Raines Law Room At The William Is A Romantic Speakeasy With DIY Cocktails

By

Emily Abrams ‧

Updated 08/14/2018 ‧

The Scoop

• Burrowed above the tavernlike British pub the Shakespeare, in The William hotel, is the newest location of the dimly-lit Prohibition era-themed speakeasy Raines Law Room; the flagship hideaway remains in Flatiron and both speakeasies have a private entrance where you ring the doorbell to gain entry.
• Reigning over the cocktail menu is 2016 Imbibe Bartender of the Year, Meaghan Dorman, who offers customers a DIY Old Fashioned option where they can choose their own bitters, booze, and sweeteners; hide out in a cushiony curtained off booth with your own personal service bell and keep the cocktails coming.
• Pair these smooth concoctions with a menu of British-inspired small plates by Chef Jason Hicks (The Peacock); Welsh Rarebit (sourdough, guinness, tickler cheddar, and scallion), ricotta (sourdough, aged balsamic, thyme, and rosemary), or a scotch egg (tarter sauce).

Insider Tip

Raines Law Room is named after the 1896 law by New York state legislature, meant to curb New Yorkers’ alcohol consumption; they take reservations Monday-Saturday (the Flatiron location only takes reservations Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays), and walk-ins are encouraged.