Iconic Soho Dive Bar Milady's Is Reborn As A Hip Cocktail Spot From Julie Reiner

Decades-old Soho stalwart Milady's, a divey neighborhood favorite that attracted every echelon of New Yorker down on Prince Street for over 70 years, shuttered in 2014 with a bittersweet going out bash for the ages (so packed was it with longtime regulars and those paying tribute, the bar reportedly ran out of glasses and beer during the evening, supplementing them with Solo cups and a bodega run).

But what's old is new again thanks to celebrated cocktail queen Julie Reiner and the team behind Brooklyn's Clover Club and Leyenda. Along with partners Christine Williams and Susan Fedroff, Reiner has revived Milady's for a new era. 

"Bars have sort of a soul to them - the original Milady’s was all about the people, and I remember it was always really fun. If we can capture even a bit of that, I think we’ll be a success," says Reiner. 

Though it might have the same address as the original, Milady's 2.0 has, of course, undergone some sleek, modern changes fitting for its new identity as a hip cocktail bar. But nods to the former space can be found throughout, including the original logo and a billiards-themed back room (once home to the famous pool table) featuring a custom light fixture made from pool ball racks and an installation that incorporates old pool cues.

All of this sets the scene for the playful, nostalgic lineup of drinks. Reiner and Beverage Director Natasha Mesa have created a menu of revamped throwbacks, from Apple Martinis to Blue Hawaiians to, yes, even Jell-O shots. Food-wise, the menu is divided into two sections, "dive" and "high dive," with classics like loaded potato skins and a Milady's burger on the former, and elevated bar bites like duck frites and crab mac n' cheese on the latter. 

Like the OG, the new Milady's clearly has a little something for everyone. 

Milady's, 160 Prince St.

[Photos courtesy Milady's]