BY ROBERT GLAZE
With so many new restaurants in New York, I decided to spend time enjoying “Classic New York”. I wanted to revisit the places that I had been to over many years that are true New York destinations and should not be missed. Starting with lunch, then afternoon tea, followed by cocktails, dinner and a concert or cabaret show, New York is perfect for a great “classic” experience. My favorite spots include:
Sardi’s: Located in New York’s Theater District, Sardi’s has been an institution for over 90 years. The warm atmosphere is highlighted by colorful caricatures of show-business celebs. It has a traditional menu and is open for lunch, pre-theater dinner and post-theater dining. It is located at 234 W. 44th St.
Sardi’s.
Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant: Located in New York’s Grand Central Station, this has been an institution since 1913. It is known for its fresh oysters and seafood.
Grand Central Oyster Bar.
Tavern on the Green: After many years, I recently made a visit to Tavern on the Green in late January. Located at Central Park West and 67th St., it opened in 1937 and became an NYC institution. It was known for its Tiffany stained glass, Baccarat chandeliers, and for being featured in many movies over the years. It fell on hard times and subsequently closed for five years. It was totally remodeled and reopened in 2013. Today it has an attractive Bar Room with the original ceiling, a bright Central Park Room featuring an outside patio and a more formal South Wing. I found it a great spot for a weekend brunch overlooking the park. The food and service were delightful.
Tavern on the Green.
Russian Tea Room: This has been a New York institution for over 87 years. It has been the place “where actors, writers, politicians, and executives plan their next deals and celebrate their friends’ latest Carnegie Hall performances.” Its elegant, modernist Russian style was recently renovated, making it a perfect location for lunch, afternoon tea, dinner or a pre-theater and post-theater dinner. It is at 250 E. 57th near Carnegie Hall.
Russian Tea Room.
Another great option for afternoon tea is The Palm Court. A famous tradition at the Plaza Hotel since 1907, this is the place for afternoon tea. Breakfast and lunch are also served. It is found at 5th Avenue and Central Park South.
Palm Court Plaza Hotel.
Palm Court Plaza Hotel’s glass ceiling.
King Cole Bar & Salon: A New York classic since the hotel was built by John Jacob Astor IV in 1904. Stop in for a drink before dinner at the newly refurbished King Cole Bar & Salon, and see the famous mural painted by Maxfield Parrish depicting Old King Cole and sleek decor. Legend has it that it depicts the King after he has passed gas, which is the reason for the many varied reactions of the people surrounding him. The bar has been frequented by Salvador Dali, Marlene Dietrich and Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio. Visit this establishment at St. Regis Hotel at 2 East 55th.
St. Regis Hotel, King Cole Bar & Salon.
21 Club: This New York institution opened in January, 1930 and is now operated by Belmond. I loved having dinner again in the famed Bar Room, “renowned for its whimsical and colorful collection of ‘toys’ suspended from the ceiling. Each of these was donated by a legion of legendary sports stars, presidents, movie stars and business leaders.” There is also the Bar 21 and Lounge and Upstairs at 21 for fine dining on Friday and Saturday evenings. Be aware that jackets are necessary for gentlemen. Jeans and sneakers are not permitted. It is well-worth the effort to dine in this classic spot. The address is 21 W. 52nd St.
21 Club’s street front decor.
The interior of 21 Club.
After your dinner at the 21 Club, catch a Broadway play or musical, a concert at the famed Carnegie Hall, one of the Spectaculars at Radio City Music Hall or head to the Upper East Side to see a cabaret performance at Cafe Carlyle.
Carnegie Hall.
I have wonderful memories of seeing Bobby Short at the Cafe Carlyle who played there for many years. They are closed for the Summer Season, so make sure to check the calendar to book your visit. They feature some of the best entertainment in town. The Carlyle Hotel (a Rosewood property) is one of the classic New York hotels. You can also have afternoon tea, a drink in the bar, or dinner in one of their restaurants. Enjoy all they have to offer at 35 E. 76 St. at Madison.
The Carlyle Hotel’s interior.
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