the next secret bar, Nat and I made our way to Silver Lining one Saturday night after finding out Ward iii was closed (hopefully only for the holiday). Another group of people were just as surprised as we were, but luckily for us they knew where to find the «Silver Lining» in this situation… (yes I know, that was incredibly corny…) and we were able to salvage the rest of the evening.
Since coming here just about a month ago, I’m sad to say that it is now closed. It was a beautiful hidden bar… with delicious drinks and a great staff. Nat and I could not believe our find– we enjoyed our drinks so much here and were waiting to set another date to come back! I was looking forward to coming here again tonight to bring my best friend… only to look online and see that it is now closed. A little disappointed that I can no longer come here… but please! Open a new location!!!

There is absolutely no better place to grab a cocktail in Tribeca other than Silver Lining.
After having been to the top tweny cocktail bars in the city, I believe the quality of thed drinks at Silver Lining rises above most of the cocktail bars.
Most of Silver Lining comparison group bars can serve a fantastic cocktail that is on their menu or relatively stanard.
What’s wonderful about Silver Lining is that their bartenders are able to select drinks based on how you describe your palette and the flavor you are looking for. Many of the drinks are improvised which allows for the creativity of the «mixologist» to come out. The only place I’ve experienced that does this approach as well is Milk & Honey.
Bonus is the live music most every night of the week as well! This is an fantastic bonus. The music is not too loud so you can easily have a conversation or ask for a seat closer to the musicians.
Bartender Emily was especially attentive to customizing cocktails for us… The others are great as well, I just haven’t gotten around to chatting with them and getting to know them better.

Cocktails are exquisite and hand-​crafted with fresh ingredients + if you can’t choose from their extensive menu, they will make something according to your tastes (I like rosemary, ginger, spicy, etc.) + free live music= great night out
I do miss their lamb and manchego sliders; they were so good! Wish they would bring them back. Menu needs one or 2 hearty dishes to pair with the amazing cocktails, so more of an after dinner spot; appetizers are pretty light.

Spacious speakeasy that transports you to the 1930s/​1940s. It’s in a Church, oddly, but there’s live jazz, the bartenders wear suspenders, and the chairs are comfy. Love the old-​fashioned cash register, the leather cushioned doors, and the bathroom (clean, modern yet vintage).
Oh, and the drinks are pretty good too.

Finally dragged my butt down to Silver Lining in Tribeca and had an amazing time. Silver Lining is housed in this gorgeous white townhouse on Murray — enter the townhouse (also houses Trinity Grace Tribeca) and go through door on left down to basement.
I was worried that this was going to be a «serious jazz lounge» — like a Blue Note or Village Vanguard where you’re there solely to listen to the music and people give you dirty looks if you speak above an a hushed whisper.
Here the jazz is actually a subtle backdrop to the cocktails, the food, the conversation, all lovely. I would argue that the jazz here is less intrusive than that of Little Branch, but that’s probably owing to Silver Lining being a much bigger space. After hearing that this is a Petraske establishment, I pretty much went with Bartender’s Choice the entire evening, and of course every cocktail was spot-​on.
They also have a diverse menu of eats that looked really good: small savory bites, charcuterie /​cheeses, desserts. Unfortunately the kitchen was closing when we placed our food order, but we managed to snag a last serving of crème brûlée that was delish.
Overall a classy, large space perfect for both intimate dates and large gatherings. And since it’s all the way down in Tribeca, way easier to snag a table!

You know that cool kid in high school that would just show up and be 100% himself and it was so effortless that he made all the kids who were trying really hard look like morons?
Meet Silver Lining, the effortlessly cool cocktail lounge/​jazz bar/​speakeasy that makes all those other cocktail lounge/​jazz bar/​speakeasies wish they hadn’t even gotten out of bed. I can’t say enough good things about the friendliness of the staff, the ambiance, or the drinks in one review so I’m not even going to try. All I’ll say is go, let the bartender know what sort of ingredients you DON’T like, and then sit back, relax, and enjoy the best cocktails you never could have dreamt up on your own.

Warning — a bit hard to find the entrance on the street. It’s on the Murray steet between Broadway & Greenwich st, but no signboard saying «Silver Lining» outside the building. We were walking back and forth around this area to find the entrance, and a doorman on the street approached to us first and asked «are you looking for silver lining?» We were like. «Gosh, yes. Thanks! You’re our savior.»
I was looking for a live jazz place for Friday night, and my co-​worker recommended me this place as his go-​to spot with his friends. Indeed, Silver Lining is a gem in west village becase:
1) Spacious, not crowded, not crazy noisy
2) Free jazz music in great quality; If you go to other jazz bars in manhattan, you usually have to pay for seating (or music) and drink separately. But at Silver Lining, you can enjoy free jazz music! For your tip, the Friday performance starts at 10pm.
3) Bartender-​recommended cocktail is awesome. Sick of normal cocktail menu, I asked a bartender to make a cocktail which is a bit fruity but not overly sweet, and I got one with grapefruit flavor. Loved it!
Even though west village is a bit far from Midtown where I work and live, I will definitely try again this place for Friday live music. It’s really worth it!

When you can’t go to Dutch Kills, might as well head to one of its sister bars! Plus, Silver Lining is way more spacious and the live Jazz is a really nice touch. It’s a relaxed atmosphere and at least on a weekday, I was able to hear the people who I was with which is always a plus.
The drink menu is quite boring. It definitely pays to order off menu. You can get a bartender’s choice or simply order something awesome from any of the M&H bars. This is what I did and was definitely pleased with the results.

Into it. The lounge scene suits me and Mrs G. Live music and phenomenal cocktails.
I described a cocktail from another establishment and the professional behind the bar concocted an improved version of my request.
In the midst of a heavy snow storm, I decided to try a Mai Tai. Ummm, after letting the ice meld into the flavors, the drink was amazing.
I’m gonna keep challenging the bartenders as long as my liver will allow.

Cool place, incredibly nice staff but terrible patrons.
I want to try this place again because I hope the room isn’t always filled with people so full of themselves. The crowd was just terrible, no bar etiquette at all.
Other than the terrible crowd, the bartenders and door guy were great. Decent amount of great cocktails at standard cocktail prices (read: expensive)
So, while I had a mixed experience, I will go back, this place has potential.

This is a great date spot because of the intimate setting, live smooth jazz music and it’s quiet enough for you to be able to carry a conversation without raising your voice. Furthermore, the service is attentive and professional. The drinks were delicious. They make their own ginger beer and if you’re a fan I’d highly recommend something up that alley like a dark and stormy.
We came on a Friday night and were able to grab a table for two with a great view of the jazz band. Within 5 – 10 minutes we had our drinks in hand and were thoroughly enjoying our evening. If you’re looking for a spot to relax and unwind from a stressful week without having to deal with crowds or noisy individuals then you should definitely give Silver Lining a visit.

The drinks here are like carefully crafted art pieces: Art takes time so you’ll need to wait a while to get your drink, even if you’re seated at the bar. Next time, I’ll be ordering them two at a time. #classy
Silver Lining does not have a full-​bar; you can’t find a Jack & Coke or Patron & Sprite here because they don’t carry any of those liquors /​mixers. Still, you can trust the bartender to create something for you and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
I found Unilocalers to be spot on about SL’s ambiance: it’s jazzy, it’s underground, it’s New York, and it’s absolutely perfect for a first date.

I love the character of this place! As you walk down Murray Street you’ll find an unmarked white building that is lit up. After passing the friendly bouncer, you’ll walk down the stairs to the basement to find a warmly lit space with sounds of chatter and jazz music. Unlike many lounges in NYC this is a place where you can enjoy music, unique cocktails, and have great conversations (because you can hear!) The cocktails are delicious and ascetically appealing as well. The service is welcoming and unpretentious. You can hang your coat for free on a coat rack near the entrance. Give this romantic speakeasy a try!
(Side note… come here on the earlier side because their capacity can fill up early. despite the spacious interior apparently there is a strict fire code.)

Had them make me a drink – I thought it was ok (still thinking of the great drink I had at Milk & Honey) but maybe I need to go back again. The live jazz was a nice touch.
Think there’s a $ 20 minimum if you pay with a credit card.
**update 10/​13** I came back here on a Saturday night. Nervous that it would be packed, I wandered downstairs… and it was fairly empty. I kind of liked it. After my first experience here, this time, I said berries, no lemon/​lime! And the drink was much better. Silver Lining gets another star from me!

I seriouly have nothing negative to pick on for this awesome place!
romantic, comfortable and cozy ambiance – checked
attentive and friendly wait staffs and servce – checked
wonderfully prepared cocktails – checked
live jazz band easy on ears – checked
friendly security and bartenders – checked
awesome and intimate date spot – checked
I have no reason not to return if i’m around the ‘hood!

I have to admit it. All things berry usually got me right the way. And the mix of lemon, rum, egg white and raspberry syrup at Silver Lining accounts among one of my favorites things to drink. It is call The Columbia. And you will not find it in their written menu.
But don’t you think I am bias by my berry crush. The Columbia is an extraordinary drink that I am pretty sure not many in town could execute in such a great way.
Not only The Columbia. Definitely not. There is many other things happening at Silver Lining that will make you come back. Because I think you will. It may be the live jazz nights or the beautiful space that breaths on elegance and good taste. The lighting is seductive. Or is it the piano, perhaps? it is classic and elegant in perfect contrast against the rustic look of the brick exposed wall. And when someone is seating in there accompanied by the rest of the band and playing jazz: sometimes cheerful; sometimes seductive; in occasions, even both … then, the music fill up the ambiance as well as other people’s conversations. All mixed up together but giving you space for your own. Then, you can easily forget NYC 2012 and travel back to the era la la la. It is absolutely pleasant.
All the times that I have been there the drinks has been fantastic. And the Mezze trio that once I shared with Dana F. was delightful. A plate with Olives in harissa, pistachios and babaganoush served with toast points. The spices were surprisingly good. Those olives were delightful and an addiction as the time was passing by. The babaganoush was flavorful, warm and smooth. So delicate each bite. They offer small plates in the food menu. Simple dishes, Moroccan-​Middle Eastern inspiration mainly, but if everything taste like that mezze trio, you should make a little space to eat when you get there. I think is worth it. And hey, they offer this dessert: Conversation. That not only has a really attractive name but look: Puff Pastry with almond cream and toasted silvered almonds topped with Glacé Royal. My God. I can’t wait to try it out.
The service? among the best. One time, the chef came by to check on us how we liked the food. The guy in the entrance is so friendly and with good and elegant manners. Once, he help me as a perfect gentleman when I was walking on a cane and stairs were a challenge. That same day, one of the bartenders or the manager maybe? escort me to the ladies room. Again, as a perfect gentleman. Both looked more like my date than someone helping a lady in trouble. A little chat with him and I felt like in between friends. Not only them, but the others I have interact with are the same. The waitress is friendly and professional and even once shared a Fernet shot with my friend and I. A shot that knock me down but that she handle bravely like if it was water.
Back to the drinks, I think the list is short but it is very well executed. I also loved their Corpse reviver No 2. and the Rum Buck. However, after a few visits, I am addicted to the non wrote things… or what you will known as Bartender’s Choice. And if you like it, listen to me: order your drink with egg white. They are really good with this and will be shake to perfection. Not only The Columbia I like. But anything ginger is great at Silver Lining. Only at White Star during their glorious times I tasted the best ginger drinks in town. Silver Lining has now take the position and creates a dilemma on me before I order: berry… ginger.? what to do, what to do.
At the end, I always do both
And let me tell you. Those intangible things are more important to me that serving the best cocktails in town. Which is what it is said of others like M&H. The one that has never catch me right the way, not even with berries. And I have try a couple of times. After all, I need more and The Silver Lining has just everything to success. The look, the charm, the human factor … and the cocktails, of course.

It’s hard not to give this place 5 stars for what it is. A speakeasy without the douchebagness of nearby bars/​clubs. A well-​dressed gentleman greets you at the door and shows you down the stairs. Several bartenders can make you your favorite drink or offer to create a new drink that you may like. Music isn’t overwhelming so you can still have a conversation with your friends. Five stars for a great place to just catch up with a group of your friends over drinks.
No $ 5 coat check. No line at the door. No bouncer or promoter that won’t let you in because you don’t have a group of girls with you. No hairy douchebags stumbling around trying to pick a fight with anyone that looks their way. No drunk girls with skirts climbing up trying to prove to themselves that they can get some attention that daddy didn’t show them — I wouldn’t mind if this place had the last one.

Silver Lining is located in the basement of a brightly lit building. I sat at the bar and asked for something «fruity but spicy.» These are two of my favorite flavors in cocktails, though I’ve never had them together. The bartender admitted that it was a bit unusual, but he came up with something for me and it was quite delicious. It was a blackberry and jalapeño tequila mix. At first it tasted as if the spicy dominated, but I could definitely taste the subtle fruity flavor also. This was an excellent drink and I was pleasantly surprised.
I ordered the sliders and tried one of each — the lamb, the chicken (which isn’t really a slider), and the veggie. All were yummy in its own way. The lamb was my favorite. The chicken had an interesting mix of savory and sweet.
I asked for a second cocktail to counter the spice in my mouth, and I asked for there to be elderflower in there too. So I got a concoction that had St Germaine, blackberry, champagne, lime, and some sort of rum. I couldn’t remember the details but this was delicious as well and certainly countered the spice with a mildness and citrus.
I also enjoyed the music, which wasn’t too loud. Overall I had an excellent time here, it was mellow and scrumptious.

One of the best things about going out in your late 20s is that cramming between 800 beer pong players and Bro-​germeisters and getting laid by osmosis no longer represents your idea of a fun Friday.
A great night should involve strong and well crafted drinks, engaging conversation, and an inviting atmosphere. Silver Lining has nothing but.
I had the pleasure of visiting last weekend with two other Unilocalers. Every drink was carefully made to order, and the bartenders were meticulous, but not slow. This is the kind of place where you simply say «excite me with bourbon» and get back an incredibly made African Flower (which coincidentally, was my nickname in college).
Much like at other Petraske haunts, the artisan ice and metal stirring spoon are almost as important as the drink itself. Almost. We tried 7 different cocktails and one was better than the next.
What sets this apart from similar places (even Dutch Kills) are the music and the food. Jazz dominated the evening, and within 15 minutes of arriving we had the pleasure of hearing it live. It’s loud enough to enjoy, but not so loud that it eliminates conversation. It was a terrific accompaniment to the food; my thundering orgasmic utterances from their lamb kefta sliders and North African puff pastry were perfectly in time with the music. We also had a baked Camembert with toast that was as good as any I had in Paris.
Yes, the crowd is a bit older and a bit more formally dressed than some similar bars, but I considered it a privilege to be amongst them at this point in my life. If only one of them would hire me so I could afford to come back!

A man stands staring at the white door frame, examining the names on the buzzers. He looks absolutely baffled. «Looking for Silver Lining?» I inquire. He sighs with relief. «Yes! I hear it’s a speakeasy… that means the entrance is hidden, right?» he asks.
My turn to sigh.
I lead him to a wide open door, down an easy-​to-​find staircase, and into the lounge. A five-​piece jazz band makes music in the corner, candles flicker invitingly, a small party sends laughter tinkling up the stairs, and my friend sits, waiting, at the bar.
Ahhhh, yes. My Happy Place!
The resident mixologists are friendly, willing to answer any of your 1000 questions about their 1000 drinks, and make some of the most stunning creations in cocktail-​ery I’ve ever experienced. Most of the drinks are not on the menu, so I recommend going with the Bartender’s Choice. I had a phenomenal twist on my favorite Dark and Stormy that made me shiver with delight, and tried my first-​ever New Orleans Fizz — delicious, but not for the feint of heart (or people who are afraid of raw eggs). Paul, my favorite bartender, really knows how to shake it (the drink, the drink!!!).
Although Silver Lining is quickly earning a rep for its cocktails, I highly recommend the food. They have created a perfect winter menu that would warm the cockles of the coldest heart. I tried the beef stew, then a chicken dish rolled into pastries with raisins. It was amazing. AMAZING. Top that off with dark chocolate slices drizzled with raspberry sauce and you’ll never want to leave.
The food, ambiance, live jazz, and incredible drinks have conspired to fix this spot firmly in my Favorites. Find me here any and every weeknight that I’m free from now on!!!