In search of Saint Patrick’s Day plans that are a bit more elevated than your friends’ annual haunts? Opt for an evening at Albert’s Bar, Midtown’s newest spot for convivial vibes and craft cocktails.
From the teams behind acclaimed concepts The Penrose, The Spaniard, Bua, and The Bonnie comes a new destination to imbibe and socialize.
The design evokes post-prohibition venues with a dual height, airy space looking out to East 41st Street. Designed by Parts & Labor, the expansive space pays homage to old-world quality and ambiance. Cadmium green walls are adorned with a gallery of paintings and sketches, while black-and-white tiling line the floors. Intimate leather banquette booths are arranged around the perimeter of the room. The sizable custom central bar has an approachable “grab and stool and order up” attitude, while the gallery bar on the upper level provides a cozier setting for groups. Art Deco and Art Nouveau design elements work in tandem, through textured “cubed” glass and brass fixtures.
Named for a neighborhood in Cork, Ireland––the home of a famed, antiquated railway and where two of the owners grew up––Albert’s nods to the crossing of culture and commerce in New York City and the legacy of immigrant communities.
The cocktails are intentional iterations of classics; a signature will be the Albert’s Gibson, made with blanc and dry vermouth, gin, a splash of manzanilla sherry and a house pickled onion, served in an ice cold glass. Set pieces include an answer to a pornstar martini: the cheeky Emmanuelle No. 6, made with clarified passionfruit. Partner Pete Vasconcellos’ modern, curated list of abv, low abv, and zero abv cocktails means everyone can drink together.
On draft will be Jilly’s Spritz, a fragrant blend of aperol, pamplemousse, bergamot, and sparkling wine, named after Frank Sinatra’s famed Midtown hangout, Jilly’s Saloon. Trendier mixology innovations including clarified, milk-washed scotch and house-made coffee bitters will be key players in numerous beverages. Of course, Manhattans, Negroni variations, Espresso Martinis, and a rotating selection of seasonal gin and tonics will be available.
Chef Nick Testa has ensured that every drink pairs perfectly with his 50s-era bar bites with a modern perspective: Oysters, Popcorn Monkfish, a Crispy Pork Chop with Apple Chutney, and the Albert’s Double Deluxe Burger. Plentiful snacks encourage sharing and grazing.
Whether it be a themed toast or a gathering among friends, Albert’s Bar proves to be a timeless Midtown mainstay.
Top Takeaways
Location: Midtown, New York City
Cuisine: Irish-American
Price Point: $$
Takes Reservations: Yes
The vibe: Irish pub meets nostalgic modish Midtown, making it the perfect spot to grab drinks and bites with friends and coworkers alike.
Our favorite thing on the menu: An additional quiet signature cocktail is proving to be the Dirty Pickle Martini, made with Tito’s Vodka and McClure’s Spicy Pickle Juice. We pair it with the Golden Boy Chicken Sandwich.
The attire based on the vibe: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner? Open 3pm – 3am daily
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