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Sinatra's Favorite New York Bar- Jilly's Saloon

The legendary midtown Manhattan hotspot was a dark smoky saloon which became the central hangout in New York City for Frank Sinatra and the “Rat Pack”.

It was famous for a table permanently reserved for Sinatra in the back with a blue wooden chair.

Despite being an Italian American haunt, Jilly’s was famous for serving Cantonese food, which was a favorite of Sinatra’s and his cohorts.

People came for the atmosphere and the hope of bumping into America’s favorite crooner and his glamorous buddies.

Sinatra and his celebrity friends drank and socialized there several nights a week when he was in town.

While Sinatra had incredibly close bonds with his “Rat Pack” brothers Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr., Jilly Rizzo held the unique role of being Sinatra’s unconditionally loyal confidant off-stage, becoming his road manager and his right hand man.

Jilly was a New York tough guy that became like the brother Sinatra never had.

When Sinatra sang Simon and Garfunkel’s “Mrs Robinson”, he changed the lyrics to say “Jilly loves you more than you will know… ”

Jilly’s Saloon closed in 1984 and became the Russian Samovar restaurant and piano bar.

David Garland May 19, 2026 New York NY Bars Restaurants Retro/Nostalgia

Location: 256 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019

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