The Smith East Village
About The Smith East Village
As the original location of the beloved New York institution, The Smith East Village has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood since 2007. Located on Third Avenue near the border of the East Village and Union Square, this venue captures the quintessential energy of Manhattan with its tiled walls, bustling atmosphere, and eclectic crowd of locals, students, and professionals. It is a space that feels both historic and contemporary, making it a reliable favorite for those seeking an authentic New York bistro experience.
For private events, the venue offers a subterranean escape from the busy street level. The atmosphere balances casual comfort with polished service, featuring a menu of American brasserie classics like blue cheese potato chips, specialty oysters, and hearty family-style mains. Its central location makes it an ideal meeting point for guests traveling from various parts of the city or for those looking to host an event near the vibrant nightlife and academic hubs of the East Village.
Best For
- Cocktail parties with pass hors d'oeuvres for up to 75 guests
- Family-style seated dinners for up to 60 guests
- Intimate private dinners for smaller groups of 20 guests
- Mid-week corporate lunches or team celebrations in the private room
- Off-site catering for office lunches and home celebrations in the East Village area
What Guests Are Saying
Guests frequently mention the high energy and bustling atmosphere that makes it a great spot for group celebrations.
The potato chips with blue cheese and onion fondue are often cited as a must-order appetizer for parties.
Reviewers appreciate the versatility of the space, noting it works equally well for casual weekend brunches and late-night gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What private event spaces are available at The Smith East Village?▾
The Smith East Village features a dedicated Private Dining Room located downstairs. This freshly updated space includes its own private bar to ensure exclusive service for your group.
What is the maximum capacity for a private event?▾
The private dining room can accommodate 75 guests for a standing cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, 60 guests for a seated family-style meal, or 20 guests for a more intimate seated dinner.
What type of food is served for private events?▾
The restaurant specializes in large-format dining, offering a family-style menu for up to 60 people that features crowd-pleasing bistro favorites. They also provide a tiered raw bar selection including oysters and chilled shrimp.
Does the venue offer off-site catering?▾
In addition to on-site events, the restaurant offers drop-off catering for team lunches, family parties, and cocktail events. Orders can be prepared as individual packages or large platters for pickup or delivery.
Private Dinning Room
Freshly decked out, the private dining room downstairs can accommodate up to 75 guests, complete with a dedicated private bar. - Seated:20 - Family style: 60 - Cocktails & Hors d'oeuvres: 75