About Red Eye NY
Red Eye NY is a four-story café-bar and nightclub in Hell’s Kitchen (midtown Manhattan) founded by veteran nightlife producers. Opened in early 2022 at 355 W 41st Street, it was conceived as a **“round-the-clock” queer community space** (w42st.com ) (sesh.sx ). Owners Daniel Nardicio (of Club Cumming fame) along with partners Taylor Shubert, Sam Benedict and Adam Klesh rebuilt the old Tobacco Road dive bar into a 24/7 venue offering coffee and coworking by day, and live entertainment by night (w42st.com ) (sesh.sx ). As one press guide put it, Red Eye becomes “a caffeinated queer wonderland that morphs from coffee bar to cocktail playground,” where “executes brewed espressos…during the day” and after dark features espresso-inspired cocktails and live drag shows, with *“everyone invited to the party until 4am”* (w42st.com ) (app.w42st.com ). In other words, it’s designed to feel at once like a bright community café and an all-night nightclub, uniting a classic 90’s-style café vibe with high-production nightlife. Reviewers emphasize this dual nature – for example, Time Out quips that it’s “a coffee bar by day…along with cabaret, drag and burlesque performances” at night (www.timeout.com ). Local promoters even nickname it “REDNY”, stylizing it after the idea of a non-stop red-eye flight: co-owner Sam Benedict explained, “Red Eye is a cruisy terminal by day…after dark it’s like you’re getting on a red eye flight…you’re going all night!” (instinctmagazine.com ).
Architecturally, Red Eye blends retro kitsch with sleek modern design. SESH (a nightlife guide) notes it “features a central stage, dance floor, and VIP areas” that accommodate both wild club nights and intimate cabaret shows (sesh.sx ). The interior décor is described as a playful mashup of neon and lounge – think bold colors, theater-style seating in angles, and plenty of theatrical flair. Even the tagline hints at this: W42ST highlights that Red Eye’s design is “from the minds behind legendary NYC nightlife,” ensuring it looks sharper than your average Times Square dive (app.w42st.com ). In fact, one local guide stresses “this isn’t your typical Times Square tourist trap – it’s a full-service entertainment experience where highly caffeinated meets highly entertaining” (app.w42st.com ) (app.w42st.com ). The club has reportedly been stripped to the studs and fully rebuilt in recent years, with the owners pouring concrete, installing new systems and even helping with minor finishing tasks (sideways.nyc ). The result is a gleaming multi-level playground: a street-level coffee bar, an upstairs lounge and performance room, and a downstairs dance club (often called The Cockpit) for late-night parties. In total the site seats only about 72 guests at a time (patch.com ) (the rest of the space is filled by bars, aisles and standing room), emphasizing its intimate, local feel rather than tourist scale.
The address itself carries history: it was once home to the legendary “Show Lounge” and later Tobacco Road, a grungy bikini bar and concert venue where jazz greats like Thelonious Monk and Etta James once played (sideways.nyc ). Tobacco Road closed in 2017 after financial troubles (www.dnainfo.com ), leaving an empty shell that the Red Eye team aimed to revive. Now, that legacy lives on in homage: owners proudly cite the building’s musical past and even plan to incorporate rehearsal space and streaming studios into the club (sideways.nyc ) (instinctmagazine.com ). In short, Red Eye matters because it revives a historic nightlife site with a bold new concept. It marries Hell’s Kitchen’s storied gay-bar traditions with a fresh 21st-century vision: a creative all-day hangout that promises *something for everyone* – one local enthusiast raved that “Red Eye has it all. It’s a coffee shop, it’s a cabaret space, it’s an event venue, it’s a club…something for everyone!” (app.w42st.com ) – while remaining firmly welcoming to the city’s LGBTQ+ community and its allies.
Events and Programming
Red Eye NY runs an almost nightly schedule of queer-centric entertainment. By day the space hosts low-key programming like writer meetups, a live podcast taping (“Thotlight” podcast’s weekly recording), and even open rehearsal/performance workshops (thotyssey.com ) (sideways.nyc ). After hours it shifts sharply into nightclub mode. Expect a wide variety of performances: nightly DJ dance parties (genres range from house and disco to techno) (ra.co ) (ra.co ), live cabaret shows, drag performances and specialty theme nights. For example, one anniversary flyer lists regular series like **Good Friday** dance nights, a LatinDJ series called **Yuva**, and queer pageants like “Leather & Lace MX” (a mixes of kink and ballet). Many nights even have niche themes: **“Madonna Worship Night”** (a tongue-in-cheek Madonna tribute party) and **“Stage Fright” with Marti Gould Cummings** (a monthly Broadway/horror-themed cabaret series) are among the regular repertoire (ra.co ) (app.w42st.com ). In short, the program is delightfully eclectic. Promoters often feature internationally-known burlesque and drag artists, Broadway performers, or indie electronic DJs as headliners. Post-pandemic they even maintain a small TV studio/streaming setup, producing digital variety shows and livestreams of events to wherever their audience is (instinctmagazine.com ) (thotyssey.com ).
Parties frequently run late: Red Eye is known for New York’s legendary “after hours.” Promoters like **Sanctum** throw marathon sets that start in the early morning hours – for example, one techno event was advertised as running *4:30am–12pm* on a Sunday morning (ra.co ). In practice the club’s door often opens each night around 8–10pm, with dancing going past midnight and on weekends sometimes until 3–4am (last call). Ticket covers are usually modest; for instance a recent fetish dance night at The Cockpit had a $15 cover plus $5 coat check (ra.co ). Smaller weekly events may waive cover, while big-name DJs or performers can push advance tickets up to $25–40. Because seating is very limited and many shows sell out, early booking is wise. Most official ticket releases come through the venue’s own channels or affiliated promoters – in other words, follow Red Eye NY’s official announcements for presales or on-sale dates. Door sales remain common if space permits, but arriving early (especially on busy nights) is recommended to ensure entry and snag good spots.
Seating and Layout
As a compact multi-floor club, Red Eye’s layout reflects its hybrid café/club identity. The ground floor houses the coffee bar, a few communal tables and banquettes, and a main bar counter. Here you’ll find espresso machines, pastry displays and cafe seating by day, which convert into lounge seating and cocktail tables by night. Upstairs (the second floor) is the main performance level, centered around a modest stage. This area has scattered bistro tables and chairs arranged facing the stage, plus a standing club zone and a second bar. The decor includes plush banquettes, theatrical lighting, and quirky kitsch (old-timey posters, neon signs, and so on) that give it a nostalgic cabaret feel. The staircase leads down to a lower level known as **The Cockpit**, Red Eye’s energetic basement dance room. The Cockpit is mostly open floor with minimal seating; it serves as the rave-style club space for full-on parties and drag shows. (The name itself – The Cockpit – cues its after-hours club vibe (ra.co ).) In short, the venue has three distinct zones: the street-level café/bar, the upstairs stage lounge, and the downstairs dance floor.
Because the crowd size is deliberately kept small (roughly 72 seats total (patch.com )), even the “balcony” or back area isn’t far from the action. Sightlines to the stage are generally good from any seated table, and there’s often no bad spot – though for the clearest view of a performance or DJ set, grabbing a front-row table or standing near center stage is ideal. For DJ parties in the basement, the best dancing area is in the middle floor by the speakers, while edges near the bars offer a slightly quieter vantage. Whereas some clubs have big dead zones, Red Eye’s compact design means listeners hear the sound clearly all around – though be aware that the music (and bass in the Cockpit) can get quite loud. The stage area upstairs is well-lit for shows, so avoid standing directly against pillars or under overhead rigging if you want an unobstructed view. If you prefer sitting, the stage-level chairs will usually be closer to any singer or drag performer, while people near the snack bar and front windows (if any) get a cozier, cafe-like experience. In practice, any spot works: one reviewer put it simply, “Red Eye has it all. It’s a coffee shop, it’s a cabaret space, it’s an event venue, it’s a club…something for everyone!” (app.w42st.com ).
Getting There and Parking
Red Eye NY sits at 355 West 41st Street, between 8th and 9th Avenues, just east of the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Street parking in midtown is extremely limited and usually metered or garage-only; there is no dedicated venue lot. The easiest way to arrive is via public transit. The 42nd Street–Port Authority (A/C/E subway and numerous bus lines) is only about a 3-minute walk north (www.tripadvisor.com ). Times Square–42nd Street station (1/2/3/7/N/Q/R/W lines) is about 7 minutes on foot (www.tripadvisor.com ). In other words, nearly any Midtown subway or bus will get you within a few blocks. If you’re driving, consider parking garages on nearby 9th Avenue (between 40th and 42nd Streets) or the Port Authority garage; but expect high rates (often $30+ for an evening). Taxis and rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are convenient – you can easily be dropped off at the corner of 41st & 8th. For example, Google maps confirms the address as 355 W 41st St (www.tripadvisor.com ), so any driver or navigator app will bring you right to the front doors. Note also that the M42 crosstown bus stops on 42nd at 9th Avenue if you prefer a bus, and during late-night hours the 1/2/3 train runs all night. If you plan to stay until closing (4am), remember the last subways on most Bronx-bound routes run a bit after midnight; late-night buses and 24-hour lines (A/C/E downtown, or the N/Q/R local) are the backup if you miss the train.
Inside the Venue
Expect a lively, friendly atmosphere with a Hollywood-on-the-Hudson flair. On arrival you’ll be greeted by a host or bartender who checks IDs (Red Eye is 21+ for alcohol, with a valid photo ID required). The dress code is casual to club-chic – in practice clubgoers will wear anything from jeans and sneakers to more flamboyant drag and costume attire, depending on the event. Photography and phones are allowed (and encouraged for selfies) but common courtesy is advised during performances. Bag policy is typically loose (small purses are fine, but large backpacks may need to be checked). During winter months a coat check is available (often for a few dollars).
By day, the vibe is relaxed and bright. The front café serves craft coffee (the team prides itself on “expertly pulled espressos” and unique java concoctions (app.w42st.com )), tea, pastries and light breakfast fare (patrons have noted menu items like bagels, egg sandwiches and fresh juices (patch.com )). There’s usually complimentary Wi-Fi, since many guests come to **work or meet up** over coffee. You’ll see laptops on tables and hear upbeat conversation rather than dance music. The bar also offers non-alcoholic drinks and juices during these hours.
Once night falls, the lights dim and the party begins. The same bar transforms into a full liquor service station. The cocktail menu is espresso-themed: besides Martinis and mules, expect signature drinks infused with Red Eye’s rich coffee roasts. Beer and wine by the glass are also available. Seating shrinks as more room opens for mingling; staff might clear some tables if the dance floor fills up. Restrooms (usually separate men’s/women’s on the main floor, with one accessible by the stairs) are small but adequate. Merchandise like T-shirts or event posters may be on display; feel free to ask the bartender (some nights there’s a branded pop-up shop area). In summary: be prepared to enjoy excellent coffee or cocktails, friendly servers who know the queer nightlife scene, and an energetic, music-filled environment. The owners even joke that the cafe doubles as a “terminal” – and indeed, with a roster of DJs spinning and a 4am close, it often feels South Street on fire!
Nearby Amenities
Red Eye’s Midtown location means many conveniences are steps away. Within a block or two you’ll find a wide range of restaurants. For quick pre-show bites there are delis, pizza shops and casual diners on 8th and 9th Avenues (fish-and-chips, Greek gyros, Chinese takeout, etc.). Upscale options line Restaurant Row at West 46th (steakhouses, sushi spots) if you want a nicer dinner before hitting the club. Coffee and fast food chains on 42nd Street (like Starbucks, Pret A Manger) are right around the corner too. Bar options are plentiful: nearby Hell’s Kitchen lounges include cozy pubs on 9th Avenue, a few craft cocktail bars on 42nd, and gay-friendly clubs like Industry Bar a few blocks north. For late-night eats, street food trucks often park along 9th Avenue into the early AM.
If you need lodging, dozens of hotels are in the vicinity. Directly across 42nd Street sits the Port Authority, and on 43rd/44th there are chain hotels (Marriott, Westin, etc.) – you can literally walk to Red Eye in 5–10 minutes from the Theatre District or Times Square hotels (www.tripadvisor.com ). Budget options like the Row NYC or boutique inns on 38th/39th offer cheaper stays just a bit east. In short, anyone visiting NYC Theatre District or Midtown will find Red Eye within easy walking distance. Late-night transportation is not a problem: after a show, you can hail a cab on 41st, grab a 42nd St Crosstown bus at the corner, or walk to the 1/2/3 or A/C/E stations in about 5–10 minutes. If you arrive very early in the evening, you might grab happy hour specials at nearby bars (many Irish pubs and sports bars on 8th Ave have discounts until 7pm). All in all, plan to arrive **at least 30 minutes before** any busy event to enjoy dinner or drinks locally; after midnight you’ll mostly rely on subways (the N/Q/R stay open late, or the Port Authority buses run 24/7) to head home.
What Makes This Venue Special
Red Eye stands out for its *hybrid identity* and its full embrace of New York’s LGBTQ arts scene. It is one of the few places in the city combining a daytime café/workspace vibe with a 4am nightclub schedule, creating a unique “day-to-night” continuity. The phrase “caffeinated nightclub” is sometimes used because a coffee cup logo adorns its sign and because espresso literally flows alongside beats. Its programming and ownership reinforce that uniqueness. For example, Daniel Nardicio’s streetwise hosting pedigree is evident in the high-glam drag and burlesque shows, while Taylor Shubert’s background in theatrical production shows up in the elaborate staged acts. Fans have noted that on any given night you might see both a dance party and a theater piece: as one attendee enthused, “Red Eye has it all” – from punk-rock cabaret to disco club to queer pageant, “there is something for everyone!” (app.w42st.com ). Another reviewer marveled that it’s a **bar AND a coffee bar AND an after-hours basement** – truly “a place that can transform into so many things, from a cabaret venue to a raging disco” (app.w42st.com ). In other words, Red Eye refuses to be pigeonholed.
There’s also a strong social mission. The ownership team has openly said they want the “pink dollar” to stay within the queer community; they pledged to speak with a unified activist voice and to source vendors from LGBTQ-owned businesses whenever possible (sideways.nyc ). This conscious focus on inclusivity means the crowd mix truly feels safe and celebratory. The décor even highlights queer history: glam posters and neon art nod to New York’s rainbow heritage. In sum, Red Eye’s special character comes from its **all-day eclecticism and local soul**. As one local guide put it, this is nowhere near a Times Square tourist trap, but rather a “full-service entertainment experience” where artists and audiences mingle across genres (app.w42st.com ). It has quickly become a Hell’s Kitchen hub – a place where beloved queens and underground DJs get to experiment in a way they couldn’t at the old bars farther downtown (instinctmagazine.com ). Five years from now the owners hope it remains “the space performers are most excited to work at” and a “NYC staple” for nightlife (instinctmagazine.com ) – a role it is already fulfilling by reviving a historic venue with a forward-looking vision.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age & ID: Red Eye is primarily a 21-and-over venue. Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) for entry – bartenders will check it. No under-21s (even during daytime). Doors & Arrival: For indoor events, doors usually open around 8–9pm. If you have advance tickets, arrive early to guarantee getting in (especially on weekends). Many shows have general admission seating, so first-come seating (or dancing spot) is head’s-up – but staff can guide you. Dress Code: Generally there is no strict dress code, but think NYC nightlife: smart casual or club attire. You’ll see a mix (jeans and sneakers to high heels and sequins). Costumes and drag dress are absolutely welcome if it fits the event’s theme. Be comfortable – you might be standing and dancing for hours. Bags & Belongings: Smaller bags or purses are fine. Large backpacks or bulky items might be asked to be checked at coat check (a small fee, often $3–$5). Phones and cameras are allowed, though be mindful if someone asks you to pause recording during a performance. Wi-Fi is typically available for daytime visitors, but it may become spotty when the club is full. Food & Drink: Outside food/drink is not allowed, but Red Eye has plenty to offer: coffees, pastries and light bites by day, then a full cocktail menu at night. If you want dinner first, visit a nearby restaurant – but avoid heavy meals right before dancing late into the night. Accessibility: A street-level entrance is available, but note that the main performance and bar areas are on upper/lower floors accessible only by stairs. If wheelchair access is needed, contact the venue in advance (they may have limited ground-level seating and an accessible restroom). Other: Smoking is not allowed indoors (NYC law). Remember that shows often run past midnight – plan your trip home ahead of time. Taxis and rideshares can pick up on 41st Street; the M42 bus runs crosstown at 42nd Street 24/7, and major subway lines (1/2/3, A/C/E) are a short walk away. Lastly, expect a friendly doorman and staff – Red Eye is known for its welcoming vibe. Treat the space with respect (it’s a historic site newly revived) and join in the fun: this is a venue built by and for the community, where every guest is invited “to the party until 4am” (app.w42st.com ).
How can I get tickets for shows at Red Eye NY?
Most Red Eye events sell tickets online through the club’s official announcements or affiliated promoters. Check the Red Eye NY website or social media for presale links and on-sale dates. Advance purchase is advised for popular nights, since seats are limited. Many events also allow walk-in same-day doors sales if space remains. In some cases a cover charge (often $10–$20) is collected at the door (ra.co ).
What is the typical ticket price or cover for Red Eye NY events?
Cover charges are usually modest. For general club nights and dance parties expect around $10–$20 (some advertised example: one late-night event listed a $15 door fee plus $5 for coat check (ra.co )). Specialty acts or festival events may cost more. During daytime or off-peak events, tickets may even be free or donation-based. Drinks prices are typical NYC bar range (usually $10 and up for cocktails). Always check the specific event info for exact pricing.
Is there a box office or walk-up ticket window at Red Eye NY?
Red Eye does not have a traditional box office window. Entry is handled by staff at the door. You can buy tickets at the door for many shows (subject to availability). For events with plated seating or limited capacity, early online sales may be offered and then ticket scanning is done on entry. In any case, you can usually purchase admission when you arrive unless the event has sold out online.
What are Red Eye NY’s hours of operation?
Red Eye is designed to operate around the clock. In practice, the coffee bar opens in the morning (usually around 7–9am) and runs continuously through the day, then night events start around 8–10pm and wind down by 3–4am (last call). Patrons often joke it’s like a 24-hour airport lounge. Keep in mind that if visiting very early in the day, the vibe is more cafe/coworking; after dusk it fully transforms into nightclub mode.
What is the exact address of Red Eye NY, and which subway lines serve it?
Red Eye NY is at 355 West 41st Street, New York, NY 10036 (between 8th and 9th Avenues). The closest subway stop is Port Authority (at 42nd St and 8th) on the A/C/E lines – about a 3-minute walk (www.tripadvisor.com ). Times Square–42nd St station (1/2/3/7/N/Q/R/W) is about 7 minutes away by foot (www.tripadvisor.com ). Several buses (e.g. the M42 crosstown) also stop on 42nd Street nearby. Essentially any Midtown Manhattan train or bus will put you within a few blocks.
Is parking available at or near Red Eye NY?
There is no dedicated parking lot for Red Eye. Street parking in midtown is extremely limited and mostly metered (check pay stations on 40th/41st) or regulated. If you drive, your best bet is a commercial parking garage: there are a few on 9th Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets, and the Port Authority bus terminal has a long-term lot. Expect to pay $20–40 for several hours. In general, public transit or rideshare (drop-offs on 41st St at 8th/9th) is far easier.
Is Red Eye NY wheelchair accessible?
The venue is in an older building, so accessibility is partial. The ground-floor cafe/bar area is at street level, but the main performance space and basement are reached by stairs. There is an accessible restroom on the first floor. If wheelchair access is required, it’s best to call ahead. The staff may be able to accommodate a reservation in the accessible section of the cafe, but note that full access to the upstairs lounge or downstairs club areas is not wheelchair-friendly without assistance.
What is the seating arrangement and layout at Red Eye NY?
Red Eye has multiple levels. The street-level cafe has tables and chairs near the windows and a main bar. Upstairs is a second-floor lounge with a small stage; this area has scattered tables, booth seating and standing space around the stage. The lower level (basement “Cockpit”) is mostly open dancing floor with few stools along the bar. In short, it’s a mix of seated dining-style tables and open club space. Seating is general admission (no reserved table unless noted for special shows). The capacity is small (about 72 seats total (patch.com ) plus standing room). Good sight lines can be found from the front rows of tables or the dance floor center under the disco lights – avoid docking near pillars or at the far back if you want an unobstructed view.
Are children or minors allowed at Red Eye NY?
No, Red Eye is an adult entertainment venue. Guests must be 21 or older to enter, even during daytime hours (since the sales of alcohol is central to the business). You will need to show a photo ID at the door every time. The programming (cabaret, drag, dancing) is aimed at adults, so families or children are not permitted on event nights.
What is the dress code at Red Eye NY?
There is no strict dress code, but NYC nightclub attire is expected. Patrons typically wear smart casual or clubwear: nice jeans or slacks, stylish tops, and good shoes. Many guests dress up in glitter, heels or themed costumes for special nights (you'll see everything from drag to casual chic). Because you may be dancing, wear something comfortable. Avoid dirty athletic wear or flip-flops if possible, but really the venue’s atmosphere is very relaxed – just aim to look put-together.
Can I bring a camera or use my phone to take photos at Red Eye NY?
Yes, you can take photos or videos with a phone or camera (no invited restrictions unless a specific show requests no cameras). Many guests film and post their outfits and performances. Just be courteous when filming – for example, photographers often step aside during live acts unless it’s an official photo night. Remember Flash is allowed (even ballroom-style strobes used) – just be mindful that others are there to enjoy the performance.
What food and drink options are available at Red Eye NY?
Red Eye functions as a full bar. By day it offers quality coffee drinks (espresso, lattes, cappuccinos), tea, juices and light fare like pastries, bagel sandwiches and fruit bowls (patch.com ). At night you’ll find a wide cocktail menu with house specialties (many are espresso- or coffee-themed), plus beer, wine and spirits. Light snacks (chips, nuts) are available on request. There’s no kitchen for full meals, so many guests eat before coming. The focus is definitely on drinks – but you won’t go hungry if you want a coffee and a slice of quiche or similar around mid-day.
Does Red Eye NY offer Wi-Fi or charging for devices?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for customers during daytime hours (useful when the café is open to 8pm). This makes it possible to work on laptops or stream music quietly in the lounge area. Power outlets and USB charging ports are moderately available at some tables, but can be limited during peak hours. Ask a server if you need a spot near an outlet. Late at night when the crowds arrive, Wi-Fi may get slower, but phones and cameras generally still work fine.
Are pets or service animals allowed in Red Eye NY?
Only certified service animals (like ADA dogs) are allowed inside; this is an indoor nightclub & lounge, so other pets (dogs, cats, etc.) are not permitted. Service animals will need to stay under control and voiceless, as with any public venue. Because of the food service and late-night environment, additional pets or emotional support animals are not admitted.
When should I arrive for a show at Red Eye NY?
If you have a ticket, plan to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the listed start time. This ensures you clear security and get a good spot. For popular events, lines can form early. If it’s a small ticketed show or dinner seating, even 45 minutes early might be wise. Once inside, events tend to run on schedule, so arriving late could mean missing an opener. On casual nights, you might slide in a bit later, but the best practice is early arrival for seating and convenience.
Where can I find pre-show dining or drink spots near Red Eye NY?
Hell’s Kitchen is loaded with options. Just a block away, 9th Avenue has many restaurants: Greek and Mediterranean diners, sushi bars, casual Italian pizzerias, Korean BBQ spots, and pubs. If you’re on a budget, places like a pizza corner or a noodle house on 8th Avenue (at 41st/42nd) are popular. For quick bites, a deli or a local bagel shop on the nearby corner is handy. Happy hour specials are common in nearby bars until 7pm. If you want something upscale, you could walk to Restaurant Row (West 46th) for steakhouses or trendy bistros. Most guests try to finish eating at least 30 minutes before showtime, since it can get noisy (though the coffee shop is open for snacks right before dark). After the show, 24-hour diners on 9th or the Port Authority food court (just north) are open late for a nightcap or snack.
