Bemelmans Bar
Located inside the Carlyle Hotel, this famous Upper East Sider is named for Ludwig Bemelmans, the author of the Madeline children’s books—which is why you’ll find his whimsical artwork adorning the walls. Designer Thierry Despont restored the bar in 2002, preserving the Art Deco style with brown leather banquettes, black glass tabletops, and a 24-karat gold leaf ceiling. The charming and intimate 75-seat space has live music in the evenings.
Brandy Library
If one word best describes this newcomer, it’s golden—from the amber lighting, to the waitresses’ champagne-colored dresses, to that cognac in your snifter. For groups of 12 to 20, the salon area features a chocolate velvet banquette surrounded by a collection of liquor-related books from around the world. For parties of 20 to 40, the bar will devote the back of its lounge area, with its long banquettes and comfy leather chairs.
Campbell Apartment
Located above the bustle of Grand Central Terminal, the refurbished office of 1920’s mogul John W. Campbell now serves as a classy, wood-paneled cocktail lounge that holds 125. Emulating the civilized era in which it was born, this bar’s legendary cocktails from the 20’s and 30’s and refined service attract more than just curious out-of-towners. In the warmer weather, try the outdoor terrace decorated with mahogany rocking chairs. But call first to check that the space hasn’t already been booked for a private party.
King Cole Bar and Lounge
Enter through the lobby of the St. Regis Hotel, and you’ll find this sophisticated space, with its famed Maxwell Parrish mural—and its notoriously expensive cocktails. The old-school vibe is right for closing a deal, or just having a private conversation among what can be a top-level business crowd. Book early, because this bar’s popularity and diminutive size means it fills up fast.
Villard Bar & Lounge
The historic spot inside the Palace Hotel was originally built in 1892 and recently underwent an extensive remodel. The bilevel space has an opulent look and feel, underscored by Tiffany windows, marble tables, a gilded ceiling, and luxurious velvet-covered period seating and cushions. Big spenders—young and old—come here for the 10-page bar menu filled with everything from Scotch to cocktails. Four separate rooms within the palatial space can host as many as 125 guests in a plush, discrete environment.
—Anna Sekula & Alesandra Dubin
Posted 05.31.05
This story originally appeared in the April/May 2005 issue of the BiZBash Event Style Reporter.
Located inside the Carlyle Hotel, this famous Upper East Sider is named for Ludwig Bemelmans, the author of the Madeline children’s books—which is why you’ll find his whimsical artwork adorning the walls. Designer Thierry Despont restored the bar in 2002, preserving the Art Deco style with brown leather banquettes, black glass tabletops, and a 24-karat gold leaf ceiling. The charming and intimate 75-seat space has live music in the evenings.
Brandy Library
If one word best describes this newcomer, it’s golden—from the amber lighting, to the waitresses’ champagne-colored dresses, to that cognac in your snifter. For groups of 12 to 20, the salon area features a chocolate velvet banquette surrounded by a collection of liquor-related books from around the world. For parties of 20 to 40, the bar will devote the back of its lounge area, with its long banquettes and comfy leather chairs.
Campbell Apartment
Located above the bustle of Grand Central Terminal, the refurbished office of 1920’s mogul John W. Campbell now serves as a classy, wood-paneled cocktail lounge that holds 125. Emulating the civilized era in which it was born, this bar’s legendary cocktails from the 20’s and 30’s and refined service attract more than just curious out-of-towners. In the warmer weather, try the outdoor terrace decorated with mahogany rocking chairs. But call first to check that the space hasn’t already been booked for a private party.
King Cole Bar and Lounge
Enter through the lobby of the St. Regis Hotel, and you’ll find this sophisticated space, with its famed Maxwell Parrish mural—and its notoriously expensive cocktails. The old-school vibe is right for closing a deal, or just having a private conversation among what can be a top-level business crowd. Book early, because this bar’s popularity and diminutive size means it fills up fast.
Villard Bar & Lounge
The historic spot inside the Palace Hotel was originally built in 1892 and recently underwent an extensive remodel. The bilevel space has an opulent look and feel, underscored by Tiffany windows, marble tables, a gilded ceiling, and luxurious velvet-covered period seating and cushions. Big spenders—young and old—come here for the 10-page bar menu filled with everything from Scotch to cocktails. Four separate rooms within the palatial space can host as many as 125 guests in a plush, discrete environment.
—Anna Sekula & Alesandra Dubin
Posted 05.31.05
This story originally appeared in the April/May 2005 issue of the BiZBash Event Style Reporter.
Brandy Library
