New York Dearest
The guide, $35
A place · Bar · Chinatown · on 3 of my lists

Apotheke.

Worth it, says Antonina. Aptly named, Apotheke is an apothecary-theme cocktail bar housed in a former opium den.

Antonina Pattiz
Antonina PattizI went myself · from my Best cocktail bars in New York
Where Apotheke appears on New York Dearest

It's on 3 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.

Worth it
  • Address48 W 17th St, New York, NY
  • From my guide, updated September 2026.

Aptly named, Apotheke is an apothecary-theme cocktail bar housed in a former opium den. The appeal at this Manhattan bar is the overall vibe, mixologists in lab coats create inspired cocktails. Which are broken down into six distinct sections. Health & Beauty, Aphrodisiacs, Pain Killers, Euphorics, Stimulants and Stress Relievers.

Cocktails are referred to as prescriptions, feeding into the whole old-school European apothecary experience. Using organic produce and house-made ingredients, each cocktail is meticulously crafted with the precision of a pharmacologist.

Among the many innovative concoctions on offer, the most famous is probably the Deal Closer (Quinoa Vodka, Horny Goat Weed Tea, Cucumber, Mint, Lime & Agave, Vanilla Essence) which is a tantalizing blend of aphrodisiac ingredients.

Worth it, says Antonina. Been? Say if you agree.

Best bars in Manhattan

No. 4 on that list
Worth it

Ask locals about the best bars in New York City and the honest ones will mention, the dishonest ones still want to keep it a secret. The appeal at this Manhattan bar is the overall vibe, mixologists in lab coats create inspired cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere that doesn’t lack imagination or romance.

The menu is broken down into six distinct sections. Health & Beauty, Aphrodisiacs, Pain Killers, Euphorics, Stimulants and Stress Relievers. Cocktails are referred to as prescriptions, feeding into the whole old-school European apothecary experience.

Regardless of the drinks you choose to order at this classy cocktail bar in Manhattan, one thing is certain, you can’t be disappointed. Using organic produce and house-made ingredients, everything tastes refreshing and satisfying.

Worth it

Ask locals about the best speakeasies in New York City and the honest ones will mention Apotheke. The appeal at this Manhattan bar is the overall vibe, mixologists in lab coats create inspired cocktails with the precision of pharmacists.

Cocktails are referred to as prescriptions, feeding into the whole old-school European apothecary experience. The menu is broken down into six distinct sections. Health & Beauty, Aphrodisiacs, Pain Killers, Euphorics, Stimulants and Stress Relievers.

Regardless of the drink you order at this classy speakeasy in NYC, one thing is certain, you can’t be disappointed.

Apotheke
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Apotheke

Chinatown