As the weather gets cooler and thoughts of snuggling up in a cozy room take over spending time outdoors, it’s time to pretend, “Let’s Be a Mad Man (or Woman)” and go drinking and eating at some of the show’s favorite locales during its run. The ladies and gentlemen of Mad Men certainly knew where to enjoy the good indoor life. Here’s Part I of the “Top 10 Mad Men Bars and Restaurants.”
Bill’s Food & Drink: It’s not exactly the original Bill’s Gay Nineties, but it’s pretty close. Set in a 19th-century townhouse, Bill’s was once the site of a Prohibition Era speakeasy. Listen to the pianist in the downstairs bar while you knock back a Scotch, just steps away from many of the original Madison Avenue ad agencies. You can finish the evening upstairs with a Delmonico steak for two and an aptly named Hanky Panky gin cocktail, a clubby setting for consummating a business deal (or other kind of tryst). 57 East 54th Street, 212-538-2727. www.bills54.com.
Monkey Bar: Across the street from Bill’s, the landmark Hotel Elysée (once known as the “easy lay”) has welcomed guests like Joe DiMaggio and Marlon Brandon. Step inside the bar just off the lobby with its iconic monkey mural. You can just picture Roger downing a Manhattan or two before heading for a room upstairs. Hotel Elysée, 60 East 54th Street, 212-753-1066. www.elyseehotel.com.
Madison Club Lounge: The historic lounge in the Roosevelt Hotel is classic Mad Men with its mahogany walls, stained glass windows, and leather bar seats. It’s likely Don began and ended his day here during the time he lived at the hotel, pouring vodka into his orange juice. 45 East 45th Street, 212-66-19600. www.theroosevelthotel.com.
Bemelman’s Bar: Somethings never go out of style. Live piano music, enchanting murals of animals by Ludwig Bemelmans of Eloise fame, plus formally dressed waiters make this an Upper East Side landmark. The perfectly chilled and poured martini comes in a shaker with enough liquor for a potent drink and a half, and the banquettes are perfect for cuddling. The Carlyle Hotel, 35 East 76th Street, 212-744-1500. www.rosewoodhotels/com/en/the-carlyle-new-york
Temple Bar: The glamorous oak bar in NoHo is known for its extensive drink list peppered with all the classics. Imagine yourself witting with Don among the beautiful velvet curtains, sipping an Old Fashioned, or with Joan indulging in a creamy Brandy Alexander. 322 Lafayette Street, 212-925-4242. www.templebarnyc.com
