About Den Social Lounge
Den Social Lounge is a multi-level bar and club located at 65 West 36th Street in Midtown Manhattan (www.newyorkmeal.com ). It combines a sleek cocktail lounge upstairs with private karaoke suites downstairs – reviews describe it as an “upscale multi-level bar lounge with private karaoke rooms” (www.newyorkmeal.com ). The venue’s stylish interior and neon-lit ambience give it a modern, chic vibe perfect for both after-work drinks and late-night dancing. It opened around 2019 and quickly became a notable spot in Koreatown’s nightlife scene. While not historic, it stands out for its Asian-influenced flair: the front space once housed a café (now closed in the evenings) and the décor reflects Korean club culture. Patrons often remark on the polished furnishings and high-energy atmosphere. The lounge is relatively compact but cleverly spread over multiple floors, making it feel more spacious. Overall, Den Social is known for its fun, upscale lounge vibe and its role as one of Koreatown’s go-to nighttime hangouts.
Events and Programming
Den Social’s regular events center on late-night DJ sets and karaoke. On Thursdays through Saturdays the club hosts dance parties well into the night – Friday and Saturday DJs spin Top-40 hits, hip-hop and K-pop until closing (jonesstreetwinebar.com ) (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). The downstairs karaoke rooms (operated by Duet Karaoke) open on Thursday through Saturday evenings (www.densocial.com ) (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). Visitors note that Thursday nights are more relaxed, whereas Fridays and Saturdays turn into a full club mode (“Thursdays are more relaxed, while Fridays and Saturdays are club mode” (www.todobares.com )). Special events do pop up – for example, Den Social advertised a ticketed New Year’s Eve countdown party for 2022 (www.newyorkmeal.com ). In normal weeks there is usually a $20 cover charge to enter on weekends (www.atly.com ), while early or weekday nights may have little or no cover. In busy times the staff might offer VIP upgrades (with higher minimums) to guests in line. Check the venue’s announcements or website for any limited-capacity or advance-sale events, but generally you can just pay at the door or arrive with your reservation details for table service.
Tickets and Booking
Den Social does not have a box office or ongoing online ticket sales. For most nights, you simply pay cover at the entrance to get in (around $20 on Friday/Saturday) (www.atly.com ). If you want a reserved table or bottle service, you must book in advance. The venue’s events staff handles group reservations and VIP packages – they can be contacted via the official website or the events email. The club advises booking ahead when possible: for instance, when it reopened it noted that “reservations are recommended as seating capacity is limited” (www.newyorkmeal.com ). If you’re a casual guest, the simplest approach is to just show up (ideally before peak weekend hours) and pay cover on arrival. For guaranteed seating or a quieter space, calling or emailing ahead to reserve a table is wise. In summary: regular-party nights are mostly walk-up entry (cover at door), and special billets or tables require advance coordination through the venue.
Seating and Layout
The interior is divided into multiple levels rather than a single open floor. At street level is a small entry and lounge/café area (now mostly dormant at night). Going up a few steps leads to the main bar and dance floor. This central level is where most of the action happens – a long bar lines one wall, with high-top tables and couches around a dance space. Behind or above the bar area there is typically a raised VIP mezzanine or balcony with booth seating for bottle service. The layout is mostly open – there are no fixed theater seats – so you can stand by the bar, sit on the couches, or dance. Downstairs is entirely private karaoke rooms (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). One early review even mentioned it has “a separate karaoke lounge on the lower level” (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). Those rooms are soundproof booths with their own screens and microphones, designed for small groups. Acoustically, it’s set up like a club, so expect loud music and some echo in the main room. If you want to hear clearly, staying near the bar or off to the side may be better than directly by the speakers. The restrooms and coat check are on the main (dance) floor. In short, Den Social’s small capacity and open-floor plan means it can get packed by midnight, and the “best” spot really depends on your goal (dancing near the DJ vs. chilling on a couch).
Getting There and Parking
Den Social Lounge is easy to reach by public transport. The closest subway stops are 34th Street–Herald Square (serving the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W trains) and 34th Street–Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E trains), both about 2–3 blocks away. It’s in the Koreatown area, just south of Herald Sq. Several Manhattan buses (for example, the M34 crosstown) also stop on or near 34th–36th Street. If driving, note that there is no private parking. Street parking in Midtown is very limited after dark; you would have to use a commercial garage (there are many near W 34th and 35th Streets). A safer option is to take a taxi or rideshare – drivers can drop you off on W 36th St right in front of the club. Because the area is busy, always allow extra time for travel, especially on weekend nights.
Inside the Venue
At the door you’ll be greeted by security for ID parsing. Once inside, expect a nightclub vibe: low lights, loud music, and a mix of standing and lounge seating. The main bar is prominent; bartenders serve cocktails, beer, wine and spirits. Reviewers remark that the bar’s service is attentive – one noted “the music was good and the drinks were solid,” with staff promptly bringing water and mixers (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). The drink menu focuses on creative cocktails (with an Asian twist) and classic favorites. For example, one guest mentioned that the whiskey highball was “a must try” (jonesstreetwinebar.com ), indicating barre of well-liked house drinks. If you’re at a table, staff will often take orders via a mobile app (one party said the staff “walked me through using their app, Apollo ID, to order bottles” (jonesstreetwinebar.com )). Bottle service is common; people buying whole bottles can stay seated. The venue does accept credit cards and NFC payments (their listing explicitly says “Accepts credit cards, debit cards and NFC mobile payments” (jonesstreetwinebar.com )), so you won’t need cash for drinks. Restrooms (including a wheelchair-accessible one (jonesstreetwinebar.com )) are upstairs near the bar. Coat check is available by the entrance for a small fee. Den Social doesn’t serve full meals, just bar snacks or quick bites; it’s not a sit-down restaurant. Also, plan to use your phone’s data – there is no public Wi-Fi listed for guests. In brief: bring ID and a card, expect a fun but loud club atmosphere with a full bar and convenient bottle-service ordering.
Nearby Amenities
The lounge is surrounded by Koreatown’s restaurants and shops. A block or two away you’ll find many Korean delis, barbecue spots, ramen shops and cafés – for example, Jongro 35 and Hanjan are popular dinner options nearby. There are also plenty of pizza, burger and sushi places on 33rd–36th Streets if you want a quick bite. If you arrive early, you can dine at one of these before heading in. For accommodations, Midtown hotels are plentiful: chains like Hilton Garden Inn (W 35th St) or Pod 39 (E 39th St) and several boutique hotels fall within a 5–10 minute walk. Times Square hotels (YOTEL, The Row NYC, etc.) are 8–10 blocks north and also convenient. The area is very walkable and busy late, so pre- or post-show you can easily grab a coffee or walk to nearby Bryant Park or Times Square. Taxis and Ubers are easy to catch from this busy neighborhood, and subways run late – you have many choices for late-night transit.
What Makes This Venue Special
Den Social stands out as one of Koreatown’s trendiest new clubs. It is praised for being “modern, chic, sexy, luxurious, and fun” (jonesstreetwinebar.com ) all at once, creating a high-end lounge feel. Guests love the hybrid atmosphere: you can dance on a packed floor one minute, then belt out pop songs in a private booth the next. Reviewers say the place “does it right” (jonesstreetwinebar.com ) as an upscale lounge, noting the “great vibes” and “good crowd” with “hiphop music” (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). It’s considered the “saving grace” of NYC nightlife by at least one fan (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). This dual character – stylish club upstairs with intimate karaoke downstairs – is unique in NYC. It caters to both diners who enjoy late cocktails in a lounge setting and night owls who want to sing or dance until 3am. In short, Den Social’s blend of a polished lounge and a karaoke bar, along with friendly service and a central location, has made it a memorable fixture on the city’s nightlife map.
Visitor Tips and Information
Dress Code & ID: Den Social attracts a well-dressed crowd. Smart-casual attire is expected on busy nights – nice jeans or slacks, stylish tops or collared shirts. Avoid gym clothes, sandals or overly casual gear. In fact, one review mentioned that staff would look at how a group was dressed when deciding entry (www.todobares.com ). The club typically enforces a 21+ policy (ID required). Always bring a valid photo ID to gain entry and order drinks.
Accessibility: The club has taken basic ADA measures. There is at least one wheelchair-accessible restroom on the main floor (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). The main entry and bar area are accessible, but the basement karaoke rooms are down a flight of stairs (no public elevator), so those rooms may not be reachable for all. If you or someone in your party needs assistance, it’s best to call ahead.
What to Bring: You don’t need to carry much. Bring your ID and a payment method (cards are accepted (jonesstreetwinebar.com )). A jacket check is available near the entrance (small fee). Outside food or drinks are strictly prohibited by venue policy. If you plan to drink, you can order at the bar or at your table (bottle service comes with mixers). Keep your coat or bag checked if you have them – large bags might need to be checked once inside. Also keep a reasonable cover charge ($20 or so) in mind if you’re paying cash, though credit is fine for drinks.
Entry Tips: To avoid lines, aim to arrive earlier in the evening. Doors open around 5pm on Thursdays and around 10:30pm on Fridays/Saturdays (close to 3am). If you have a reservation, arrive by your booked time (one group noted arriving by 10:50pm because tables might be reassigned otherwise (jonesstreetwinebar.com )). Thursdays tend to be quieter, so you may even get in with minimal wait. On busy nights, be prepared for a cover charge and possible ID scan. Taxis and Ubers can drop you directly at the club door (65 W 36th St). After partying, the subways and buses still run in the area late, and Times Square is just a short walk north, so you’ll have options to get home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cover charge or admission fee?
Yes. On busy weekend nights Den Social typically charges about a $20 cover to enter (www.atly.com ). (Special events or holidays could cost more.) One visitor noted that during peak times, guests in line were sometimes offered a VIP upgrade for higher entry fees (www.todobares.com ). Arriving early, on slower nights, or with a reservation can help minimize cover surprises.
How do I book tickets or reserve a table?
For general admission, you usually just pay at the door rather than buy tickets in advance. To reserve a table or bottle service, contact Den Social directly (via their website or events email). The club notes that “reservations are recommended as seating capacity is limited” (www.newyorkmeal.com ). In practice, book early for tables; for big events, watch their announcements in case any tickets become available.
What are the hours of operation?
Den Social Lounge is typically open only Thu–Sat nights. Official hours are roughly Thursday 5:00pm–2:00am, and Friday/Saturday from about 10:30pm–3:00am (www.densocial.com ). It does not operate Sunday-Wednesday. (Holiday hours may vary.)
How can I get to Den Social Lounge via public transit?
The lounge is in Koreatown, midtown Manhattan. The nearest subway stops are 34th Street–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W lines) and 34th Street–Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E), both a few blocks away. Crosstown buses (like the M34) run on nearby 34th St. Rideshare or taxis can drop you off on W 36th St in front of the club.
Is there parking available?
There is no private parking lot. Street parking in Midtown is very limited and usually metered or timed. If you drive, look for a nearby garage (many are on W 34th–35th St between 5th and 6th Avenues). Otherwise use a taxi or rideshare to avoid parking hassles.
What is the dress code?
The dress code is smart-casual. Men usually wear nice jeans or slacks with a button-down or fashionable shirt; women wear dresses or dressy tops. Athletic attire, flip-flops, or overly casual gear are discouraged. One review specifically mentioned staff checking how well a group was dressed when letting them in (www.todobares.com ), so dressing up increases your chances of smooth entry.
What is the age requirement and do I need ID?
Like most nightclubs, Den Social requires guests to be 21 and over to be served alcohol. Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) is checked at the entrance. Make sure everyone in your party has ID. Policies can change, so it’s safest to plan on being 21+.
Does Den Social Lounge have a coat check?
Yes. There is a coat check near the entrance for a small fee. It’s recommended to use it if you have any jackets or large bags for the duration of the night.
Can I bring outside food or drinks?
No. Outside food or beverages are not allowed. Den Social only serves its own drinks and bar snacks. If you need to eat, it’s best to dine before coming or grab food at nearby restaurants or street vendors.
Is Den Social Lounge wheelchair accessible?
The lounge has basic accessibility. There is a wheelchair-accessible restroom on the main level (jonesstreetwinebar.com ) and an elevator to floors. However, the karaoke rooms are in a basement and may only be reachable by stairs. If you need accommodations, it’s wise to call ahead.
Can I take photos inside?
Casual snapshots on your phone are typically fine. Remember that busy nightlife venues often ask guests not to use flash or block others. Professional photography or video (more than a smartphone) would generally need prior permission. Respect other guests’ privacy.
Is there Wi-Fi available for guests?
Den Social does not advertise free Wi-Fi for customers. You should assume you need to use your own phone data connection while there.
What kind of music is played at Den Social Lounge?
Expect contemporary club music. The DJs usually play a mix of hip-hop, dance, Top 40 and popular K-pop. One review praised the high-energy music, summarizing it as “hiphop music, all you need” (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). Local DJs (for example, DJ Jon) keep the party going with today’s hits and party remixes (jonesstreetwinebar.com ).
Does Den Social offer VIP or bottle service?
Yes. Den Social provides VIP tables with bottle service for larger groups. If you reserve a table, you can order liquor bottles with mixers and a server will bring drinks. (This is what some reviewers meant when describing VIP upgrades in exchange for extra fee (www.todobares.com ).) General admission guests do not get a reserved table, but they can join in the dancing or stand by the bar.
What are Den Social’s signature cocktails or drink recommendations?
The menu features a full bar. While there isn’t an online menu, reviewers have praised specific drinks. For example, one patron said the lounge’s whiskey highball was "a must try" (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). Expect creative Asian-inspired cocktails, classic mixed drinks, sake/soju options (reflecting the locale), wine and beer. The highballs, slushies or colorful cocktails are popular.
Does Den Social Lounge accept credit cards and contactless payment?
Yes. The lounge accepts major credit and debit cards, and even mobile NFC payments. Their listing explicitly notes acceptance of credit cards and mobile payments (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). So you can easily use a card or phone watch to pay for drinks or tickets.
What is the best time to arrive?
To avoid crowds, consider arriving near opening time. On Thursdays the club may open around 5pm and is usually quiet until later evening. On Fridays/Saturdays, doors open ~10:30pm – arriving by 11pm is wise if you have a reservation, since tables may be reallocated after that (jonesstreetwinebar.com ). Late hours (after midnight) tend to draw lines, so earlier arrival (or a reservation) ensures quicker entry.
What is the smoking policy?
Smoking is not allowed inside. By New York law, indoor smoking is banned. If guests wish to smoke, they must step outside onto the sidewalk away from the entrance. Always be mindful of neighboring businesses when smoking.
