NYC’s Classic Nightlife Haunts
NYC’s Classic Nightlife Haunts – No city stays the same when the sun goes down and NYC is no different. The city comes alive with artificial lights, roaring bars and clubs, and people whose vibe only comes alive under the cover of darkness.
These bars and clubs take on a new look now and then, with the old giving way to the constantly evolving new. But sometimes we see the stubborn classics, the ones that just won’t go away and their appeal seems evergreen to New Yorkers living the Nightlife.
These NYC classics are worth a keen look to give you some idea of what’s worth your after-hours and why.
Bemelmans Bar
If you’re looking for an elegant place to sample cocktails while enjoying live entertainment and taking in the view of famous murals, Bemelmans bar is the place to be. The bar has been a part of the New York Nightlife since 1947. It’s named for the beloved illustrator and author Ludwig Bemelmans, who painted the bar’s famous Central Park murals in exchange for room and board. After shutting down because of COVID-19, the bar has reopened with updates such as a new signature cocktail menu with creations like “Elaine’s Smokey Martini” and “Madeline’s Vesper” and a new executive chef. You’ll find the Bemelmans bar at Carlyle Hotel, 35 E. 76th St. (at Madison). As a tip, go in a business casual outfit.
The Odeon
Recently celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2020, the Odeon consistently attracts New York’s most fashion-forward and erudite residents. You would easily find downtown artists and fashion insiders from Soho frequenting the restaurant for work lunches and after-hours fun at the bar. Open since the 1980s, some have described it as timeless. It’s where you want to go to get that brasserie/bar-and-grill–style food that New York does so well. Don’t miss out on the oysters, martinis, burgers, steak-fries, or any of the kitchen’s well-made omelets. You’ll find the Odeon at 145 W. Broadway, New York, NY, 10013.
Old Town Bar
Opened in 1892, Old Town Bar pulls the hearts of artists and creatives from around the world. One visit, and you’ll observe it has a strong literary condition with regulars like poet Seamus Heaney and “Angela’s Ashes” author Frank McCourt, and multiple autographed and framed book jackets and other historical ephemera hanging on the walls. The place is worn and quirky, often featured in TV shows and movies.
You’ll find the Old Town Bar at 45 East 18th Street. Your best bet in an outfit would be something casual.
White House Tavern
The White House Tavern is an in-between kind of place, neither fitting squarely as an upscale cocktail bar nor a straight-up dive. It’s old, cool, welcoming, relaxing, and a place to party not to ponder on the weekends. The White House Tavern was opened in 1880. A seat inside with its floor-to-ceiling windows makes it an excellent spot for people-watching.
The famous spot is at 567 Hudson Street.
Get out and check out NYC’s Classic Nightlife!
