Beauty & Essex
About Beauty & Essex
Hidden behind a functional, well-curated modern-day pawn shop on the Lower East Side, Beauty & Essex is one of New York City’s most storied "speakeasy" dining destinations. The transition from the storefront into the sprawling, multi-level restaurant is a signature Manhattan experience, revealing a grand circular staircase and a breathtaking two-story custom chandelier. The atmosphere is unapologetically opulent, blending vintage glamour with a high-energy downtown pulse, making it a premier choice for organizers looking to impress guests with a sense of discovery and theatricality.
The culinary program, led by Chef Chris Santos, focuses on innovative, global share-plates that are designed for social interaction. Menu highlights often include sophisticated bites like tuna poke wonton tacos and lobster rolls topped with caviar. With four distinct dining rooms, two bars, and a dedicated lounge, the venue offers a rare flexibility in the Lower East Side, accommodating everything from secluded VIP dinners to massive corporate takeovers for over 500 guests.
Best For
- High-profile film premieres and TV wrap parties for up to 550 guests
- Intimate bachelorette or birthday dinners in The Vault for up to 20 guests
- Corporate cocktail mixers in the Pearl Lounge for 70 guests with views of the grand chandelier
- Large-scale seated dinners in the Locket Room for up to 65 guests featuring plush banquettes
- Multi-stage corporate functions utilizing a full Second Floor Buyout for up to 200 guests
- Milestone social celebrations like Bar and Bat Mitzvahs requiring full venue exclusivity
What Guests Are Saying
Guests frequently mention the 'wow factor' of entering through a pawn shop into such an opulent, grand space.
Organizers praise the seamless transition between the Mirror Bar and dining rooms for well-paced evening events.
The Pearl Room is often highlighted for its unique ceiling decor and excellent vantage point of the two-story chandelier.
Planners appreciate the versatility of the share-plates, noting they are ideal for networking and social celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different private event spaces available?▾
The restaurant offers several distinct spaces, including The Vault (20 guests), The Locket Room (65 guests), the Pearl Room (70 guests), and the Mirror Bar (200 guests). For larger events, the entire second floor or the full restaurant can be reserved.
What is the maximum capacity for a private event?▾
A full restaurant buyout can accommodate up to 550 guests for a reception-style event, making it suitable for large-scale galas or premieres.
Does the venue provide in-house catering for private parties?▾
Yes, the restaurant specializes in Chef Chris Santos’ signature global share-plate cuisine. The menu features elevated items such as caviar cones, tuna poke wonton tacos, and lobster rolls, specifically designed to facilitate social interaction.
Are there spaces that offer privacy for business meetings or sensitive dinners?▾
The Vault and The Locket Room both offer the ability to use sheer curtains or curtained doorways to provide additional seclusion from the main dining floor while maintaining access to the venue's vibrant energy.
How do guests access the event space?▾
The entrance is uniquely staged through a functional, curated pawn shop at 146 Essex Street, providing a distinctive 'hidden' entrance for arriving guests.
The Vault
Tucked behind the Grand Dining Room, this exclusive space offers a secluded and luxurious setting for intimate gatherings. A sheer curtain can be used to provide additional privacy for guests seeking a truly personal dining experience.
Pearl Room / Pearl Lounge
An upstairs lounge-style space featuring a ceiling adorned with thousands of pearls and a view of the venue's iconic two-story chandelier. This sophisticated room is designed for social experiences and mingling in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Locket Room
A distinctive second-floor dining room characterized by plush banquette seating and walls decorated with vintage lockets. This versatile space can remain open to the energy of the floor or be made more exclusive via curtained doorways.
Mirror Room / Mirror Bar
An expansive bar and lounge area on the second floor that serves as a perfect backdrop for cocktail hours. It is frequently utilized in conjunction with other rooms to facilitate transitions from drinks to dinner.
Ground Floor Dining Rooms
The ground floor features multiple interconnected dining rooms and a lounge area arranged in a railroad-style layout. These spaces can be reserved for large group dining or energetic cocktail parties.
Second Floor Buyout
Combining the Pearl Room, Locket Room, and Mirror Bar, a full buyout of the upper level provides a comprehensive environment for large-scale entertaining. This configuration allows for seamless movement between dedicated dining, bar, and lounge areas.
Full Restaurant Buyout
A complete venue takeover grants access to both floors of the restaurant for massive productions and celebrations. The unique layout and opulent decor make it a premier choice for high-profile gatherings.
Private Dining Room
A secluded dining environment within the larger multi-room venue, perfect for intimate gatherings and exclusive celebrations.