The King Cole Bar, tucked away in the iconic St Regis Hotel, is more than just a place to grab a cocktail. It is a living piece of New York City history that has weathered the changing tides of the Manhattan social scene for over a century. This legendary spot is famous for its rich heritage, exclusive drinks, and an aura of elegance that few other establishments can replicate. Whether you are a local regular or a first-time visitor, stepping into this space feels like stepping back into a more glamorous era where the world moved a bit slower and the service was significantly more personal.
A Glimpse Into History: The St. Regis Hotel
The King Cole Bar is housed within the prestigious St Regis New York, a landmark building that stands at the corner of 55th Street and Fifth Avenue. Founded by the visionary John Jacob Astor IV in 1904, the hotel was envisioned as the finest luxury accommodation in the world. Astor spared no expense, ensuring that the St. Regis was among the first hotels to provide central heating, telephones, and even a radio in every room. These innovations set a high bar for hospitality in the early 1900s and established the property as a favorite haunt for royalty, celebrities, and global luminaries.
Today, the hotel remains a beacon of sophistication. To make your stay even more exceptional, agencies like ours have exclusive access to Marriott’s Stars & Luminous program. This elite guest program provides a number of high-value amenities including a $100 on-site credit, daily breakfast, and room upgrades based on availability. These are available because of our close relationship with Marriott, yet it does not cost more to book one of these qualifying rates. It is the perfect way to enjoy a premier luxury accommodation experience while maximizing your travel budget.
The Heart of The Bar: The Maxfield Parrish Mural
The centerpiece of the cole bar is undoubtedly the Maxfield Parrish mural. Painted by the renowned artist in 1906, the mural depicts an enigmatic scene from the “Old King Cole” nursery rhyme. The artwork is famous not just for its vibrant colors and intricate details, but also for the mischievous legend surrounding the King’s expression. This grand piece provides a captivating backdrop for patrons as they sip their drinks and engage in quiet conversation.
The journey of the mural is as storied as the bar itself. Originally commissioned for the Knickerbocker Hotel, the mural was moved to the St Regis during the Prohibition era and has remained there ever since. Over the years, it has been meticulously maintained and restored to ensure its original beauty shines through. Sitting beneath this mural, one can almost feel the weight of the history that has unfolded in this room, from secret business deals to high-society celebrations.
Signature Sips and Exclusive Tables
The King Cole Bar is credited with a major contribution to American cocktail culture: the introduction of the Bloody Mary to the US. Known here as the Red Snapper, the drink was crafted by legendary bartender Fernand Petiot in the 1930s. He took a simple vodka and tomato juice mixture and spiked it with salt, pepper, lemon, and Worcestershire sauce to suit the sophisticated tastes of the hotel’s clientele. Today, the Red Snapper remains the signature cocktail of the bar, and many travelers visit specifically to taste the original recipe in its birthplace.
For those seeking true exclusivity, Table 55 offers the most coveted seat in the house. This table provides an intimate dining experience with a bespoke menu available to only one party per evening. It is ensconced in the timeless ambiance of the bar but offers a level of privacy that is rare in Midtown Manhattan. Reserving Table 55 is considered one of the most exclusive dining experiences in the city, perfectly reflecting the hotel’s commitment to personalized luxury.
Ambiance and Social Etiquette
The atmosphere within the bar is chic and somewhat subdued. The seating is plush and comfortable, designed for long conversations rather than quick turnovers. Interestingly, while many modern bars have done away with complimentary snacks, the cole bar continues this tradition with excellence. Their selection of bar snacks is often cited as the best in town, adding to the feeling that you are a guest in a private club rather than a commercial establishment.
The dress code is business casual, which helps maintain the upscale vibe. While it is common to see patrons in black-tie attire before a gala, you will also find people dressed in smart casual wear after a day of meetings. It is important to note that the bar caters to an adult crowd and does not permit minors after 5 p.m. Because the bar does not accept reservations except for Table 55, it remains a place where spontaneous, high-society moments can occur at any time.
A High-End Experience Worth the Price
Visiting this landmark is indeed a special occasion, and it comes with a price tag that reflects its exclusivity. Specialty cocktails generally cost around $24, while the signature Red Snapper is priced at $25. While some might see it as a “one-drink kind of place” due to the cost, the value lies in the experience. You are paying for the privilege of absorbing the history, reveling in the world-class service, and enjoying a masterpiece of American art.
Beyond the Red Snapper, the bar offers a wide range of specialty cocktails for every palate. Whether you prefer the “Old King Cole” gin mix or the tequila-based “Madison Avenue,” each drink is crafted with precision. The bartenders here are masters of their craft, ensuring that every glass served meets the exacting standards of the St Regis brand.
The King Cole Bar remains a symbol of New York’s historical charm and contemporary prestige. From the stunning Maxfield Parrish mural to the legendary Red Snapper cocktails, every moment spent here is a testament to the hotel’s dedication to quality. By choosing to stay at the St Regis, you aren’t just booking a room; you are investing in a world-class luxury accommodation experience that connects you to the very soul of the city. The balance between exclusivity and accessibility is what gives this bar its unique charm. Whether you are enjoying the absolute privacy of Table 55 or mingling at the bar under the watchful eye of the King, the experience justifies the investment. It is a slice of “Old New York” that continues to thrive in the modern era.
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