King Cole Bar

Nestled off the lobby of The St. Regis New York in Midtown Manhattan, King Cole Bar is one of the most storied and elegant hotel bars in the world. Dominated by the iconic Maxfield Parrish mural of “Old King Cole,” installed in 1932, the bar exudes early 20th‑century grandeur and refined charm. Legend has it that Fernand Petiot perfected (and popularized) the Bloody Mary here—initially dubbed the “Red Snapper” to suit the St. Regis’ refined clientele. Since then, the bar has welcomed A‑list luminaries like Salvador Dalí, Marilyn Monroe, John Lennon, and countless others, and has been featured in major films and TV series. Following an eight‑month renovation completed in 2024, the bar now offers a refreshed menu and interiors that balance updated plush aesthetics—think midnight-blue carpeting and purple velvet seating—with its classical legacy. Signature cocktails remain front and center, including the Old King Cole Martini (gin, vermouth, amaro, burnt orange peel), alongside modern riffs like strawberry‑lemongrass vodka sodas. The ambiance is refined yet inviting—moody lighting, intimate seating, and attentive service make it ideal for quiet conversation and sipping history in a glass. Light fare such as crab cakes, oysters, sliders, club sandwiches, and desserts complement the drinks menu. Time appears suspended here—an opulent yet cozy refuge that honors tradition while embracing contemporary flair. No wonder it was named the #1 hotel bar in the U.S. by Food & Wine’s 2025 Global Tastemakers Awards.