A drink near Bryant Park
 

Hello all:

I'm taking some friends to the holiday market at Bryant park on Tuesday late afternoon. We would like to have a drink (around 6 pm or so) in the area before heading off to dinner.

Any recommendations?

Bryant Park Grill?
Dylan Hotel?

thanks

The restaurant at the Dylan is attractive with its big fireplace. But, the place is usually a ghost town.

In that neighborhood, with someover over 35 I'd probably go to the Algonquin of W. 44th. With someone younger, the Royalton just across the street.

Cellar Bar in the Bryant Park Hotel is a fabulous place to get a drink. Definitely a younger crowd, but it won't be too hectic on a Tuesday afternoon - 40 W. 40th St.

Agree with Ryan and Lizzie. Algonquin for over 35, Royalton or Bryant Park hotel for under 35.

Gee, I hate that sterotyping. I've been to the Algonquin and it's fine, but so stuffy and quiet. I'd much prefer the Royalton or the Bryant Park Hotel. I'm 25 years past that dividing point, but they let me in anyway and I don't particularly feel out of place. Do all "seniors" prefer stuffy?

Patrick,
I don't consider it stuffy. I've been to both the Royalton and then Blue Room numerous times. If I want a quiet conversation, I'd prefer the Algonquin.

If I'm wearing my black Armani suit and feeling very NY hip, the Royalton.

The reason I suggested the difference based on age, is people over 35 are more likely to be annoyed at the Blackberry addicts and the cell-phone at the ear every second types that seem to typify the younger people that frequent most NY bars these days.

If you dont mind walking a few blocks - maybe you could try the Campbell Apartment in Grand Central. It's always very festive this time of the year. Try the sugar Plum Martini. Yum.

neopatrick: are you neoplitan? if so, i've been looking for neopolitan b/c of a great rec given to me when i recently went to nyc and was looking to give thanks and can't find neopolitan anywhere and someone on fodorite lounge thought this was you :)

It's me. I'm chasing you around the forums, just left a message on your post in the lounge.

Thanks all for your great suggestions. We're over 35, however that wouldn't stop us from going to the Royalton or Bryant Park Hotel.

Been to the Algonquin - love it there- comfortable and good green apple martini. It's like stepping back in time. If you guys like jazz, Tierney Sutton is fantastic and sings in the oak room from time to time. (again in Feb)

Campbell apt is another good option - always wanted to go there.

thanks again

I would go to the Campbell Apartments.

We love the cocktail lounge at Gaby's in the Sofitel. Large and sprawling with two or more levels and quiet corners. Late afternoon on a Tuesday, you might have the upper section all to yourselves.

We're not quite Seniors yet, but we prefer quiet, or at least not loud thumping Hip Hop.

Campbell Apartment- great suggestion: in the grand historic setting of Grand Central, a stylish retro atmosphere.