I Finally Went To Pearl Box, The Retro Bar Of My Dreams
Date night out in NYC? Don't mind if I do!
Ryan and I finally checked out Pearl Box, the stylish SoHo bar that’s been taunting me with its tantalizingly chic retro theme for weeks. Ever since the ‘70s-inspired lounge opened a few months ago, my social scrolling sessions had been peppered with folks about town ascending Pearl Box’s unmistakable mirrored stairwell; its carpeted ruby-red steps plush enough to silence even the sharpest stiletto.
The dramatic entrance to the second-floor lounge is entirely necessary, as the glitzy climb functions as your very own time machine. At the tippy top, you’ll find you’ve arrived in 1970-something (the exact year isn’t the point, as the website explains, because the space is “inspired by nostalgia we can only imagine.” If you say so!).
Actually, before I learned of Pearl Box’s intentional ’70s references, I thought its chrome-lipped bistro tables and black velvet furniture were nods to the glam side of 1980s corporate America (I still say there’s a slight “American Psycho” vibe about the place — the bill even comes with candy cigarettes in a little silver case, but we’ll get to that!).
First Impressions
Before climbing this Stairway to Heaven ourselves, we checked our coats with the host in front, who warmly greeted us like old friends — even complimenting my dress, which I’m not ashamed to say *instantly* ingratiated this cool place in my heart of hearts. It always stuns me when busy hosts (to paraphrase perennial It Girl Samantha Jones) ‘wield their power with benevolence.’
Ascended and seated, I surveilled the scene around me. On this particular Saturday evening, there was an even split of date nights and girls’ night outs. The conversations were hushed, the drink of choice was a Martini, and holding court at more than just a few tables was Pearl Box’s buzzy dessert: the “Candy Bowl” (aka, a colorful heap of sugary confections served up in a vintage candy dish).
Spontaneous flashes cut through the mood lighting every few minutes, as delighted patrons snapped away at their Caviar Services and Candy Bowls. Normally, I’d find this distraction a little irritating (flash photos in shared spaces can be quite the buzzkill), but my patience was in full supply, thanks to my own sheer excitement. I could feel a palpable shimmer of joy in the room that had nothing to do with my sequined dress (okay, maybe just a little).
But First, Let’s Back Up A Bit
Indulge me in rewinding the evening just a bit (for the sake of my outfit), as our pre-dinner libation was the only time I snapped a pic of the whole look. After Ryan whipped up my favorite at-home cocktail, an espresso martini, we were quickly on our way.
Now Back To Your Scheduled Programming: What We Ordered
The Blue Fin Tuna and Rice was mouthwateringly tasty, but then again, I’m a sucker for most fresh fish dishes brightened up with a big splash of lemon juice, as this one was.
The Bang Bang Rock Shrimp was great and served with a huge side of fingerling potatoes, but was it $40 great? Jury is still out on that one! We were in a celebratory mood, so we just closed our eyes and ordered, but I’ll be transparent in saying these price points were definitely a little higher than our usual night-out fare. However, the service was excellent, which always smoothes over the wayward wrinkle.
Just A Little Baggage
One such wrinkle? For such a luxe evening where nothing was overlooked aesthetics-wise (I love the whole vibe inside! The branding! The menus with retro imagery! The cute furniture, table lamps, and even servingware!), I was surpised there was no place to rest my bag. This issue may not apply to those seated in the roomier booths, but for everyone else, I guess you’re expected to squeeze your bag between yourself and the inside of the chair? How uncomfy!
There was also no hook in the single-person bathroom, and who wants to balance their bag (or coat, if you wore yours upstairs) on a tiny bathroom sink counter?
Final Thoughts
Listen, I know smoking isn’t coooooool, but these bubblegum cigarettes that accompanied the bill charmed me. (And I don’t have to tell you that bowls of cigarettes during festive nights out have been a wink-wink party favor since at least Mary-Kate Olsen’s wedding in 2015. I even heard they had candy cigarettes at the Bob Dylan movie premiere after-party last month at the Chelsea!)
After experiencing it in person, I can say I thoroughly enjoyed Pearl Box. I reveled in the intimacy of the room, and I appreciated how Pearl Box manages to feel like a hush-hush hide-away of exclusivity, while also having a team of hosts and servers who are super friendly and welcoming. The experience invites you to indulge in your more glam side, and I am always looking for more excuses to wear sequins. (I also really want to return to order the Candy Bowl — maybe even with that Lemon Oil Martini.)
But a word to the wise: If you visit the SoHo spot, just BYOPH (bring your own purse hook).
What are some of your favorite night-out spots that feel stylish (with none of the stuffiness)? Let me know! I need a whole list of places to keep the winter SADs from hitting.
Yours in Unboxing Pearls,
Elly
*Please Note: I may earn a commission on some products purchased through links in this article.
I love your dress Elly and you never need an excuse to wear sequins!
Can’t wait to check it out!