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Employees Only

New York

Employees Only was a classic from the moment it opened in 2004. Two decades later, the Art Deco cocktail destination has lost none of the lustre – nor popularity – that inspired a generation of imitators.

However, the real show is behind the bar. White-jacketed bartenders perform their work up high, free-pouring Golden Age cocktails with aplomb. Under the watchful eye of head bartender Frank Maldonado, the skilled team stirs up hundreds of the signature martinis and Manhattans synonymous with the location each day. An expanded menu offers options beyond the classics including EO's refreshing West Side, made with Meyer lemon-infused vodka, fresh lemon juice, mint and Perrier. Those preferring their spirits neat will discover a world-class list of rare whiskeys.

The food offerings are also classic, delivering dishes like a signature hand-cut steak tartare, spicy sausage cavatelli doused in parmesan, burrata with roasted pears and balsamic and an excellent ribeye. Insiders know that the classic EO snack is the off-menu 'Sober Up Soup' served gratis to all customers who make it to closing time.

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