The Onieal Family

Onieal’s, located at 174 Grand Street in the heart of SoHo and Little Italy, stands as one of Manhattan’s most distinctive historic bars. Its story begins in the early 20th century, when the building sat directly across from the old NYPD Police Headquarters—an area long known for its mix of wealth, corruption, and crime.

A Speakeasy with a Secret Tunnel

During Prohibition, Onieal’s operated as a speakeasy, a brothel, and a gambling parlor. The neighborhood’s notorious corruption led to the construction of an underground tunnel connecting the bar directly to the police headquarters across the street. This allowed uniformed officers and officials to slip into the establishment unseen. The tunnel later became part of the bar’s wine cellar and remains visible today, though it was filled in when the police building was converted into luxury condos in 1987.

A Neighborhood Landmark

Over the decades, Onieal’s evolved from its illicit past into a beloved neighborhood bar and grill. Patrons often remark on its speakeasy vibe, “old‑days” décor, and warm, cozy atmosphere—features that preserve the building’s layered history while blending seamlessly with modern dining.

The bar’s menu reflects this dual identity: classic American comfort dishes, New American entrées, and a well‑known cocktail program. Its French Onion Soup, Pat LaFrieda steaks, and Drunken Short Ribs are frequently praised, alongside a strong beer, wine, and cocktail selection.

Sex and the City Fame

Onieal’s achieved worldwide recognition when HBO selected it as the filming location for Scout, the bar owned by Steve and Aidan in Sex and the City. Scenes were shot inside the real bar, and producers even left the authentic Onieal’s signage visible in several episodes. The only major change was a fictional street sign marking the location as Mulberry Street rather than Grand Street.

Its SATC connection transformed Onieal’s into a pilgrimage site for fans. Tour groups regularly stop outside, and visitors often order the “Sex and the City Cosmopolitan,” a cocktail the bar’s staff demonstrates in media appearances.

Modern Identity Under Chris Onieal

Under the ownership of Chris Onieal, the bar has maintained its reputation as a welcoming, stylish, and historically rich gathering place. It functions simultaneously as a restaurant, cocktail bar, sports bar, and wine bar—drawing locals, tourists, and SATC fans alike. Its long operating hours and versatile menu make it a fixture of downtown nightlife.

A Living Piece of New York History

Today, Onieal’s stands as a rare example of a bar that has preserved its past while embracing the present. Its speakeasy roots, infamous tunnel, cinematic fame, and modern hospitality combine to create a uniquely New York experience—one that continues to thrive decades after its transformation from a Prohibition hideaway into one of SoHo’s most iconic establishments.His son John Onieal is a DNA match to my grandmother and myself. The Onieal family is related through my maternal Rogers and Fisher family.

Family Connection
According to our DNA our connection is through my maternal Fisher family. It appears that my 3rd great grandfather may have started a few families. The owners son John and a few other family members all have strong DNA matches.