Brightly colored Jarritos bottles line a wall of Viktor&Spoils
Having played host to multiple velvet-rope successes such as Thor, Co-op and CV, the Hotel on Rivington presents yet another swanky retreat in New York’s Lower East Side with Viktor & Spoils. Although the name sounds reminiscent of an Ivy-league lounge swathed in leather, this new locale is actually refreshingly full of Mexican flavor (upscale flavor, of course). Just to the right of the hotel’s main entrance, walls adorned with bottles of Jarritos and natural wood paneling set a warm and relaxed vibe, while the classic yet upbeat mix from the DJ booth keeps the atmosphere lively.
For the more gastronomically inclined, this is definitely a must-taste for small plates and inventive libations. From tequila flights to traditional Mexican street corn – albeit more Michelin than it is “street” – Viktor & Spoils had nightlife aficionados flocking for baskets of food and toasting shot glasses at the opening preview party. The stealthily adept bartenders and waitresses left no one unattended as they managed to remain both efficient and polite under the pressure of guests determined to sample everything on the menu.
Viktor&Spoils taqueria and tequila bar presents an assortment of gourmet Mexican inspired food and cocktails
If you’re imaging a night of losing yourself amidst a crowd, however, think again; the only thing you’re likely to lose yourself in here is the bottom of a glass. This venue is is remarkably small (think Manhattan apartment small). Rumor has it that it was actually smaller before Rivington took over, but they have managed to utilize what little space was available quite well. Perhaps it’s for this reason the door is so tight; multiple attendees of the event, including myself, had to consistently convince the doorman of our prior entrances after having stepped outside, and although I hadn’t even used my +1 privilege for the event I was legitimately embarrassed when I went to the door to meet friends who had stopped by for a drink near the end of the night and were (quite rudely) refused. Then again, perhaps it was a particular chip on Mr. Doorman’s shoulder, since his colleague followed with an apology and invitation for my friends to join, although at that point they had already left nor had any desire left to come in. Still, I wouldn’t recommend this location if you’re hoping to enjoy an evening as a group, or even if you have hopes of getting back in after stepping out for a phone call.
Although the space is small, the atmosphere is lively at Viktor&Spoils
Viktor & Spoils: Hotel on Rivington, 105 Rivington Street, New York, NY 10002
Tel: 212-475-3485