Friday Night with Hummus and a Dancer from Belarus

Rick's Cabaret in New York City is located on West 33nd Street between Fifth Avenue and the intersection of Broadway and 6th Avenue. Rick's has a centrally located club just a half block from the Empire State Building and within walking distance from Grand Central Station and Penn Station. If you are in the mood to eat, just a block away on West 32nd Street in New York's Korea Town on West 32ns Street between 5th Avenue and Broadway which has delicious Korean food and most of the restaurants are open late, if not 24 hours.

I arrived on Friday night just past Midnight and had a coupon for free admission. It is usually $20 on a Friday night. Rick's does not charge for coat checks. They tell you there is a 2 drink minimum, but it is not enforced. Rick's was very crowded, but not packed. I estimated there were about 65 guys and about 35 dancers on the main floor when I arrived. I was greeted by a host who was friendly and professional and helped seat me at a small table for myself. One problem with Rick's is the tables are small and they pack them close together and it is claustrophobic. There is a bathroom with attendant and 2 ATM cash machines.

Rick's has a full kitchen and menu. I ordered a soft drink for $10 and decided to try the hummus and pita which was $15. The waitress service was very good. The hummus was not very good, and I have had better at a take-out stand in the East Village. However, the food at Rick's is usually very good - you are better off with a steak or salmon.