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BA53MENT Brings Glamour to the New York Lounge

The Midtown Manhattan speakeasy at 53 ran by Ahmass Fakahany, Executive Chef Mark Yu and Head Bartender Aaron Kim is remarkable elevation.

by ElizaBeth Taylor September 12, 2025
by ElizaBeth Taylor September 12, 2025 0 comments
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It’s the new Roaring 20s for a modern generation at BA53MENT.

Go down the elevator at the famed 53 in Midtown Manhattan and get elevated with an exquisite experience at this remarkable speakeasy.

The hidden sanctuary beneath the floors and next to the MOMA is not just another late-night bar to pop into. Rather, it’s a place that the residents of the Big Apple will frequent and the visitor will fondly remember because it produces good vibes, incredible culinary expressions, and some of the swankiest cocktails you have ever had.

Fall in love this autumn season with BA53MENT and all of the wonderful offerings. An intimate, subterranean room at 53 at 53 W 53rd Street is conceived by restaurateur Ahmass Fakahany, with Executive Chef Mark Yu leading the kitchen and Head Bartender Aaron Kim at the helm of its innovative beverage program. Step behind the iconic red door and discover this outstanding immersive lounge of craft cocktails and culinary creativity.

Chef  Yu puts his heart into feeding you a world of sophisticated wonder. A dish satisfies your cravings as much as it tantalizes your mind as you experience his masterful expressions.  A menu of light bites complements the cocktail-forward experience with bold, luxurious flavors rooted in global inspiration. Highlights include Nori Furikake Corn with wasabi soy and mayo; Duck Pie Tee, a signature, with chipotle and cilantro; a Wagyu Quarter Pounder layered with foie gras, truffle aioli, and gruyère; and the indulgent Kaluga Caviar Service, with spring roll crisps, crème fraîche, and chives. Comfort-driven small plates, such as Kimchi Shaker Tots with kimchi ranch, invite guests to linger and share.

Kim has curated divine signature creations that include: Lucid Dream (Lost Explorer Tequila, Midori, Montenegro Amaro, Yellow Chartreuse, Sichuan Bitters), The Smoke Snow, a take on the classic White Negroni (Condesa Gin, Scarlet Radice Amaro, Oka Yuzu Liqueur, Pierre Ferrand Yuzu Curacao), a theatrical Island Revival (clarified Coke and Planteray Rum punch with a blend of spirits and citrus), the delicate Pearls & Petals (Roku Gin, Sakura Vermouth, Eau de Vie blend of date, carrot & pineapple, Orange Bitters) as well as Island Zest, an N/A tiki-inspired drink with bold and spicy flavors (Three Spirit Livener, Ritual Tequila Alternative, passion fruit purée, cranberry juice, lime juice). An extensive list of premium spirits, select wines, and creative zero-proof options round out the program.

Designed by ICRAVE space draws inspiration from traditional Chinese Xiangyun and embraces the feeling of being in a cloud formation filled with electronic pulses from the night stars in the sky.  A signature motif flows across every wall and surface as the timeless Chinese aesthetic is blended with a modern touch, as seen by the Anish Kapoor-inspired reflective ceiling sculpture that mirrors the room below.

BA53MENT is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from 6:00 PM – 11 PM, and is located on the lower level of 53 West 53rd Street, NYC. Be sure to check it out today.

53Aaron KimAhmass FakahanyBA53MENTExecutive Chef Mark YuMark YuMidtown ManhattanNew York Cityspeakeasy
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ElizaBeth Taylor

DEPUTY EDITOR - ElizaBeth Taylor is known to many in the media world with featured work in Variety, E! News, Dan’s Papers, and several international publications. The Sensible Socialite began her career as a travel reporter exploring Europe, Russia, South America, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Greatly influenced by her time on the road, she developed a heightened awareness for the way humans connect. Her skills have led to current work as both a journalist and entertainment producer. With over 50 shows under her belt, Taylor has worked behind the scenes with major networks and studios. Taylor’s calendar year is always full, and she joyfully rings in the next chapter every December with her notable contributions to the most recognized show on the planet - The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. (Instagram @liztaylorworld)

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