This iconic Upper East Side New York hideaway opened in 1947 at the Art Deco Carlyle Hotel on 76th Street.
When you enter you are immediately immersed in a different world, a sharp relief from the relative chaos outside.
The gold leaf ceilings and the small shaded lamps with an amber glow on each of the 21 glass top tables give off a discrete light.
The author and illustrator Ludwig Bemelman, (namesake of the bar), whose murals from his famous Madeline book series gives the place an almost whimsical feel.
One mural includes a park setting with animals like a monkey-waiter serving two rabbit gentlemen, an ice skating elephant, cigar smoking bunnies and rabbits building a snow bunny. It is his only remaining artwork on display to the public.
Of course the classic New York City spot has been frequented by celebrities and socialites alike for many years including JFK, Sinatra, Joan Collins, Paul McCartney, Elizabeth Taylor, Harry Truman, Prince Harry and Meghan, Steve Martin, Tom Cruise, Kim Basinger, Brittany Spears and Heather Graham.
There’s a friendly staff that’s been working there for so long, including Louis who’s been behind the bar for 37 years.
Classic cocktails with generous portions like their famous martinis, we had an espresso martini and another very dirty.
Known for its music and it’s marvelous acoustics, Bemelmans has always been listed as the number one piano bar in New York City.
It’s best to arrive at least an hour before the music starts and there is an extra cover charge after 9:30 pm. Open 12 pm to midnight or later, depending on the day.
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