Cocktail connoisseurs now have an ultra-hip underground haunt. One where they can enjoy hand-crafted spirits, house-spiked single barrel bourbons, and highballs; all featuring one of an expansive selection of single malt Scotches. Thirty3, an intimate Prohibition era-style speakeasy awaits beneath Rails Steakhouse in Towaco.
But rather than requiring a secret knock, thirsty patrons gain access to the cozy lounge by discovering the right book in a wall shelf, providing a novel (pun intended) experience.
But with so many establishments clamoring to catapult guests forward with futuristic themes, why harken back to days of yore?
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Speak Easy, Drink Hard at Thirty3
“The resurgence of speakeasies in major cities across the country is very strong,” explains Michael Mulligan, executive director of Rails. “There isn’t really anything like the Thirty3 Speakeasy in this area and we thought it would be a unique alternative to offer our surrounding communities.”
In addition to the ambience reminiscent of the period, drinks, including the extremely popular “Spice” cocktail, made with barrel-aged bourbon, squeezed lemon juice, fresh ginger extract and orange syrup, are served by Thirty3’s own Flapper Girls. Of course, Jazz fans enjoy weekly live performances in the lounge. In fact, an online calendar is regularly updated so music lovers can plan accordingly.
Meanwhile, upstairs at Rails, those seeking a formal dining experience have their choice of rooms, each with its own flair. For instance, the main dining area features Hollywood booths with a view into the kitchen, with seating for 80 diners. Next door to the main dining room is a wood-fired pizza oven, with seating surrounding an expansive bar and a large communal table. During the warm weather months, guests can dine al fresco on the Vista Terrace, which offers sweeping views of Towaco and the surrounding mountains. A state-of-the-art culinary center also plays host to cooking classes and corporate team-building events.
A Knockout Menu
Under the direction of Executive Chef Francis X. Falivene, a New Jersey native and French Culinary Institute graduate, carnivores can get their fill. The steakhouse features USDA Prime and CAB corn-fed beef, dry-aged 28-45 days for flavor and texture on premise in its dry-aging room. The restaurant offers a wide cuts, ranging from Porterhouse Steak for Two to Bone-In Ribeye. Meatloaf prepared with Cheddar-Scallion Potato Croquette, Pan Roasted Green Beans and Jalapeño Gravy and Kobe Beef Burgers are other popular choices.
Seafood lovers choose a wide array of offerings including Maine Lobster and Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna as well as selections from the raw bar. Vegetables and herbs are harvested right from the Whitehall Road restaurant’s roof top garden, which also wins favor with herbivores.
However, no menu would be complete without dessert and Rails’ made-from-scratch confections include its Signature Butter Cake and indulgent ten layer Chocolate Mousse Cake.
Private rooms can accommodate parties of varying sizes.
Upcoming Events
Rails will be having an Oktoberfest promo on Wednesday, Sept. 30 and Wednesday, Oct. 7 featuring live themed music, beers and authentic fare. The full day of festivities includes prizes for best dressed and stein hoisting.
In November, the steakhouse will celebrate its first Thanksgiving Feast, featuring fresh, roast Turkey with all of the trimmings.
Throughout the year lunch is served Tuesday through Saturday, while dinner is served Tuesday through Sunday. Sunday Brunch is served on most major holiday celebrations.
Visit Rails Steakhouse for more info.
