The bar prides itself on a team of skilled mixologists who craft an array of inventive cocktails. From a tantalizing series of Japanese highballs to diverse Negroni varietals, including bourbon and mezcal concoctions, the menu promises a unique and enjoyable drinking experience. Noteworthy creations, such as the Bumble Bee with Aberfeldy scotch, lemon, lavender honey, and prosecco, showcase the bar's dedication to creativity and flavor.

Located in the heart of the Upper West Side, Ellington offers an exquisite blend of classic American dishes with contemporary twists, curated by its dedicated proprietor, Glenda Sansone. With a rich background in the bar and restaurant industry, Sansone's dream of creating a unique culinary haven became a reality in 2013 with the first Ellington in Harlem. Last year's move to the current, more spacious location allowed Sansone to expand and elevate the menu further, introducing an all-new American-inspired dinner and brunch experience, along with a reinvented Sunday Roast tradition and a selection of classic cocktails. The establishment's elegantly designed space includes a comfortable main dining area for 130 guests, a separate bar area accommodating 40, and an enclosed outdoor patio that seats up to 100, making it one of the Upper West Side's finest outdoor dining spots. To enhance the experience, Ellington hosts live entertainment on Sunday nights from 6-9 pm, featuring local and New York-based jazz musicians and contemporary artists, adding a touch of musical magic to its already captivating ambiance.

Step into the captivating world of THE GALLERY, nestled in the city's historic Flatiron District. Since it really looks like a gallery, don't be fooled and go to their next door speakeasy bar. Founded by visionary chef-gallerist Hiroki Odo in 2021, THE GALLERY is a testament to the fusion of culinary expertise and artistic brilliance. The restaurant’s innovative menus are complemented by a rotating selection of art exhibitions, showcasing emerging and established talents. Beyond its culinary offerings, THE GALLERY serves as a hub for creative expression, exploring art through various mediums such as mixed media, food styling, and interior design. Chef Odo’s dedication to the intersection of art and gastronomy creates an atmosphere where guests are not merely diners but active participants in a multisensory journey, celebrating the boundless possibilities of creative expression. Where can you find a tasting menu where you can experience a mini shabu-shabu and omakase together for a price of $95, including seasonal starters, 3 pieces of kushi-age selection, making for an exquisite and memorable dining experience.

Perched atop Jelas, Singlish is a hidden gem nestled on the second floor of a charming townhouse in Union Square. This secret haven brings the vibrant spirit of Singapore to life with a curated selection of Singaporean-inspired cocktails and delectable small bites. Crafted under the expertise of Colin Stevens, Singlish pays homage to Singapore's world-class craft cocktail culture in a playful manner. The name itself, a blend of "Singapore" and "English," reflects the bar's fusion of traditions, celebrating the Lion City's diverse linguistic heritage.

Guests are invited on a tantalizing journey through unexpected flavor combinations, exploring lesser-known spirits like Baijiu, a Chinese distilled grain alcohol, meticulously paired with orchid gin, jasmine tea, sichuan pepper, blood orange, and cardamom. Indulge in the intriguing Mai Lai, Mail Lai, Wa Mai Lai- featuring a dirty martini with chili oil and savor the artistic presentation of an eggshell that acts as a cocoon for a surprising salted egg olive stuffed with cream cheese. These tantalizing blends are paired with delightful bar bites, such as the Kuik Pie Tee, nonya top hat filled with jicama, fermented soybean, and delicate egg ribbons, the Money Bag, where minced chicken is wrapped in a spring roll skin, creating a crunchy delight, or experience the fiery kick of the papaya salad, an explosion of fresh chili, garlic, green papaya, green apple, and cherry tomato. Singlish promises an unforgettable dining experience where each bite and sip is an adventure for the senses.

As patrons settle into their seats, they are met with a fusion of attentive care and avant-garde mixology. Every cocktail or tea infusion is a note in the sensory melody that plays out within the confines of Le Dôme. The bar's reputation precedes it, having ascended to the highest echelons of recognition in the hospitality industry. The crowning achievement, the prestigious title of the Best Hotel Bar in the World, bestowed upon it at the esteemed 2020-2021 Prix Villégiature Awards, stands as a laurel to its unwavering commitment to excellence.

The architectural wonder that is Le Dôme finds its genesis in the brilliance of Jacques-Germain Soufflot and is brought to life through the visionary lens of Jean-Philippe Nuel. This collaborative masterpiece marries historical legacy with contemporary elegance, resulting in an ambiance that is both grand and intimate. Every architectural nuance pays homage to the past while embracing the present, creating a space that invites patrons to step into a realm where time itself is transformed.

Yet, Le Dôme's allure is not limited to its breathtaking design. The culinary offerings within its hallowed walls elevate the experience to an ethereal realm. High tea at Le Dôme is a crescendo of artistry, where each element is crafted with meticulous attention. Among the offerings, the invigorating berry choux tantalizes the palate with bursts of fruity exuberance, while the refreshing lemon meringue provides a delicate balance of tang and sweetness. Accompanying these sweet delicacies are lobster rolls that is as satisfying as it is elegant.

The culmination of flavors reaches its zenith through the cadence of black tea, creating a harmonious symphony that amplifies the high tea experience. The seamless fusion of taste and texture, aroma and ambiance, weaves a narrative that lingers long after the final sip is savored—a narrative that exemplifies the essence of Le Dôme.

 

Next up, you’ll want to make sure your guests are well-fed and watered during their evening. If you really want to go all out, then you could always send out a personalized dinner and drinks menu.

Otherwise, at least plan out what you want to offer to your guests when it comes to food and drink. Nowadays, it’s worth asking ahead if there are any dietary preferences, allergies, or preferences for foods to avoid in general. That way, you won’t have any guests going hungry as a result.

If you’re wanting to ensure your guests are well entertained during the party, then it’s worthwhile picking out some games to play in the times when you might be prepping food or you’re needing something to get the party vibes started.

Depending on what type of social gathering you’re having, will depend on the type of games you play. However, games are always a great way to keep up the energy of the social evening.

If you’re looking to throw a fun social gathering, then why not round it off with a movie night? After the food and drinks have been consumed, there’s nothing better than stretching out on the couch and enjoying a favorite amongst friends when it comes to television programs or movies. Whether that’s how to watch Game of Thrones in Australia or the best alternative streaming sites for new movies not available in your country, a movie night is a must.

Make sure you’ve stocked up on extra snacks for those movie nibbles.

Finally, make sure you’ve set up the space for the night ahead. Creating a relaxed environment s with the right music and soft furnishings is always useful to think about. The temperature of the space is important too so ramp up the thermostat or open some windows to ventilate and cool spaces.

These tips will help ensure you throw the best social evenings with friends when you’re back from your travels.

Rooted in the annals of time, the Grand Hôtel-Dieu's lineage traces back to the 12th century. Founded with noble intent by the compassionate heart of Guy de Montpellier, esteemed Archbishop of Lyon, it began its journey as a sanctuary for the ailing and destitute. Over the centuries, its role evolved, weaving itself into the very fabric of the city's narrative until the year 2010.

In 2019, a transformative moment dawned, heralding a new chapter for the Grand Hôtel-Dieu. Once a bastion of solace and care, it emerged from its cocoon, now adorned with modern wonders. A harmonious blend of luxury accommodations, chic boutiques, culinary treasures, and artistic gems converges within this haven of urban renaissance.

Lyon, renowned as the epicenter of French gastronomy, sets the stage for an extraordinary culinary voyage. Epona Restaurant, a radiant jewel nestled within the Grand Hôtel-Dieu, stands as a testament to the city's gastronomic prowess. Under the guidance of Chef Mathieu Charrois, Epona weaves culinary enchantment that mirrors its namesake, the revered Gallo-Roman goddess synonymous with travel and equine grace.

On a balmy day, I indulged in an al fresco feast in one of the hotel's tranquil courtyard, serenaded by the lilting melodies of songbirds—a harmonious respite from Lyon's fervent summer embrace. A decadent dirty negroni heralded the commencement of the gastronomic voyage, paving the way for Brittany blue lobster tortellini, adorned with the gentle caress of sage-infused brown butter. As the avian chorus wove an enchanting backdrop, each bite unfurled a symphony of delicate flavors.

In the tapestry of Lyon's culinary landscape, the Intercontinental Grand Hôtel-Dieu stands as both a sentinel of heritage and a harbinger of gastronomic innovation. Its transformation from a sanctuary to an orchestra of splendor captures the Lyon's evolution, while the sumptuous offerings it houses within its walls celebrate the artistry of taste and the passage of time.