Bar Review: Discolo

Visit this underground cocktail bar if you find yourself near Chelsea Market.

Why go here: This is a good spot for a quick drink with a date or friends, but not somewhere to spend the evening. Discolo’s cocktails don’t push the envelope, but are good enough to sip if you want to enjoy the dark, dance lounge vibes. It’s worth it if you’re already in the area, but not if it’s out of the way.  

The vibe: Discolo is located in the basement of Al Coro, a fine dining restaurant in the building where Del Posto used to be. Take the stairs down to an unassuming door which reveals a dark dance club with a live DJ. The ceiling is lit by flashing colored dotted lights on the ceiling, which reflect off the marble bartop and glossy finishes to give the smaller space a fun, dance club vibe. There are two spaces: a bar and a dance floor surrounded by lounge chairs, small tables and banquette seating. The music is good and not too loud, leaning more disco / electronic vs top 100 pop hits. Despite the dance club feel, Discolo attracts a mixed crowd – you can come dressed in jeans or a suit jacket.

The drinks: Discolo’s menu is fruit forward, with several drinks topped with generous slices of fig and passionfruit. Cocktails take inspiration from the 70’s and 80’s, with modern takes on Appletinis, Cosmopolitans and Sex on the Beach. Discolo is pricy for what you get – the drinks are executed well, but are basic and, at times, overly sweet.

How to do it right: Discolo takes reservations, but you can also try walking in. Crowds vary from  having ample space at the bar, to dancing shoulder-to-shoulder in the lounge. If you don’t make a resy, come early for a drink before getting dinner at Al Coro or Mel’s in the same building.