Madame George: NYC’s Best Hidden Speakeasy with Live Jazz

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If you’re searching for one of the best hidden speakeasies in New York City, look no further than Madame George in Midtown Manhattan.

Just minutes from Rockefeller Center, in Little Brazil, this underground cocktail bar offers an unforgettable experience with live jazz, creative cocktails, and a vintage-inspired atmosphere.

Here’s a look at my visit!

Madame George in NYC

I was so excited to spend a Saturday night at Madame George, especially knowing they had live jazz music.

After a full day of doing everything possible in NYC during the holidays, I was more than ready for a night out on the town.

Speakeasy near Rockefeller Center
Speakeasy near Rockefeller Center

Finding Madame George

Like any good speakeasy, Madame George isn’t easy to find—which only adds to its charm.

Instead of an obvious entrance, you’ll need to keep an eye out for a projection on the sidewalk.

Entrance to Madame George, a hidden speakeasy in Midtown NYC near Rockefeller Center.
Entrance to Madame George, a hidden speakeasy in Midtown NYC near Rockefeller Center.

We walked past it a couple of times before realizing where it was.

Once inside, we were led down a dimly lit staircase to the basement, where the real magic happens.

Taking the stairs down to Madame George, a cozy NYC speakeasy.
Taking the stairs down to Madame George, a cozy NYC speakeasy.

You would have no idea such an amazing place would be located in the basement of this NYC building.

The Atmosphere

The moment we walked in, live jazz filled the room, and the warm glow of vintage chandeliers set the mood.

The space is intimate, with plush seating, dim lighting, and that classic speakeasy feel—like stepping back in time.

Live jazz performance inside Madame George, one of NYC’s best speakeasy bars
Live jazz performance inside Madame George, one of NYC’s best speakeasy bars

If you love jazz bars in NYC, you have to check this place out. They feature different jazz musicians every week, so you can always catch a new performance.

Check out their schedule here to see what’s on!

Signature Cocktails at Madame George

The drinks at Madame George are anything but ordinary. Their cocktail menu is both creative and playful, with options that feel like works of art.

I have to admit, I may have had one too many, but with so many unique cocktails, I just couldn’t resist!

Madame George Cocktail Menu
Madame George Cocktail Menu

Luckily, their delicious food menu helps balance things out, making it easy to keep sipping. And trust me—I’ll be diving into the food menu later in this article!

The Andy Warhol Soup Can Cocktail

I had to try their most famous drink—the Andy Warhol Soup Can, which, true to its name, is served in an actual soup can.

As an Andy Warhol fan, there was no way I could pass this up!

The Andy Warhol Soup Can cocktail at Madame George, served in an actual soup can.
The Andy Warhol Soup Can cocktail at Madame George, served in an actual soup can.

This cocktail features mezcal, Isolation Proof Mushroom Gin, and dry vermouth, creating a bold and smoky flavor with a unique twist.

Absinthe Flight

Next up was the Absinthe Flight, which featured three sips of different absinthe.

Absinthe was a big part of the speakeasy era, known for its mysterious reputation and creative allure.

Absinthe Flight at Madame George featuring three sips of different absinthes
Absinthe Flight at Madame George featuring three sips of different absinthes

It was even banned in the U.S. for nearly a century, making it a rebellious choice back then.

The whole experience felt like a true Prohibition-era speakeasy moment—which is exactly why I had to order it!

Tipsy Teas at Madame George

We also tried the Why Did Time Tipsy Tea at Madame George, a modern twist on the classic Clover Club cocktail that pays homage to its Philly roots.

Made with Isolation Proof Gin, dry vermouth, lemon, and a decadent raspberry swirl ice cream.

Tipsy Teas at Madame George
Tipsy Teas at Madame George

This drink was the perfect balance of tart, creamy, and refreshing—like a boozy dessert in a glass.

Breakfast for Dinner Cocktail

Lastly, we sipped the Breakfast for Dinner cocktail, and let me tell you—it was just as fun as it sounds.

Inspired by an occasional breakfast of toast and marmalade, this drink was created by famed Italian bartender Salvatore Calabrese.

The Breakfast for Dinner cocktail at the best speakeasy in NYC
The Breakfast for Dinner cocktail at the best speakeasy in NYC

Made with marmalade-infused Perry Tot Gin, whey eau de vie, botanical liqueur, curaçao, and blanc verjus, it had the perfect mix of citrusy sweetness and smooth, complex flavors.

It was like a boozy take on a classic European breakfast!

Food at Madame George

While the drinks are the main attraction at Madame George, I have to say—the food is just as impressive.

Their small bites are perfect for pairing with cocktails, making it easy to snack while you sip.

I tried two dishes that I’ll get into next, but let’s just say they were exactly what I needed after a few too many cocktails!

The Dogs of Wall Street

The first thing I tried was The Dogs of Wall Street, and let me tell you—this was not your average hot dog.

It came with four Wagyu links, topped with Osetra caviar, smoked onion aioli, and black winter truffles.

The Dogs of Wall Street dish at Madame George features Wagyu hot dogs topped with caviar and truffle.
The Dogs of Wall Street dish at Madame George features Wagyu hot dogs topped with caviar and truffle.

Every bite was rich, decadent, and totally over-the-top in the best way possible.

If you’re looking for a late-night snack that feels luxurious but still fun, this is the one to get.

General Tso’s Chicken

Next, I tried the General Tso’s Chicken, and it was easily one of the best versions of this dish I’ve had.

The crispy chicken was coated in a perfectly balanced sauce—sweet, savory, and just the right amount of heat from the Serrano peppers.

Best speakeasies in Midtown Manhattan
Best speakeasies in Midtown Manhattan

The mix of pepper melange, shallots, orange segments, broccolini, black garlic, and toasted sesame seeds added so much flavor and texture.

It was the kind of dish that made me want to keep going back for just one more bite. Plus, they offer a tofu option for a vegan twist, which is always a nice touch!

Why You Should Visit Madame George

Madame George should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for:

  • A true NYC speakeasy experience
  • Live jazz music in an intimate setting
  • One-of-a-kind cocktails
  • A hidden bar near Rockefeller Center

Whether you’re a local or visiting NYC, this underground gem offers a night out you won’t forget.

Where Is Madame George?

The speakeasy is located at 45 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036.

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