The Fifth Avenue Hotel welcomes a sophisticated newcomer to the Manhattan cocktail scene with The Portrait Bar. Nestled in the NoMad neighborhood, this elegant cocktail destination promises a one-of-a-kind experience that transcends borders and takes guests on an unforgettable journey through global flavors and opulence.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Portrait Bar
The creative genius behind The Portrait Bar is none other than Darryl Chan, a seasoned fine-dining bartender with a passion for crafting exquisite cocktails. With his urbane cocktail program, Chan aims to transport patrons around the world without ever leaving their barstools. Each sip is a sensory adventure that conjures the essence of Italy, Colombia, England, Korea, the Philippines, France, Japan, Mexico, Spain, India, Morocco, and Scotland. Classic cocktails like the Milk Punch, Brandy Crusta, Margarita, Rusty Nail, Painkiller, and more are reimagined with unexpected spirits and ingredients, promising to tantalize the taste buds of even the most discerning connoisseurs. The Portrait Bar is brought to life as part of the NoHo Hospitality Group, led by the visionary trio of Chef Andrew Carmellini, Luke Ostrom, and Josh Pickard. To complement the bar’s worldly cocktails, Chef Carmellini has crafted elevated Parlor Snacks that elevate traditional bar fare to new heights of refinement and deliciousness. It’s the perfect pairing for an evening of indulgence.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Portrait Bar
Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Portrait Bar
Designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, the rich and intimate space features dark wood paneling adorned with a captivating collection of portraits, antique mirrors, contemporary woven rugs, and accents of marble and brass. Stepping into The Portrait Bar feels like entering the refined atmosphere of London’s most prestigious hotel bars and the charm of Italian villas. The bar exudes elegance with its stately wood-paneled interiors, providing a cozy retreat where guests can savor their sophisticated cocktails by a carved stone fireplace. The bar derives its name from an extraordinary collection of over 50 portraits that grace its walls, depicting diverse individuals from various walks of life. These portraits celebrate the shared humanity that connects us all, adding a unique and heartwarming touch to the bar’s ambiance.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Portrait Bar
Darryl Chan, Bar Director and Head Bartender of The Portrait Bar, shares his thoughts on this exciting venture, stating, “The Portrait Bar offers a timeless experience that will appeal to New Yorkers and travelers alike. The cocktail program is a mix of modern and classic variations that conjure a sense of place and is inspired by our collective travels, offering a fun but centered taste of the world. Our cocktails conjure Italy, Colombia, Seoul, the Philippines, and other evocative global destinations.”
The cocktail menu at The Portrait Bar allows guests to embark on a global adventure of their choosing, with each drink meticulously crafted to capture the essence of its respective region. From the balanced and herbaceous Torino (Italy) to the clean and crisp Barrio Getsemani (Cartagena, Colombia), each cocktail tells a unique story. Highlights include the smoky and complex Mapo District (Seoul, Korea), the silky and tropical Cebu Island (Philippines), and the frothy and comforting Marrakesh (Morocco). For those seeking an extra special experience, the Nail in the Skye – Talisker 25, 1965 Drambuie promises to be a memorable choice.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Portrait Bar
To complement these exquisite libations, Chef Andrew Carmellini has curated a selection of sophisticated Parlor Snacks. Guests can indulge in Marcona-Stuffed Olives, Comté Gougères, Jumbo Gulf Shrimp Cocktail, Foie Gras Tartine, Tuna Tartare, Crispy Oysters, and much more, including the luxurious Royal Ossetra Caviar with Crème Fraîche and Warm Potato Croquettes.
As The Portrait Bar opens its doors in the heart of Manhattan, it invites both locals and travelers to embark on a unique culinary and sensory journey that transcends borders and celebrates the beauty of shared humanity. This sophisticated destination promises to be a timeless addition to New York City’s vibrant cocktail scene, offering an experience that combines global flavors with the charm of Italian villas and the elegance of London’s finest hotel bars.
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