Bemelmans Bar
New York, NY 10021-1827
Phone: (212) 744-1600
- Cross Street:
- Madison Avenue
- Directions:
- 6 at 77th St
- Hours:
- Sun-Thu 12pm-12am, Fri-Sat 12pm-1am
Editorial Review for Bemelmans Bar – by Karen Hudes
The Scene
The Carlyle Hotel's bar and cabaret club has hosted well-heeled travelers and Upper East Siders since opening in 1929. With a fresh polish, it's courting a new influx of bargoers. Restored murals depicting Central Park scenes populated by debonair rabbits and foxes, by beloved "Madeline" author Ludwig Bemelmans, make the room an enduring treasure. The gold-leaf ceiling, coupled with subdued lighting, gives the crowd a healthy glow.
The Draw
Cocktail hour is prime time, when patrons gab over drinks and evocative piano music. (Does someone request "As Times Goes By" every night?) The seasonal drink list includes highlights such as the Carlyle Punch, a specialty for which the recipe is tweaked daily and the Whiskey Smash, a lively take on the mint julep.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoFor a cover chage of $20 to $25, see Earl Rose between 5:30pm and 8:30pm.
What to DrinkThe secret to the smooth taste of the bar's old-fashioned cocktail is muddling an orange slice and cherry with ice and simple syrup before pouring in a fresh glass with fresh garnish.
User Reviews for Bemelmans Bar
03/17/2008 Posted by arturobandini
Arguably the finest hotel bar in New York. Clubby, cozy, dark and with the terrific Bemelmans murals. Each table has it's own lamp and snacks. Old style elegance and good service. The drinks are VERY expensive ($15-$20) but can be very good. I had the best Martini I've ever had there and it's quite large. They fill the glass and also bring you additional martini in a little carafe nestled in it's own bowl of ice, allowing you to refill yourself. For the ultimate hotel bar experience this (as well as the St. Regis or Plaza) is the place to go. One caution: they will charge you the $20 cover if the entertainment starts while you are there.
02/02/2008 Posted by welkian67
always a good choice if you're into the old nyc uptown style....you still feel bobby short's prescence......you'll pay for it though but it's worth it for one
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