Archive · modern edition Every bar New York on Tap knew, as it stood around 2008, with a 2026 check on each one. This page in the 2008 edition
Cafe Charbon, photographed for New York on Tap
Photo from the 2008 site

A New York on Tap pick

Cafe Charbon

The ideal place for an engagement party

168 Orchard St. · at Stanton
Lower East Side, Manhattan

In 2026

Closed; now Hair of the Dog

Checked October 15, 2026.

Overview

A relaxed and attractive crowd occupy this seductive bar/lounge. They're drawn here by the excellent DJs, comfortable leather couches, tall ceilings, and low key ambience.
A relaxed and attractive crowd occupy this seductive bar/lounge. They're drawn here by the excellent DJs, comfortable leather couches, tall ceilings, and low key ambience.

Why you should go

  • The bar's wide enough that some friends can sit at the bar while others can stand, and no one is getting jostled.
  • Despite the crush of humanity that plagues the LES on weekend nights Cafe Charbon always seems to have enough people to be interesting, but never seems to be over-crowded.

What you should know

  • An area of well worn, yet comfortable leather couches is perfect for taking over with friends.
  • Be aware that the shadow show created by the frosted glass and bright lights of the men's bathrooms mean that indiscretions therein will be telegraphed to the waiting line. To avoid repeats of Dallas cheerleader style brawls use the women's room for extracurricular activities.

History

The ideal place for an engagement party, once

We once called Cafe Charbon the ideal place for an engagement party, for its DJs, leather couches and tall ceilings. The decade-old French restaurant closed for good in June 20111. The address, 168 Orchard Street, is now Hair of the Dog2.

Sources

  1. ny.eater.com
  2. hairofthedognyc.com

Researched October 2026.

What's nearby