Calling all New York’s nocturnal neighbors and creative socialites.

Hidden amid the bustling side street of Lafayette behind an undisclosed charcoal door lies the dark and sensual New York City watering hole, Temple Bar. Upon entry, patrons are immediately immersed in what can only be described as discreetly glamorous, sparking an evocative archival spirit fused with contemporary underground New York substance. With emerald drapes, checkered terrazzo floors, and ill-lit lighting, the space moonlights as sort of a speakeasy clubhouse.

A newly reopened Noho hotspot, the elusive Temple Bar joins the index among a long series of international pop-up activations (November 9th-November 30th) in collaboration with The House Collective, a creatively-concentrated global hotel group. Through the eclectic culmination, The House Collective enlisted global creatives dubbed the Global Nomads to reinhabit the space with a special menu of limited-edition “Updated Memories” cocktails. Coined as an ode to reconnecting with cities that have been closed to international tourism, the menu spotlights four uniquely crafted libations, each inspired by the cities of the four Houses; Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Chengdu.

Packed to the brim with white-collar professionals and late-night socialites, the space echoes notions of a “sexy date night.” Seated comfortably in a dark mahogany – corner – booth positioned beneath a dim inside-out light-bulb chandelier, we were immediately approached by an attentive server who informed us about the ethos of “Updated Memories.” Minutes later – and pleasantly engulfed in some eerie people watching – we were provided with one of each of the four acclaimed cocktails; Ta Martini, Pepper Bazaar, the Shanghai Coffee Highball, and the Wooden Room. (My favorite being the Ta Martini and my partner the Shanghai Highball).

Curated for the most premiere palettes, the cocktail zine revealed itself as an innovative and enticing addition to the Temple Bar menu, perfect for unwinding and settling in amongst the dark city allure. Located within the menu is an invitation to a digital zine inviting patrons to explore the “Updated Memories” microsite, where they are rendered an opportunity to win a two-night stay at The Upper House, The Middle House, The Temple House, and The Opposite House.