However over the past few decades the city has proven it is capable of producing more than junk food. The culinary evolution has made New York a gourmet paradise for locals and visitors alike. Here we highlight some of the best bars and restaurants in the city's luxury hotels.
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CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL NEW YORK DOWNTOWN
Helmed by renowned chef, Wolfgang Puck, this establishment is one of the hotspots in town for a great steak. With its own entrance off Church Street, the classic steakhouse is the go-to for New Yorkers to wine, dine, and unwind. The restaurant is open from breakfast through to dinner, with Sunday brunch being a highlight. The venue marries an elegant and intimate atmosphere with a simple but hearty menu where the dishes are crafted using immaculate technique and high quality ingredients. Whether you're seated in the dining room, bar, or lounge, all areas feature views overlooking the bustling streets of lower Manhattan. The interior has been conceived by French designer Jacques Garcia and is complemented with artwork curated by Gelila Assefa Puck. fourseasons.com
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AI FIORI, THE LANGHAM NEW YORK
This fine dining restaurant showcases modern interpretations of French and Italian Riviera cuisine. Ai Fiori translates to 'among the flowers' in Italian and prides itself on placing great importance on seasonal ingredients. Located on the second floor of the Langham Hotel on Fifth Avenue, the restaurant's menu features signature hand-made pastas and traditional regional dishes inspired by the land and sea. Plus, wine enthusiasts can choose from over 1,000 selections presented in the wine list. In addition to the main dining room, Bar Fiori and its lounge area offers guests the opportunity to experience Ai Fiori in a more laid-back setting. The restaurant is also available for private events and offers different setups to accommodate a variety of occasions. langhamhotels.com
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BEMELMANS A ROSEWOOD BAR, THE CARLYLE, HOTEL
Indulging in a tipple at Bemelmans is a rite of passage for many New Yorkers. Whether to experience a taste of opulence or simply drown out the chaos of the city, Bemelmans' famous martinis provide the perfect remedy. The bar is regularly frequented by New York's elite crowd, comprising socialites, politicians, movie stars and business moguls. Walls are adorned with masterpiece murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the beloved Madeline series of children's books. The charm of this glamorous bar is enhanced by its extensive drinks menu (there's a full page just for Champagne) and live entertainment 365 days a year, which features either a solo pianist or a jazz trio. The bar does not accept reservations so expect to queue if you're visiting during peak hours and weekends. rosewoodhotels.com
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KING COLE BAR, THE ST REGIS NEW YORK
This historic bar is a Fifth Avenue icon. Its name is derived from the majestic mural that adorns the wall behind the bar, painted by Maxfield Parrish in 1906. The painting was originally commissioned by Colonel John Jacob Astor, founder of the St Regis. The Bloody Mary has been the signature cocktail of the St Regis brand since 1934, with each hotel crafting its own local interpretation of the drink. This tradition was started at the King Cole Bar, where it's known as The Red Snapper. As the story goes, it was created by bartender Fernand Petiot for a Russian aristocrat who asked him to make a vodka-based cocktail. The name "Bloody Mary" was deemed too vulgar for the hotel's upmarket clientele, leading it to be rechristened as the Red Snapper. marriott.com
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THE BAR, BACCARAT HOTEL, NEW YORK
The Bar is a multi-sensory delight, especially a visual one. The interiors of the establishment are inspired by the great American long bars of a bygone era, glamorous ballrooms of French hotels and the royal stables at Versailles. All of these grand inspirations are reflected through the distinctive barrel vaulting and natural-wood walls found in the space. The crimson velvet and merlot-coloured wal...