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Maxfield Parrish’s famous mural of Old King Cole, rich mahogany paneling, and sumptuous seating set the stage for New York’s most famous hotel bar, which has only been admitting women since 1950. Lush, luxurious, and very expensive, the soft piano music sets a mood that makes it easy to clinch a deal or spark a romance.

Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Midtown, this chic bar and restaurant is situated in the lobby of the Royalton Hotel. The interior boasts the sleek lines of Phillippe Starck’s Postmodern interior designs, and this, combined with an air of total luxury, makes it a highly sought-after bar.

A sophisticated spot with a whimsical theme – monkey murals and light fixtures, even a Purple Monkey cocktail. A long-time favorite recently restored, the bar attracts a well-heeled, well-dressed crowd.

Proudly stocking 100 types of champagne, several of which are available by the glass, this former speakeasy successfully blends high-end opulence and a sumptuous menu with a romantic atmosphere and friendly service.

This is a gem hidden in Grand Central Terminal. These richly paneled, former offices of 1920s railroad tycoon John W. Campbell feature leaded glass, a beautiful painted ceiling, and a carved wood balcony, all inspired by a Florentine palazzo. Single-malt scotches or vintage wines enjoyed with a good cigar are appropriate choices to complement this setting.

There are few places in Manhattan to be outdoors and enjoy a city view, hence the popularity of this chic bar. It has peerless night-time panoramas of the city from the 23rd floor terrace or the glass-walled bar but you’ll pay a high price for the privilege. However, entranced patrons don’t seem to mind.

Deep in Manhattan’s west-side meatpacking district lies this revamped former garage, now an industrial-edged yet sophisticated wine bar. Its extensive wine list specializes in the reds and whites of France’s Rhône Valley and is complemented by a rich menu that includes foie gras , truffle risotto, and charcuterie.

Watch the sun set and the lights come on in the surrounding skyline at this outdoor bar beside the lake in Central Park, a location worthy of a movie set. The setting is particularly romantic on warm nights when rowboats and gondolas glide by.

The cavernous Double Happiness bar situated in the heart of Chinatown is a union of Italian and Chinese cultures exemplified by the special house drink, a Green Tea Martini. The clientelle reflects the neighborhood, but the choice of music is far more wide-ranging, including old jazz, soul, funk, 80s Chinese pop, and trip-hop drum and bass.

Head for this out-of-the-way block in SoHo to discover an absolute gem: a raffish bar with polka dot walls, reasonably priced drinks, and Spanish tapas to be enjoyed with a choice of sherries, fruity sangria, or Spanish wines. Flamenco music adds to the atmosphere. Get there early to get a seat: this place is small and popular.