Let me start this as a slight geography lesson, just in case you’re not too sure where the Lenox Hill section of Manhattan is located, ha ha! Lets just say Lenox Hill is the “downtown” of the Upper East Side directly adjacent to Midtown, expanding from East 60th to East 77th from East River to Park Avenue.
So now that were caught up to speed, time to relish in the glory of this neighborhood. When most people think of Lenox Hill, they don’t normally think of after work dens or springtime amusement. However, that will change with the birth of Sugar East, a new swanky lounge that sits right on 62nd & 1st Ave.
Walking up 1st Avenue if you’re not paying attention you may miss it, however when anyone notices a places with velvet ropes in front it will automatically grab their attention. It’s like a inner superstar will come out making them feel as if they need to be inside. An that is the exact vibe anyone will get when walking up to the place.
Once inside you will instantly feel as if you walked through a time warp back to the 1920’s. Not sure if that ambiance was intentional however I’m here for it!!
Everyone inside Sugar East looked so chic, polished and young. Not the type of young that makes you feel like you’re babysitting but the young that lets you know this is a modish gem.
The fact that this location use to be a cigar bar for 20 years adds to the 1920’s Prohibition Era charm I just mentioned. You’ll notice the lit up cigar lockers on the walls with names of people who were members (famous members at that) on the outside.
The drinks were amazing and it makes sense cause they were being poured by mixologist Jeremy Strawn (formerly of The Standard & Mulberry Project). And what is a good cocktail without some food to nibble on and Chef Stephen Lyle (of Keith McNally’s Odeon) defiantly brought his A- Game.
Between the balanced flavors from Pineapple & Chorizo Skewers and BBQ Chicken Lollipop Bites, I wasn’t sure if I should set up shop in the kitchen with Stephen or continue mingling with the crowd, ha ha.
If you’re like me and you have a To Do List of places and things in Manhattan, you want to see then this should be on it.
Branch out of the normal after-work bar area and come get some Sugar on the East Side!! And don’t forget to mention who sent you!! For more information on Sugar East, check out their official Facebook page.