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.

Discover Harry's New York Bar, a prime feature of Paris, in the vibrant 2nd arrondissement of Paris. Harry's New York Bar is situated at 5 Rue Daunou, 75002 Paris, France, just a short distance from Musée du Parfum and Palais Garnier, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Harry's New York Bar, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Paris, a city in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Paris to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Harry's New York Bar. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Paris travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

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 or planning to book a flight to Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 13.8 miles (22.2 km) away from the city center. 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. 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!

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Choosing the right accommodation near Harry's New York Bar from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Paris can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Harry's New York Bar, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Harry's New York Bar, Paris boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to museum, the top attractions in Paris offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Paris is Eiffel Tower, located at Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Louvre Museum is worth seeing when you're in Paris. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Arc de Triomphe completes any trip to Paris. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Paris below to discover even more incredible places to explore.