The unassuming door at 86 Bedford Street once served as the back exit to Chumley’s, one of the most iconic speakeasies of the 1920s. Operating during Prohibition, Chumley’s had no sign out front — a necessity for its clandestine nature. Even after Prohibition was repealed, the bar’s reputation was so widespread that it never needed a sign. Everyone simply knew where to go.
The Man Behind the Bar
Chumley’s was owned by Leland Chumley, a quintessential New York City hustler. His obituary lists an impressive array of occupations, including stagecoach driver, newspaper cartoonist, and even soldier of fortune. With such a colorful background, it’s no wonder his bar attracted an equally vibrant crowd.
A Literary Haven
Chumley’s wasn’t just any bar; it became a hub for some of the greatest literary minds of its time. The walls were adorned with autographed dust jackets from books by its patrons. Regulars included literary giants like J.D. Salinger, Jack Kerouac, and William Faulkner.
Even legends like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald were part of its storied history. Hemingway was known to sleep off his benders in Chumley’s upstairs apartment, and Fitzgerald, true to his infamous reputation, is rumored to have had a more risqué connection with the venue.
Staying a Step Ahead
Leland Chumley went to great lengths to ensure his speakeasy ran smoothly. The establishment featured hidden doors and secret passages, making it easy to hide alcohol during sudden police raids. Perhaps even more cleverly, Chumley maintained friendly relations with the local police, who would tip him off about impending crackdowns.
When a raid was imminent, bartenders would use the term “86 it” to instruct patrons to leave discreetly through the back door — the one leading to 86 Bedford Street.
A Cultural Legacy
Chumley’s closed its doors in 2007 following structural damage caused by a chimney collapse. Despite this, its legacy endures, especially in the world of hospitality. If you’ve ever worked in a restaurant, you’ve likely heard the term “86 it” to mean removing something from the menu. Historians agree that this widely used phrase traces its origins back to Chumley’s.
Closing Time
While Chumley’s may no longer stand, its cultural contributions remain alive and well. From its role as a literary watering hole to coining a phrase still used daily, Chumley’s holds a unique place in New York City’s rich history.
How to get there?
A block to the west of 7th Ave., on the east side of Bedford St., slightly north of where it crosses Barrow St.