About 5th & Mad
5th & Mad is a two-level sports bar and lounge in Midtown Manhattan (7 E 36th St, between Madison and 5th Avenue) (www.eventective.com ) (jetsetvenue.com ). This fully renovated 6,000 sq ft space blends a lively sports-casual vibe with upscale design (www.eventective.com ) (jetsetvenue.com ). Inside, a long curved wood-and-metal bar runs from the entrance to the back under dozens of HDTVs (over 30 screens in total (www.eventective.com ) (cititour.com )). The décor has industrial touches (reclaimed-stainless steel ceilings, textured finishes) alongside comfortable lounge seating. For locals, it’s known as a go-to after-work and game-day venue – TripAdvisor reviewers praise its “fun happy hour and awesome staff” with “warm smiles” and remember “the best time in NYC” on big nights (5thandmad.com ) (5thandmad.com ). With two full-service bars, big video screens, and flexible event spaces, 5th & Mad can host groups from the tens up to about 600 people (www.eventective.com ) (jetsetvenue.com ). In short, it’s a chic Murray Hill hangout – part sports bar, part nightlife lounge – where energy meets elegance (www.eventective.com ) (sideways.nyc ).
Events and Programming
5th & Mad’s calendar is centered on sports watch parties and nightlife. The venue is “game-day ready” – dozens of high-definition TVs and a giant projector screen (an 11′×8′ screen plus 17 HD TVs (cititour.com )) are used to show all the big games (NFL, basketball tournaments, soccer, etc.) with sound. For major events (Super Bowl, March Madness), they run specials like $30 beer buckets and $1 wings (cititour.com ). Evenings and weekends feature DJs and themed parties – the website notes a DJ booth and “various live music events on a rotating basis” (shotgun.live ). We’ve seen events like a “NYE 2026 Party” and a “Bad Santa Bar Crawl” there (shotgun.live ). In general, expect a mix of sports viewing and dance music (pop, hip-hop, EDM) on busy nights. 5th & Mad also rents out its spaces for private events (birthdays, corporate mixers, wedding rehearsals, etc.) (www.eventective.com ) (shotgun.live ). Typical drink deals and casual food (see below) mean most nights have no cover charge – except special ticketed events (big holiday parties, bar crawls) which are announced on their site and social media.
Tickets and Booking
This venue does not have a box office or fixed ticketing system. There is no general admission fee for regular nights – you simply pay for food and drinks. Table reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends or around big games (5thandmad.com ). You can reserve a table or private room by calling the venue or booking online (OpenTable or their website). Happy hours and dinner reservations fill up, so it’s wise to book several days ahead. For large parties or events, call the event staff to inquire about the “MAD Bar” (upstairs private bar) or “MAD Room” (flexible event room) rental packages. When there *are* special ticketed events (for instance, a New Year’s Eve party), advance tickets or RSVP links will be posted by the organizers. In short: walk-ins are welcome on off-nights, but for busy evenings, reserve early. Payment is usually credit/debit (they accept AmEx, Visa, etc.) (www.tripadvisor.ie ) - and remember to bring valid ID for door entry on weekend nights.
Seating and Layout
5th & Mad is spread over two floors with multiple seating zones. The main floor has a 50-seat dining room plus a long front-to-back bar (5thandmad.com ). This area feels like a classic sports pub: high tables, bar stools, and booths all facing large TVs and walls of sports decor (sideways.nyc ). Off to one side is a little game room with a pool table and dart boards – a hangout for pool leagues or casual play (sideways.nyc ). Upstairs is a mezzanine lounge (the “MAD Bar”) with its own full bar and more relaxed seating (couches and high-tops). There’s also a private “MAD Room” upstairs, a versatile party room seating 20–100 depending on setup (5thandmad.com ). In general there are no assigned seats – it’s first-come, first-served except for booked tables. For sports viewing, bar stools or booths facing TVs are best. Weekend nights open up the upstairs dance floor and bar area, which is popular for DJ sets. Some tips: the middle of the main floor offers the broadest view of multiple screens, while upstairs offers a bird’s-eye (and slightly quieter) vantage. Avoid crowding the very back row if you want a view. Acoustically it can get loud during games or music nights, so ear-sensitive guests might prefer the upstairs lounge area.
Getting There and Parking
5th & Mad is located at 7 East 36th Street, midblock between Madison and 5th Avenue, in the Murray Hill/East Midtown area. As it’s Manhattan, public transit is easiest: the 6 train stops at 33rd St (Park Ave) – just a 3-block walk north. The B/D/F/M trains at 42nd St/Bryant Park are about 8 blocks north, and the N/Q/R/W at 34th St/Herald Square (7th Ave) is 5 blocks west. Several east-west buses (M34-SBS, M42) and northbound buses (M1, etc.) run nearby. For airport arrivals, the EWR-AirTrain combined with NJ Transit or the LIRR to Penn Station (then a short taxi) is an option. Rideshare drop-off is usually on East 36th St right in front of the door (or nearby on Madison Ave).
Parking in the area is very limited. There is no dedicated 5th & Mad lot or garage. Metered street parking is scarce (and often metered until midnight). Instead, look for commercial garages: for example, ParkWhiz or SpotHero can show hourly garages on W 35th or 3rd Ave (one block away). Rates typically run \$30–\$50/hour in midtown evenings. Valet may be available only for prearranged private events. In practice, most guests rely on the subway, taxi/Uber, or car services for easy access.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, guests encounter the long curved mahogany bar and dozens of TV screens (sideways.nyc ). There’s usually a host stand by the door – for event tables or walk-ups, staff will guide you. Security may check bags or ID on busy nights. Dress is casual; most patrons wear neat daytime or casual evening attire (no coat doesn’t appear required, though NYC-style smart-casual is typical). The atmosphere is energetic: expect cheering for plays on-screen, DJs spinning upbeat tunes on weekend nights, and a sporty soundtrack. Phone signal is generally good; the venue offers free Wi-Fi according to listings (www.tripadvisor.ie ).
The two bars serve a full range of drinks. The cocktail menu is a highlight – crafted by noted mixologists – with house signature cocktails as well as beer and wine selections (5thandmad.com ) (www.eventective.com ). Bar snacks are always flowing (think $1 wing nights like the Super Bowl deal (cititour.com ) or daily happy-hour specials). For food, there’s a chef-led kitchen. Executive Chef Carlos Cruz’s menu features elevated New American shareable plates (5thandmad.com ) (www.eventective.com ). Standouts include smash burgers, lobster mac & cheese, burrata and roasted cauliflower appetizers (www.eventective.com ). Large salads and rotating seasonal dishes (like a “Rio Rancho” pizza or a hearty Caesar) appear in reviews. The food is casual-fine – suitable for a hearty shared meal before a big game. High chairs and some vegetarian options are available, per listing reviews.
Restrooms (likely one set per floor) are standard and have been described as clean. No formal coat check is advertised, so outerwear is usually kept at tables or carried (you may want to bring a small bag for essentials). The venue is wheelchair-accessible (there’s an elevator to the mezzanine (www.eventective.com )) and seats are available for guests with mobility needs. For special needs, it’s best to call ahead in case accommodations are needed. Phones and small cameras are fine, but professional photography is not allowed during performances or private events. Smoking is not allowed inside by NYC law (there may be an outdoor area on the sidewalk for smokers).
Nearby Amenities
The neighborhood around 5th & Mad — Murray Hill and NoMad — is home to many restaurants, bars, and hotels. Within a few blocks you’ll find a diversity of dining: casual pubs, delis, pizza places, and upscale spots. For example, the Korean restaurant strip on 32nd Street is 3–4 blocks away, offering BBQ and noodle shops. Along Park Avenue or Madison Avenue are steakhouses and bistros (e.g. Del Frisco’s, Keens Steakhouse about 6 blocks west). Coffee shops (Gregory’s and Starbucks) and quick bites abound on the side streets. If you arrive early for dinner, try spots like “Empire Bistro” (Italian) or “Mercato” (Mediterranean) a few blocks north. For after-dinner drinks, sports bars like The Jeffrey (Madison Ave) or “The Horse” (Locked in a speakeasy style bar a few blocks west) are nearby alternatives.
Hotels within easy cab or bike of 5th & Mad include the Hotel Edison and YOTEL Midtown (midtown west) or the Courtyard / Marriott at 32nd St (east Midtown). In general, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your event starts, as check-in at the door can take a few minutes when busy. And remember: NYC subways run late – on weekends the 6 train is 24/7, and B/D/F/M late-night service picks up, so you can usually get home after closing. Otherwise, use taxi or rideshare for late-night travel.
What Makes This Venue Special
5th & Mad stands out because it merges the energy of a big-city sports bar with thoughtfully designed spaces and cocktails. Rather than a dive, it has a polished vibe — “old-school New York glamour” in the words of its event listing (jetsetvenue.com ). The interior mixes reclaimed wood flooring and distressed-brick walls with sleek lighting and curated decor. The two levels allow it to morph from casual to upscale: on any game day it feels like a raucous fan bar, yet the second-floor cocktail lounge and private room give it an elegant side. The drink menu is unusually refined for a sports bar (each cocktail is crafted to suit the mood of the space) (5thandmad.com ). At big events, the venue truly transforms — for instance, it boasts an enormous 11×8 foot projector plus multiple TVs (cititour.com ) that no other local bar has. This makes it a go-to for events like the Super Bowl or march-of-games with full surround sound. Locally, 5th & Mad often hosts spirited traditions: fans young and old gather here for playoffs and watch parties, and it’s become part of the Murray Hill social scene. Artists, athletes and downtown office parties alike have booked it for one-time gigs – anyone from corporate groups to small live bands – because of its versatility. In short, it’s special because it feels both familiar (great bar food, big drinks, sports everywhere) and distinctive (design details and event infrastructure) (www.eventective.com ) (sideways.nyc ). Patrons and performers love it as a “go-to” spot that always delivers high energy and New York-style hospitality.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** 5th & Mad is wheelchair accessible. An elevator serves the mezzanine (www.eventective.com ) and all public areas are on one level per floor. There are no steps to enter the main floor. Restrooms and tables are spacious enough for mobility devices. If you need anything special, call ahead to confirm.
**What to Bring:** Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to drink; carrying your ID is required for entry. It’s bar-casual, so dress neutrally (no athletic jerseys or beachwear as a policy). Leave large backpacks and outside alcohol at home – bags may be checked at the door on busy nights. Your phone and credit cards are all you really need (they accept debit/credit cards (www.tripadvisor.ie )). If you have seat passes for a private event or reservation, have them ready on your phone.
**Age Restrictions:** The venue is family-friendly during early dinner hours (kids can dine before 8pm), but after 9pm it tends to be 21+ with louder music and bar action. Check the schedule – some evenings (especially Fridays/Saturdays) officially become 21+ for dancing. Call if you’re unsure.
**Popular Pitfalls:** A common mistake is arriving too late. For major games or weekend events, lines form at the door 30–60 minutes before kickoff. Another pitfall is assuming plenty of parking. As noted, parking is tough – coming by subway or rideshare is much easier. Finally, don’t just show up hungry at dinner rush without a reservation. The kitchen can get backed up, and you may face a wait if you haven’t booked.
**Best Times to Arrive:** If you have a reservation, arriving 10–15 minutes ahead is fine. But for walk-ups on game nights, arrive early (1–2 hours before start) to grab a good seat or place to stand. Dining only? Try the weekday happy hour (4–7pm) for quieter vibe and specials. After 1am on weekends, the bar is crowded and loud – which is great if you’re there for the party, but not if you need quiet conversation.
**Insider Tips:** Try ordering tickets for special events well in advance; their NYE parties sell out. If you’re a sports fanatic, ask the bartender about phone apps or mailings – they sometimes run boxing or out-of-market soccer watch nights on request. When seated, position yourself near the TV relevant to your sport (ask staff or look at digital signage when you enter). If you’re there for dining, consider splitting a few shareable appetizers; according to reviews the artichoke dip and burger sliders are worth trying. And do sample one of their craft cocktails – Tripadvisor notes the speakeasy-style drinks (like the “Smoked Old Fashioned” or “Hard Cherry Smash”) as memorable😊 (5thandmad.com ) (5thandmad.com ).
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of venue is 5th & Mad and what is its capacity?
5th & Mad is a bi-level sports bar lounge with two full-service bars and a dining area (www.eventective.com ). It’s designed for sports viewing and nightlife. Total capacity is around 600 people (including both floors and private event spaces) (www.eventective.com ) (jetsetvenue.com ). It serves as a casual restaurant by day and turns into a lively bar/club atmosphere at night.
What kinds of events and entertainment does 5th & Mad host?
The venue is best known for live sports viewing (all major games across 30+ HDTVs (cititour.com ) (www.eventective.com )) and nightlife events. Regular programming includes after-work parties, happy hours, and DJs spinning pop/hip-hop music on weekends. They also hold themed parties (for example, holiday bar crawls or NYE events) and private corporate or birthday parties. You’ll often find watch parties for the NFL, NCAA, and international sports with drink specials, as well as open-format DJ nights later in the evening (shotgun.live ) (www.eventective.com ).
How can I reserve a table or buy tickets for events at 5th & Mad?
For ordinary dining or weekly events, there are no “tickets” – you simply walk in or reserve a table. Reservations are highly recommended for dinner and big games, and can be made via their website or by phone (5thandmad.com ). For special parties (New Year’s Eve, themed nights), the venue or its promoters may sell advance tickets or require RSVP – these will be announced on their site or social media. Essentially, booking in advance via their reservation system is best to secure your spot, and you then pay when you order food/drinks.
Where can I find seating charts, and where are the best seats at 5th & Mad?
There is no formal seating chart, as seating is general intake. On the main floor, seats by the long central bar or the front booths have great views of multiple TVs (sideways.nyc ). The mezzanine level offers lounge tables and a second bar for a broader view (good for soaking the atmosphere). For sports events, sitting along the bar or at high tables near screens ensures a full view. If you want a quiet corner, aim for the upper lounge. In any case, arrive early to select the area and table you prefer, since seating is open.
What is the exact location of 5th & Mad, and how do I get there by public transit?
The address is 7 East 36th Street, New York, NY 10016. It sits between Madison Ave and 5th Avenue. For subway riders, the closest stops are the 6 train at 33rd St (Park Ave exit), and the B/D/F/M trains at 42nd/Bryant Park (6th Ave). The N/Q/R/W at 34th/Hearld Square is also a short walk. Several bus lines (like the M34-SBS, M1, etc.) run along 34th near 5th Ave as well. Google Maps or a NYC transit app can give exact directions. Rideshare drop-off can use East 36th St or Madison Ave.
Is there parking at 5th & Mad?
There is no private parking lot attached to the venue. Street parking is very limited (and metered) in this Midtown area. Your best bet is to use public garages: several pay-by-the-hour lots are on nearby streets (e.g. W 35th St or 3rd Ave) through services like SpotHero. Rates in midtown can be \$30+ per hour in peak times. In practice, most patrons take the subway or a cab/rideshare to avoid parking hassles.
Does 5th & Mad have a coat check or lockers?
No dedicated coat check or lockers are advertised. Guests typically place coats or bags under the table or on seat backs. If you have a large group or coat overflow, you can inquire with staff – sometimes they will hold bags behind the bar area unofficially. Carrying a small personal bag is best, as nightlife bars generally do not offer checkroom services.
Is 5th & Mad wheelchair accessible?
Yes. According to venue listings, 5th & Mad is wheelchair accessible (www.eventective.com ). There is an elevator to the mezzanine and barrier-free entrances. Restrooms are also accessible. If you need assistance, it’s a good idea to call ahead, but standard accessibility features are in place.
What are the hours of operation for 5th & Mad?
Typically, 5th & Mad opens in the late afternoon and runs late into the night. The official hours are roughly 4pm–2am Tuesday through Saturday, with earlier opening (around 2pm) on Sundays. (The venue is closed on Monday and early Sunday.) Exact hours can vary, especially for special events or holidays, so it’s wise to check their website or call ahead before you go.
Can I host my own private event or party at 5th & Mad?
Yes. 5th & Mad is equipped for private rentals. They offer spaces like the mezzanine “MAD Bar” (up to ~250 standing) and the private “MAD Room” (20–63 seated) for hire (5thandmad.com ) (jetsetvenue.com ). These can be configured for corporate events, birthdays, wedding parties, etc. Packages often include food, drink, and audio/visual setup (PA/DJ gear is built-in) (www.eventective.com ) (jetsetvenue.com ). To book an event, you would contact the venue’s event staff or fill out an inquiry form on their website. Prices start around \$35–\$65 per person for private party packages (www.eventective.com ), depending on group size and event type.
What kind of food is served at 5th & Mad?
The menu is American comfort fare with a gourmet twist (www.eventective.com ). Expect shareable appetizers and entrees: for example, reviewers mention smash burgers, buffalo cauliflower bites, lobster mac ’n’ cheese, and fresh burrata with seasonal toppings (www.eventective.com ). The kitchen focuses on quality ingredients and fun, shareable dishes – think loaded fries or nachos, hearty salads, and other favorites. Many items are meant for groups (wings, dips, skewers). If you arrive for dinner or game-night munchies, you’ll find classic bar stations with an elevated spin.
Are there any signature dishes or drinks I should try?
Fans often recommend trying their craft cocktails (the menu was curated by a leading mixologist (5thandmad.com )) – one note mentions a well-reviewed Smoked Old Fashioned. On the food side, the smash burger and lobster macaroni-cheese get positive remarks in reviews (www.eventective.com ). For appetizers, the Buffalo cauliflower and burrata salad are popular shares. They also frequently run specials (like dollar-wing nights during big games (cititour.com )), so keep an eye on their announcements. In short, go for their signature cocktails and any sharable menu items that fit the nightly theme (e.g. wings during sports events).
Is there live music or a dance floor?
Yes – while 5th & Mad is primarily a bar and restaurant, it has a built-in DJ booth and sound system. On weekends or special nights, a DJ (or occasionally a band) provides music. The upstairs mezzanine opens up as a dance/lounge area for these events. The space is not large like a nightclub, but it gets lively when music nights are on. If you’re there just for dinner or sports, the music is generally lower-volume, but it’s meant to amp up as the night goes on.
