The Scene
Tucked along the middle of Christopher Street in New York City’s West Village is Dandelion–blink, and you might miss it. However, once you make your way into this sultry, emerald-hued cocktail lounge, you’ll quickly realize it’s the sort of place you’ll never stop coming back to (or recommending).
The team is composed of NYC hospitality all-stars: it’s led by Eytan Sugarman and Will Makris (the creatives behind the likes of Zero Bond and White Horse Tavern); Keith Larry (Beverage Director & Managing Partner at Little Rascal) and John Garda (previously of Diageo Hospitality) oversee the beverage program; and Chef Franco Sampogna (co-owner of Michelin-starred Frevo) curated the menu offerings. It should come as no surprise that this crew has curated yet another hopelessly magnetic space that’s equal parts intimate, cinematic, and transportive.
Deep greens, shimmering golds, and warm ambers wrap the room in a moody hush, while glass-encased preserved dandelions nod to the bar’s poetic namesake. A wall of mixed-media portraits by Mexican artist Leopoldo Goút anchors the lounge, giving it an art gallery feel. The result is refined but not precious: a downtown cocktail bar designed for lounging and lingering, not posturing.
The Drinks
The libations are storytelling in liquid form. The sections are thoughtfully tiered, guiding guests from bright, effervescent openers to contemplative, spirit-forward nightcaps, with plenty of surprises in between. “Easy Drinking” sets the tone with effortless sips; Fox is the clear breakout: a vibrant kiwi, honey, and citrus highball that lands fresh and lightly tart, thanks to a subtle touch of Greek yogurt. You’ll definitely be asking for one more.
From there, the “Fun & Fresh” options lean into nostalgia and reinvention. Martini devotees will want to camp out within the dedicated “Martinis” section: freezer martini service provides everything from ice-cold classics to unexpected riffs, all served with premium garnishes.
“Slow Sippers”–such as One Night Stand with brown butter bourbon, brandy, tonka, vermouth, and bitters–deliver layered, more complex pours. Then there’s the “Green Hour”: a dedicated Absinthe and Chartreuse tasting experience. Guests are presented with French spirits alongside chilled water, allowing them to dilute and open the flavors to their exact preferences–an old-world ritual that feels quite rare in modern cocktail culture.
The Food
The culinary menu is far more than a supporting act. Chef Franco brings a refined, European-informed sensibility to bar bites. The Shrimp Cocktail is a standout: plump and layered with spicy condiment, horseradish, and smoked trout roe. Plus, the Caviar and Onion Dip is pure late-night luxury–savory, rich, and elegant. Don’t leave without trying the Shaved Prime Rib Sandwich–constructed with prime rib-eye, provolone, horseradish aioli, and chimichurri on a crusty sesame seed roll
Just when you think the night has peaked, a candy cart rolls through, stocked with chocolates and sour treats. It’s a playful finale–and further proof that at Dandelion, the details matter right through the last bite (and sip).
Final Thoughts
Dandelion nails the elusive balance of neighborhood bar and destination-worthy opening. It’s sexy yet subtle, and exactly the kind of place downtown has been craving.
Fast Facts
Location: West Village
Cuisine: Cocktail Bar (with global-inspired bites)
Price Point: $$
Takes Reservations: Yes – Resy
The Vibe: Moody, art-forward, and effortlessly cool
Our Favorite Thing on the Menu: The Fox–as the menu section header suggests, it is indeed “easy drinking.”
The Attire: Smart Casual
Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 5 PM - 2 AM
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