Quick Eternity: Dive into a Whaling Tavern Fantasy with a Contemporary Twist

A Literary Legend Comes to Life: Inside Quick Eternity

Step into the pages of Moby Dick, not through ink and paper, but with a cocktail in hand and the scent of chowder wafting through the air. Welcome to Quick Eternity, a stunning homage to Melville’s seafaring epic — reimagined as a sultry, immersive bar experience nestled in the heart of New York City.

Inspired by the taverns and whaling houses that once dotted the American northeast, Quick Eternity isn’t your average themed bar. It’s a richly layered space that combines atmospheric design, an elevated culinary experience, and a cocktail program that might have even tamed Captain Ahab’s restless soul.

This is a spot for women who crave substance and style, literature and luxury — and a delicious evening that feels anything but ordinary.

Step Aboard: An Atmosphere Drenched in Drama and Nostalgia

As you cross the threshold into Quick Eternity, it feels as though you've stepped into a maritime time capsule. Dark wood paneling, lantern sconces, and nautical memorabilia create a sense of weathered elegance. Whaling maps and ropes hang beside shadowy oil paintings of storm-tossed ships, all beneath a ceiling of exposed beams and copper accents that glimmer like a ship’s hull under moonlight.

The lighting is low, the seating plush, and the overall vibe is one part New England tavern, one part Gothic literary dreamscape. It’s the kind of place where conversations linger, where you sip your drink slowly and lean into the moment. Whether you're cozying up with your journal or deep in discussion with friends, the space welcomes you like an old sea tale.

The Gam Upstairs: Reservations, Refinement, and Revelry

While the downstairs walk-in area is a charming introduction to Quick Eternity’s world, those seeking a more curated experience should make a reservation for The Gam, the upstairs dining and cocktail room named after a meeting between two whaling ships at sea.

Upstairs, the setting becomes more refined — velvet banquettes, candlelit tables, and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the bustling city below. Here, the food and drink program reaches new heights, delivering an evening fit for both literary lovers and culinary explorers.

The Cocktails: Strong, Sophisticated, and Story-Driven

Quick Eternity doesn’t play it safe when it comes to drinks. Their cocktails are stiff, layered, and intentionally bold — reflecting the bar’s deep connection to Melville’s intense and rugged world. And yes, each drink comes with a tale of its own.

Signature Drinks:

• Ahab’s Obsession – A dangerously smooth blend of bourbon, smoked cherry, and black walnut bitters.

• The White Whale – A bright yet bracing concoction of gin, lemongrass, grapefruit, and sea salt foam.

• Call Me Ishmael – A rich coffee rum martini with hints of cardamom and clove.

• Nantucket Sour – Rye whiskey, lemon, and spiced pear syrup with a red wine float, served over a chunk of iceberg-clear ice.

Each drink is presented with flair — think custom ice, etched glasses, and garnishes as dramatic as a ship’s figurehead. For those looking to imbibe lightly, there’s also a curated list of low-ABV and zero-proof options, with equally imaginative touches.

The Food: Elevated Comforts with Nautical Flair

Though Quick Eternity’s identity is centered around cocktails and storytelling, the food deserves just as much attention. Executive Chef Helena Moore has created a concise yet captivating menu that nods to coastal traditions while elevating every bite.

Highlights Include:

Manhattan Chowder

Unlike its creamy cousin from New England, this tomato-based chowder is rich, briny, and beautifully complex. Plump clams, chunks of cod, and smoky bacon swim in a broth spiced with chili oil and sherry vinegar. A toasted sourdough slice slathered in seaweed butter comes on the side — and yes, you’ll want to ask for more.

Jamaican Rum Caramel Sticky Toffee Pudding

This dessert alone is worth the visit. Imagine a dense, warm sponge cake soaked in a dark, molasses-forward caramel sauce, topped with a scoop of rum-raisin ice cream and a shard of brandy snap for crunch. The Jamaican rum lends it a luxurious edge, balancing sweetness with warmth and depth. It’s a finale you’ll be thinking about long after you’ve left port.

Seafare Snacks & Small Plates

The menu also features crowd-pleasers like crispy calamari with pickled jalapeño aioli, lobster sliders with lemon chive butter, and hand-cut fries with nori salt and malt vinegar aioli.

Perfect for the Curious, the Romantic, and the Bold

Quick Eternity is more than a themed bar — it’s a destination. It's perfect for:

• Solo Nights Out: Sip slowly at the bar while flipping through a book or sketching.

• Date Nights: The upstairs Gam offers a seductive setting with its candlelight and curated menu.

• Girls’ Night: Split a bottle of natural wine, share a few small plates, and let the nautical magic take over.

• Special Occasions: Themed evenings, poetry nights, and literary trivia events are held regularly. Follow their Instagram to stay updated on event nights that mix intellect and indulgence.

A Word on Sustainability and Ethics

In true modern fashion, Quick Eternity doesn’t sacrifice conscience for creativity. All seafood is responsibly sourced from sustainable fisheries, and the bar is committed to minimizing waste through innovative upcycling in both kitchen and bar. Herbs are grown in-house, cocktail garnishes are dehydrated to reduce spoilage, and even straws are compostable seaweed-based versions.

Their approach to ethical hospitality is one of the many reasons why women across the city are falling in love with this moody maritime gem.

Insider Tips Before You Go

• Make a Reservation: If you're aiming for The Gam upstairs, book at least a few days in advance — it fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

• Time Your Visit: Live storytelling and jazz performances are held monthly — plan your visit around these for the full immersive experience.

• Dress the Part: Nautical chic or dark academia vibes fit right in. Think navy coats, striped knits, boots, and deep-red lipstick.

Conclusion: Why Quick Eternity Deserves a Spot on Your Must-Visit List

In a city overflowing with bars and restaurants, Quick Eternity anchors itself firmly through storytelling, atmosphere, and unapologetic originality. It’s where literary nostalgia meets modern indulgence, where stiff cocktails and sticky toffee pudding become chapters in an evening you’ll never forget.