5 Historic Bars and Restaurants in NYC

Fraunces Tavern dates back to 1762. {credit}

History buffs, this one’s for you. Although the United States is incredibly young in comparison to other countries, New York City is a treasure trove of American history. And what better way to enjoy history than with a scrumptious meal or a few rounds of cocktails? Take a step back in time by visiting one of these historic bars and restaurants in NYC.

Fraunces Tavern, 54 Pear St
It’s interesting enough to visit places that date back to the roaring twenties, but Fraunces Tavern dates back even further than that – 1762, to be exact. This unique spot, also operating as a museum and registered as a national historic landmark, once served as George Washington’s headquarters and was where peace negotiations with the British took place.

Today, you can enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner with colonial-inspired pub fare. Fraunces Tavern is also known for its selection of 200+ whiskeys, cocktails, and craft beers and ciders.

Enjoy colonial-inspired pubfare at Fraunces Tavern. {credit}

One if by Land, Two if by Sea, 17 Barrow St
One if by Land, Two if by Sea has built a reputation for being one of New York City’s most romantic date spots (many engagements take place here every year). The restaurant has been opened since 1973, but is situated within a beautiful landmarked carriage house built in 1767. If you can afford their pricey menu – a three course prix fixe dinner starts at $98 – then relax and enjoy the ambiance that channels history and old-world romance.

Isn’t it romantic? {photo via One if by Land Two if by Sea}

21 Club, 21 West 52nd St
We all love a good speakeasy, and the 21 Club (or simply “21”) fits that profile, first opening in 1922. Surviving several raids during the prohibition era, the location moved around NYC until finally settling at 21 West 52nd Street in 1929. Over the years, Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffanys, Carrie and Big in Sex and the City, and a list of other television and film characters have dined at the 21 Club.

Today, 21 serves up traditional American cuisine and delicious signature cocktails like the Lemongrass Swizzle.

Side note: During the month of April, a portion of the proceeds from the Lemongrass Swizzle will be donated to Autism Speaks.

We all love a good speakeasy. {credit}

Keens Steakhouse, 72 W 36th St
Established in 1885, Keens Steakhouse was once the go-to hangout for famous actors, producers, playwrights, and media moguls. Unlike most steakhouses, Keens is most known for its mutton chops; and décor-wise, the restaurant is home to a collection of more than 50,000 smoking pipes displayed along the ceiling.

Some of the most noteworthy Keens Steakhouse patrons of the past include Teddy Roosevelt, Babe Ruth, Will Rogers and Albert Einstein. It was also a site of controversy, as women weren’t permitted entrance until actress Lillie Langtry sued the restaurant in 1905 for being a “men only” venue.

Famous actors, producers, playwrights, and media moguls once hung out at Keens. {credit}

Barbetta, 321 W 46th St
If you’re looking for an upscale Italian restaurant in the Theatre District, stop by Barbetta – a gorgeously decorated establishment founded in 1906. Grand chandeliers and 18th century antiques fill the dining room, making Barbetta the first NYC restaurant to present an elegant approach to Italian cuisine (which was formerly thought of as “rustic”). In the summer, you can enjoy the warmer weather by dining outside in the garden. Filled with flowers, statues, and a fountain, you won’t have to leave New York to feel as if you’ve been transported to a European country estate.

Feel like you’ve been transported to a European country estate when you dine at Barbetta. {via Yelp}

The interior is just as lovely at Barbetta. {via Barbetta}

Posted on April 13, 2016

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