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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.

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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

  • 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.
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Getting There

  • 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].

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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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Discover more about Bemelmans Bar

Bemelmans Bar, a jewel within The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, stands as a testament to old-world New York charm and sophistication. Opened in 1947, this iconic bar has long been a haven for socialites, celebrities, politicians, and anyone seeking a refined and uniquely New York experience. The bar is named after Ludwig Bemelmans, the Austrian-American author and illustrator best known for the Madeline series of children's books. The bar's distinctive Art Deco design features a black granite bar, chocolate-brown leather banquettes, nickel-trimmed black glass tabletops, and a 24-karat gold leaf-covered ceiling. However, the true stars of Bemelmans are the whimsical murals painted by Bemelmans himself. These murals, depicting scenes of Central Park across the four seasons, are the only surviving Bemelmans commission open to the public. The murals depict scenes of picnicking rabbits, ice-skating elephants, and other cheerful characters, providing a playful contrast to the bar's otherwise sophisticated ambiance. Bemelmans received a year and a half of accommodations at the hotel for himself and his family in exchange for the artwork. Bemelmans Bar offers live music seven nights a week, with some of New York's greatest jazz pianists gracing the piano. The music typically includes classics from the Great American Songbook, with occasional contemporary tunes. The bar is also known for its expertly crafted cocktails, with martinis being a particular favorite. The bar has a dress code, and reservations are recommended to secure a spot in this popular destination. Sipping martinis while listening to cool jazz in this elegant setting is a treat.

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