Review: Patent Pending + The Lab
I think it’s safe to say that, at this point in the year, a drink or two just might be the thing we need to keep us going. Luckily, with the city slowly and safely reopening, we’ll have more than a few options for an alcohol infused night out — starting with Patent Pending + The Lab, a steampunk esque bar at the foot of the legendary Radio Wave building. An intimate addition to the New York night scene, Patent Pending + The Lab is an upscale yet inviting space serving delicious bites and indulgent drinks that are inventions all by themselves.
Walking to Patent Pending, the first thing you’ll notice (gratefully, I might add, as the months get colder), is the presence of an outdoor dining area that includes five weather proof canvas huts. Inside, you’ll find the Lab portion of the bar, which features a second bar with stools, as well as banquet style seating ideal for private group gatherings of up to 40. Pending city guidelines, the combined spaces can be rented for groups of up to 100. But logistics aside, the space, both indoors and out, is beautiful, with 19th century basement arches, restored penny tiles, and fresh, fragrant greenery. Especially intriguing is the menu, which, presented as an inventor’s sketchbook, is accompanied by painstakingly hand drawn illustrations that are nothing less than works of art.
But, of course, the most stand out features the bar has to offer are its many delicious yet eccentric cocktails. From Currents & Coils (Venezuelan & Guyanese Rum, Malted Milk, Coconut, Banana, Patent Coffee, Pineapple Lime) to the Impossible Idea (Chichicapa Mezcal, Navazos Rum, Blackened Banana, Luxardo Maraschino, Oloroso Sherry, Nardini Amaro), each of the bar’s high end drinks are infused with an almost scientific spirit. Imaginative yet luxurious, they juxtapose well with Patent Pending’s easygoing yet gourmet bites: three types of grilled cheese, a creamy crostini, and several boozy, delectable desserts.
But if you aren’t necessarily an alcohol person, you’ll be happy to know that, during the day, Patent Pending + Lab undergoes an electrifying transformation in order to emerge as Patent Coffee, a specialty grab and go coffee shop where you can pick up a S’Mores Latte (Housemade Cinnamon Chocolate Ganache, Espresso, Milk, Garnished with Toasted Marshmallow and Graham Cracker), a Spicy Boy (Mike’s Hot Honey, Cayenne, Ginger, Espresso, Oat Milk), or, if you like a little kick in the morning, spiked Apple Cider or Bone Broth.
So if you’re looking for something a little off the grid, something a little unique, and something that pushes the boundaries a bit, Patent Pending + The Lab might just be the place for you. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or coffee loving fiend, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your pending cravings.
Check out Patent Pending + The Lab on their instagram, @patentpendingnyc, or on their website, https://www.patentpendingnyc.com/.They are open from 4pm - Midnight daily, and have takeout and delivery available via phone (212-869-4002).
Special thanks to Rachel Vanni for photos.
