New Asian Speakeasy Emerges Behind Antique Church Confessional Booth In NYC: See Here

NEW YORK CITY — A modern Asian cuisine restaurant paired with a hidden speakeasy bar is now open to the public in the heart of the Theater District in Manhattan.

The Lotus Room and Confessional opened this week at 114 West 47th Street in Midtown. The new concept is spearheaded by Josh Kessler and chef John Creger.

According to Creger, the Lotus Room offers a "dynamic" interpretation of Asian cuisine, influenced by his own experiences in some of New York’s most prestigious kitchens, including Picholine and Public, Gallow Green and five-diamond-rated Dominick Hotel.

Guests can expect a rotating menu of seasonal specials, creative tasting menus, and à la carte offerings.

Menu highlights include:

• Black Truffle Lobster Dumplings – butter-poached lobster, black truffle soy butter, yuzu ponzu
• Stir-Fried Snap Peas & Lotus Root – spicy ginger scallion sauce, peanuts, cilantro
• Wagyu Skewers – soy, brown sugar & gochujang-marinated, black garlic aioli, purple sweet potato
• Chinese Pearl Meatballs – Sweet Soy Glaze

The interior of the restaurant draw inspiration from the mystique of Imperial Japan and the bold minimalism of contemporary Asian art.

The venue’s hidden speakeasy lies concealed behind a restored 1899 antique church confessional.

The beverage program is helmed by acclaimed mixologist Valenda Richardson and complements the cuisine with imaginative cocktails.

In addition, at the omakase-style bar, guests can interact directly with mixologists across a refined sushi and cocktail counter.

“We’re excited to bring The Lotus Room to NYC’s Theater District. Every dish is rooted in tradition but reimagined through a modern lens—elevated ingredients, unexpected pairings, and constant exploration,” Executive Chef John Creger told Patch.

The Lotus Room and Confessional is open Tuesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. – late. Reservations can be made through Resy.