The Box

Who would’ve thought that a defunct sign factory on Chrystie Street would become one of the most controversial late-night spots in the City? Simon Hammerstein (whose grandfather Oscar built Hammerstein Ballroom) and Serge Becker (La Esquina), who opened this bawdy burlesque theater to rave reviews in 2007. Since then, it’s had its share of trouble (including drug raids and accusations that Hammerstein harassed some female employees), but that hasn’t altered its popularity in the least—or made it any easier to get in.