Sutra Lounge

Came into town last weekend for my friends bday party, I didn't know what to expect but this place was so luxurious and classy. Tons of good looking people roaming around ;). I got there kind of early and was chatting with the bartenders, they recommended this new drink TYKU. They made me a TYKU mojito and it was in a whole other category of good drinking!! so light and refreshing, supposedly it has less calories too! I was hooked, and bought a few rounds for the bday girl. Soon everyone started piling in and it turned out to be an unforgettable night!!

Pros: music, decor, and DRINKS!

Cons: lines

Posted 11/05/09

I reserved the back room of Sutra for a Halloween party. The mgt was very accommodating. The waitress Liza was amazing. The night was really fun, great music, and cool atmosphere. Will definitely be back.

Posted 11/05/09

Wonderful atmosphere, great music! Staff is friendly & know what they are doing. Come out just once & you will be hooked! Dance the night away & meet a Hip-Hop legend or 2! The great DJ Tony Touch always has the dance floor crowded & the beautiful and talented DJ June will have u groovin to great music! So come to Sutra

Posted 07/29/09

From the out door staff, to the indoor staff. I was treated like VIP. My party was about 20ppl. I had a table and bought a bottle. This little curly hair dancing cocktail waitress attended us. She was pleasant to us all night. The DJ was on point. He played all my favorite tracks. My party had such a blast that we ended buying one more bottle. We stayed till the DJ called last call. Thank You Sutra for making it such a great night. Ill be back...

Pros: Staff, DJ on point, decor, female and male ratio.

Cons: They close at 4 am

Posted 07/19/09

I've been there 3 to 4 times and had an awesome time!

Posted 07/14/09

The best place to host a party! I just hosted my husband?s surprise birthday party at Sutra this past weekend (Friday night) in the Elliptical Room and it was fantastic. I was able to bring my own food and decorations with out any problems and our waitress, Liza, was extremely nice and did an excellent job making sure we had everything we needed. The DJ was on point, playing hip-hop and reggae. We had a little over 40 guests, which was fine because people were in and out of the room. The only downside to the club were the bouncers. There was a very long line outside and a few of my guests were waiting outside, so when I asked the bouncers to let them in for the party, they said NO and told me to come back in 10 minutes!! I immediately told Liza and she spoke to the bouncers and I was able to get my guests from the long line and inside for the party. My husband and our guests all had a great time. Thanks Sutra!

Pros: Service, Music

Cons: Bouncers

Posted 07/05/09

One of our children wanted to get married in New York. The staff of Sutra made it a wonderful event. I doubt that any other place in New York would have done so much for us.

Pros: Great staff and service. magical wedding

Posted 07/05/09

I had my party in the elliptical room sat night. It was great. The manager was great, so was my hostess! The door was a little chaotic but the security guys were great also. They just had me bring my friends to the front. Dj rob flow was great also.

Pros: Great Service

Cons: Busy Door

Posted 03/24/09

I visited the lounge on January 9 along with 2 of my other friends. We arrived a little before 9:00p.m. We entered the club to find only ourselves and 2 other parties. We looked over the place and picked a perfect spot in the corner. Shortly there after I went to the ladies room and was approached by the bouncer informing me that I had to check my coat. I replied to him was it the lounges policy,because my coat was being attended to and not just thrown over seats to take up space. The bouncer replied well the manager told me to tell you. At this point we were only there for about 10minutes and I was already a little bothered because one large party had all there coats on the seating area and nothing was ever told to them.
I checked my coat and so did the rest of my party.

Soon after the waitress comes over to our table once we had been sitting there for over 15minutes and places a reserved sign on the table in front and next to us. At this time and never before the young lady says these two tables are reserved and you have to move when they come. Question is where they reserved cause we were siting there,because it was not reserved when we the club opened. FYI they informed us it was for bottle service when their VIP table was empty.

We sat down and everyone else was being served not once did the waitress(cause there was only one) came 2 ask us if we would like a drink. After going 2 get our own drinks from the bar and being there over 30 minutes then the waitress proceeded to address us.
These very important people did show up and we were dismissed and disrespected from the owner to the waitress in the lounge. I will never go back.

Cons: The customer service was lacking in every way.

Posted 01/09/09

For all those who've posted negative reviews...I just don't understand. My experience was completely different. Yes Sutra isn't huge...but how many NYC spots are? The decor was sultry and inviting NOT low budget as some suggest. Sure they have a no nonsense approach at the door when they reach maximum capacity but it's great...they think about the safety of their patrons not making money. No one in my party had an issue at the door..they were let in pretty quickly. I actually booked my birthday party in the private room off the main dance floor. I coudn't have asked for better service all the way around. We had our own bouncer to ensure privacy, our waitress Eliza was one of the best we've ever had! She was a constant presence making sure we had everything we needed and was fun and engaging but kept it professional at all times. The music was a myriad of flavors. The DJ played something for everyone and mixed it up all night. The vibe at this place was exactly with Ariel said it would be....fresh and $exy. Thanks Sutra....see ya next year!

Pros: Great for private parties. Music is great

Cons: Parking....cab it instead

Posted 12/08/08

i have been to this lounge previously for couple of my friends birthdays. so i decided to book a party here for a friends birthday last friday and it was a blast. the party was a last minute event the place accommodated me and my group. everything went perfect from the reservations to the door to the staff and bartenders. the dj was good and it was crowded upstairs, but there was the downstairs where it was a little cooler than upstairs and it was not so crowded. the door staff was on point in terms of security and their policies. the bartenders were quick and acknowledge everyone in my group when they needed their drinks. no complaints here and all of my friends had a good time.

Pros: location and staff

Cons: Bathroom lines

Posted 11/16/08

My friends and I had a great time at Sutra this past Saturday. I especially loved the fact that the manager came out to greet us when we arrived. Our waitress was very accomadating and nice to us, she was always available when we needed her, and thou the place was at capacity our service did not suffer. The elliptical room was very pretty and everyone really enjoyed the exclusiveness that came with it. I had a great time celebrating my 21st and I'm very happy that I picked Sutra.

Pros: Excellent service even when packed

Posted 08/10/08

This review is definitely owed to Sutra Lounge and their staff! I just turned 30 and since the ending of last year, I was shopping venues etc to plan a private birthday party. I googled lounges in NYC and Sutra showed up on the list among others. After speaking with a staff person and receiving some basic info, I was impressed by that and the pictures from online. After visiting Sutra in person, this was the perfect place to hold my event. Fast forward a few months into early '08 and I continued my monthly email reminders about my party date. After finalizing my contract in Mid May, the excitement and questions flooded in. All staff were very helpful and reassuring with everything. I held my party on a Sunday evening so that I could have invitees only. Sutra's great offer was irresistible! How could I say no? The ambiance the night of my party was fantastic. It was dimly lit inside with candles, incense and rose petals.. they even let me use the tv above the bar to play a dvd with pictures of me the entire night. I was also able to add little candy bowls and touches where I wanted. Overall, my guests LOVED the venue and the staff and owner were great the entire night. I would host another event at Sutra anytime! Shout out to the Ariel, Francesca, John, Dino and the rest of staff on-site Sunday, June 22nd!

Sincerely,
Vikki

Posted 06/24/08

I had a party at Sutra last Saturday night and wanted to thank them for letting me have my party there and for treating me and my guests so well. Big up to Sutra and their staff..it was sucha great night and it will help a great deal while I'm away in Iraq. Thank you!

Pros: Great Service for Service Men

Posted 06/02/08

The Roots 'Rising Down Album release was held at Sutra last Monday night, the venue offered an intimate setting among fans and music industry folks alike. I was about to head home for the night around 1am when my friend texted me that Mos Def was right outside, so I stayed later than anticipated. Lucky that I did or I would have missed the highlight of the night when ?uestlove got on deck and everyone just flowed with it, creating the good connective vibe amongst everyone. The music kicked off and cheers erupted. Mos Def and Black Thought got on the mic and basically rocked it which was very exciting to see. The party went on well past 2am but I can?t party like I used to on a weekday so it was quits for me after they got on.

Just a week later I was at the Erykah Badu and The Roots show at Radio City Music Hall and Black Thought actually shouted Sutra out from center stage as the place to be for the after-party. Sutra was packed but not to the point where you simply cannot enjoy yourself. Upstairs was ?uestlove and downstairs had DJ Spinna. Both of them played some really great music and a few members of the Roots were there along with Mos Def who was there just chillin with his gf in the corwd. Only in New York...gotta love it!

Pros: This place respects music and people

Cons: The secret of how cool this place is is getting out

Posted 05/12/08

I've been going to Sutra for nearly 4 years. It amazes me how in all this time it has never gotten stale. Every weekend the DJ's are on point and every week somthing great is going on. Last week the The Roots did their Album release party and Mos Def performed while Questlove DJ'd! I mean thats what Im talking about! Over the years this two floor lounge has blown up and the weekends can get really busy.. but I just make a reservation by calling and asking to put my name on the list. We've never had a problem getting in, the vibe is always good, the people are cool and the service is great. Its always my first recommendation for any of my friends birthdays or whatever. Love it.

Pros: Great vibe, music, people, service

Cons: very busy...best to make reservations on the weekends

Posted 05/07/08

I was disappointed to have my birthday party at Sutra, Lets just say dont get deceived by the website and clip they show. Old furniture, much smaller than what you'd expect, I mean TIGHT is not even the right description. If you intend to go dancing with a couple of friends then may be its an ok place, of course if you bare getting an elbow from the crowd every once in a while; If you're having a party of 15 for example, then you'll literally fill up half of the club. If you're planning to go hang out and talk then prepare to shout out loud all night long. Yes, they do have a second floor down below, abit more quite but its stuffy, abit smelly and the DJ is not as good. Service at the bar is not something i can say much about since I had a bottle service at one of the back tables even though i was promised a table by the dance floor. By the way, you pay a $40 mandatory on top of the bottle price.

On a positive note, I have to give some Pros to Sutra: The DJ on the main floor was really good, he played a good mix, even from the 80's but mainly hiphop. If thats your taste then you will Love IT. Our Host was nice and accomodating, I give her credit for that. Line at the door was easy pass, non of my friends complained, non of them paid, and if they did it would've been only $5 excluding ladies who are Free all night.

Will I ago again, probably NOT!!

Pros: Good DJ, Good Service, Fast Line, Low cover

Cons: TIGHT, Small, Loud, Old furniture !!

Posted 05/06/08

My girls and I have offically made Sutra our Friday night spot. Its getting hotter and hotter right along with the weather. Their new friday One Night Stand series features the sickest DJ's. Love it!

Pros: Best DJ's in the East Village.

Cons: no parking.

Posted 04/22/08

I booked this club from my 30th for a few reasons:
1) They had a room that could accommodate myself and my guests.
2) The door policy is absurd and the dress code is very relaxed. My friends did not have to worry about waiting on line for an hour and then getting turned away because they are wearing sneakers (that probably cost $500, lol).
3) All the good reviews here, something must be good about this place.

PRO's
John who was managing the door was a gentleman. He took great care to make sure we were fine several times throughout the night. I reserved the elliptical room which is on the main floor towards the back. The DJ gave me and the other ppl in my party a shout out on the mic several times. The waitress that was taking care of my party was great. The place was PACKED and she still gave great service. I don't remember more than 15 minutes going by without seeing her in our back room asking if we needed anything more.

CON's
The main floor is smallish - it gets VERY tight. This can be a little overwhelming for people. There are only two or three bathrooms on the main floor and always a line. There are another two bathrooms downstairs. Several of my guests mentioned that the place smelled a little funky but I don't remember that. The crowd there can put off some if they are expecting a uppity meatpacking atmosphere.

Disclaimer: My guests and I purchased about 5-6 bottles. That could easily have influenced our great service. But reading other reviews, it seems like the service here is generally good to everyone.

Thanks again to everyone at Sutra for a good night.

Pros: Service!

Cons: gets SUPER crowded

Posted 04/08/08

These people do not know how to communicate! I called and asked for information about the rooms and the girl told me that there was a room available that held 60-65 people. My friend also called over the weekend for information and they told her that the same room only held 30 people but was still available. The person from Sutra also mentioned that they do not accept bookings over the weekend but she could email her information to the email listed on the website. So she wrote an email to the address listed on the website saying she wanted to book the room and would follow up in the morning on Monday. When she called on Monday, the room was no longer available.

When she asked how this happened, they told her that they DO accept bookings on the weekend and must have been busy when she called!!! So they were busy...and told her false information...and now they are annoyed with HER about the situation AND she doesn't have a location for the party!

This is absurd because they left her with the impression that all she had to do was call and give her credit card information on Monday. Ridiculous and completely dissatisfying.

Posted 04/07/08

I had such an amazing time on saturday night at Sutra! The staff was so professional and fantastic with getting my friends to my private Elliptical room ...and our cocktail waitress was the BOMB! She was pleasent, always smiled and was more then accommodating. The doormen got our reserved guest in whenever I went to the door and everyone felt special and comfortable.. .the DJ was great and we just had the very best time!!!!.....I speak for all when I say, WE LOVE SUTRA! Everything was great, it could not have turned out better!

I recommened spreading the word on how Sutra is a seriously great NY party Venue! I am sure I will have more plans with Sutra in my future.......

Pros: Very professional and accomedating.

Cons: Can get very busy reservations highly recommended

Posted 03/30/08

We had a great time on Saturday night at Sutra. It was bumpin' from start to finish, the waitress was mad cool and everything ran smoothly. I was a lil' worried with the whole party bus rollin' in with a big crew but with all the help from Sutra it worked out perfectly. I highly recommened it and I will definitely party there again!

Posted 03/30/08

I had my birthday party there last night and it was great! Ordered bottle service and our waitress was fantastic! Very friendly and always accessible when we needed her. However, this place got PACKED in a HURRY! around Midnight it was wall to wall people, which is fine, however that unfortunately met that half of my guests coming for my birthday couldn't get past the door since they were at capacity until like 2-2:30 in the morning. Which is my friends' fault for coming late, because they warned us to get there before midnight.

So, if you plan a party there, make sure you don't have fashionably late friends...otherwise you won't see them that night, especially if they're guys.

Posted 03/29/08

This place wasn't too bad. The only tough thing was getting in the place! The coat check is right by the door and very badly organized! You have to muscle your way through the crowd to actually get into the lounge. My suggestion: head downstairs.

Posted 03/20/08

I threw my 21st birthday party at Sutra and the managment was pretty helpful with everything. The bouncer was very relaxed with admission when he found out that we had a table. They played great music but the only draw back was the fact that it was a too crowded to dance!! We got there around 12am and the place was packed. It's a fun place to go to but make sure you get there early.

Pros: eclectic music, friendly staff

Cons: very crowded

Posted 01/22/08

I celebrated my 22nd at Sutra, along with two of my girlfriends and it was amazing. At first I was nervous because it was my first time going to Sutra, and I read on the website that each table reservation has a 1 bottle (of liquor) minimum, and the cheapest bottle is $165.

I couldn't afford to make a table reservation so I made a General Admission reservation for a group of 25 two days prior, and even though it was pretty much last minute, the owner did what she could to fit my group in. Our party stayed upstairs (ground floor), and my guests began arriving at 10pm- at that time the music was somewhat mellow, but still Hip. As the night progressed the DJ began playing the hottest music: hip-hop, REGGAE, r&b remixes and even LATIN!! By the end of the night he had everyone out on the dance floor, not one of my guests was sitting down. The best part was when he gave a shout-out to me and my two girls for our birthdays...I didn't even have to ask for that, it was totally unexpected! =)

Sutra is chic and trendy, with an upbeat and lively environment! I checked out the bar downstairs, and the people were having a great time. The bartender was great, she was prompt and very friendly. I couldn't have asked for a better 22nd!

Pros: Very lively environment!

Cons: Parking, take the F train- also, you can avoid paying $2 for the coat check. When I first walked in I thought it was mandatory, but later found out that its not!

Posted 12/01/07

I just celebrated the BIG 30 at Sutra Lounge on Oct. 6,2007. It was great. I took alot of time looking at different lounges and clubs. Many places were too young or just did not respond to my request. The owner of Sutra, Ariel is a great person and a smart business person. She called me back in a timely manner and explained everything to me. I had a party of 20, so I reserved two tables. From the time I arrived I was treated like a star. My guests had fun. We had our own waitress, and the bouncer directed everyone to my tables.
The DJ was great he played hip-hop, reggae, and a little bit of everything else. It was crowded but the atmospehere was 100% FABULOUS. I am telling everyone about this spot. A friend of mine is having her birthday at Sutra this coming Saturday.
I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to have a great birthday or just come out for good drinks and music.
Thank you sooooooooooo much Ariel, Gregory , and Yvette.

Pros: great staff, great music

Cons: Parking is rough, just take the F train

Posted 10/14/07

After reading all the reviews on Citysearch, I decided to have my birthday party here this past weekend down in the Chakra Lounge. We had the whole downstairs to ourselves for the night and had a wonderful time! The management and staff from top to bottom far exceeded my expectations for the night with their superb service, professionalism, and courtesy to my guests and myself throughout the night. I was worried about having a party anywhere in the city because of the hassle of getting everyone in and guests arriving at different parts of the night. I had NO problems of that nature at Sutra. The security took care of all my guests directing them where to go. Even though the place was getting packed, they made me feel very comfortable not worrying about my guests not getting in. Some of them even felt special learning from the security at the door that there was an exclusive area downstairs where the party was being held. Our bartender was one of the best I've seen in awhile. For a party of about 70, he kept the drinks flowing for everyone without delay. The DJ was great and the music kept everyone moving throughout the night. It started out with a laid-back type of vibe. As the night progressed, the DJ started getting everyone up out of their seats. I wish I had time to go upstairs to check out how the party was upstairs, but I'll save that for another night. The management was an absolute pleasure to work with. They provided me with the personalized attention that I would not get in most places for a birthday party. They checked up on me every now and then to make sure everything was going smoothly. I thought I would only interact with a person from the staff throughout the night. To my surprise, I got to meet almost all the management, as far as I know, throughout the night. They were very kind, generous and great to interact with. To all the management and staff, thank you for a wonderful birthday and I'll be sure to visit again!

Pros: Service, Staff, Music, Vibe, Decor...and I'm sure the party upstairs was great too!

Cons: Parking

Posted 09/27/07

I just had my Birthday party at sutra this past saturday and i have to say at first i was a little weary because ive used citysearch in the past and i have disappointed with the results of the clubs...but Sutra was such a good time, the owner was super sweet, the staff was excellent, the DJ was on fire, and the drinks were nice and STRONG! Everyone had a good time and cant wait to go back again! Thanks Ariel (the owner) for making My night Fantastic !

Pros: Pretty Much everything was a pro for me!

Cons: It was mighty crowded but thats not even a total 'con' for me !

Posted 09/17/07

I had my party at Sutra on Saturday August 4th. I must say I had a great time, and I'm sure everyone in my party, (about 25), also had an amazing time. I loved everything about this place, the ambiance, the music, the decor, the service, even the bathroom ( lol). I would recommend this place to anyone. Kudos to Sutra, they really made sure I was happy the entire night. Thanks for making my birthday, unforgettable.!!!!!!!!!

Pros: amazing staff, decor, music, servie, nice owner

Cons: small and crowded , but still super fun!!!!!

Posted 08/12/07

I had my bday party at Sutra last Friday. We got there early so we had time to ourselves which was great bcus the rest of our party came later. The music was mixed just like the crowd. They even had a live trumpet player backing up their awesome DJ. The drinks were affordable plus we popped bottles. I know I had a great time n Im sure everyone else did. Thanks to the owners and the staff, they were great.

Posted 07/31/07

I had my 33rd birthday party at Sutra Lounge this past Sat (Cinco de Mayo) and had BLAST!!!! I found the lounge on Citysearch and the website was so informative and I just knew instandly that this was the place to have my party. Other lounges in the city wasn't willing to accomodate me and my guests (70 to be exact!) because of Cinco De Mayo, but Ariel (the owner) was more than willing to accomodate me and my guests. I was given a tour of the Sutra Lounge and fell in love with it immediately. I chose the Chakra room (lower level) to have my party. I was given the privilege of having the room to myself with my guests for a couple of hours, then opened it up to the public and it worked out so well! The catering service was awesome, food was great!!! Phalon the Sutra Lounge coordinator was a pleasure to work with in getting the menu together and setting up the party. The night of my party, the bouncers were so kind to my guests (and so GORGEOUS)!! There were other parties going on at Sutra and it was PACKED, but that didn't cause a problem. The Bouncers had it under control, there was enough space for all, and both levels of the lounge were crowded with beautiful party people! The DJ was spinning some HOT music and was on point from the time I arrived until the lights came on, and the bartendar in the Chakra room knows how to make some AWESOME Drinks, I was soooooo tipsy I couldn't remember everything. But my friends had so much fun, and said they will come back to Sutra Lounge. I MOST definitely will have my next party back at Sutra again. If you want to have a party or just have a get together, Sutra Lounge is the place to be. BIG Shout out to Ariel, her staff, the DJ, Bartendar and most def the Bouncers.

Pros: Great owner, ambiance, music, staff, food, service, bouncers, the list goes on and on, just GREAT!!!!!

Cons: Wish it can stay open to 6am...we didn't want to go home! :)

Posted 05/06/07

I just want to say thanks to Sutra for helping me celebrate my birthday and for having such an accommodating staff. My guests enjoyed themselves thoroughly and I had a wonderful time(or so I was told, lol, as I couldnt remember much of anything the next day). I hope you all enjoyed the cake(scrumptious red velvet). The Dj was great! Thanks to Gail for being such a wonderful waitress, and to the bouncers Gregory and my dude with the braids for being so kind to myself and my guests. You guys are great and Sutra was sexi as hell! Loved the chocolate coverd strawberries...loved the Moet more, lol.We'll def. be back soon.

Pros: The DJ, the Staff, ambiance

Cons: not enough parking on the weekends

Posted 04/23/07

I've been going to Sutra on and off for two years.. the best part about this lounge it is their commitment to music ...every night of the week the DJ's consistantly amaze me... Wednesday's High Voltage rock night is the best week day party so far and DJ Center on Friday night keep me and my friends dancing all night...every Friday...this place just keeps getting better..I love the vibe, the music, the eclectic crowd...I just know any time I go there Im gonna have a great time....love it, love it, love it.

Pros: the DJ's, the crowd, the vibe

Cons: closed Sunday and Monday

Posted 04/03/07

I just wanted to thank you for the best birthday party I've ever had. I had such a wonderful time on Saturday night. I received multiple compliments on everything for the location and space, to the decor, to the music and especially on the bartender Menelik (he was wonderful). I know everyone had a great time and that's all I really hoped for. I feel the party was a huge success and you have been nothing but accommodating throughout the entire process, so again, thank you so much. I will definitely be adding Sutra to my list!

Pros: service, music, location

Posted 01/07/07

OK...the dreaded company Holiday party...the location is key to making it fun or a nightmare. I work in a kinda stuffy upscale place, and of course I was put in charge of finding the venue. I remembered Sutra because my friend had a birthday party there, she had like 200 ppl, and I just remembered how cool it was that there were two floors and like 5 different sections to hang out in, plus plenty of room to dance. Yes it was East Village, but not dive barish at all. There was a raw sophistication that I though would be perfect to entertain all these buisness like people, somthing out of the norm, but up to standard. Needless to say, Sutra was beyond helpful when it came to catering, open bar and every detail that otherwise would have made this task a nightmare for me, they even secured there Friday nite DJ who is AWSOME....Hip Hop yes, but Reggae, Latin and even Rock n Roll. Im writing because thank God and thank Sutra it was a great success....THANK YOU...and Merry Christmas ;)

Pros: service, staff, ambiance, music

Posted 11/27/06

The staff is amazing at this eclectic lounge, this includes the very smooth and friendly doormen.

It's a bit small and the vibe is more hip-hop than they let on. Had I known what to expect before I went, I wouldn't have gone --that said, I am glad I was clueless and tried something new. It's got the classic LES seedy vibe and the crowd is 100% mutt. You have everyone from 35 year old tattoo artists to 23 year old analysts. The drinks are strong and pletiful, the prices are reasonable and the service is truly what makes this place shine. Go for drinks with an open-minded crew, but leave the friends who insist on Justin Timberlake on the sound system and Grey Goose on the table at home. It's awesome for B-day parties because they are so accomodating.

Pros: Cool vibe, awesome staff

Cons: Heavy on the hip-hop (which can be cool but I like a mix of everything), small

Posted 11/23/06

God knows trying to find a place to throw your birthday party isnt the easiest task in NY, you dont want to have to deal with a club who treats you like a dollar sign rather than person celebrating an important occasion. There are alot of details, good music, good staff, good vibe, good location, strong and reasonable drinks, and if you're really lucky maybe even a private area for your friends that doesnt cost as much as buying a car. That is what Sutra did for me. From the get go I was offered a number of options to chose from that would suit my vision and budget. A private area for 60 of my friends, our own private security guard for exclusivity, private bathrooms, no cover and great music. I opted for the downstairs Chakra Lounge. There was no room fee and $2400 bar guarentee which seemed resonable for a private room on a Saturday nite. Because of the weather not as many of my guests showed, and the club offered me the opportunity to open the door so that the general public could come down and help me towards the guarentee, rather than squeeze me for it. Needless to say, we made the $ goal and every other one on my list...I love this place because they made me and my guests feel important and not just like another booking. Personal service, personal touch, great birthday, all the way!

Pros: staff, music, vibe, location

Cons: parking

Posted 11/16/06

I spent hours looking for a lounge to celebrate my 28th birthday. My criteria were: (1) in my neighborhood (EV or LES), (2) dance floor, (3) hip-hop and/or Top 40, (4) affordable table service, (5) little or no cover for my guests.

Sutra fit all those criteria. I emailed and left a message about my party and received a call the next day. Here are the rules: one bottle (cheapest is $175) gets you the table for the ENTIRE night. I ended up with 3 tables once I got there because the people who had the ones next to mine left early. I wasn't required to buy more bottles. Each reserved table gives you free admissions for ladies all night, and free admissions for the first 10 men if they say they're there for your party. The music is hip-hop and reggae and great for dancing.

Some tips: I stopped by beforehand to see which table I wanted. Thanks to the reviewer who recommended a table on the dance floor -- it's definitely more fun, because otherwise you're off to the side by the bathroom line and crowd by the bar. Definitely get 1-2 bottles because the bar area gets packed, althought it's not hard to get drinks.

Ariel was great to work with. She told me it would be crowded that night because Sutra was celebrating its 2-year anniversary, so I told all my friends to show up early. I probably had about 20 or 30 there for my party, which was a good number. Anything bigger and Sutra would've been too small. Gail, my waitress, was very nice and sweet.

My one complaint -- watch out for the bouncer. He can be very arrogant and was VERY defensive when I asked him why my guy friends had to pay $5 cover when I didn't see 10 guys already inside. Also, it does get very hot inside so dress light!

Pros: Great music; one bottle reserves your table all night; easy to work with

Cons: Cocky bouncer; only two bathrooms; crowded by the bar

Posted 11/16/06

sutra lounge is a really amazing place to be on a friday night. the dj mixes up a great variaty of music as the bartenders mix up the best drinks. i really enjoyed myself at sutra lounge. i went with a couple of my girlfriends and had a great time. we danced and drank the night away. i love it and would deff. be there again and again.

Pros: great drinks, great atmosphere and a cool layed back crwnd

Cons: none that i can think of

Posted 09/26/06

i grew up in new york, and i think ive been to so many lounges and bars as well as clubs. i believe it was a thursday night and me a some of my girlfriends were looking fore somewhere new to hang out. one of my girlfriends recomended that we try this lounge on 1st and 1st, named "SUTRA". the name alone sounded pretty interesting to me. we head over there that night, and from the moment that i walked in i was in aww. i thought the whole decor was amazing. so inviting, romantic, and extremly sensual. the whole red velvet vibe, candles, and budha statues were awsome. the bathrooms had pictures from the "KAMA SUTRA" book, wich i thought to be quite fitting. all in all i had a great time and this place really does not compare to any other. it very unique and lavish in its decor. the drinks were great and the staff were very outgoing and especially one bartender who twirled botles to pure out drinks. very cool.

Pros: great decor, drinks, and atmosphre

Cons: none

Posted 09/26/06

I dont ordinarily get on these things and write a review, but Im compelled to share my experience about Sutra, because it was unique. Like alot of people I needed to book a space for a private party. With food, open bar, the works. When I called to find out information I spoke directly with the owner, who addressed all of my concerns. When it came to the actual event I was supprised that the owners were there throughout the night to make sure that everything was as I wanted. From begining to end. Thats what was so unique. There was a personal care there I didnt anticipate but it was so much appreciated. Thats why I was compelled to write this review. Because when I read somthing in the contrary about this warm and honestly loving spot I felt the need to let everyone know that Sutra Lounge is unique and VERSATILE to your needs. The owners were beyond generous as was the whole staff. Love this place and dont let anyone tell ya different!! Just call them and see for yourself.

Pros: staff, personal attention, atmosphere

Posted 09/25/06

I've heard about Sutra from time to time, different parties, birthdays etc. But I'd never been there until it was time for my own birthday. Everyone I knew recomended it, so I gave it a shot. Im soooo glad I did. I was honestly amazed at the service. From the moment I called to reserve my party until the end of the night, I was treated like gold. All my friends had the best time. The music was great, the staff, the vibe. I cant say enough. Having a party? Have it at Sutra!

Pros: service, staff, music

Cons: parking

Posted 09/17/06

Found this under the radar hot spot when a friend had her birthday at Sutra last month... I just graduated and was looking for a place to celebrate. I remembered the amazing personal service my friend recieved. Served her cake and champagne, shout outs at the DJ booth.... We had about 75 people, and everyone got in no problem. We did an open bar for an hour cause we couldnt beat the price, and they even created a drink special for us. The DJ was off the hook and played Hip Hop, Latin, Reggae, Rock n' Roll, 80's and even a little Bhangra! We celebrated all nite and were treated like gold by the entire staff...my friends and I love this place and look to it as our #1 spot for all our parties...you wont be disappointed

Pros: Personal Service, Great Vibe, Great Music

Cons: no street parking

Posted 05/14/06

I have always HATED the color, red...That is, Until Debra and I showed up at SUTRA!!! Velvet, dim red lighting, evokes a curiosity. So, a first date, she goes to the bathroom, and comes back to plant the deepest, most passionate kiss on my lips I had EVER felt!!! (Guys and Gals...Wait 'til you see the bathrooms...I don't wanna spoil it!). the SEXIEST lounge EVER experienced. The music was...DAMN! The ambiance was like, WHOA, and fellas? their bartender is the damn MASCOT for SEXY! I'll leave that one alone... the Martinis are ENORMOUS, and on a Monday night... There was Poetry. It was a date that was about to plummet, until SUTRA turned it into a PHEONIX! The owner asked if we were enjoying ourselves... We were too busy kissing! Truly one of the greatest spots in all of NEW YORK CITY! I'll be back...
Remember...The bathrooms!!!

Pros: Sexy as HELL, great DJs and music, a caring manager

Cons: not open 24hrs, not closer to my home, too sexy for the shy

Posted 04/24/06

I was already more than satisfied with Sutra. Beautiful space, great music, warm and sexy vibe...me and all my friends were dancing the night away, when I heard a rumor that Joaquin Phoenix was in the house...I nearly died. Sutra is just big enough that I knew if he was there I would definatly see him. Before I knew it, there he was! I actually had the nerve to walk up to him and tell him it was my birthday, and he was totally laid back and cool, just like Sutra, my new FAVORITE BAR in NEW YORK!

Pros: sexy, warm, laid back

Cons: big crowd

Posted 04/23/06

I arrived for my party downstairs. And was greeted by the lovely owner Ariel. The music was slamming as I walked through the crowd. Lots and lots of sexy ladies in the house. I told the waitress to hold the my cake that I had brought for my party "not a problem". They also lit the candles and brought it to my table. I was very much pleased by the staff and the DJ. My party was a pure success and my friends had a great time. Thank You Sutra for making my party a great one.

Pros: Sexy Girls , Good Drinks , Great Music

Posted 04/23/06

I WENT TO SUTRA FOR THE FIRST TIME AROUND TWO MONTHS AGO. I WAS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED AT HOW FRIENDLY THE STAFF WAS, AND AT HOW GOOD THE SERVICE WAS. MY FRIENDS AND I WERE DANCING ALL NIGHT BECAUSE THE DJ KEPT PLAYING GREAT SONGS. YOU DON'T COME ACROSS A PLACE WITH THIS KIND OF VIBE VERY OFTEN. THE DECOR IS VERY SULTRY, WARM, AND INVITING. I LIKED THE PLACE SO MUCH, THAT I DECIDED TO THROW A PARTY THERE LAST WEEK. THE OWNERS WERE VERY PROFESSIONAL AND ACCOMODATING TO MY SPECIFIC REQUESTS FOR MY PARTY. THE NIGHT WENT OFF WITHOUT A HITCH, AND AT THE END OF THE NIGHT ALL OF MY FRIENDS WERE SAYING HOW THEY WERE DEFINATELY GOING TO COME BACK. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND SUTRA FOR YOUR NEXT PARTY, GIRLS/GUYS NIGHT OUT, OR JUST EVEN FOR YOUR NEXT DRINK.

Pros: GREAT MUSIC, GREAT CROWD, GREAT DECOR

Cons: NOT ALOT OF PARKING

Posted 04/23/06

I have to say that i had such a great time at sutra for my birthday. As soon as i walked i loved it. Service was great and the music was off the hook, danced all night. I would highly recommend this place for anyone that wants to have a great time with some beautiful people sutra is the place to be..

Posted 04/20/06

Call me old fashioned but it used to be that you could go to the east village for a fun Friday of drinking and merry-making. At Sutra you are guaranteed the find quite the opposite. Try getting a drink, or even attempting to have fun here. The bartenders are just about the most terrible people you could be forced to hand your money over to. Not just that, but someone forgot to tell the boucers and owner that the place they work for/own is incredibly lame. I can't imagine having a worse time than I had at this place. Go elsewhere, ANYWHERE else.

Pros: Nothing comes to mind, Not one thing., Still nothing.

Cons: Bartender, Bouncer, Owner

Posted 04/14/06