Photo of entrance and bar of Regency Bar & Grill | Credit: Loews Regency New York
Just a few steps to the left from the entrance of the iconic Loews Regency New York Hotel lies the hotel’s signature restaurant, the Regency Bar & Grill. Both hotel and outside guests may choose to dine here amongst many of the city’s influential figures.
Cozy lounge-like seating and a brilliantly lit bar anchor the front of the establishment. Further in is the main dining area with bustling chatter during brunch and a more intimate setting during the evening.
I had the opportunity during my stay to sample the menu as well as try some of the newly added drinks from their “Free Spirited” program.
An Intimate Dinner at the Regency Bar and Grill
Photo of main dining area of Regency Bar & Grill | Credit: Loews Regency New York
While brunch is wonderfully lively in the morning, I will say, an evening at this upscale restaurant is more “my cup of tea.” Undoubtedly, the moody lighting and sophisticated decor accentuate the dining experience, with sconce lamps highlighting the black and white photos on the wall. But that is not to say the food itself cannot stand of its own accord. The menu is recognizable with American cuisine yet options are elevated with the highest quality ingredients, globally influenced enhancements, and exquisite execution.
I tried the Tuna Tartare, White Asparagus Soup, Crisp and Dip and the Pan Seared Branzino.* Everything tasted fresh, delicious and inspired with its meticulously crafted combination of flavors. It would be difficult to pick a favorite. However, I would say the Branzino is the best I have ever had.
Photo of Tuna Tartare (left) and Crisps and Dip (right) | Credit: Sophia Calderone
From the security of my booth I silently watched people – watched without intruding on anyone’s conversation. Families caught up over dinner. Two women in business garb chatted amongst drinks. Later on in the evening a stylish couple opted for a seat further away from the rest of the restaurant’s guests, seeking privacy and comfort.
Photo of White Asparagus Soup ( left ) and Cauliflower Salad ( right ) | Credit: Sophia Calderone
Up to this point, I had not realized how romantic this restaurant could be. I had imagined Loews to be a place of prestige and business. But perhaps it was the glistening light reflecting off the crisped skin of my perfectly prepared Branzino that first influenced this new association.
Photo of Pan Seared Branzino | Credit: Sophia Calderone
Or perhaps it was the people. My server, Ceasar, was attentive and answered all my questions. I also had the pleasure of meeting the executive chef who prepared everything to perfection. From corner to corner, every person I met went above and beyond at ensuring my visit was exuberant yet comfortable. I could almost feel myself becoming teary eyed at the amount of care and service I experienced.
The Regency Bar & Grill’s Free Spirited Program
Photo of Free Spirited program drinks at Loews Regency New York. ( left to right ) Grapefruit Fusion, Cucumber Fizz, St. Germain Spritz, Shirley’s Cousin | Credit: Sophia Calderone
This summer there is more to enjoy at the Regency Bar and Grill. Loews recently launched their “Free Spirited” program, a carefully crafted selection of low and no-alcohol beverages of the finest ingredients. The inclusive addition was designed to accommodate those who desired their imbibes to come with little or no alcohol.
The beverages included the Grapefruit Fusion (No ABV), Cucumber Fizz (No ABV), Shirley’s Cousin (Low ABV and St. Germain Spritz (Low ABV). I had a chance to sample all four of these new additions to the menu.
The Grapefruit Fusion is a refreshing, citrus forward, non-alcoholic drink. Sweetened with agave syrup it contained no bitterness typical of grapefruit themed beverages and was pleasantly sweet. I found it absolutely delicious and was enthralled by its lovely grapefruit fragrance.
The Cucumber Fizz is a wonderfully fresh, tart, non-alcoholic drink. The cucumber scent hits you right away with a blast of “Spa Day”. It is not very sweet, which I appreciated, and is rounded out nicely with a lime mint finish. This mouth-puckering beverage is perfect for lovers of sour, tart flavors.
Photo of Grapefruit Fusion ( left ) and Cucumber Fizz ( right ) | Credit: Sophia Calderone
Shirley’s Cousin is a spiced-up take on a child-like classic. Its bright red color is fun and playful while a slight bitterness adds maturity and sophistication. Sexy, sweet with a sticky mouth kiss, this low alcohol beverage is the most “alcohol tasting” of the Free Spirited Program and makes for an excellent party pick.
The St. Germain Spritz is a floral, delicate, low alcohol drink. Though its appearance is the simplest of the group, it has a gemstone jelly texture that sparkles when given a stir. With honeysuckle notes and a hint of sweetness, I found the drink flirty yet elegant.
Photo of St. Germain Spritz ( left ) and Shirley’s Cousin ( right ) | Credit: Sophia Calderone
To my pleasant surprise, the St. Germain Spritz became my favorite of the night. But try them for yourself to see which one will be yours.
The “Free Spirited” program is also available at other Loews Hotels such as the Loews Philadelphia Hotel location. The expansion includes new exciting drink items such as the Boulevard of Broken Dreams ( a NO-ABV manhattan-like drink), Prohibition 75 ( NO-ABV gin mocktail ), Brunelle Frappe ( LOW-ABV for absinthe lovers ), and the Japanese Slipper ( LOW-ABV cocktail with Cointreau and Midori).
These drinks are in combination with other Loews Summer 2024 programming, including the partnership with the Manns Center of Performing Arts where guests can view highlights in the hotel lobby.**
Check to see what your local Loews has to offer this summer.
Photo of Sonny the bartender @sonythebartendernyc | Credit: Sophia Calderone
Final Thoughts
Whether you have a stay at the Loews Regency hotel or are seeking to impress your fellow diners, the Regency Bar & Grill is well worth the visit. The service, the food, and the atmosphere echo the Loews ethos with an overarching sense of professionalism that was both warm and approachable. Altogether, the combination creates a uniquely classy dining experience that can surely cater to those from all walks of life. It definitely felt tailored for me, someone who seeks a perfect blend of luxury and comfort.
Events at the Regency Bar & Grill
The Regency Bar & Grill will be hosting a “Sip & Sketch” night this summer in partnership with the Society of Illustrators. Attendees will have the opportunity to bring forward their artistic selves with a live model under the guidance of an instructor. Tickets cost $40 and include complimentary champagne upon arrival and drawing materials. You can purchase them online at the Regency Bar & Grill’s Resy.
When: July 30, August 27, September 17
Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Regency Bar & Grill
Ticket Cost: $40
Buy Tickets Online: Resy
Staying at the Loews Regency Hotel? Hotel guests can receive a 20% admission discount to the Society of Illustrators’ museum which holds the finest illustration collections seen in America. Just show your guestroom keycard to receive the discount.
* – menu items may be different from current offerings at the Regency Bar & Grill due to seasonal shifts
** – Manns Center of Performing Arts partnership is exclusive to the Loews Philadelphia Hotel location
