The address 86 Bedford Street in Manhattan’s West Village holds a notable place in New York’s dining and cultural history. It was the longtime home of Chumley’s, a Prohibition-era speakeasy credited with popularizing the term “86” as a code for ejecting unwanted patrons. Chumley’s closed its doors in 2007, leaving the space vacant for several years.
In 2016, the location reopened, this time as a refined steakhouse that aims to balance the legacy of the building with a contemporary dining experience. The new establishment occupies the same historic space, preserving much of the original architecture and ambiance that contributed to Chumley’s distinctive character.
The restaurant focuses on traditional steakhouse fare, emphasizing quality cuts of beef prepared with straightforward techniques. The dining room reflects the building’s storied past, with a classic design that pays homage to the 1920s while accommodating modern comfort standards.
Though the original Chumley’s is no longer operating, the site continues to attract diners interested in both the culinary offerings and the historical significance of the location. The steakhouse at 86 Bedford Street represents a continuity of the site’s role as a gathering place in the West Village.
While the new restaurant does not attempt to replicate the speakeasy atmosphere, it maintains a connection to the past through its respect for the building’s heritage and its commitment to a measured, traditional dining experience. The venue contributes to the ongoing narrative of the West Village as a neighborhood where history and contemporary life intersect.