The Chicest Members-Only Clubs in New York (and What to Wear When You Get Inside)

As every Fleur girl knows, the most fun to be had happens behind closed doors. And if you want to rub elbows with the who’s who of the city, that’s exactly where you’ll want to be. Manhattan’s storied history of stuffy social clubs has lately given way to swanky night spots and haute hideaways frequented by jet-setters, fashionistas, and a whole lot of high rollers. From grand dining rooms to sultry jazz clubs (and every sort of intimate corner in between), New York’s modern crop of members-only clubs offer luxury, exclusivity, and hospitality in spades. And though they’re often mysterious by nature, Fleur’s letting you in on what to expect (and how to dress) once you step behind those private doors.

San Vicente West Village

If there’s one place to see and be seen in NYC right now, it’s San Vicente—the city’s newest members-only hotspot turning up the heat in the revamped Jane Hotel. With nine luxe hotel rooms for late-night lingerers and a bar-meets-dining scene that oozes dark, moody glamour (think tons of Carrera marble and candlelit corners), this is where the cool crowd flocks for perfect cocktails and even better people-watching. Pro tip? Order the Julep and Chinese Chicken Salad—absolute musts. Privacy is part of the allure, and if you know, you know—your phone gets stickered on arrival, ensuring that the only way to experience it is to actually be there. And just when you think the night’s winding down? There’s a disco in the basement ready to keep the party going till you and your new fling are ready to “get out of here”.

San Vicente West Village, 115 Jane St, New York, NY

The Twenty Two

Grandiose doesn’t even begin to describe Chez Margaux, a veritable wonderland of sights, bites, and libations from none other than the grand gourmand himself, Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Arrive scarlet-hued and lacey-draped to match the drama of the decor and you’ll soon find yourself at home in this sprawling supper club watched over by a wild-haired siren carved into the stone fireplace. As A-listers intermingle in secret salons, the chefs are busy whipping up unforgettable French fare fit for a feast. But don’t be fooled—when the hour strikes, those classy caviar and cocktail moments are quick to turn into naughty late-night DJ sets and debaucherous dance floor dabblings. We wouldn’t expect anything less in the heart of the Meatpacking District.

The Twenty Two, 16 E 16th St, New York, NY

ZZ’s Club

If you thought Carbone was hard to get into, you haven’t seen the waitlist for ZZ’s Club, Major Food Group’s private penthouse playground at Hudson Yards. Join the flock of fabulous foodies and fashionistas in something elegant but cheeky, suitable for gliding through the opulent dining rooms, cigar terraces, and intimate corners far from prying eyes. And if you’re craving an excuse to let your wild side roar, meet us with a martini in Leo’s, the club’s clandestine cocktail lounge decked out in tiger stripes and candlelight. Cozy up amidst the crystal fixtures and velvet textiles to sit back, sip up, and see where the evening takes you—after indulging in a plate of spicy vodka rigatoni first, of course.

ZZ’s Club, 37 Hudson Yards, New York

Chez Margaux

Eleven Madison Park? Legendary, yes, but if you’ve been there, eaten that, take your date upstairs to the iconic restaurant’s new hidden hideout, Clemente Bar. Part cocktail lounge, part chef’s counter, and 100 percent posh vibes, the hybrid haunt is your answer if you’re in the market for an elegant evening that feels like the best of old New York. A pair of lovers with their limbs entwined adorn the mural over the golden-lit bar; use them as your guide while you cozy up on one of the striped sofas to sip saffron-spiced martinis and espresso floats, getting lost in each other’s eyes – and whispering about what you’ll be getting up to later.

Chez Margaux, 403 W 13th St, New York