Waldorf Astoria New York and award-winning mixology expert Jeff Bell have announced a partnership to redesign the hotel’s beverage program. Bell, managing partner of Please Don’t Tell speakeasy and partner with Apres Cru Hospitality, will conceptualize a new beverage program for Waldorf Astoria’s Peacock Alley Bar and Lex Yard, the property’s signature restaurant.
“Reopening the iconic Waldorf Astoria New York is not just the rebirth of a hotel, it’s the revival of a cultural landmark. Since opening on Park Avenue in 1931, Waldorf Astoria New York has been a staple of the city’s society scene — countless memories have been made here, often with a glass raised in celebration,” said Bell. “Throughout its history, the hotel has been admired as a pioneer of the global mixology scene and I am incredibly proud to be part of the hotel’s next chapter and introduce Peacock Alley to a new generation of New Yorkers and guests.”
Bell is known for creating some of the most distinguished mixology programs in the world. His speakeasies in New York City and Hong Kong have received multiple accolades, including from Tales of the Cocktail. Bell has also received the James Beard Award’s first ever Outstanding Bar Program. He will work directly with Waldorf Astoria New York’s and Hilton’s food and beverage team to launch the new beverage program at the hotel. The offerings on the menu will be based on classic New York cocktail culture, but offer modern service styles and interactive experiences. The hotel will offer all-day beverage options at Peacock Alley and Lex Yard, embracing brunch-style cocktails, afternoon pick-me-up spritzes, pre-dinner sips, evening cocktails and more.
Peacock Alley
For nearly a century, Waldorf Astoria New York’s Peacock Alley bar has been the city’s premier cocktail destination. Once restored to its original grandeur, it will offer New Yorkers and travelers alike a place to grab a drink. Original creations invented at the bar, such as Dr. Cook and Bishop Poker, will be available alongside Prohibition-style cocktails and modernized classics. The Waldorf Cocktail – comprising Rye Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, Dash of Absinthe and Angostura Bitters – will be one of the signature drinks on the menu.
“The reopening of Peacock Alley at Waldorf Astoria New York is a historic moment for both the hotel and the city,” said Tom Walters, senior vice president, Food & Beverage, Americas, Hilton. “A symbol of elegance and hospitality for nearly a century, Peacock Alley has long been a social hub for New Yorkers, celebrities, and travelers alike. In its new iteration, we are committed to honoring the bar’s storied past while embracing an exciting future—one that blends Hilton’s legacy of excellence with modern experiences and world-class cocktail service, for new generations to enjoy.”
Lex Yard
Waldorf Astoria New York’s signature restaurant, Lex Yard, will have a cocktail menu consisting of classics developed on site, like the Rob Roy, as well as beverages made with seasonal ingredients. These will pair beautiful with the market-driven menu developed by Chef Michael Anthony. Its wine list will feature a diverse selection from global top producers in rotating specials and themes. Lex Yard will also serve non-alcoholic and low alcohol by volume libations, like the no ABV Gin & Tonic and low ABV Americano.
“We are excited to welcome guests back to Waldorf Astoria New York and continue our legacy as a place where both New Yorkers and travelers make lifelong memories — many of them with a drink in hand,” said Luigi Romaniello, managing director, Waldorf Astoria New York. “Working alongside Jeff Bell, we’ve aligned ourselves with a team that embodies the vibrant energy and spirit of New York and the next chapter of the hotel, where entertainment and connection come together in perfect harmony.”
Reservations
To make a reservation at Waldorf Astoria New York, visit https://www.waldorfastorianewyork.com/.