Motel No Tell

Retro Vibes and American Flavors in the Heart of East Village

Motel No Tell is a quirky, retro-inspired American restaurant and cocktail bar located in NYC’s East Village, just a short walk from some of the city's most iconic concert venues. With its neon signage, vintage motel theme, and cozy booths, Motel No Tell delivers a playful, nostalgic atmosphere with a modern twist. Expect creative comfort food, cheeky cocktails, and a buzzy crowd that keeps the energy high well into the night.

Why Concert-goers love it

With its prime location on Avenue A, Motel No Tell is an easy pre-show stop for live music fans headed to venues nearby. The kitchen stays open late and the service is fast—ideal for grabbing a bite or drink before the lights go down. The fun, slightly kitschy vibe makes it a great place to get in the mood for a night of music, and the background music is lively without being too loud to talk over. If you're short on time, the attentive staff helps you keep things moving without feeling rushed.

Who this Restaurant is great for

• Groups of friends looking for pre-show bites and boozy slushies
• Solo travelers wanting a cool place to eat before a show
• Couples out for a fun, laid-back date night before music
• Fans who want an Instagrammable, high-energy vibe
• Budget-conscious music lovers—the prices are reasonable for the area

What People Say

Reviewers on TripAdvisor and OpenTable love the “kitschy-cool” aesthetic and say the cocktails are “creative and strong.” The American menu—featuring burgers, wings, and fried snacks—gets high marks for flavor and presentation. Guests appreciate the “friendly and fast” service and call it a “fun place to start your night.” Many say it’s “perfect before a show,” especially with its late-night hours and upbeat vibe.

Areas for Improvement

Some guests mention that the space can feel a bit tight during peak hours, and the music volume, while fun, might be a bit much if you're looking for quiet conversation. The food menu isn’t huge, so picky eaters may want to check it ahead of time. But for most concert-goers, the experience outweighs these small gripes.

The Bottom Line

Motel No Tell is a fun, flavorful pre-concert stop with great drinks, quick service, and a vibe that gets you ready for the show.