Retreat 37 W. 17th St. (5th & 6th Aves.)
Flatiron
212.488.6600
Retreat:
If you’ve ever had that naughty fantasy of bottle service on a tree stump (guilty as charged), Retreat is most definitely your destination. Hidden amongst the forest of suits and run-of-the-mill clubs in the area, this woodsy venue offers the feel of a rugged Montana cabin blended with all the shiny varnish that is New York nightlife. This 2,500-square-foot sanctuary of Flatiron-ed wildlife comes festooned with hand-carved walls, tree house-like DJ booth, red antler chandeliers, and all those nostalgic memories of your uncle heartlessly killing Bambi each and every autumn. Order up a lodge-y Southern Retreat (cinnamon molasses, Makers, cranberry, ginger beer, cinnamon stick), relax in one of the plush banquettes, and know the only thing you have to fear is a pesky bar sliver (oh yes, they exist).
I was having a birthday party there. The ratio was about 30 girls and 20 guys. The doorman was extremely unfriendly even after I had planned the party for a month. People were told to wait in line even though many people were not inside. The music was not that good. Many of my friends ended up leaving after waiting for too long. The guy acted like the place was marquee or tenjune. 5 girls and 2 guys were waiting over 20 mins in line at 1 AM even though they were the only people in line and eventually I told everyone to leave. Terrible experience. I specifically went to a place like retreat so that there would not be a problem getting everyone in like a trendy NY club, but the plan back fired big time. Don't go.
