Harry's New York Bar travel guide

Harry's New York Bar is an iconic establishment in Paris with a rich and storied history. Founded in 1911 by American jockey Tod Sloan, the bar was originally a bistro called 'New York Bar.' Sloan shipped the original bar fixtures from Manhattan to Paris, creating an authentic American atmosphere. In 1923, Harry MacElhone, a Scottish bartender, took over the establishment and renamed it 'Harry's New York Bar.'

The bar quickly became a popular haunt for expatriates and celebrities alike. F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, and Coco Chanel were among its famous patrons. Known for its innovative cocktails, Harry's claims to be the birthplace of classics like the Bloody Mary and the French 75. During Prohibition, the bar served as a haven for Americans seeking a legal drink abroad.

Today, Harry's New York Bar retains its historical charm and continues to draw a diverse crowd. Its walls are adorned with memorabilia, offering a glimpse into its illustrious past. Whether you're a history buff or a cocktail enthusiast, a visit to Harry's New York Bar is a journey through time.

Harry's New York Bar in Paris boasts an ambiance that captures the essence of early 20th-century America, complete with dark wood paneling, leather stools, and a welcoming, intimate atmosphere. One of its standout features is the 'Wall of Fame,' adorned with photographs of famous patrons, including Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Coco Chanel, showcasing its rich cultural legacy.

Another unique aspect is the bar's piano, which has been the heart of its piano bar nights since the 1920s, offering live music that enhances the bar's nostalgic charm. The menu features a range of classic cocktails, including the French 75 and Bloody Mary, both of which were reportedly invented here. The bar's library of over 300 cocktail recipes adds to its allure, making it a haven for cocktail enthusiasts.

Moreover, Harry's New York Bar is renowned for its 'International Bar Flies' association, a club for cocktail aficionados started in the 1920s, which continues to attract members worldwide. This blend of historical significance, unique cultural elements, and a commitment to classic mixology makes Harry's New York Bar a must-visit destination in Paris.

Harry's New York Bar, a legendary Parisian haunt, boasts a piano bar in its basement where George Gershwin allegedly composed 'An American in Paris.' The bar is also the birthplace of iconic cocktails like the Bloody Mary and the Sidecar. Interestingly, Harry's was a favorite spot for expatriate writers of the Lost Generation, including Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Adding to its unique charm, the bar has a 'sober-up' adoption service where patrons can 'adopt' a stool with their name engraved on a brass plaque. Harry's even has its own unique address system: 'Sank Roo Doe Noo,' a phonetic play on its location at 5 Rue Daunou.

Located in the dynamic 2nd arrondissement of Paris, the popular Harry's New York Bar is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Paris or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Paris is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Paris offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Paris and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champ de Mars, and Sacré-Cœur.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Paris has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Paris, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

The best time to explore Harry's New York Bar in Paris is during the spring and fall months. From April to June and September to November, the weather is comfortably mild, making it an ideal period to enjoy the bar's historic charm without the summer tourist rush. During these seasons, you'll find a perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and manageable crowd levels, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience.

Visiting in the early evening on weekdays also ensures a more intimate atmosphere, avoiding the peak hours when the bar can become bustling. Additionally, special events such as Bastille Day in July and Beaujolais Nouveau in November offer unique opportunities to experience the bar's lively spirit and join in local celebrations.

To make the most of your visit, consider aligning your trip with these festive times, but remember to arrive early to secure a good spot. Overall, planning your visit around these periods will offer you the best of Harry's New York Bar's iconic ambiance and storied history.

Harry's New York Bar is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Paris, France. If you're flying in, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 13.8 miles (22.2 km) away from Paris. From there, you can easily reach Harry's New York Bar by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Paris, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Harry's New York Bar, which is located 1.3 miles (2.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Harry's New York Bar, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 5 Rue Daunou, 75002 Paris, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Harry's New York Bar!

With a rental car, discovering the popular Harry's New York Bar and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Charles de Gaulle Airport and the city of Paris, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Paris and beyond.

Conveniently explore Harry's New York Bar and plenty more captivating attractions in Paris by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Harry's New York Bar and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Paris has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Harry's New York Bar below.

Aside from Harry's New York Bar, Paris is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Paris, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Arc de Triomphe.

Eiffel Tower is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Paris, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 320,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Eiffel Tower is Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. Like Eiffel Tower, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 260,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Arc de Triomphe is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Paris. This museum and top attraction in Paris has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 190,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Paris below.