I became a fan of this place too late and can not recall when I first went there. In the middle of Chinatown in New York, in a forgotten alley, in between massage parlors and somber apartments you will find a bright red label that reads “Gold Flower Restaurant”. That is where you need to head to find Apotheke. Totally abandoned during the day and irresistibly full during the night, Apotheke is a cave of alcoholic wonders.
Around 11 pm, as you make your way into Doyers St. you will see a well-suited man with a hat guarding the door of the most unusual place at that time of the night. You will hear a buzz of music pumping out of what appears to be a restaurant. Once inside you will be amazed by the gothic exposed brick, red velvet, dimmed light decoration. The only window in the place will be covered in dark green wine bottles. The bar will be filled with not bartenders but cocktail experts dressed in white scientist coats. The menu of drinks will amaze you. The music will put you in a great mood. That will be the moment you will become a fan of this surprising cave of alcoholic wonders.
There will be a long line of visitors during the weekends (won’t bother you if you are friends with James at the door) and once inside, you will have a blast. If you ask my advice, go to Apotheke on a Wednesday night once in a while to appreciate the music and taste the amazing drinks in peace.
Femme Fatale and Pepper Infusion from the menu are my favorite. If you want to get jiggy, try a glass of the House Absinthe (be ready for some good show during its preparation).
