Harry's New York Bar
Alessandro Scire CalabrisottoShare
Harry's New York Bar – Paris’ Legendary Cocktail Bar and the Birthplace of the Bloody Mary
Harry's New York Bar in Paris is one of the world’s most iconic cocktail bars, steeped in history and known for its legendary cocktails, international ambiance, and unparalleled legacy. Established in 1911 by American jockey Tod Sloan, Harry's New York Bar was originally named The New York Bar, offering Americans in Paris a taste of home. The bar quickly became a hub for expatriates, artists, writers, and intellectuals, solidifying its place as a cultural landmark in Paris. Today, Harry's New York Bar remains a must-visit destination for anyone in Paris who wants to experience cocktail history in an authentic setting.
Harry's New York Bar is best known as the birthplace of the Bloody Mary, a cocktail that has since become one of the world’s most popular drinks. Created in the 1920s by bartender Fernand "Pete" Petiot, the Bloody Mary was an innovative mix of vodka and tomato juice, with a touch of spices to bring out a savory flavor. The cocktail was named after Mary Tudor, England's infamous "Bloody Mary." This creation, originally named the Red Snapper, became a sensation and is now a staple on brunch menus and cocktail lists worldwide. For cocktail lovers visiting Paris, enjoying a Bloody Mary at Harry's New York Bar is like a pilgrimage, a chance to taste this classic drink in its birthplace.
But Harry's New York Bar has more claims to fame. This legendary establishment is also credited with creating the French 75, a sophisticated cocktail made with gin, Champagne, lemon juice, and sugar. Named after the powerful French 75mm field gun used during World War I, this cocktail embodies the bar’s innovative spirit and ability to blend French and American influences. Other classic cocktails, like the Sidecar and Scofflaw, are also believed to have originated at Harry's, showcasing the bar’s lasting impact on the world of mixology.
The interior of Harry's New York Bar is a nostalgic tribute to classic American bar style, with dark wood paneling, red leather stools, and a cozy, intimate atmosphere that invites patrons to linger. A unique feature of the bar is its collection of pennants from American universities, which were gifted by students and alumni who frequented the bar during its early years. The decor reflects Harry's longstanding connection to American culture, offering a little slice of New York right in the heart of Paris. With its piano bar and jazz music, Harry's New York Bar exudes a timeless charm that transports visitors back to the early 20th century.
Harry's New York Bar became a gathering place for expatriates and luminaries, especially during the 1920s and 1930s. Writers like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Sinclair Lewis were regulars, as were other influential figures from the art and literary scenes of the time. The bar’s international atmosphere made it a popular spot for discussions, debates, and creative inspiration. Its reputation as a haven for writers and intellectuals helped cement its status as a cultural landmark, drawing visitors from around the world who wanted to drink in the same space as some of history's most celebrated minds.
Over the years, Harry's New York Bar has hosted generations of cocktail lovers, tourists, and locals alike. It continues to attract patrons with its storied history and classic cocktails, served with a level of expertise that has become rare in modern bars. The bartenders at Harry's are highly skilled and deeply knowledgeable, preserving the bar’s legacy of mixology with each drink they prepare. From the perfectly crafted Bloody Mary to the delicate French 75, every cocktail served at Harry's New York Bar is made with the same dedication and care that has defined the establishment for over a century.
For anyone visiting Paris, Harry's New York Bar offers a unique experience that blends history, culture, and outstanding cocktails. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or a history enthusiast, a stop at Harry's is essential. This bar is not just about drinking; it’s about stepping into a piece of cocktail history and experiencing a part of Paris that has remained untouched by time. The drinks, the decor, and the atmosphere together create an experience that is quintessentially Parisian yet distinctly American, reflecting the bar’s enduring international appeal.
In the landscape of Parisian bars, Harry's New York Bar stands out for its authenticity, its rich cultural legacy, and its unwavering dedication to quality. For over a century, this bar has remained a beacon for cocktail lovers, a place where classic drinks are celebrated, and new memories are made. With every drink poured and every story shared, Harry's New York Bar continues to carry on its legacy as one of the world’s most iconic cocktail destinations.
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