Kees

Kees is a subterranean cocktail lounge from PDT bartender and co-owner Jeff Bell, located at the iconic West Village corner of One Cornelia Street. It is the third and final concept to debut within the space, following the East Coast debut of Tacos 1986, and Mixteca, an agave bar from Bell and longtime PDT bartender Victor Lopez. Located down the stairs from Mixteca, Kees –a play on the word “key” and the reversal of the word “seek” –evokes the glamour of post-Prohibition New York with a plush, luxurious design from Post Company and a menu grounded in classic cocktails, run by an all-bartender team. Foundational cocktails such as the martini, spritz, negroni, highball, collins, sour, manhattan and old fashioned make up the menu, each served in the traditional style along with three subtle and seasonal variations. For example, the Martini offerings are centered by Kees’ house recipe of three parts gin to one part dry vermouth, along with a “dirty” castelvetrano olive-infused vodka and sherry version, a low-ABV option featuring Leo Robitschek’s new low-proof gin, and a reserve vesper with gin, vodka and chateau d’yquem. This layout reflects Jeff Bell’s own drink-making philosophy: a classic foundation with an array of timely influences and an emphasis on minimalism, expressed with restraint and precision. A considered menu of classic bar fare and appetizers –marcona almonds; chips & dip with trout roe; oysters rockefeller; and gilda, Spanish anchovies skewered with olives, peppers and blue cheese –complements the drink lineup. Kees design, conceived by Post Company, draws inspiration from the timeless glamour of the city’s iconic hotel bars and fine cocktail lounges. Dimly lit and enveloped in rich drapery, the lounge-like space features vintage armchairs and banquettes upholstered in green velvet. At the center of the lounge is a chamfered stone bar, illuminated by a ribbed-glass and brass lightbox above. The design draws from the opulent architectural style of the city’s golden age, defined by bold geometric forms, rich materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. Veined marble, shimmering brass accents, and sculpted Venetian plaster columns reference the details from the interiors of historic art deco highrises. The drama of the bar’s design, the moodiness of the lighting, and the warmth of the details create an elevated atmosphere fitting for a night on the town.