Five Luxurious Bars in New York City

FOOD + WINE, NEW YORK, UNITED STATES | Carmen Edelson

New York City has something for everyone. Whether you are the type to seek out the best slice of pizza in Hell’s Kitchen, or the hottest nightclubs or even tour with a bike Central Park style, the city’s five boroughs is sure to satisfy.

For some, a trip to New York City offers a once in a lifetime chance to splurge and put on the ritz. For others, the luxurious side of the city is what draws them there. Regardless, there’s nothing like unwinding after a day in the Big Apple with a nightcap at one of the many fine drinking establishments.

The Campbell Apartment

The Campbell Apartment is one of the more accessible elite bars in New York City. Located just off the iconic Grand Central Station, the Campbell Apartment is an ornate tribute to the 1920s when it originally opened. Patrons are expected to wear appropriate attire (don’t expect to walk in off the street in jeans and a t-shirt).

Featured in hit television shows like Gossip Girl, the Campbell Apartment has an extensive cocktail and wine list, though prices reflect the surroundings. If you plan on stopping by before catching the subway, plan to spend at least $12 per drink.

The King Cole Bar

The King Cole Bar is located in the St. Regis Hotel. It’s famous not only for its connection to fame– Marilyn Monroe, Salvador Dali, and John Lennon are just a few famous patrons– but for being the original home of the Bloody Mary. Apparently, at its conception in the 1930s, the Bloody Mary was called the Red Snapper.

The King Cole Bar is the epitome of elite, with drinks starting at $24. Depending on your dedication to the experience, and your budget, you may choose to pair your cocktail with one ounce of Osetra Caviar for $325. The King Cole Bar is located in Midtown Manhattan, in proximity to the Rockefeller Center, Trump Tower, and the Museum of Modern Art.

Top of the Standard

The Top of the Standard is, as the name suggests, on top of the stunning Standard hotel. Located over the High Line–a re-purposed elevated train line that now features a park-like walking trail– this hotel can be found in the Meatpacking District. Each room offers ceiling to floor windows with views of the Hudson River.

With the stunning views offered in the rooms, it’s no surprise that the Top of the Standard is equally exquisite. The dress code is smart casual, and drinks start at around $12 each.

Bemelmans Bar

Bemelmans Bar is located in the Carlyle Hotel on East 76th Street between Madison and Park Avenue. Referred to as a high-end piano bar, Bemelmans is the epitome of art-deco with large-scale murals, 24-carat gold leaf-covered ceilings, brown leather, and black granite.

Frequented by celebrities and politicians, expect to pay $20 per drink at Bemelmans. Dress smart and prepare for high-class patrons and smooth jazz.

Dear Irving

Dear Irving is inspired by the movie Midnight in Paris and features rooms inspired by The Great Gatsby, Marie Antoinette, JFK, and Abraham Lincoln. It is ornate, whimsical, and unforgettable. The different rooms make it possible to host private parties at the exclusive spot and bartenders keep things interesting with hand-carved ice cubes.

The extensive list of cocktails starts at around $15 each, with simple yet elegant food options at an affordable rate. Prepare to feel like you’re traveling through time in this one-of-a-kind bar and restaurant.

With thousands of bars in New York City, not including restaurant/bar combinations, there are options for every level of elite visitors of the Big Apple. Whether you’re looking for high-end enjoyment during the entirety of your trip or just trying to have a drink at an iconic location so you can say you were there, be sure to check out the fabulous establishments on this list!

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Carmen Edelson

Carmen Edelson is the Founder of Carmen's Luxury Travel. Carmen has been traveling the world for over a decade. Our travels allows her the opportunity to pursuit her itch to travel to the best luxury destinations, and experience those first class tastes from around the world.