What do you expect from a high-class hotel that has 24-karat gold leaf-covering the ceiling.? You’re in the Upper East Side now, so no excuses.  Sit at the black-granite bar, order yourself a classic cocktail (the martinis are killer) and soak it all up. Luxury oozes from every corner, as well as the middle of the room, where a grand piano holds court. Bemelmans Bar has been open since 1931, so a fair few famous faces have passed through. People-watching is a full-on sport in here - you’ll spy politicians, socialists and movie stars making their way through the menu. Even the walls are stunning, covered in art by Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the classic Madeline children’s books.

Dress to impress, otherwise you’ll stick out like a sore thumb - bartenders look fly in red coats, and servers are rocking white tuxedo jackets. Cocktails aren’t cheap - you can drop some serious dollar here if you’re not counting. But hey, just forgo dinner and order yourself another round. Your drink will come with a side of some of New York’s best bar snacks, so who needs to be anywhere else?