Waldorf Astoria New York Partners with Mixologist Jeff Bell for the Return of Peacock Alley

Jeff Bell will lead the cocktail programs at Peacock Alley Bar and Lex Yard, the hotel’s restaurant. He will collaborate with the food and beverage teams from Waldorf Astoria, New York, and Hilton to introduce the hotel's beverage selections.

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Waldorf Astoria New York Partners with Mixologist Jeff Bell for the Return of Peacock Alley

Waldorf Astoria New York Lobby Bar

Waldorf Astoria and Jeff Bell Bring Back Peacock Alley

Waldorf Astoria and Jeff Bell Bring Back Peacock Alley
Waldorf Astoria New York Lex Yard's Ground Floor

Waldorf Astoria New York has teamed up with renowned mixologist Jeff Bell, the managing partner of the famous speakeasy Please Don’t Tell (PDT) and a collaborator with Apres Cru Hospitality. He will design and manage the cocktail program for the iconic Peacock Alley Bar and the hotel’s premier restaurant, Lex Yard.

With extensive experience in the cocktail and hospitality sectors, Bell is recognized for developing some of the most celebrated mixology programs worldwide. His legendary speakeasies, PDT in New York City and Hong Kong, have earned numerous honours, including The World’s Best Bar from World’s 50 Best and Tales of the Cocktail. He also received the inaugural James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program. 

Waldorf Astoria and Jeff Bell Bring Back Peacock Alley
Jeff Bell

Bell will collaborate with the food and beverage teams at Waldorf Astoria, New York, and Hilton to introduce the hotel's beverage program. This team is focused on creating unique offerings that enhance classic New York cocktail traditions while reimagining the hotel bar experience through contemporary service methods and interactive elements. The hotel will feature an inventive all-day beverage menu across Peacock Alley and Lex Yard, including brunch cocktails, afternoon spritzes, pre-dinner drinks, evening cocktails, and additional selections.  

“Reopening the iconic Waldorf Astoria New York is not just the rebirth of a hotel, it’s the revival of a cultural landmark. Since opening on Park Avenue in 1931, Waldorf Astoria New York has been a staple of the city's society scene — countless memories have been made here, often with a glass raised in celebration,” said Bell.

“Throughout its history, the hotel has been admired as a pioneer of the global mixology scene. I am incredibly proud to be part of the hotel’s next chapter and introduce Peacock Alley to a new generation of New Yorkers and guests.”

Peacock Alley

Waldorf Astoria New York’s Peacock Alley bar, a cocktail destination for nearly a century, has been restored to its former elegance. It is set to reclaim its status as a favoured spot for New Yorkers and visitors. This celebrated bar, which extends the hotel’s reception area, blends historic design elements with contemporary touches, ensuring enjoyment for generations. Acknowledging its legacy and cultural importance, the menu will showcase original cocktails created at Peacock Alley, including Dr Cook and Bishop Poker, and modern takes on classic Prohibition-style drinks. Highlights include signature concoctions like the Waldorf Cocktail featuring Rye Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, a hint of Absinthe, and Angostura Bitters. 

Tom Walters - VIBE Conference 2018
Tom Walters, Senior VP, Food & Beverage, Americas, Hilton

“The reopening of Peacock Alley at Waldorf Astoria New York is a historic moment for both the hotel and the city,” said Tom Walters, Senior Vice President, Food & Beverage, Americas, Hilton. 

“A symbol of elegance and hospitality for nearly a century, Peacock Alley has long been a social hub for New Yorkers, celebrities, and travelers alike. In its new iteration, we are committed to honoring the bar’s storied past while embracing an exciting future—one that blends Hilton’s legacy of excellence with modern experiences and world-class cocktail service, for new generations to enjoy.”

Lex Yard

Drawing inspiration from the market-driven menu of Lex Yard, the hotel’s signature restaurant led by Chef Michael Anthony, the cocktail menu will showcase timeless classics like the Rob Roy, created initially at this property, along with a Rye Old Fashioned. The hotel's culinary team will also craft drinks made from seasonal ingredients. The wine list will feature a vibrant array of bottles from leading global producers, complete with rotating specials and themes. Lex Yard will also present a variety of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol by volume (ABV) drinks, including a no ABV Gin & Tonic made with Amas Riverine NA Spirit, lime juice, celery, cucumber, and tonic water, as well as a low ABV Americano combining Luxardo Bitter Bianco, Dolin Blanc Vermouth, Lemon Verbena, and club soda. 

Luigi Romaniello, managing director, Waldorf Astoria New York.
Luigi Romaniello, MD of Waldorf Astoria New York

"We are excited to welcome guests back to Waldorf Astoria New York and continue our legacy as a place where both New Yorkers and travellers make lifelong memories — many of them with a drink in hand,” said Luigi Romaniello, Managing Director of Waldorf Astoria New York.

“Working alongside Jeff Bell, we’ve aligned ourselves with a team that embodies the vibrant energy and spirit of New York and the next chapter of the hotel, where entertainment and connection come together in perfect harmony."

Waldorf Astoria New York is situated at 301 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022, and it is anticipated to reopen in the spring of 2025.

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