Food and Drink Bars + Clubs The Waldorf Astoria New York Residences Have 4 Private Bars — and We Got a Sneak Peek The ultimate amenity in a crowded city? A private bar. By Kristen Shirley Kristen Shirley Instagram Twitter Website Kristen Shirley is a New York-based luxury expert, writer, and editor who covers travel, fashion, fine watches, jewelry, wine, and spirits. She is currently a contributing editor to Forbes.com and Nobleman, and a freelance writer for luxury publications including Bloomberg Businessweek, Travel + Leisure, and Robb Report. Passionate about craftsmanship, rare gemstones, and supporting independent designers, Kristen began her career at Elle in the fashion department, where she trained under former style director Kate Lanphear before becoming the associate market editor. She later went on to become the luxury editorial director at Elite Traveler, where she led the print and digital teams and spearheaded a redesign of the print edition and the website. An avid traveler and foodie, Kristen is drawn to tropical destinations where she can scuba dive, sip rosé on the beach, saber Champagne, shuck oysters, and learn about all things caviar. * 10+ years of experience covering fashion, style, fine watches, and jewelry * Received an applied jewelry professional certificate from the Gemological Institute of America * Received the level 3 award in wine from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, which she passed with distinction * Received a bachelor's degree in French at Georgetown University * Studied abroad at Université Sorbonne Nouvelle and attended international high schools in Frankfurt and London * Speaks French * Founder of La Patiala, a luxury encyclopedia that covers travel, food, wine, spirits, style, beauty, watches, jewelry, and lifestyle Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Published on November 9, 2021 Share Tweet Pin Email In Midtown Manhattan, an epic race is underway as new luxury residential buildings strive to outdo each other with over-the-top amenities. This race isn't limited to Billionaire's Row — The Towers of the Waldorf Astoria recently announced that it will open not one, but four private, residents-only bars within its 50,000 square feet of amenities. Of course, living in a hotel has its perks, especially the exceptional service available 24 hours a day, but when you're constantly staying in a luxe hotel, it can mean the common spaces are often crowded with travelers and locals keen on trying the latest hot spot. With the four private bars, residents will have the best of both: the fabulous service and world-class cocktails expected from a luxury hotel, but the privacy and serenity of a residents-only space. Courtesy of Noë & Associates/The Boundary Four bars might seem like a lot, but the Waldorf Astoria is known for its storied cocktail culture — not to mention epic parties and gracious hospitality. In fact, the first legal drink after Prohibition ended was served at Waldorf Astoria New York on December 6, 1933. The four private bars have fantastic cocktail menus, and each has its own identity. Courtesy of Noë & Associates/The Boundary The Winter Garden is a stunning respite from the hustle and bustle of Park Avenue. The airy space has nearly 20-ft ceilings and is filled with beautiful plants and flowers. It's a lush oasis in the heart of the city and is adjacent to the 25-meter Starlight Pool. Courtesy of Noë & Associates/The Boundary Two other bars reference some of the hotel's most famous guests. The Monaco Bar is named for Prince Rainer III of Monaco and Grace Kelly because they made their first public appearance after their engagement in the hotel. Naturally, it has an elegant regal decor befitting its namesakes. Courtesy of Noë & Associates/The Boundary Before it closed in 2017, the Waldorf Astoria hosted every president from Herbert Hoover to Barack Obama in the Presidential Suite. The Presidential Library Bar is inspired by the nation's leaders, with floor-to-ceiling bookcases and elegant design. It has a modern bar and a relaxed atmosphere in the lounge. Courtesy of Noë & Associates/The Boundary Finally, the Starlight Lounge and Bar nods to the fabulous Starlight Roof nightclub, which was a hot spot in the 1930s and 1940s. It's located on the 20th floor and opens to the Starlight Terrace, which overlooks Park Avenue. This is actually the first time that this terrace has been open to residents, and it's sure to become a modern hot spot, too. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit