Setting the Scene: A 1920s Speakeasy in the Heart of Times Square
As you step into Carmine’s in Times Square, the space transforms into the Lou Zar Speakeasy, complete with vintage vibes and a hush of prohibition intrigue. Think flapper dresses, slick hats, and whispered secrets. The stage is set from the moment you arrive
Characters & Atmosphere: Meet the “Usual Suspects”
From mob boss Lou Zar to the sultry songstress Lucy Morals, each cast member roams the dining room, mingling with guests as though part of the in‑restaurant mafia. These actors, beautifully in character throughout the entire evening, provide clues, misdirection, and comedic energy. Before dinner resumes, the performers will assign volunteer “suspects” among the patrons, drawing a handful of people into the mystery more directly
The Meal: Family-Style Italian
Your evening unfolds over a delicious three-course, family-style dinner typical at Carmine’s: Caesar salad, a hearty pasta (like penne alla vodka), chicken parmigiana or shrimp scampi, and finishing with tiramisu or a cannoli. It’s classic, crowd-pleasing Sicilian-American comfort in supremely generous portions.
The Show: A Whodunit in Three Acts
Between courses, the mystery builds in acts, actors provide snippets of dialogue, dilemmas, and drama. Guests observe, question, and discuss clues at the table, occasionally interacting with suspects scattered among them. What’s served in bite-sized portions keeps everyone entertained and engaged. The finale wraps with a climactic reveal: who’s loyal, who’s lying, and who orchestrated the hit in the speakeasy The best part, some of the dinner guests might be involved!
What to Know Ahead: Tips & Logistics
- Arrival: Show up ~30 minutes early to check in and settle before things begin.
- Bar: Carmine’s bar stays open throughout, cocktails and drinks available (not included in the ticket price).
- Timings: Expect to stay for about 2–2½ hours total—plenty of time for food, drinks, and detective work.
- Dress Code: Optional 1920s attire encouraged but optional, business casual is perfectly fine.
- Accessibility & accommodations: Carmine’s is wheelchair accessible, air-conditioned, and can accommodate dietary restrictions, just request ahead.
Final Verdict
Check out @Maria.Myraine’s Reels video below for her recap of the must-attend experience!