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20993
Tillman’s
Nightlife
19
Kick It
AMBIANCE
Soul JointHOURS
Mon.-Tue.: 5:30pm-2:00am; Wed.-Fri.: 5:30pm-4:00am; Sat.: 7:00pm-4:00am; Sun.: 5:30pm-12:00amRESERVATIONS
Accepted, but not necessaryDOOR POLICY
Slightly selective, often depends on crowdsPRICE (DRINKS; STARTERS; GOURMET GRILLED CHEESE MENU)
USD 12-15; USD 9-10; USD 13-15YEAR OPENED
2006SIGNATURE DRINK
Moscow Mule; any of the mixed classicsBAR
Yes - full bar seating half a dozenFOOD SERVED?
Yes - eclectic menu of grilled sandwiches and soul food plattersNOISE
Medium/LoudOUTDOOR SPACE
NoPRIVATE ROOM AVAILABLE?
NoSUBWAY
28th St. (1)
VIBE
Despite sitting smack dab in swankified Chelsea, Tillman’s still manages to exude cool-cat vibes reminiscent of Harlem during its glory days, spiced up with some ‘70s-style zip (think U-shaped banquette alcoves and warm amber lighting). Hip and loyal patrons converse easily over the subdued jazzy blues that drift from the sound speakers, enjoying good cocktails and delicious soul food.
WHAT WE WOULD WEAR
We’d go upscale casual with a simple top, sleek skirt, boots, and some chunky metallic jewelry.
GO HERE WITH
A group of friends; jazz enthusiasts; significant other; a date
CROWD
30-/40-somethings who appreciate a well-made cocktail, jazz, and a grown up crowd.
WHY WE LIKE IT
It’s cool yet inviting, and the lack of a VIP room makes everyone feel like an insider. The tried-and-true cocktails, like the Moscow Mule, are consistently “wow” and come with nice big ice cubes. Foodwise, we loved The Mack (their take on mac ‘n cheese with mascarpone, parm, bacon, and peas).
WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE
We prefer the jazzy/ bluesy vibes rather than the hardcore hip-hop that occasional guest DJs play; be sure to check the website for events that week, or else you may find yourself among a rowdier and younger crowd than expected.
GOOD TO KNOW
Some nights there is a live act or a DJ spinning–be sure to check the website for more information. Weekends are known for attracting crazy dance parties—best to show on a weeknight when the atmosphere is much more low-key. Tillman’s is brought to you by the owners of now-closed Clementine (one of our old classy faves) and Nolita’s Pravda.
CLOSEST COMPS
The Raines Law Room (New York); Redmoon (Beijing)
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