Dante

Dante – New York, NY

New York’s Dante, located in the heart of Greenwich Village, is not only a cocktail bar; it’s a piece of living history. Originally opened in 1915 as Caffè Dante, this storied venue began as an Italian café, serving as a hub for the area’s Italian immigrant community. Over the decades, Dante became a gathering place for writers, artists, and bohemians, including legends like Ernest Hemingway and Bob Dylan. Though the neighborhood has changed significantly since then, Dante has retained its timeless charm, adapting to modern tastes while honoring its rich heritage.

Under the guidance of Australian owners Linden Pride and Nathalie Hudson, Dante underwent a transformation that redefined it as one of New York’s premier cocktail destinations. Their approach was to preserve Dante’s Italian essence while creating a cocktail program that paid homage to Italy’s aperitivo culture. Today, Dante is known worldwide for its sophisticated menu, especially its extensive Negroni offerings, which have become synonymous with the bar itself. Whether it’s a classic Negroni or one of their creative twists, such as the Negroni Bianco or the Chocolate Negroni, each cocktail celebrates the ritual of Italian drinking culture.

However, Dante’s menu extends beyond just Negronis. They offer an impressive selection of spritzes, martinis, and Italian-inspired creations that incorporate bitters, amari, and vermouths. Each drink is carefully crafted to balance flavor and refreshment, inviting guests to linger over their cocktails and soak in the café’s old-world ambiance. The bar’s interior, with its tiled floors, vintage photos, and marble-topped tables, transports patrons to a bygone era, while still feeling accessible and welcoming.

What makes Dante truly special is its dedication to hospitality. The staff here are trained to not only serve drinks but to engage with guests, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels as though you’ve stepped into a friend’s home. The combination of expertly crafted cocktails and genuine warmth has earned Dante numerous awards, including being named Best Bar in the World by The World’s 50 Best Bars. It’s a title well deserved, as Dante continues to capture the hearts of locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of Italy with every sip.

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