Monkey Bar
About Monkey Bar
Monkey Bar is a quintessential Midtown East landmark that has served as a cornerstone of Manhattan’s social scene since its opening in 1936. Located on East 54th Street, the venue exudes a timeless, cinematic atmosphere characterized by its famous hand-painted murals, plush red leather banquettes, and dim, amber-hued lighting. Now under the stewardship of 4 Charles Prime Rib’s Brendan Sodikoff, the restaurant has been revitalized to offer a sophisticated menu of American tavern classics, elevated steaks, and expertly crafted cocktails.
For private events, Monkey Bar provides a sense of old-world New York glamour that is difficult to replicate. The atmosphere is intimate yet high-energy, making it a premier destination for hosts who want a backdrop of historical significance and upscale comfort. Whether guests are gathering for a business power lunch or a celebratory evening reception, the venue offers a level of prestige and polish that aligns perfectly with the professional and social demands of its Midtown location.
Best For
- Full restaurant buyouts for weddings and major celebrations for up to 200 guests
- Semi-private seated dinners for up to 36 guests in the dedicated event room
- Cocktail-style networking events for up to 60 guests in the semi-private bar area
- Small group outings and business dinners for 9–12 guests at the Main Dining Room large table
- Elegant holiday parties or corporate galas with a full buyout for up to 110 seated guests
What Guests Are Saying
The venue is frequently complimented for its cozy yet sophisticated ambiance, perfect for high-end gatherings.
Guests highlight the exceptional level of service and the 'classic New York' feel provided by the staff and decor.
Reviewers often point to the quality of the steaks and cocktails as being among the best in Midtown for group dining.
The historic murals and red leather seating are noted as spectacular backdrops for event photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the event space options and capacities at Monkey Bar?▾
Monkey Bar offers four primary configurations: a semi-private bar area for standing events (60 guests), a semi-private room for seated meals (36 guests) or standing receptions (25 guests), a large group table in the Main Dining Room (12 guests), and full restaurant buyouts (up to 200 guests).
Does Monkey Bar allow for full restaurant buyouts for weddings or corporate events?▾
Yes, the restaurant offers both partial and full buyout options. A full buyout can accommodate approximately 100 to 110 guests for a seated dinner or up to 200 guests for a standing cocktail-style reception.
Is there a private dining room available for small intimate groups?▾
While there is no fully enclosed private room for small groups, the restaurant offers a semi-private room and a large table within the Main Dining Room specifically suited for groups of 9 to 12 people.
Where is the venue located and is it convenient for Midtown corporate events?▾
Monkey Bar is located at 60 E 54th Street in Midtown East, making it highly accessible for corporate clients and guests staying in the neighborhood's luxury hotels.
How do I book a private event and what is the process?▾
To inquire about specific dates, food and beverage minimums, and menu options, guests should contact the venue through the dedicated Private Events page on their official website.
Bar (Semi-Private)
The bar area for semi-private cocktail events. Best for receptions, networking events, and drinks-focused gatherings.
Semi-Private Room
Suitable for private lunches, dinners, small receptions, and celebrations.
Main Dining Room (Large Table)
A large table within the main dining room, not fully private, but a hosted group seating.
Full Restaurant Buyout
Exclusive use of the entire restaurant. Suitable for large corporate events, weddings, holiday parties, and major celebrations. Note: Sources vary slightly on exact capacity.