Osamil Upstairs

Behind the Hidden Door Lies One of NYC’s Coolest Speakeasies

Tucked above the popular Korean-American restaurant Osamil in Manhattan’s Koreatown is a speakeasy you wouldn’t find unless you knew exactly where to look: Osamil Upstairs.

This is not just another cocktail bar. It’s a moody, upscale hideout that perfectly blends New York sophistication with Korean charm. But first—you have to find it.

The Secret Entrance

Let’s clear one thing up: Osamil Upstairs is not the same as Osamil restaurant on the first floor. To access the bar, you’ll need to step inside Osamil, speak to a staff member, and be guided through what looks like a service door. No signs. No clear entrance. It’s the kind of secretive, low-key setup that immediately makes you feel like you’re in on something special.

And here’s the kicker: if you don’t have a reservation, especially on a weekend night, you’re probably out of luck. Tables fill up quickly, and the place is usually packed with locals and in-the-know visitors by 8 PM. Plan ahead—it’s worth it.

Aesthetic Vibes & Elevated Design

Once inside, you’re transported to a completely different world from the bustling restaurant below. The lighting is dim but warm, the decor leans into vintage speakeasy meets Korean minimalism, and everything from the music to the bar layout is curated for maximum atmosphere.

There are low tables for intimate conversations, plush seating areas, and a long, beautifully lit bar that acts as the centerpiece of the room. The entire space is Instagram-ready, and honestly, you’ll want to take a photo of everything—from your cocktail to the lighting fixtures.

It instantly feels exclusive and personal. It’s like walking into someone’s private after-hours club in the heart of New York City.

What We Ordered

We were greeted with a complimentary welcome drink, light and floral, and finished off with an aromatic mist sprayed right above the glass before serving. A small touch, but it set the tone for what was clearly going to be a well-curated experience.

Here’s a rundown of what we tried:

• Welcome Drink
  A refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail served in a sleek glass. The aromatic mist added a refined, sensory layer that made the first sip memorable. Great for those who like lighter, more fragrant options.

• Harubang
  This cocktail draws inspiration from Jeju Island’s iconic stone statue. Bright citrus notes hit first, followed by herbal undertones that gave it depth. It’s bold, playful, and uniquely Korean in spirit.

• Upstairs
  Their namesake cocktail is a study in balance. Not too sweet, not too boozy—just smooth and sophisticated. A modern take on a classic flavor profile. Highly recommended if you’re trying to get a sense of their overall style. And gold-like paper is on the top of the drink.

• Old Fashioned
  A standout. What made this different was the whiskey—it’s aged in an oak barrel right at the bar. The result is a rich, oaky depth that you don’t often get at other spots. A must-try for whiskey lovers.

  

  

• Negroni (with Sake Twist)
  Their take on a Negroni includes unfiltered sake, giving the drink a creamy, slightly sweet profile. It’s an unexpected contrast to the other, stronger drinks on the menu, but surprisingly good.

While most of the cocktails leaned on the sweeter side—perhaps too sweet for our usual preferences—there’s no denying the quality and creativity behind each one.

Skilled Bartenders & Service

The bartenders here are true professionals. You can tell they take pride in their craft—from the precise way they stir or shake each drink, to the little flourishes like garnishes and atomized scents. Every drink is carefully executed, not just made.

There’s also something reassuring about the consistency. Even on a busy night, the service never felt rushed or impersonal. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and happy to explain the ingredients or inspiration behind each cocktail.

We also appreciated the staff uniforms, which added a polished and cohesive feel to the whole experience.

Korean Influence with NYC Edge

One of the most interesting aspects of Osamil Upstairs is its subtle Korean influence. This isn’t a Korean-themed bar, per se, but you can tell the roots are there—from ingredient choices like Korean plum, omija (five-flavor berry), and shiso leaves, to cocktail names inspired by Korean culture.

That makes sense, considering the bar shares ownership with Osamil Restaurant downstairs and Izakaya Nomad in the NoMad district (26th Street). The group behind these spots clearly knows what they’re doing when it comes to merging Korean flavors with elevated New York hospitality.

Is It Worth the Price?

Let’s be honest: drinks here are not cheap. Their cocktails range between $23–$34, but when you consider the craftsmanship, the ambiance, and the exclusivity of the setting, it’s easy to justify the spend—especially for a special night out.

This is a place where you’re paying not just for a drink, but for the full experience. And from that perspective, it’s more than worth it.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Speakeasy in Koreatown

Whether you’re looking for a date-night spot, celebrating something special, or just want to impress out-of-town friends, Osamil Upstairs delivers.

It’s intimate without being stuffy, refined without being pretentious. The drinks are imaginative, the staff are top-tier, and the ambiance is just begging to be posted on social media.

Make a reservation, dress nice, and come ready to indulge.

Because once you step behind that hidden door and into the glow of Osamil Upstairs, you won’t want to leave.

📝 Quick Info:

• Name: Osamil Upstairs
• Location: 5 W 31st St, New York, NY (Enter through Osamil Restaurant)
• What to Order: Old Fashioned (oak barrel-aged whiskey), Harubang, Upstairs
• Price Range: $24–$34 per cocktail
• Best Time to Go: Evening (Reservations highly recommended)
• Related Spots: Osamil (downstairs), Izakaya Nomad (26th St, NoMad)

📸 Tip: Bring your camera or phone—you’ll want to capture the vibes.