ZZ'S Clam Bar

Key Information

ZZ's Clam Bar was a tiny, high-end raw bar and cocktail lounge in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, known for its intimate, speakeasy-like atmosphere and vintage barware. It was part of Major Food Group and offered a luxurious dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and expertly crafted drinks. The venue has since closed and been repurposed for private dining for Carbone.

Customer Perception

Customers generally perceived ZZ's Clam Bar as a special, intimate, and luxurious spot, perfect for a splurge. Positive feedback highlighted the warm atmosphere, attentive staff, top-quality fresh seafood (especially lobster, uni, and oysters), and amazing, super-crafted, tiki-themed cocktails. The tropical interior and 'jewel box' feel were often praised. However, common criticisms included the premium price, a limited menu, difficulty securing reservations (often booked for private parties), and the small space becoming crowded and uncomfortable for larger parties. Some reviews also mentioned it could be loud despite its size, and one specific reopening night review noted unfriendly service, strong drinks, and oysters that didn't seem fresh. One review mentioned it was 'Michelin star rated,' though this could not be independently verified through official sources.

Additional Details

ZZ's Clam Bar was a venture by Major Food Group, a prominent hospitality company. It was located just down the block from the original Carbone restaurant. In December 2023, ZZ's Clam Bar closed its doors and its space was converted into extended private dining facilities for Carbone.

Cuisine Highlights

Dietary Options

Best Times to Visit

Historically, it was a popular spot for Friday night dinners, but reservations were absolutely required and often difficult to obtain due to its small size and frequent private bookings. As the restaurant is now closed, this information is for historical context.