Bemelmans

Guests come for the Madeline murals, but stay for the generous Martinis and live piano. The essence of Upper East Side gentility, Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle is also the last public space to display the mural work of Ludwig Bemelmans, creator of the iconic children’s book character and prolific illustrator of the 1940s and ’50s. Bemelmans completed the commission in exchange for a year’s free board at the hotel, and it’s easy to see why—the bar’s low-slung leather banquettes, golden lighting and gilt-edged details are pure hospitality, and its well-executed classic drinks never go out of style.