Past the uniformed doorman and through a palm-filled reception that could feature in a Sherlock Holmes story, there are vast armchairs and velvet settees (some with gargoyles carved into their backs), racks of antlers on the walls, and a roaring fire, plus lighting just dim enough to ensure privacy and discretion even in fairly close quarters.
There’s a strong cocktail list – try the whisky smash - plus wines, beers and a solid selection of whiskies. Settle on one of the bar stools, and the highly knowledgeable stuff will happily lead you through the list. Hotel guests - who include a long line of visiting musicians and A-listers - get priority, but the bar is rarely too busy to accommodate non-guests too.
The volume is also suited more to a country house than your average New York bar - it's a place for a great drink and a decent conversation.
Romantic dates and people watching – the bar is frequented by an A-list crowd who favour its dim lighting and discretion
The pretty patio area is open to non-guests during the day, but the spots by the enormous vaulted sandstone fireplace are the best on a chilly night.
The Bowery classic - Bulldog gin with Dubonnet and a splash of champagne
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