Love the vibe here but it has changed over the years. The bouncers make you wait in line even if it is not full which I think is silly that two girls had to wait in line and then there were letting guys just walk in. The musicians are very talented and the mocktails are delicious. read more

Dropped in Thursday night with a group of 4 to celebrate a birthday. Thankfully we were able to snag some seats at the bar and eventually a table as we did not have a reservation. Servers were very kind and attentive, it's a very well decorated bar and we appreciated the live music as well. Drinks are pricy, but they are boozy and very well balanced when it comes to the flavors. I tried the Jackie O and the Ludwig's Brush and enjoyed both however the Ludwig's Brush was a more unique drinking experience (Apricot forward). From sampling my friends drinks I can also say they make a very good Dirty Martini. read more

Bemelmans Bar - Ludwig's Brush - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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I recently visited Bemelman's Bar with friends. Given the high price point and the prestigious location I anticipated attentive service and high quality cocktails. The service however was mediocre and did not meet the standards usually found at a luxury hotel bar. It felt impersonal and lacked the professionalism I expected for the cost. The cocktails were such a disappointment. I ordered a gimlet from the menu and it was incredibly basic. At these prices I expect a level of craft and balance that was simply missing. It was a standard drink that could be found at almost any mid tier bar in the city. The atmosphere was also difficult to enjoy because of the noise level. It was loud enough inside that maintaining a conversation was a struggle. The space seems to have become more of a scene for a specific social crowd rather than a place for a nice drink. On a positive note the restroom was well maintained and clean. It is a small space with two stalls. I do not quite see the allure of this spot based on this visit. The lack of creative or at least well crafted drinks and the loud environment made the experience feel like a poor value overall. There are several better options nearby for someone seeking a quality martini and professional service. read more

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This place is so iconic and has the best cosmopolitan of my life! We had an amazing time for their Sunday evening jazz trio show. Our server Julie was so sweet as was everyone else working and the people around us. The cover charge was $35 but definitely worth it. We ordered drinks and the cheese and charcuterie. We had an unforgettable evening! read more

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I like the experience of this upper east side bar. Often has live entertainment, very good. The people are nice here, makes it all the more enjoyable read more

Really great jazz bar at the Carlye. The prices are kinda crazy (cover and every drink ends up being +$40). You can't deny the great ambiance though. read more

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I wanted to love Bemelmans, but I had a just okay experience when I stopped by in the afternoon this past Saturday with some friends. So why was I so excited? Open since the 1940s, Bemelman's Bar has so much history. And you can still see it everywhere in the bar when you walk in. From the bartenders in red jackets, to the dark art decor decor, to what I consider the main attraction (the mural - more on that below), it's retro and classic and still very sophisticated. It looked just like I'd imagined it would. (On the mural: Ludwig Bemelmans painted a work - Central Park - on every wall of the bar in 1947. He was the author and illustrator of the Madeline books. You can find an ice-skating elephant, cigar-smoking bunnies, rabbits building a snow bunny, Madeline and her compatriots walking in a line, and Bemelmans himself as a waiter holding a bill. It's beautiful and whimsical and made me smile quite a bit. Bemelmans is a cocktail bar, but it has a full menu - food, cocktails, wine, mocktails... It's known as a spot for martinis (they claim to make 1,000 every night), so I started there, with their Gibson, which I loved (clean, classic, and exactly what I wanted). Two of my friends ordered dirty martinis (not an offering on the martini page of their menu), and my other friend tried two of their mocktails. I enjoyed my martini but got a glass of wine as my next drink. FYI Bemelmans is pricey. My Gibson cost me $42, and even my friend's mocktail (that didn't contain any N/A "liquors") cost $22. A chicken BLT will run you $35. When places are as expensive as Bemelmans is, people's expectations can be pretty high. And while the decor, ambiance, my Gibson, and the wine selection all lived up to my expectations, the service left quite a bit to be desired. We walked in on a Saturday afternoon, around 2pm. The bar was almost empty (2-3 tables with people). The bartender at the bar (just to the right when you walk in through the hotel entrance) said someone would be with us shortly, but then we watched the only server in the bar stand and talk to the back table (a couple) for so long I thought about feigning a coughing fit to get his attention. Even when we finally got seated at a table (not by him, he still hadn't turned around), the service wasn't great (unfriendly and not very welcoming). The service made the experience kind of lackluster for me, which was such a shame, because this cocktail bar in the Carlyle is really special. I definitely want to give it another chance, because I had already decided to love it before I visited for that first time. read more

Bemelmans Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Wonderful serendipity! Bemelmans Bar... wow! After an afternoon at the Frick with college friends visiting from Pittsburgh when also one of them had grabbed some items from the museum gift shop, we said it was time for a drink. She said dive bars were ruled out and the app identified Bemelmans Bar as the nearest recommended spot. With the rain coming down, I ordered a Lyft. To my surprise, we pulled up to The Carlyle Hotel, where my last time in 2007 created another memorable visit - I treated my mom to see the awesome Eartha Kitt perform at the Café Carlyle! Understanding then that this was the hotel's bar, we walked through the lobby to the bar's entrance. The host noted that normally the guests have more formal attire, but would make an exception given the summer weather. He led us through this absolutely elegant, warm space decorated with delightful Bemelmans expressionistic murals to a small table adjacent to the piano player. Even the table's lampshade was decorated in his mural art. (The hotel paid for it with 1 1/2 years of accommodations for his family and him.) My friend explained Bemelmans was the man who wrote the Madeline children's book series and apparently the artwork was adapted from that. Then, she pulled out her gift shop purchase - "To The One I Love The Best" by Ludwig Bemelmans! What a coincidence.. or not... we were meant to be there! Our table was equipped with a small threesome of tasty spicy nuts and nibbles, snack crackers, and potato chips. We ordered drinks, including a nice non-alcoholic beer for me. Additionally, my friend selected an order of their Fried Olives with Lemon Vodka Aioli to share. (Note - It wouldn't be something I'd reorder or recommend.) Bemelmans Bar provided a super atmosphere to unwind and reconnect, although our proximity to the piano did present moments challenging our conversation. Its classic New York sophisticated atmosphere of unique, charming, unpretentious, accessible style reminded me of the specialness of this city. Our afternoon there was meant to be! Keep in mind - Bemelmans Bar is not cheap. (Underline, understatement!) There are cover charges when there's live music, even just the piano. And those Fried Olives... super pricy! That being said, Bemelmans Bar elevates a moment to be shared with others into something not to be forgotten. (Btw, a show at Café Carlyle can do that too!) read more

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Literally a place I've had in my list for nearly 10 years! Finally came here and it was amazing. Sure, the drinks are expensive. Sure, you pay at least $25 for a cover to sit at a table. But the whole experience was amazing. We came on a Monday night and wanted a nice night out. There was no line to get in and decent amount of seating. We were seated right behind the jazz trio, and it was awesome! Think YouTube jazz background cafe/bar music but in real life. Think "jazz Christmas" and this is it, but all year long! Music was top notch. The drinks were also great. My wife got a Gin & Tonic from the menu, and it was very good. I ordered from the martini selection, I think a Carlyle Whisperer, and that was one of the best classic/classic-inspires cocktails I've ever had. In terms of drink pricing, it's not cheap. BUT if you order a martini, the size is closer to 1.5 of a normal martini for $30ish and up. They pour the drink into the cocktail glass and have the remainder in a mini carafe. If you do some weird math, it might make sense. Overall, we loved the bar. I wouldn't wait 20+ minutes to get in but if you're looking for a fantastic NYC jazz experience with great drinks, this is it!!' read more

Bemelmans Bar - Drinks - a Gin & Tonic variant (wine glass) and the Carlyle Whisperer - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Vibes are awesome how this is cornered into a hotel and the dark lighting and music. Extremely unique experience compared to other spots in New York. The $30 drink prices are just ridiculous though for a martini that is nothing special. read more

Gorgeous bar with murals from the children's book Madeline. Loved the piano player. This would be a romantic spot for a date. There is assigned seating at the bar, which is understandable, given how busy it gets, but that keeps things a lil stuffy. read more

I was excited to go here after the Frick with my BFF. One goes here for the nostalgia and charm of the illustrated walls which are worth the visit. We arrived as Johnny the friendly bartender was opening. He made us feel so welcome! We had come to see the walls but ended up having such a nice visit due to Johnny. Had the Cuban cocktail, coffee, a mushroom appetizer called Cuban cigars (wrapped in filo pastry--yummy) and a decadent flourless chocolate cake (really good). The Carlisle Hotel is so classy. The bar and eateries are so dark yet unique and beautiful. Of course way too expensive! But we will return for the jazz! And spend more. This is a cool Manhattan experience. read more

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Bemelmans is truly a standout experience from start to finish. The food is exceptional, beautifully prepared, flavorful, and clearly crafted with attention to detail. The service matches that high standard: attentive without being overbearing, warm, and genuinely welcoming. What really elevates the experience, though, is the bar. The drinks are nothing short of amazing. Their classic cocktails are executed to perfection, and there's a timeless quality to the menu that's hard to find anywhere else. It's the kind of place where you can order something like a Jackie-O and feel transported, refined, elegant, and unforgettable. If you're planning a visit, be sure to ask for Alban, his expertise and hospitality truly enhance the entire experience. If you're looking for a place that combines incredible food, impeccable service, and some of the best classic drinks around, Bemelmans is simply unmatched. read more

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The perfect ambiance. While I can't speak to the food as we didn't have any, the drinks, ambience and service were beyond incredible. There's truly nowhere like this place and every time I come I truly enjoy my time. Service is without note and the ambience couldn't be better. It's such a New York classic and the kind of place you never wanna leave. From the live music to the gorgeous murals to the attentive staff Bemelmans bar is the place to be. read more

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Took my son there for a fun little cocktail hour. Disappointed to have the check tossed down and rushed through like this was a chilis. My drink was too sweet - no big deal- just a preference- so asked for the same as my son- mine came back with half the portions of his and we never saw a server again. Apparently don't go there at shift change. I didn't want to complain and ruin it for my son- but it was pretty disappointing for a 30$ martini. Art, music & atmosphere live up to the reputation though. read more

This place has fallen from grace and needs a serious reevaluation. Please don't have multiple well dressed clientele and hotel guests waiting in a makeshift line while accommodating single scantily clad "ladies" of the night. It seems like the staff would be better served working at a strip club. Avoid at all costs. read more

Bemelmans Bar - Punch - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Meh dark old not all that's Martinez are like $35 a pop I guess in nostalgia of being somewhere where old movie stars would hang out fad did not have any food just drinks and after $235 I was kind of done read more

I came here on a Saturday afternoon around 3:30PM and there were about 8 groups of people already waiting in line to get in. Overall my mom and I waited only about 30 mins and the line just kept getting longer. We were seated at the bar and ordered the guacamole (6/10 tastes fresh but not a lot of flavor but there was some nice seasoning on the chips) and the homemade pigs in a blanket (10/10 so good!) They also give you a small snack container of spiced nuts, chips, and cheese crisps which was good! I ordered the Serrano and the elevator ride (strong!) Live music started at 5:30 and there was a $10 cover. The music was fun and the staff was nice but the bartenders switched shifts twice in the 2.5 hours we were there which was odd. Overall such a fun jazz experience but be prepared to spend a lot of money! read more

Bemelmans Bar - Pigs in a blanket, guacamole, the Serrano, and jackie -o - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Bemelman's is a NY institution. I had never been before, so we stopped by around 5PM the evening before Thanksgiving. There was already a line to get in. Bemelman's does not take reservations. The line had about 10-15 people in it but we decided to wait any way. Some people ahead of us eventually gave up and left, which helped our chances of getting in. If you are a guest of the hotel (we weren't), you can skip the line and go right in. In total, we waited 90 minutes to get a table for 2 people. My friend who has been before said she has shown up other times when there hasn't been a line, earlier and not around the holidays. I mentally prepared myself to wait and also took a break to run and get snacks while my friend waited in line. There is no place to sit while you wait, so you are standing the full time you are waiting. After 90 minutes, we were ushered into the dimly lit, lively bar. The bar is not that large and tables are pretty crammed together. The noise level was loud. We sat by the piano player so we had no trouble hearing him thankfully! After 6PM, every table in the bar is subject to a $10 per person cover charge for the entertainment. Happy to pay it, as the pianist that night was wonderful, playing some Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, etc. He was also happy to take requests. My friend and I had the Mr Carlyle drink which is basically a gin and tonic. It was great. Every table receives potato chips and a snack mix upon arrival. That was tasty. We also ordered a cheese plate and olives. The server forgot about the olives but we didn't bother asking for them as we got pretty full with the cheese plate served. Cheese plate was good and had these yummy crisps served with it. Table service was very good as well as the service from the host who seated us. Obviously the decor in the bar is fascinating, with intricate drawings from the creator of the Madeline story book. Even the lamps have the drawings on it. Prices were average to upper range. But not surprising given the reputation and caliber of the bar. I did not see an accessible entrance to the bar. There are about 4 stairs leading into the entrance. The bar overall has a jovial, New York kind of energy that made the wait worth it. I'm so glad I got to experience Bemelman's finally. I'll definitely come back, hopefully at a time when there's no wait. There are not many vegetarian options sadly outside of olives and the cheese plate. read more

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My girlfriends and I came here on a whim after going to the Salon Art & Design show in the UES. So we decided - "when in UES..." My friend had mentioned this place was featured in some tv shows and films at the Carlyle Hotel. We arrived just as Bemelmans opened, and got a nice small table next to the bar. It was intimate and warm, with that Old New York feel. Apparently, they have a piano player on some nights which I would love to experience one day. We ordered wine all around and were served bar snacks, which were actually very delicious. As a creative, the details of the place really added a nice touch - from the branded cloth cocktail napkins to the menu design. Have yourself a Gossip Girl day and stop by The Carlyle! xoxo read more

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Bemelmans is still one of the most beautiful rooms in New York -- the atmosphere, live music, and history are unmatched. I brought clients expecting that signature Carlyle hospitality. Unfortunately, the service was a stark contrast to the setting. The front host was noticeably rude and dismissive on arrival, and the bartender was equally curt -- even insisting we provide payment despite our reservation already being prepaid. It left the experience feeling uncomfortable and unwelcoming. Bemelmans has always been synonymous with grace and elevated service. I hope the current team is able to return to those standards -- the room deserves it. read more

This is the epitome of the Upper East Side. Classy, elegant, beautiful live jazz music under a soft dim glow. It's the most charming bar and my absolute favourite, especially for a date night. The bar snacks are the best free bar snacks ever. So addicting and I could munch on them all night. Drinks are fabulous, but it's really al about the vibes here. Sip on your Jackie O cocktail whilst listening to the trio perform Frank Sinatra -- there's nothing more NY than that. And the service here is excellent. Not pretentious at all. read more

so cute and festive! did not eat just had drinks. service was good. bar snacks delish read more

Bemelmans Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

These Pigs in a Blanket single handedly changed my life. I've eaten my body weight in franks in blanks over the past few years (I'm 6'5 230 haha), and these stand alone at the 1 spot. The crown is heavy. It is 5 pieces of Andouille sausage wrapped in pastry dough that has the perfect crisp on the outer layer, topped off with a meticulous dab of spicy mustard. I mean just look at that picture. It tastes better than it looks if you can believe that. While the rest of our group was enjoying the live piano, looking for famous people, or scanning the Ludwig Bemelman murals that drape the walls, I was staring at the lone little piggy left on the plate. Between sips of my Vesper, my internal dialogue was going crazy: "I can't just take it, that would be rude... But I want it so bad. You can tell they cooked the sausage separately before wrapping it too... I NEED it... No I don't... You're with your girlfriend's family Johnny do NOT take it... But they know me well enough now..." Just then my big bro said "J Novo that has your name on it, take it. I see you eyeing it." SEE! THAT'S WHY HE IS BIG BRO. I also gotta shoutout the piano man, Roberto. He was taking request after request, just bodying EVERYTHING. His rendition of Vienna by Billy Joel got me a little emotional if we are being honest. He was way better than the live jazz trio that came on after him ($35 a person cover charge). Roberto came over to our table after, in his full suit and tie, and started RIZZING up all the ladies at our table. It was inspirational. I had to put my arm around my girl cuz I was getting nervous... Roberto the Rizzler! I actually loved this bar, even though it's damn near $30 a cocktail. You're paying for the vibe. I'm ecstatic to come back in the winter, as having a couple cocktails (and piggies) around Christmas time in a bar like this is what I think of when I think of New York City. Ig @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov_reviews read more

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The classic spot for an old school, uptown NYC experience. You're likely to see a Real Housewife or a Broadway star here, but everyone will be behaving themselves and minding their own business while enjoying one of the city's most perfect martinis in a super classy environs. The entertainment and bartending is top notch, the vibe is classy but fun. It may be standing room only if you don't get here early enough but the drinks, service, and ambiance will be well worth it. Top notch. read more

Bemelmans Bar - The best martinis - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Fair warning: there's a $10 per person cover charge once you order a drink. This might not be mentioned at the door, but the bartender will certainly inform you. Unless you're a hotel guest or know someone like a regular or the manager, expect to wait at least over an hour to get in. And yes, the drinks are pricey--you'll likely spend around $50 for a single cocktail when you factor in the cover charge and gratuity. I visited on a Thursday around 4 PM and waited about an hour to get in. Once seated, we had to wait an additional 20 minutes for someone to clean our table, followed by another 30 minutes for a server to take our order. The drinks were good, but were they $30 good? Not really. I tried the Bobby's Manhattan and a regular Manhattan--both well-crafted, but not worth the steep price. On a positive note, they offered complimentary mixed nuts, chips, and cheese crackers, which was a nice touch. The dark, moody ambiance with live music was lovely, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. However, the service was frustratingly slow, and there were several empty, uncleared tables even though the place was busy. While the vibe was enjoyable, I wouldn't go out of my way to return given the service issues and overall value. read more

This is my favorite hotel bar in NYC. It's so special. I recommend going on the early side to avoid a wait. I went the night before Thanksgiving and it was. 90 minute wait. It was worth it. The cocktails are amazing and the ambiance is charming. It's like walking back in time to old New York. If you go while live music is playing there is.a cover charge but it's worth it. Be aware that hotel guests do receive priority seating at the bar since there are no reservations. read more

Bemelmans Bar - Bar snacks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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One of favorite bars in #NYC. Bartenders are super friendly and make some of the better cocktails. My personal favorites are the Old Fashioned or Manhattan. Warning, there is a bit of a dress code. But we'll worth visiting one of the more unique jazz bars/clubs in city read more

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Bad, just all around bad. If you can skip this place, don't just skip. Run away!!! We started with a one and a half hour wait. Of course the expectations were high given the great reviews. When we walked in the atmosphere did not disappoint. It was like an old fashioned bar you would see in the movies from the 1960s. However, everything after that just plain old stunk. The food was absolutely horrible. Dry, stale, oversalted, embarrassing. The drinks were nothing to write home about, and the waiter was not only half asleep when he served us, he didn't smile nor give a darn about providing even remotely basic service. It was a garbage show (eplace the word "garbage" was any euphemism you want). All in all, besides the nice decor, this is a one and never again stop. Oh yes, did I mention that for this wonderful pleasure of being disappointed it was hundreds of dollars for two people? So overpriced it's truly sickening. Just awful. read more

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For such a historical bar I was frankly underwhelmed. I stayed at the Carlyle and used the entrance off the hotel lobby. Dressed appropriately since I was told it was a classy place. It was early Friday evening and I asked for bar seating. The server placed me at the end with a cash register in front of me. Not sure how they expected me to enjoy a drink or food. I waited a moment then moved myself when another seat opened. The waiter asked for my credit card then held it, which I never experienced before. I opted for a Kentucky Mule with a side of Oysters. Surprised to find my cocktail served in a glass rather than the classic chilled copper tumbler. A paper straw seemed beneath Bemelmans. Oysters were good, music better but I won't return. I think I can find a $30 cocktail elsewhere. read more

It is def a bucket list spot. Live jazz and delicious martinis are a given here. But our tab was high due to the cover charge for the jazz

Top notch vibes. Billy Stritch, Jim Caruso and Steve Doyle were all incredible for entertainment while having a nice night cap. The walls are all hand painted by the artist who did the Madeline books - all different seasons of Central Park. Seeing that alone is worth the visit. Their drinks are really expensive but, for a bit more than your average NY stop, it's worth it to go to even just once. My only real complaint is that they should really nail an espresso martini, but mine was really mediocre. Maybe grab a signature cocktail or glass of wine instead. read more

Bemelmans Bar - Espresso martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New York, New York

beautiful upscale bar in the Carlyle. try the Jackie O drink. amazing. the beef sliders were the best burgers i've ever had.

Wonderful ambience and service. Our waiter was clearly a professional - extremely capable and warm. Cocktails were excellent. Murals of the Madeline books were wonderful and our waiter pointed out a drawing representation of JFK Jr incorporated into one corner which was fun. Live piano music drew us here - the service, ambience, and cocktails will bring us back. Though be prepared for a very long line to be seated. read more

Stopped by around 8:30pm on a Sunday. We immediately got a table for 4 with no reservations. Later in the night the place filled up, so come early. Everybody was so friendly and you immediately get a good vibe when you walk in. The ceilings feel low and the space is intimate. While the charming wallpaper is light and whimsical, the ceiling is covered in a gold leaf paint, which brings a romantic glow from the low lighting. There's a feeling like you've walked into the heart of an Egyptian pyramid surrounded in hieroglyphic scenes of Central Park and perimeter lighting anchored dark wood chairs and plush fabrics. One waiter took our water order, while another came by with a trio of savory snacks in a silver caddy. As we were being welcomed we were told there would be a $25 per person fee as there was live music on Sundays. The pianist on his baby grand, the lounge singer who had the pitch of Sinatra but the styling of Chet Baker, and a base player that took the bus down with us from a show at the Guggenheim. If you come for the jazz, expect some familiar tunes and soft jazz, I was singing along with some classics by Elle Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. The trio was taking requests written on drink napkins, which brought a refreshing element of surprise. I ordered the pisco sour ($28). This was light and lighter on the simple syrup. It was great for slow savoring. We ordered a cheese plate for the table ($38). The mostarda tasted more like a tomato chutney and it was intriguing when paired with each of the cheeses. I wanted to take this home. The von trapp oma was soft, brie-like, but it offered a much more impressive flavor, like cultured butter. The Shepard Verano was the favorite of the table. This semi-hard sheep milk cheese was difficult to savor because we kept chopping away at it hoping that it would be an endless pile of cheese. The last cheese was a hard Stockinghall Cheddar. A little of this went a long way and was pretty dry. I think introducing a honey or second condiment would have made this match the plate a bit better. My friend ordered the aged 3 beef sliders. Each came with their own adorable, personal condiments. We were also asked if we wanted mayo in addition to the two ketchups and mustard. The ketchup was very sweet to me and my friends enjoyed it. My friend ordered the side of fries, which came in a copper serving bowl and was probably the largest serving of fries I've ever seen. This was $15 and great to share for the table. They are thin cut-steak frites. Cocktails here are showpieces, but come for the atmosphere, music, and friendly service! read more

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Bemelmans Bar, nestled within The Carlyle Hotel on the Upper East Side, offers a quintessential New York experience that seamlessly blends elegance, history, and top-tier service. From the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in an ambiance that harks back to a bygone era, with the enchanting murals by Ludwig Bemelmans providing a whimsical backdrop to the sophisticated setting. Ambiance and Decor: The bar's interior is adorned with murals depicting scenes from Bemelmans' beloved "Madeline" series, creating a unique and charming atmosphere. The dim lighting and plush seating further enhance the intimate and cozy environment, making it an ideal spot for both quiet conversations and special occasions. Service: The staff at Bemelmans Bar exemplify professionalism and attentiveness. Despite occasional busyness, especially during peak hours, the bartenders and servers ensure that each guest feels welcomed and well-cared-for. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to accommodate special requests contribute significantly to the overall positive experience. Drinks and Entertainment: Renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails, Bemelmans Bar offers a menu that caters to both classic and contemporary tastes. While the prices are on the higher side, with cocktails starting around $26, the quality and presentation justify the expense. Live piano music adds to the bar's charm, providing a sophisticated soundtrack that enhances the overall ambiance. Considerations: It's worth noting that the bar can become quite crowded during evening hours, and some patrons have mentioned that the noise level can rise, potentially affecting the enjoyment of the live music. Additionally, while the cover charge for live music is a modest $10, the overall cost can add up quickly when factoring in drinks and gratuities. For those seeking a quieter experience, visiting during off-peak hours may be advisable. Conclusion: Bemelmans Bar stands as a testament to timeless New York elegance, offering an experience that combines art, music, and mixology in a setting that is both luxurious and inviting. Whether you're a local or a visitor, an evening at Bemelmans is sure to be a memorable highlight. Bemelmans Bar is primarily known for its cocktails and ambiance rather than its food. The menu consists mainly of upscale bar snacks and light bites rather than full entrees. Some of the most popular options include: * Truffle Fries - A guest favorite, crispy and well-seasoned. * Cheese and Charcuterie Board - High-quality selection of cheeses and cured meats. * Mini Lobster Rolls - Often praised for their freshness and flavor. * Sliders - Small but well-executed, great for a quick bite. * Shrimp Cocktail - Fresh and nicely presented. While the food is ok, it's not the main draw. The focus here is on the experience, the live music, and the classic cocktails. If you're looking for a full meal, The Carlyle Restaurant next door would be a better option. Instagram: arkadian_knight read more

I was terribly disappointed by my experience at Bemelmans Bar for the Madeline Tea. It was complete chaos to get food and the lack of service was particularly galling given the price. Used plates piled up on the table and no one came to clear them. I had to carry over a pot of hot water and three cups and three saucers as small children ran underfoot, racing around while unsupervised by their parents. $450 should get you better service than that. It was so disappointing, particularly as it was a birthday present for my mother. read more

Tops in every category. Impressive performance with live music, delicious table edibles and food, outstanding drinks and gorgeous decor. Was packed Thursday night at 10:30 pm but was seated right away and impeccable service. Love the restaurant and champagne bar as well. It's just a gorgeous Hotel and fun and upbeat with an elegant friendly happy crowd. Can't wait to go back. read more

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Intimate atmosphere, dimmed lights. If you are looking for a classic cocktail than its definitely a spot to visit. Plenty of martinis to go around read more

Wanted to love this NY institution, but I left with mixed feelings. The space is lined with the beautiful murals, but it is so packed with tables and people (you are truly bumping elbows with those around you) that it is hard to even appreciate. There is music, for which you pay a cover, but it is so noisy - again it is hard to even hear or enjoy. Drinks are alright, definitely overpriced as you would expect. Someone in our party ordered a drink and did not realize until we got the bill that it was $46. Overall, the space is special, but the crowds and noise mask the decor, music, and possibly special experience. read more