NYC’s Pinky Swear Is Such a Hidden Gem, I Almost Don’t Want You to Know About It

Phone booth? Parking tickets? Where were we?! I grabbed my sauvignon blanc and headed to the back of the restaurant, slipping past a funhouse-mirror interpretation of the statue of David and art lining the walls. The metallic phone booth seemed to pulse with glowing, ever-changing LED lights. Once inside, I picked up the receiver, only to learn that I couldn’t make a call but would be receiving a message. My horoscope, that is.

Nearby, you could grab a pool cue and shoot a billiard across a yin-yang-shaped Zen garden. And as for the “parking tickets” near the bar? It turned the concept on its head, dispensing compliments and vouchers for free fries when you fed it a Pinky Swear token.

These were just a handful of the interactive exhibits, though this summer, the star of the show is arguably the garden area, where you can lounge beside a fire pit, surrounded by lush greenery as you sip a cocktail, instantly feeling 1,000 miles away from the hustle of the crowded city streets.

The menu is equally transporting. Chef Will Horowitz strikes a delicate balance between whimsy and sophistication, offering robust flavors with a playful presentation that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for gimmicks. The Pinky Swear Burger—featuring dry-aged brisket, bacon, aged sharp cheddar, housemade pickles, onion and aioli on a sesame seed bun—and the Wagyu ‘Zabuton’ Steak (served with tarragon labneh, white asparagus and Calabrian chili salad) are fan favorites, though on a hot day, it’s worth taking a closer look at the seasonally inspired small plates and raw bar. (The Ora King Salmon Crudo features a refreshing—and unexpected—mix of green onion, miso and grapefruit.)

Oh, and in terms of cocktails, Pinky Swear delivers. While I initially played it safe with a glass of white wine, I would be remiss if I didn’t encourage you to try one of the 12 signature cocktails—or seven zero proof options. Growing up in Florida, where pastelitos are a beloved Cuban treat, I was immediately drawn to the Pastel Bloom. It’s described as a “pastry rum punch” due to its use of aged rum, guava and lime, with a cheese foam. Espresso martini fans will appreciate the Cloud 9, which incorporates crème de cacao and marshmallow for a s’mores-inspired twist on the drink. And if you really want to throw your taste buds for a loop, try the Meat Cute—a pepperoni-vodka infused martini that gets a salty kick from pickled tomato brine.

Simply put, when you’re looking for a break from the ordinary—or a chance to turn an ordinary Tuesday into something unforgettable—Pinky Swear should be your first stop.

Pinky Swear is open Tuesday through Saturday nights and is located at 171A Chrystie St.