We can’t believe that we’re saying this again, but the Upper East Side is the new Downtown. In the case of Penelope, it’s not because of a chef or the design vibes (though it certainly has the latter). It’s because of the crowd itself, who mostly belong below 14th Street.

Atmosphere

First let’s start with the room itself, which is a beautiful space, reminiscent of a Parisian bordello — in a good way. Rich red velvet, heavy drapes and damask prints and chandeliers fill the open room. They add a garden-like feel with green foliage throughout. In essence, they chose a theme and leaned way into it. The team at Le Bar Penelope clearly wanted to convey luxury with an air of formality that would inspire guests to dress to impress.

Crowd wise, they’re definitely drawing a younger age group of attractive women. This is a place where as a female, you think you are going to meet a certain kind of guy. And for some women, I’m sure that they succeed. In general, though, oftentimes you’ll find yourself in a room full of women, all looking for the same thing. I know that’s the case in a lot of restaurants in New York. However, there’s something about Le Bar Penelope that seems more desperate, or intentional to be out on the prowl.

But back to the vibe, irrespective of intentions or who is in the room. Le Bar Penelope has live entertainment in the form of piano and a lounge singer. They’re also open until 2am, so it’s a civilized place to get a late night drink (albeit one with formalities). If you’re into the on-the-prowl crowd, or if you just want a decent cocktail post-dinner, the neighborhood needed a late night place.

Food + Beverage

You’re not coming to Le Bar Penelope for the food, which has a selection of caviar, apps and a few entrées. The menu trends toward Asian, with sushi, dumplings and Pad Thai. The mains are upscale Asian bites like chili chicken and pork ribs, like you would have expected to find at a Trader Vics. I, personally, would bypass all of that, and stick with the Wagyu slider or lobster roll. The fries are also good. It’s not like they don’t have food on the menu at Le Bar Penelope — but I think it’s more of a place to nibble. Their sister restaurant, Avra Madison next door, is much better if you want a proper meal.

Cocktails are their specialty at Le Bar Penelope, which are all well done. This is not the Avra guy’s first rodeo, so they know how to run a bar. Like Avra, though, the wine list is fully priced with little value. I would stick to the martinis for a night out at Le Bar Penelope.

Service

I think the team here has a tough job dealing with the crowd that comes in. I’m sure everyone is lovely in real life. The hostesses, though, have to run a tight ship, so don’t expect the warm and fuzzies. They also don’t seat you until the full party is there, which is a little silly to me.

Overall: 7.4/10

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FAQs

Q: Where is Le Bar Penelope NYC located?

A: 14 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022

Q: What are the hours of operation of Le Bar Penelope NYC?

A: The hours of operation of Bar Penelope NYC are as follows:

Q: Does Le Bar Penelope NYC serve food?

A: Le Bar Penelope NYC does serve food, but it’s more lounge bites. You are better off going to sister restaurant Avra Madison next door if you want a proper meal.