Bemelmans Bar: A Timeless New York Icon
Experience timeless New York elegance at Bemelmans Bar, a legendary cocktail lounge in The Carlyle, featuring live music and whimsical murals.
Bemelmans Bar, located in the Carlyle Hotel on Manhattan's Upper East Side, is a legendary cocktail lounge and piano bar renowned for its distinctive Art Deco style and whimsical murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the Madeline children's books. A favorite of socialites, celebrities, and discerning locals since 1947, Bemelmans offers a sophisticated and uniquely New York experience.
A brief summary to Bemelmans Bar
- 35 E 76th St, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10021, US
- +1212-744-1600
- Visit website
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12:30 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12:30 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12:30 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Dress to impress; Bemelmans Bar has a smart dress code, particularly after 5:30 PM, when collared shirts are required for men, and casual or athletic wear is discouraged.
- Arrive early or make a reservation, especially for evening visits, as the bar is popular and fills up quickly.
- Enjoy the live music; there is often a cover charge for the live music, which varies depending on the night and seating.
- Take time to admire the murals; the whimsical murals by Ludwig Bemelmans are a unique feature of the bar and offer a glimpse into New York's past.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Midtown, take the 4, 5, or 6 subway line to 77th Street station. Exit the station and walk west along 77th Street to Madison Avenue. Turn left onto Madison Avenue and walk one block south to 76th Street. The Carlyle Hotel, and Bemelmans Bar, will be on your left. A single subway fare is $2.90 [https://new.mta.info/fares].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Grand Central Terminal, a taxi or ride-share to Bemelmans Bar will typically cost $15-$25, depending on traffic. The journey will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that surge pricing may apply during peak hours.
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Walking
From the Frick Collection on 70th Street and Fifth Avenue, walk north on Fifth Avenue to 76th Street. Turn right onto 76th Street and walk east towards Madison Avenue. The Carlyle Hotel will be on your right, just before you reach Madison Avenue. Allow approximately 10-15 minutes for the walk.
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Parking
Several valet parking garages are located near Bemelmans Bar. Valet Garage at 51-53 E 76th St. offers parking for $68.74. Another option is Valet Garage at 35 E 75th St. for $58.16. Confirm current rates and availability in advance, especially during peak hours.
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