Finding a bar in Midtown Manhattan that doesn’t feel like a plastic, overpriced waiting room for a Broadway show is kind of a Herculean task. Most spots around 7th Avenue are basically generic boxes serving lukewarm lager to people with luggage. But then you’ve got Tanner Smith's West 55th Street New York NY. It’s located at 204 West 55th Street, and honestly, if you didn’t know it was there, you might just walk right past the dark wood exterior and the unassuming signage.
It's named after a real-life guy—Tanner Smith. He was an Irish-American gangster who led the Marginals gang in the early 20th century. The cool part? He eventually tried to reform and started boys' clubs to keep kids off the streets before he was inevitably gunned down in 1919. That gritty, Jekyll-and-Hyde history is baked into the walls here. It’s not just a theme; it feels like a genuine nod to a New York that doesn't exist anymore.
What’s the Vibe Actually Like?
The layout is split, which is great because you can choose your own adventure. The main floor is bright-ish, with high ceilings and a massive bar that feels like a classic New York tavern but with better lighting. It’s got that weathered brick and polished wood thing going on.
But if you’re looking for the "speakeasy" experience everyone talks about, you have to head downstairs to the Winona bar. It’s much darker. Sexier. They’ve got these little nooks and crannies that are perfect if you're trying to have a conversation without screaming over a Top 40 playlist. The decor is a bit "Alice in Wonderland meets Prohibition," with teacups and even a bathtub structure that serves as a gin focal point.
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The Tipsy Tea Situation
You can't talk about Tanner Smith's West 55th Street New York NY without mentioning the Tipsy Tea. It’s their signature move. Basically, they serve craft cocktails in actual vintage teapots.
- First Thirst: Vodka, lychee, and strawberry. It sounds sweet, but the rhubarb bitters keep it balanced.
- Fancy A Cuppa: A gin-based blend with Lillet Rosé and champagne. It's dangerously easy to drink.
- 20’s Pornstar: Their take on the modern classic, served with prosecco.
Usually, these teapots are meant for two people to share during brunch or a late afternoon session. It feels a little ridiculous pouring a stiff drink out of a porcelain spout, but that’s the point. It’s fun. It’s a gimmick that actually tastes good, which is a rare combo in this neighborhood.
Let's Talk Food (Beyond the Pretzels)
Most people come for the drinks, but the kitchen isn't just an afterthought. They do this battered-and-fried eggplant chip with a honey drizzle that is sort of legendary among regulars. Even if you hate eggplant, you’ll probably eat the whole plate.
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They also lean heavily into the Irish roots of the namesake. You’ll find a proper Irish Breakfast on the brunch menu—black pudding, bangers, the whole nine yards. For a late-night snack, the BBQ brisket nachos or the oxtail arancini are the move. The kitchen stays open late, often until midnight or 1:00 AM, which is a lifesaver when most Midtown kitchens shut down the second the theater curtains go up.
Why This Spot Actually Matters in 2026
New York is currently obsessed with "curated experiences," but Tanner Smith's West 55th Street New York NY manages to stay relevant because it doesn't take itself too seriously. You can get a $20 smoked old fashioned, sure. But you can also sit at the bar and order a Bud Light without the bartender giving you a side-eye.
That lack of pretension is why you’ll see a mix of finance guys, tourists who got lucky on Google Maps, and local performers from the nearby studios all in the same room. It’s a rare bridge between the "old" Midtown and the "new" cocktail culture.
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A Few Practical Tips
- Reservations: If you have a group of six or more, book ahead. For smaller groups, you can usually snag a spot at the bar, but Thursday and Friday nights get packed.
- The "Secret" Downstairs: If the upstairs feels too loud, always ask if there’s space in the Winona bar. It’s a completely different sound system and vibe.
- Timing: Go for the "Tipsy Tea" brunch if you want the Instagram shots. Go after 9:00 PM if you want to see the place at its most energetic.
If you’re heading to Carnegie Hall or just finished a tour of Central Park, skipping the chain restaurants for a seat at Tanner Smith's is a solid call. It’s one of the few places in this zip code where you actually get a sense of the city's soul.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit:
- Check the Live Music Schedule: They often have jazz or acoustic sets during brunch hours, which elevates the 1920s atmosphere significantly.
- Look for the History: Take a second to read the old newspaper clippings about the real Tanner Smith near the restrooms—it’s a fascinating, morbid bit of local lore.
- Avoid Peak Theater Rush: If you want a quiet drink, arrive between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM when the pre-theater crowd is rushing out, or wait until after 8:00 PM when things settle into a groove.