The historic Knickerbocker Hotel in Times Square is celebrating the “Year of the Martini” with a variety of offerings dedicated to the iconic cocktail. This tribute comes almost a century after Italian mixologist Martini de Arma di Taggia perfected the dry martini at the hotel bar, drawing luminaries like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Enrico Caruso. Guests can enjoy di Taggia’s original recipe at tableside martini carts in the Martini Lounge, along with Chef Adam Raksin’s caviar-topped martini bite.
In addition to the Martini Lounge, guests can also experience the cocktail eight stories up at St. Cloud Rooftop, which has been transformed into a pop-up garden inspired by popular martini garnishes. The hotel is also hosting a “Martini World Tour” in partnership with other Leading Hotels of the World properties, where guests can attend “masterclasses” to learn about different versions of the martini from international experts.
The “Year of the Martini” at The Knickerbocker aims to create memorable moments for guests that celebrate both the hotel’s unique history and its place in today’s sophisticated cocktail scene. Hotel manager Scott Case emphasizes that the martini holds a special place in society and culture, drawing every generation to quintessential New York City bars to indulge in the very best the city has to offer.
The hotel’s dedication to honoring the martini is evident in the various offerings available to guests throughout the year. From tasting the original recipe in the Martini Lounge to enjoying martini-inspired decor at the rooftop garden, visitors can immerse themselves in the history and allure of the classic cocktail. The “Year of the Martini” at The Knickerbocker is a celebration of both past and present, showcasing how the cocktail has become a timeless symbol of sophistication.
With the help of celebrated author and cocktail historian David Wondrich and other international experts, guests can participate in masterclasses to learn more about the history and variations of the martini. The partnership with other Leading Hotels of the World properties adds a global element to the celebration, bringing different perspectives and versions of the cocktail to The Knickerbocker.
In dedicating themselves to the “Year of the Martini,” The Knickerbocker Hotel aims to offer guests an unforgettable experience that highlights the rich history and cultural significance of the iconic cocktail. From the hotel’s legendary past as the epicenter of the dry martini craze to its current status as a landmark in New York City’s cocktail scene, the “Year of the Martini” is a tribute to the enduring appeal and elegance of this classic drink.
