Address: Union Square Neighborhood
In the heart of the bustling Union Square neighborhood, Craig’s Restaurant emerged from the shadows of Old Town Bar’s storied past, transforming into a clandestine speakeasy that epitomized the rebellious spirit of the 1920s. Originally known as Viemeister’s since its establishment in 1882, the bar had long been a cornerstone of the community, serving as a German-style saloon where men could gather for hearty beers, while families enjoyed meals in the upper dining room. However, when Prohibition swept across the nation, this beloved establishment had to adapt or perish. Ingeniously rebranded as Craig’s Restaurant, it concealed its illicit activities beneath an aura of respectability. Patrons, keen to savor forbidden spirits, would hide their contraband in clever compartments beneath their seats, sipping their drinks with a wary eye on the door. The allure of Craig’s was irresistible, drawing in a diverse crowd that included writers like Frank McCourt, Billy Collins, and Nick Hornby, who found inspiration under its high ceilings and amidst its 1930s decor. Even as it flirted with danger, Craig’s retained the charm of its origins, with patrons marveling at the pair of functioning 19th-century Hinsdale urinals, a quirky nod to its rich history. Today, the echoes of jazz and whispers of secret rendezvous still linger in the air, as Craig’s Restaurant stands as a testament to New York City’s enduring spirit of resilience and reinvention.