205 Dry

"205 Dry" is not just a dining establishment, but a real time machine hidden on one of the streets of Binghamton. This unique gastropub and cocktail bar is styled after the "Prohibition" era in the USA, offering guests the concept of a speakeasy — a secret bar that you can only enter if you know the secret.

From the outside, the venue may look inconspicuous, but inside, visitors are greeted by a carefully thought-out interior filled with vintage charm, dim lighting, and the atmosphere of the 1920s.

The main feature of "205 Dry" lies in its ability to turn an ordinary dinner into an adventure. Visitors come here not only for quality food and signature cocktails, but also for the experience of immersing oneself in the mysterious world of the last century, hidden behind a facade of modernity.

To book a table or clarify details of a visit to this atmospheric place, use the following contact details. It is recommended to check the relevance of the information before visiting.

The main entertainment at "205 Dry" starts right from the threshold: you have to find the entrance, disguised as a bookshelf. This element of the game immediately sets the right mood and immerses you in the atmosphere of a secret club. Once inside, be sure to take time to explore the interior — vintage books, antique furniture, and dim lighting create the perfect background for memorable photos.

The gastronomic part of the visit deserves special attention. Here you should try modern American cuisine dishes, which are served with the sophistication characteristic of the best restaurants. The menu is diverse: from hearty burgers and sandwiches to sophisticated appetizers, ideal for sharing. Guests often note the high quality of ingredients and original presentation.

However, the real pride of the establishment is the cocktail menu. The bartenders here are true masters of their craft, creating complex and balanced mixes. It is recommended to order one of their signature cocktails inspired by the jazz era classics, or ask them to prepare something to your taste. Watching the bartenders work behind the counter is a pleasure in itself and a show of its own.

The "205 Dry" establishment is located in the very center of the city, on the lively State Street. Thanks to its central location, getting here is quite simple from anywhere in the city. If you are in the downtown area, you will likely be able to walk to the bar, enjoying the architecture of the surrounding historical buildings.

For those who prefer public transport, the BC Transit bus network operates in Binghamton. The nearest stops are a few minutes' walk from the entrance to the establishment. It is recommended to check the schedule of routes passing through the center in advance.

The most convenient way to get to the place, especially in the evening, remains a taxi or ridesharing services (for example, Uber or Lyft). The trip from most hotels in the city or from the university will take very little time. If you arrived by private car, look for street parking or nearby public parking lots, as finding a free spot right at the entrance can be difficult during peak hours.

The concept of "205 Dry" is deeply rooted in the history of the Prohibition era of the 1920s. At that time, the sale of alcohol was officially banned, which led to the appearance of secret bars known as "speakeasies". These establishments often masqueraded as harmless shops, pharmacies, or, as in this case, bookstores, so as not to attract the attention of the authorities.

The building itself on State Street, where the bar is located, has its own historical value and fits perfectly into the surroundings of the early 20th century. The creators of the venue tried to recreate the atmosphere of that time as accurately as possible, paying attention to every detail of the interior — from vintage furniture to specific lighting. The name "Dry" ironically plays on the term used to designate supporters of the alcohol ban, while inside, an abundance of drinks awaits guests.

Interestingly, the entrance through the bookshelf is not just a decoration, but a tribute to the traditions of conspiracy of the last century. Visitors feel like they are being let in on the secret, crossing the threshold of a seemingly ordinary room and entering a hidden world of jazz and cocktails. This place serves as a living reminder of times when forbidden fruit was especially sweet.

For a full visit to "205 Dry", it is recommended to allocate from 1.5 to 2 hours. This time will be enough to enjoy dinner without haste, try several signature cocktails, and soak up the unique atmosphere of the establishment without fuss.

If you plan to drop by only for drinks and light snacks at the bar counter, the visit may take about an hour. However, given the popularity of the place and its cozy environment, many guests prefer to stay here longer, spending the whole evening in the company of friends.

When planning a visit, note that "205 Dry" works exclusively in the evening and is closed on Mondays and Sundays. This is the ideal place for dinner or late gatherings at the end of the work week.

The current schedule is as follows: from Tuesday to Wednesday the establishment is open from 17:00 to 23:00. On Thursday the bar works until midnight (17:00 – 00:00), and on Friday and Saturday guests can enjoy the atmosphere longest of all — from 17:00 to 01:00 at night.

Exploring the surroundings of "205 Dry" will allow you to immerse yourself deeper in the atmosphere of the city and see its historical heritage. Since the bar is located in the center, a walk around the district before or after dinner will be a great addition to your evening.