on't be fooled by the packed African eatery/club at 55 Gansevoort in the Meatpacking District. The place you want to be is actually below the pavement, and it will take more than a walk around the building and a 20 to the bouncer to get in.

With a pretty much silent opening, as in no publicity or announcement, Bijoux has already managed to establish an elite clientele including the likes of Jay-Z, Kanye, and Ben Affleck in attendance at private parties.

This is not a "happen to stumble upon it" kind of place. This is a destination. Just past the entrance to Merkato 55, if you don't miss it, there is a two way tinted panel of glass. Know the password? (i.e. are you hot/wealthy/well known?) then maybe, just maybe, the bouncer will open the door for you. Head downstairs, through the kitchen (you should feel way more important than you actually are by now), then go through the door labeled Private- yes you. And you have arrived at the Mecca which is Bijoux.

Elitist, dark, and indulgent is the vibe here. Slick silver banquettes serve pretties who spend the big bucks on bottle service. A low, custom carved ceiling and gold and black nude depiction of the owner's wife serve as art. But by now, the combination of the pressure change, alcohol, and the thrill of actually getting in have prevented you from noticing.