The Fine Art of Family eMagazine

Before there was the legendary Bemelmans Bar in Manhattan, there was Ludwig Bemelmans. If the name doesn’t ring a bell, perhaps another will: Madeline. As in the world-famous children’s book series about the adventures of a mischievous red-headed French schoolgirl. She, among many other characters, was Bemelmans’ creation.

Even before he was known as the successful author and illustrator, whose work appeared in several publications including The New Yorker, Vogue and Town & Country, he was an Austrian-born immigrant who arrived in the U.S. in 1914 and worked in the hotel industry. It wasn’t until much later that he penned and painted his greatest works.

In addition to creating Madeline (first published in 1939) and other books, Bemelmans also handpainted the large-scale mural on the 80-year-old walls of The Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel as of 2001, on the Upper East Side; hence, why the hotel named its art deco style watering hole after the celebrated artist. One of the city’s greatest hidden gems, Bemelman’s Bar has not lost its charm in its more than five-decade history, even after undergoing a face lift in 2002, led by designer Thierry Despont.

The 75-seat lounge, which was once frequented by socialites, politicians and the elite, features all the accoutrements that made this one of the most famous stomping grounds of society’s upper crust. Walk in for drink and your eye will be drawn instantly to several luxurious details, including a 24-karat gold leaf-covered ceiling, chocolate-brown leather banquettes, nickel-trimmed black glass tabletops, and a black granite bar—not to mention Bemelmans’ Central Park scenes including picnicking rabbits.

For a true taste of old New York, order a pre-Prohibition-inspired cocktail off the menu by the bar’s mixologist Brian Van Flandern, author of the book Vintage Cocktails. For a more specific recommendation, try their signature drink, the Tommy Rowles, made with Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac, Ten Cane Rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and house-made tonic water. Or enjoy a nice selection of single malt whiskeys. Whatever best wets your whistle while listening to live music, usually jazz, and snacking on delicious foods, like sliders or caviar.

Bemelmans Bar is located at The Carlyle Hotel at 35 East 76th St, New York, NY 10021. Open every day from 12 PM to 5:30 PM (serves lunch); 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM (serves bar snacks and light meals); 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM and 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM (live music on weekends).

[Photography courtesy of the Rosewood Hotel and Resorts]

Tags: Celebrating, History Takes Place, Travel