Tucked discreetly in the heart of Downtown Flushing, Queens, IYKYK is more than just a cocktail bar—it’s an experience. Concealed behind an unmarked facade, this speakeasy-style gem is redefining the local nightlife scene with a masterfully curated cocktail program, crave-worthy Asian-inspired bites, and a vibe that feels like the weekend no matter when you visit.
Founded by hospitality veteran Mack Chen, IYKYK was born out of a personal mission: to bring the energy, elegance, and creativity of Manhattan’s bar culture to his own backyard. “I was tired of not having a nice bar to go to in Flushing,” Mack explains. “I wanted a place where I could drink great cocktails, eat the kind of food I love, and feel at home. So, I built it.”
And built it he did—with vision and flair.
Walking into IYKYK feels like stumbling upon a secret worth keeping. Inspired by the mystique of Prohibition-era lounges and the glamour of 1920s Shanghai, the space boasts design details that reflect Chinese culture and vintage charm. From the coin-inspired wall frameworks to the dramatic opera masks, every corner whispers of a time gone by—yet feels utterly fresh and modern.
The name, If You Know, You Know, couldn’t be more fitting. It’s a nod to the venue’s hidden nature, but also to the growing community of loyal patrons who’ve found something truly special here.
At IYKYK, the bar is both art studio and laboratory. The cocktail menu is a showcase of innovation, drawing on a diverse range of global and Asian flavors. Whether you’re sipping the Saigon Mule (Tito’s vodka with a warming blend of ginger, star anise, and salabat spices) or the Miso Gold Rush (rye whiskey with miso oolong honey), every drink tells a story.
Other standouts include the Coffee Morning – A bold, bittersweet concoction featuring cold brew, vodka, and amaro, Kiss & Tell – A vibrant tequila-based drink with pink grapefruit, shiso syrup, and a pop of yuzu and Almost a Manhattan – A caramel milk-washed bourbon twist on the classic, finished with a sherry atomizer.
The food at IYKYK is far from an afterthought. Mack, whose childhood memories are steeped in the aromas of his parents’ Chinatown restaurant, made sure the menu speaks directly to his palate—and his patrons'.
With Land & Sea Lumpia (a luxurious spin on the Filipino classic with pork, crab, and crawfish), the menu balances indulgence with approachability. Signature dishes like the IYKYK Double Smash Burger—featuring dry-aged beef from Brooklyn’s Meat Hook—and DTF Grilled Oysters (a garlic parmesan dream) round out a lineup that’s both comfort-driven and culinary.
For those craving something decadent, Truffle Salt Fries and Popcorn Chicken Thighs with house IYKYK seasoning hit just right. Every dish is fresh, laden with a unique flavor profile and perfect for indulging solo or sharing with friends.
With its carefully cultivated ambiance, rotating seasonal menus, and late-night hours (open till 2 AM on weekends), IYKYK is quickly becoming the place to be for everything from intimate date nights to rowdy birthday celebrations.
“We’re hosting a variety of exciting events soon,” Mack hints. “IYKYK is not just a bar—it’s a community hub, a destination, and a brand that we’re continuing to grow.”
Open Sunday through Thursday from 6 PM to midnight, and Friday and Saturday from 5:30 PM to 2 AM, IYKYK welcomes guests who are in the know—and those about to be.
IYKYK isn't about flashy gimmicks or trendy pretension. It’s about heart, heritage, and hospitality. It's the embodiment of Mack's journey—from a child sweeping floors at his family’s restaurant to a host at the city’s most promising speakeasy.
So next time you find yourself in Queens and you’re looking for something unexpected, follow the whispers. If you know, you know.
For more on the menu, hours, and upcoming events, visit iykykny.com.