Mandarin Oriental New York opens its reimagined speakeasy, The Bar

Mandarin Oriental, New York has reopened its reimagined speakeasy, The Bar, unveiling a new chapter for one of Manhattan’s most discreet lounges. Formerly known as The Office and reserved only for private bookings, the 45-seat hideaway opened to the public on September 18 with a concept inspired by the cultural and trading exchanges of the Silk Road.

The cocktail program follows this theme with drinks that capture the essence of cities along the historic route, each tied to Mandarin Oriental destinations worldwide. Highlights include the Imperial Jasmine from Beijing, crafted with jasmine tea–infused baijiu and citrus tonic; the Siam Sunset from Bangkok, layered with pandan leaf, coconut, pineapple rum, and pandan foam; the Sultan’s Delight from Istanbul, a vodka and coffee liqueur cocktail poured from a traditional cezve; and the Manhattan Spice from New York, a vintage rye creation accented with warming spices and bitters. Each drink arrives with immersive elements—scent, sound, or texture—adding a theatrical sense of place.

Set on the Sky Lobby floor above Columbus Circle, The Bar’s interiors pair Mandarin Oriental’s Asian heritage with maritime accents and eclectic touches: antiquarian books, curated artifacts, deep leather seating, and low lighting. A dynamic soundtrack, shifting from house beats to global rhythms, keeps the energy evolving while maintaining an intimate feel.

By opening The Bar to the public, Mandarin Oriental, New York transforms a once-private enclave into a destination for both locals and hotel guests—a lounge where heritage, storytelling, and mixology converge to shape one of Manhattan’s most atmospheric new nightlife experiences.