"Few hotel bars boast the classic, Old New York charm of the King Cole Bar. Located in Midtown at the St. Regis Hotel, this quintessential cocktail bar hosted the legendary likes of Marilyn Monroe and John Lennon—and continues to captivate the hearts of curious cocktail lovers who want to step back in time. Set beneath a Maxfield Parrish mural of Old King Cole himself, the bar is best known for its signature Bloody Mary (though it offers an array of classic cocktails). Legend has it that the well-known bartender Fernand Petiot refined George Jessel’s original version of the drink behind this very bar—though at the time, it went by The Red Snapper, as upscale clientele didn’t take too well to the then-controversial name. Expect to spend a pretty penny, and don’t come too hungry—although the bar’s snack trio dish promises to keep you salivating." - CNT Editors, Vicki Denig
