About 63 Grand St
63 Grand Street is the address of Dead Letter No. 9 , an innovative Williamsburg destination that combines a cocktail lounge, immersive theater, and nightclub. Housed in a renovated post office-style building (built in 1960 and updated in 2023), this one-story, ~5,000–8,600 sq ft venue was transformed by the Sleep No More team (Roll the Bones) and restaurant owners Josh Cohen and Mark Rancourt into a “modern conversation parlor” (www.rollthebonestheatre.com ) (greenpointers.com ). Its unique design mimics an old postal facility: inside you’ll find richly detailed staged environments (e.g. a screened-in porch in a storm, a Joshua Tree camper, a treehouse in a backyard) where guests pick up “lost” letters of conversation prompts (www.theatrely.com ) (www.rollthebonestheatre.com ). Because Dead Letter No. 9 emphasizes human connection and shared experience, it stands out in the Brooklyn scene as more than a typical club or bar (greenpointers.com ) (www.theatrely.com ). It opened in late 2023 and immediately became known for its intimate performance series and high-concept happy hours, making 63 Grand a neighborhood cultural hotspot.
Events and Programming
Dead Letter No. 9 offers a wide range of events, blending interactive theater, live music, dance parties, and speaker sessions. The core offering is a 90-minute “social experiment” run by Roll the Bones, in which small groups (typically 8 people every 20 minutes) move through conversation-themed rooms using vintage Casio watches to keep time (www.theatrely.com ) (www.rollthebonestheatre.com ). In addition, the space hosts nightly programming: evenings often feature DJ sets in the main lounge and back “CARGO” club, with at least one dance party each weekend (greenpointers.com ) (shotgun.live ). For example, Brooklyn promoters have brought in techno and house artists like Deo’Jorge, Anna Collecta, Mike Servito and Juan MacLean to DJ in the Cargo room (ra.co ) (dice.fm ), and indie performers like Slark Moan and Paul Bloom have played “No.9 Live” house-concerts (dice.fm ) (shotgun.live ). Other specialty nights include “Philosophical Musing Sessions” (conversation salons), creative workshops, stand-up comedy shows, record-release parties and art openings. Notable early events included a March 2024 multimedia showcase with Lightning Society movement performers, poetry and a former Voice contestant (greenpointers.com ), and themed nights like “Hot Honey Sundays” (a warm, house-music party) were held regularly through 2024 (ra.co ) (shotgun.live ). Most events are 21+ and the venue maintains a rotating calendar, so new artists and collectives appear frequently. Ticket costs vary by event – many DJ nights are free or under $20, while the signature immersive cocktail experience is typically around $65–$70 (often running promotional discounts to ~$40 (pulsd.com )). Seating is mostly general-admission/standing, as the emphasis is on exploring the space rather than fixed, assigned seating.
Tickets and Booking
**Where to buy:** Most tickets are sold online via the Dead Letter No.9 website or approved event platforms (the venue often uses a reservation system for its immersive sessions). Keep an eye on announcements via social media or sign up for the mailing list, as shows and special series often go on sale weeks in advance.
**Pricing:** Concerts and DJ nights are generally inexpensive (free to ~$15). The immersive cocktail experience has a higher ticket, around $65–$70 full price (e.g. a current promotion is $39 for what’s normally a $69 experience (pulsd.com )). Kitchen dining and bar service are pay-as-you-go once inside.
**Sale timing:** Standard practice is that tickets for headliner events or special curated series (like guest DJ nights or shows with celebrity hosts) will be released early and sell out quickly. Subscribing for alerts is recommended. Smaller weekly parties and public dance nights may offer last-minute on-site tickets, but popular ones (especially with guest DJs) often require advance booking.
**Box office:** Dead Letter No.9 does not advertise a standalone box office for walk-up sales; it’s safest to buy tickets before arriving. However, for certain open-house periods (Th-Sun check-ins) or late-add events, you may be able to purchase at the door if not sold out.
Seating and Layout
The layout at 63 Grand is unconventional compared to a theater or concert hall. The entire venue is on one level and subdivided into few themed “rooms” plus a bar area and a back lounge called Cargo. There are no fixed rows of seats – instead, the experience is largely general-admission and mobile. Guests are free to wander between spaces and choose where to sit or stand. In the bar/lounge area you’ll find high-top tables, bar stools and couches; two-person dining tables serve light food and cocktails. The immersive conversation portion takes place in low-lit, vintage-decorated compartments (like a rustic porch, camper, or treehouse set) furnished with a few chairs or benches. Acoustic separation is built in, so that small groups can talk quietly without being drowned out by other areas. The Cargo room (at the rear) features a dance floor, DJ booth and elegant club lighting (shotgun.live ) – this space is mostly standing-room with a few lounge areas along the sides. Overall, there isn’t a “best seat” in the traditional sense. For introspective conversations, it’s best to take a seat in one of the themed rooms; for dancing, being near the center of Cargo or at the foot of the DJ booth gives the full club experience. Large sofas and bar seats offer people-watching spots for relaxed mixing. Since lines of sight aren’t fixed, attendees simply move to the part of the venue that suits the event (quiet booth for talk, open floor for dancing). Acoustics are thoughtfully managed – DJs and music stay primarily in Cargo, while mellow ambient music in the lounge keeps conversation friendly.
Getting There and Parking
**Location:** 63 Grand St is located in Williamsburg (Brooklyn), between Lorimer and Havemeyer Streets. The main entrance faces south onto Grand Street. It’s in a mixed industrial-residential block, about 2 blocks west of Driggs Avenue.
**Subway:** The fastest way is usually the L train. The Jefferson St L stop is roughly a 3-5 minute walk east (Head east on Grand Street once you exit). The Lorimer St (Any stop above ground) or Broadway/Lorimer G train stations are also a 10-minute walk north. The Grand St (L train) station at Manhattan Avenue is a bit farther west (15 min walk). Riders coming from Manhattan often take the L to Lorimer then walk south. (Note: there is no J/M/Z train stop immediately nearby; the L is the most convenient line.)
**Bus:** A few Brooklyn buses run near Grand St. The B43 (Bedford Ave) and B48 (Marcy/Knickerbocker) come close, but no bus stops directly on this block. The M train does not serve Williamsburg. Taxis and rideshares drop off directly in front of the venue (avoid double-parking).
**Walking:** From the popular Bedford Ave corridor, 63 Grand is about a 7-10 minute walk (west from Bedford or north from Driggs). From North Williamsburg, it’s reachable in 10-15 minutes on foot from Bedford-Delancey, or 12 min from Metropolitan Ave. Greenpoint is a ~20-min walk to the east.
**Parking:** There is no dedicated parking lot. Street parking is metered in this area (pay stations on nearby blocks) and can be tight on weekend nights. One option is to park a few blocks off (for example, on side streets near Metropolitan Ave or Humboldt Street, where rates tend to be lower, and then walk). A couple of paid garages (e.g. at 371 Humboldt St or near McCarren Park) are about a 10-15 minute walk away. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drop-offs on Grand St in front of 63 Grand are convenient, especially since late-night parking is scarce. If driving, allow extra time to find parking and bring quarters or a parking app – regulations on Grand are often enforced through the evening.
Inside the Venue
Expect an intimate, theatrical atmosphere as soon as you enter 63 Grand St. The lobby area is styled like an old mail depot; friendly staff may greet you with a complimentary glass of prosecco or champagne to toast your entry. Guests are often given vintage Casio watches (yours to keep) to time the 90-minute conversation experience (greenpointers.com ). Security is low-key – at larger events there may be an ID check (21+ verification) and a quick inspection of bags, but this is mostly a social space rather than a high-security club. The vibe inside is dark but welcoming: soft amber lighting, vintage wood furniture, and richly textured set pieces create a cozy, nostalgic feel. Lounges are spread out so you won’t feel crowded even at busy times.
**Food & Drink:** The bar at Dead Letter No. 9 is open during most events. The cocktail menu is creative, featuring both classic and signature drinks. Highlights include the gin-based “Fancy French Accent,” modern takes on fruity sours (Midori Sour, Amaretto Sour), and vibrant tropical cocktails like the “Air Mail to Jamaica.” The reflux device also allows bartenders to intermingle – Greenpointers praised bartender Angel for explaining ingredients and letting visitors sample flavors (greenpointers.com ).
By design, the food menu offers elevated bar snacks in a poke-plate style. You’ll find sharable items such as North Carolina blister-fried peanuts, a smoky trout dip served with pretzel bread, and bite-sized fried chicken sliders (greenpointers.com ). These fare nod to post-office cafeterias and match the themed environments (for instance, peanut snacks reminded the writer of the Smoky Mountains porch scene). Service is casual – after ordering at the bar, food and cocktails are brought to your table or can be enjoyed at the bar rail. There is no formal dress code beyond smart-casual: guests often wear city-nightlife attire.
**Features:** The venue is designed for conversation and comfort. There’s a small retail counter with event-branded merchandise (at times postcards or letter-press mementos), though there’s no full gift shop. An on-site coat rack or closet may be provided during colder months (ask staff if you need to stow coats). Restrooms are modern and unisex, located off the main lounge near the entrance (clear signage typically directs attendees). Wi-Fi is usually available free for patrons; many people do use laptops or phones to work or share pictures in the public lounge area. However, the immersive performance itself encourages disconnecting – participants are gently discouraged from scrolling social feeds during the 90-minute discussion. Cell service inside is fair (the building isn’t underground), so you can look up event tickets or arrange rides without issue. The backroom “Cargo” nightclub has its own music and lighting system: promotional descriptions highlight “elegant sound and light” for dancers (shotgun.live ). In Cargo you’ll find a full DJ rig and a dancefloor – at times a small VIP seating area is curtained off at the side for table service and cocktails. Overall, 63 Grand is cozy but not cramped; the designers left plenty of space for guests to mingle. Staff members are usually nearby, moving about the sets to refill drinks or start the next conversation cycle, so don’t hesitate to ask them questions about the menu or the prompts you picked up.
Nearby Amenities
**Food and Pre-show Dining:** The Grand Street corridor has many eateries within a few blocks of 63 Grand. For a sit-down meal, top local choices include *Lilia* (Italian tasting menus, a 10-minute walk north on C St), *Chez Ma Tante* (French bistro, less than 5 min north), and *Diner* or *Juliette* (casual American, 5-7 min east on Grand St). Quick bites nearby include merger: *Rome to Brooklyn Pizza* (700 Grand St, open late) and creative LA-style *Nick’s Frites* (on Wythe Ave, 5 min walk). Williamsburg’s famous Smorgasburg food hall is a 15-min stroll west on Grand St for daytime markets. Many theatergoers grab a bite beforehand at shelf pubs or cafes: *Blue Bottle Coffee* and *Sweetleaf Coffee* (for caffeine) are a 5-min walk away, and don’t overlook *Femmes of Delivery* (Mediterranean sandwiches Down Under Driggs) or *Sweet Chick* (Southern fried chicken, 10 min east).
**Bars and Nightlife:** Right across the street is the local favorite *Lucky Dog* sports bar, and two blocks south is *Steeplejack Brewery* (craft beer in a garden). Bars on nearby Bedford Ave (10 min walk) include *Valhalla Bottle Shop* and the rooftop *Jimmy at the James*. For wine, *Barbes* (guests can taste by the glass) is 7 min north. If the immersive show ends early, many groups head to *Baby’s All Right* (music venue/bar) or *Brooklyn Brewery* (10 min walk south) for late-night drinks.
**Hotels:** While Williamsburg is more known for apartments and short-term rentals, several hotels are within walking distance. The *William Vale Hotel* (with Westlight rooftop) and *Wythe Hotel* are about 10-12 minutes away. The *Hoxton Williamsburg* (nominal luxury) is ~8 minutes on foot. More budget-friendly options like *Pod Brooklyn* (on Gold St, 8 min) and *Freehand NYC* (near Delancey, ~15 min, via L train) serve visitors. Airbnbs and boutique inns line the Bedford Ave area for those seeking a more local stay.
**Transit and Late Night:** As mentioned above, the L train (especially Jefferson St or Lorimer St stops) is closest. Note that the L runs 24/7, so even after late shows you can catch an overnight train back to Manhattan or Brooklyn neighborhoods. The B43 and B62 buses stop nearby (both run until midnight or later). Rideshare or taxi rides are plentiful in Williamsburg later at night, and many guests simply walk a few blocks to Jefferson L for a quick trip back. Biking is another popular option: Citi Bike stations reside on Grand St at Roebling and at Bedford Ave (just 2 blocks away). In general, plan on giving yourself extra time when returning home after a late show, as trains may be moderately crowded on weekend nights.
What Makes This Venue Special
63 Grand St isn’t just another music hall – it’s a cultural experiment. Its uniqueness stems from blending immersive theater with nightlife. Designers built Dead Letter No. 9 to look and feel like a centuries-old Postal Service sorting facility (www.rollthebonestheatre.com ), playing off the idea of “dead letters” (undeliverable mail) as a metaphor for lost connections. This backstory resonates: at every show strangers are invited to open the mail we never sent and share vulnerable thoughts. Local reviews highlight how uncanny, detailed the sets are (complete with storm sounds, campfire starscape, etc.) (www.theatrely.com ). Unlike a typical bar, Dead Letter was created by the famous team behind “Sleep No More,” so it carries the prestige of high-concept entertainment: it aims to be “Absorbing, Thought-provoking, Clever, Delightful” (www.show-score.com ). It is already known for hosting figures like actress Ilana Glazer (in its Philosophical Musing talks) and sought-after DJs, proving that both artists and audiences are drawn to its forward-thinking format.
On a community level, Dead Letter helps revive Williamsburg’s neglected industrial block by bringing regular crowds, which benefits many nearby small businesses. Economically, attracting artsy nightlife patrons means more foot traffic for Grand Street restaurants and bars. Culturally, this venue gives the neighborhood a specialty not found anywhere else in NYC – a hybrid of dinner theater and dance club that encourages face-to-face engagement. Locals appreciate that on a Thursday afternoon the space functions as a quiet café-like lounge (free to enter with drink purchases), while at night it transforms into a steamy dance spot with top-tier sound and lights (shotgun.live ). In short, 63 Grand St/Dead Letter No.9 is special for its one-of-a-kind interactive concept, its alchemy of art-and-party, and the fact that it invites patrons to slow down, talk to each other (rather than just shout over loud music), and leave with actual memories. It has already become a hallmark of the Williamsburg scene, winning press as “NYC’s new immersive cocktail party” and a rare place designed to “combat loneliness” with creativity (www.rollthebonestheatre.com ) (www.theatrely.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The venue is single-story with a flat entrance, making it wheelchair accessible. There are no steps to navigate in the main space, and the restrooms are ADA-compliant. Staff are accommodating if you need any assistance. (Note: The immersive theatrical portion does involve walking through different themed areas, so if mobility is very limited, consider contacting the venue in advance for the best experience.)
**Age & Entry:** 63 Grand St (Dead Letter No.9) typically has a 21+ age policy after 5pm due to bar service. Some daytime or early-evening events might allow younger patrons, but always check the specific show’s age policy. Don’t forget your photo ID – it will be checked at the door for evening events.
**What to Bring/Not Bring:** There’s no formal dress code, but smart-casual attire fits the ambiance. Comfortable shoes are recommended (you may stand or move between rooms for up to 90 minutes). Small bags and coats can be hung in the entry vestibule; however, there’s no large coat check, so carry only what you need. Outside food and drinks are not allowed, though you can bring in an unwrapped water bottle. Filming of the immersive experience is discouraged (to preserve the vibe), but smartphones are commonly used in the lounge and dance areas.
**Photography:** Taking photos in the lounge and bar area is fine, but for privacy reasons the theatrical conversation show encourages you to stay present. At concerts or DJ nights, flash photography is generally prohibited, but quiet recording on your phone is usually okay. Merchandise like branded postcards might be on sale, so ask if you want a keepsake.
**Prohibited Items:** As a nightlife venue, standard rules apply: no outside alcohol, no weapons, no illegal substances. Bags may be lightly searched. In the conversation portion, guests are expected to respect others’ boundaries (Dead Letter has a “leave no trace” and zero-tolerance policy to ensure a welcoming space for everyone (www.ticketfairy.com )).
**Arrival:** It’s wise to arrive 10-15 minutes early for ticketed events so you can check in, grab a drink, and explore the lobby sets before the show or DJs start. If you’re doing the 90-minute immersive experience, don’t be late – the timekeeping watches and greeting ritual are part of the performance. If you’re just coming for dinner and casual hanging, you can come straight in (no reservation needed for the lounge on most nights).
**Connectivity:** Free Wi-Fi is usually available in the lounge, and most people use phones freely for calling or working. (The immersive show itself tries to keep phones off – organizers will remind you to stay digitally disconnected during the 90 minutes of conversation.) Charging outlets might be scarce, so bring a charged phone if you’ll need it after the show.
**Insider Tip:** If interested in the immersive experience but unsure, note that some evenings the conversation program is run in a lounge-style format (with cocktails) while the Cargo dance floor is open separately. You can opt to just enjoy the bar and music for free on quieter nights. Also, the official site often has special combo deals (for example, a drink + entry price), so check for promotions. Bartenders are known to be friendly and may even adjust cocktails to your taste – don’t hesitate to chat with them.
**Common Mistakes to Avoid:** Don’t treat the venue like a traditional nightclub only; part of the fun is interacting. Avoid arriving intoxicated if you plan to engage in the conversation segments – sober participation is encouraged. Also, keep track of your build – the venue can be dim and maze-like, so hold onto your belongings. Finally, this spot isn’t intended for loud phone conversations; it works best if you immerse yourself in the experience.
What events take place at 63 Grand St (Dead Letter No.9)?
Dead Letter No.9 hosts a wide variety of events. Its signature experience is a 90-minute immersive conversation show. Besides that, the venue regularly runs DJ and dance nights (especially on weekends), live music performances, comedy or spoken-word nights, and special themed parties. Programming rotates weekly – examples include “PMS” conversational salons, record release parties, and curated dance events. (greenpointers.com ) (dice.fm )
How do I buy tickets for shows at 63 Grand St?
Tickets are usually purchased online in advance via Dead Letter No.9’s official site or partner platforms. Major shows often sell out early, so it’s best to follow the venue’s social media or mailing list for on-sale announcements. Some smaller or free events may allow walk-up entry, but for popular nights (headlining DJs or the immersive show) you’ll want to secure tickets before the event day. Box office or door sales are limited.
What is the seating arrangement at Dead Letter No.9?
Dead Letter has no fixed seating chart. The space is open-concept. Guests can sit on lounge couches or at bar tables, but there are no reserved seats for shows. For the swag of conversation experiences, people freely move between themed rooms and chairs on a first-come basis. The nightclub “Cargo” area is also general-admission, with standing room on the dance floor and a few seating nooks. Essentially, choose where you want to be and arrive early if you want a seat!
Are there age restrictions at 63 Grand St?
Yes. Most Dead Letter No.9 events are 21+ due to on-site alcohol service. The venue enforces ID checks for age. A handful of events or special sessions might allow younger guests or have a “rollover” policy before evening, but the default is adults only. Always check the specific event listing for age rules before planning your visit.
Is Dead Letter No.9 wheelchair accessible?
The venue is on one ground floor with no steps, so arrival from street to lounge is level and wheelchair-friendly. The performance rooms and bar aisles are relatively wide, and the restroom is ADA-accessible. Staff can assist with seating. If you have particular accessibility needs, it’s best to contact the venue ahead of time, but generally Dead Letter No.9 is designed to accommodate mobility devices smoothly.
What security and entry procedures are there?
Standard nightlife security protocols apply. Expect a brief bag check or pat-down at the door. ID is required for 21+ entry. After that, there’s no heavy security patrolling inside – but staff do keep an eye to ensure the experience remains safe and comfortable. They enforce a respectful atmosphere (the venue has a no-harassment policy) especially during its conversational events (www.ticketfairy.com ). The tone is friendly, not stadium-level security; they want you to relax and enjoy.
Are phones and cameras allowed during the show?
During the immersive conversation portion, guests are encouraged to stay present, so phones should be turned down and cameras avoided (operators provide vintage watches for timing instead of relying on phones). In the bar/lounge areas and dance nights, phone use is normal: you can text, take pictures (without flash) and post socially. Just be mindful that the spirit of the event is face-to-face connection, so photos are secondary.
Is there a coat check or storage for belongings?
There isn’t a formal coat check desk, but in colder months staff usually provide a spot near the entrance where you can safely hang coats or leave a small personal item. It’s best not to bring large bags. Please keep track of your things – the venue isn’t responsible for unattended property. For convenience, carry minimal items or use small carry accessories that tuck under chairs.
What food and drinks are available inside?
Dead Letter No.9 has a full cocktail bar with creative drinks (gin cocktails like the “Fancy French Accent,” remodeled fruit sours, tropical mixes) and a small food menu. Expect sharable snacks like smoked trout dip with pretzel bread, NC fried peanuts, and mini chicken sliders (greenpointers.com ). Nothing is high-priced – cocktails are around NYC bar rates and food items are modestly priced tapas. The lounge serves drinks and plates throughout the night. For full meals, you may want to dine nearby before entering.
How early should I arrive for my event?
Plan to arrive at least 10–15 minutes before showtime. Early arrival lets you check in, get a drink, and explore the lobby sets. For the immersive conversation experience, punctuality is important (doors close when the session starts, as people have a set 90-minute journey). For concerts or dance nights, arriving early means avoiding lines and snagging a good spot. If you come much later, you might miss the opening act or some of the bar service.
What is the price range of tickets?
Ticket prices vary by event type. Many weekly DJ nights and cultural gatherings are free or in the $5–$15 range. Special concerts and highly curated events tend to be $20–$30. The flagship 90-minute immersive “cocktail party” experience usually costs around $65–$70 at full price (though deals often drop it into the $30–$40 range (pulsd.com )). Food and drinks inside are additional. In short, you can enjoy Dead Letter No.9 on a small budget or splurge a bit depending on the show.
Are there any age or ID requirements?
Yes. Since Dead Letter No.9 is fundamentally a bar-led environment, it requires photo ID for proof of age. Most events are strictly 21+. (They may occasionally host all-ages matinees, but that’s rare.) If you’re under 21, check in advance – but expect the venue to verify age at the door for any nighttime event.
What should I wear to 63 Grand St?
There’s no formal dress code, but the venue is trendy and the atmosphere is somewhat upscale. Smart-casual or artsy chic attire fits well — think nice jeans, fashionable tops, or a cool shirt. Avoid athletic gear or flip-flops if you plan to stay late. For the dance nights, some people dress up a bit more. In general, come comfortably – you’ll be sitting, standing and dancing. If you have a themed event (like a Halloween party), the venue will advertise if fancy costume is encouraged.
Are there any late-night food or drink options nearby after shows?
Yes. Grand Street and nearby Bedford Avenue have many late-night eateries. For a quick bite after midnight, places like Brooklyn’s 24-hour *B&H Dairy* (old-school diner) or the late-serving *Sweet Chick* (fried chicken) are a short walk away. Some pizza shops on Bedford or Graham run late. If you just need coffee or pastries, many cafes have early hours. Taxis and rideshare apps are abundant in this area, so returning to Manhattan or Queens late at night is also easy.
How can I find the venue once I'm in Williamsburg?
63 Grand St is on the south side of Grand Street, between Lorimer and Havemeyer, about one block west of Driggs Ave. Look for an old brick-industrial style building with simple “No.9” signage. If you see the intersection of Grand & Lorimer, you’re in the right area. (Any taxi or map app will guide you there by the address “63 Grand Street, Brooklyn.”) Just head slightly west of the Bedford Ave corridor and you’ll arrive. During events, the front door may have a small lit marquee or ticket table outside.
Is there a phone number or website to contact?
While this answer shouldn’t list specific URLs, the easiest way is to search online for “Dead Letter No.9 Williamsburg.” The official site and social profiles are readily found that way. In any case, most information (timetables, tickets) is handled digitally. If you need in-person info, arriving a bit early or asking staff on site is the usual way to learn about upcoming shows or reserves.
What if I just want to dine or drink without attending a show?
Dead Letter No.9 welcomes walk-in bar and dining guests on days/apps it’s open to the public (typically Thurs–Sat after 4pm according to recent updates (greenpointers.com )). You can come in, order food and drinks, and enjoy the lounge vibe even if you’re not doing the immersive experience. On nights when special ticketed events are happening, check if general entry (no ticket) is still allowed; often there’s a cover fee or reservation needed only for performance parts. Essentially, dining-only visits are normal outside peak showtimes.
