7. The Algonquin/Blue Bar, Midtown

Photo via Delia Cabe courtesy of the Algonquin Hotel

The bar scene at the Algonquin was essentially created when a group a literary and theater icons known as the “Round Table” decided to make it their meeting spot back in 1919. Everyday for six days a week, the likes of Dorothy Parker, Robert Benchley, John Peter Toohey (among 8 other founders) would have their “board meetings” in what is today known as the Oak Room. It was in one such meeting that the idea for The New Yorker was spawn, along with several witticisms outlined by Cabe including, “Time wounds all heels,” which is credited to Frank Case. Due to precedent and status of the Round Table, the Algonquin’s roster of visitors has since become stacked with guests– William Makepeace Thackery, Mark Twain, Maya Angelou, J.D. Salinger, Tenessee Williams, and Kurt Vonnegut are just some among the team.

More recent additions include a commissioned piece from Brooklyn artist Natalie Ascencios (a second version of her painting of the Round Table, also known as the Vicious Circle) for the hotel’s centennial celebration. Then in 2012, the Algonquin went under some renovations, which thanks to its landmark status, kept most of the original decor. Visitors today can see easily see both more modern charms along with historic literary-themed cocktails.

Among these cocktails: The Dorothy Parker (a gin concoction)