Verified Company
I want to review this cocktail bar because it turned out to be above my expectations, an elegant place with a jazz style, dedicated customer service. I went here for four days in a row, and I would have gone back another time if I still had some time available! A special compliment to Henry, a really trained, kind and very sociable bartender. When I return to New York this cocktail bar in the upper east side will never be missing!
In the bar desert that is the west side of Lenox Hill, finding this little treat is a delight. Tucked in the ground floor of a highrise, the bar designers did a great job transporting you to an underground Parisian bar, perhaps inspired by the catacombs. Great vibes for dates and clients if you're stuck in the area (expense accounts encouraged).
That said, the bartending skill and service is a mismatch for the environs. Slow night during our visit. Drinks in my group of three all questionable taste (two old fashioned versions off the menu + a gin drink), but the bartender served the drinks, left for a 10 minute smoke break while we eyed the host and a server watching Twitch or YouTube on his phone at the host stand. Once he came, back smelling of smoke, he failed to ask us for another drink and quickly popped out again, leaving us with empty glasses and a then desire to pay the check. But how does one pay the check when the bartender left yet again to stand outside?
In all fairness though, it wouldn't be a true French inspired bar if folks weren't profusely taking smoke breaks. So bonus star for authenticity ;-)
Cocktails ~$24-30 per
Recommendation to ownership: Tinting film to the windows of your back bar coolers. The day-glow light highlighting the mishmash of items stored within distracts from the otherwise dark and sultry ambience you've delightfully created.
Live piano music in a beautiful room with fun bar food. A great find on park avenue and 59th street
Cute slim jazzy bar on Park. Very enthusiastic bartender. Not much to eat.
Came for the mac and cheese but it was removed from the menu, so definitely only attend if you aren't that hungry. Whats left is a few choices of finger food. It was a wednesday night so returning Friday or Saturday for the live band.
Had a super amazing experience at Arora’s, the service, ambiance, vibes were the best and most of all Rahul’s personal touch was remarkable.
The sophisticated, classic Manhattan vibe is perfectly matched by their exquisite cocktail menu and polished service. I will 100% recommend the place.
Rahul - the proud owner of Arora has done an awesome job with the decor, the vibe is so inviting, drinks are perfectly crafted…highly recommend everyone who visits NYC…must visit!!!
Went here solo to enjoy some music over a bite and a drink. The staff were so welcoming and took such good care of me - Spencer at the bar was super friendly and Jean Michele on the piano was outstanding, playing all my favorite rock tunes with a jazz twist! I didn’t catch the names of the other bar staff or the gentleman who first sat me down but they were all amazing, will definitely be going back.
UPDATE: Just heard and met Jean Michele’s parents who play jazz on Friday nights and can confirm they are AMAZING!
Awesome cocktail bar. The service is attentive. Drinks were all top notch (Japanese old fashioned, vesper, French 75). Live piano starts at 7pm. Atmosphere is definitely worth the visit.
