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Bemelmans Bar

Critics' Pick

The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
35 E. 76th St., New York, NY 10021
at Madison Ave. See Map | Subway Directions Hopstop Popup
212-744-1600 Send to Phone

Reader Rating:
8.7 out of 10

7 Reviews | Write a Review
Scene: Cabaret, Classic NY, Hotel Bar, Live Music, Lounge

Courtesy of Bemelman's Bar

Map

Official Website

Rate & Review

Hours

Daily, noon-12:30am

Nearby Subway Stops

6 at 77th St.

Payment Methods

American Express, Diners Club, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Upcoming Events

Ongoing
Sat-Sun Madeline Tea

See Full Schedule >>

Profile

Nowhere is the discreet charm of the bourgeoisie more palpable than in this bastion of post-war decadence: think white-jacket waiters, 24-karat gold leaf ceilings, and nickel-trimmed glass tables splayed around the ivories. Settle into a leather banquette and order something strong and adventurous—perhaps with champagne and cognac or fresh mint and muddled lemons. Murals of frolicking animals painted by bar namesake and former Carlyle Hotel resident Ludwig Bemelmans offer a whimsical counterpoint to what might otherwise be suffocating sophistication (and they repay a close viewing—can you spot the armed rabbit stalking its brethren'). Feel an extra boost knowing you're enjoying pretty much the same thing as the folks across the lobby at Café Carlyle, for a fraction of the cover. — Julie Mehta and Andrew Yamato

Extra

Just in case you've forgotten, Ludwig Bemelmans was the author and illustrator of the Madeline series of children's books.

Reader Ratings

8.7

Always a joy!

Alessia_NYC from 10065 | Posted on 8/6/08

Overall Reader Rating: 10 (Highly Recommended)

This is one of the most special lounge bars in the city. It's preserved so exquisitely well, that stepping into it one feels a sense of old New York upon them. The service is just wonderful, which is a complement...Read More

The Best Gin Martini

Tominchelsea from 10011 | Posted on 8/30/07

Overall Reader Rating: 10 (Highly Recommended)

I went to Bemelmans with a 23-year-old friend of Colombia: I in suit, he in jeans. The waitstaff was courteous and professional, just top-notch, and we were seated in a lovely corner of the bar. The table snacks...Read More