Blending into the miles of high-rise skyscrapers as far as the eye can see, New York City’s Flatiron District is chock full of cool hotels, bars & restaurants. When walking down Lexington Avenue here, amblers will stumble upon an intriguing old-age building home to the Freehand Hotel, which hosts the ultimate imbibing emporium that transports guests to a different time and place.
Located on the Freehand’s mezzanine level are two Georgia O’Keeffe-inspired lounges: Bar Calico and the Georgia Room.
An alluring painting-lined hallway leads visitors to Bar Calico: an intimate cocktail bar that transports guests to a rustic saloon in the American Southwest. Reminiscent of O’Keeffe’s 1931 painting, Cow’s Skull with Calico Roses, the space boasts southwestern motifs: cacti artwork, cattle head skeletons, and gold-hued lighting illuminate the dark wooded saloon. Cozy corners contain plush, earth-toned couches and dining tables ideal for evening small talk.
When the drinks flow and the night turn later, the next-door club-like Georgia Room sports an expansive space styled in colorful southwestern seating alongside a large avant-garde disco ball dangling from the ceiling.
Sticking to the playful O’Keeffe theme, casual pale pink menus at Bar Calico contain a curated cocktail list by head bartender Trevor Langer and team. The menu arranges 13 handcrafted drinks from the most approachable to the most adventurous: Under My Cucumberella — comprising Hendricks Gin, Basil Eu De Vie, cucumber, lime, and soda — ranks first as the most inviting while the DelMartini — stirred with Grey Whale Gin fat-washed with tuna and olive oil, dill-infused Dolin Blanc Vermouth, lemon, cucumber, and old bay — rounds out the menu as the most daring libation to try. Pair any of the drinks with one of their savory snacks, which include Marcona almonds and marinated olives.
Whether you wander through NYC’s Flatiron District or simply need a new spot to spruce up your nightlife, the Freehand Hotel’s Bar Calico (and the Georgia Room, should you want a nightclub type of evening) provide a spunky night out in the city.
Top Takeaways
Location: Flatiron District, New York City
Cuisine: Cocktail Bar and Small Bites
Price Point: $
Takes Reservations: Yes – Resy
The vibe: A neighborhood cocktail bar, inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe and the American Southwest.
Our favorite thing on the menu: The Caprese Martini made with Absolut Elyx Vodka infused with tomato, basil & olive oil, Lustau Blanco Vermouth, balsamic vinegar, and Maldon Salt is one of the unique cocktails we’ve ever sipped that effortlessly blends savory and sweet. It’s a must-try!
The attire based on the vibe: Smart Casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Evening Fare: Monday – Thursday 5 pm – 11 pm; Friday – Saturday 5 pm – 1 am; Closed Sunday
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