• email
• print
• share
• save to my nyc

If we're all in the mood for a melody, as Billy Joel observed, then it's lucky that New York City is full of cozy piano bars to suit just about anyone's taste in music. For those looking for a relaxing night out, the City's elegant hotel bars will sweep you into the romance of old New York glamour. At the legendary Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle, for example, the waiters wear tuxedoes while seasoned pianists serenade your dinner or drinks with the classics.

Looking for something more spirited? Fans of musicals can sip a cocktail at Sondheim-friendly piano bars like Don't Tell Mama, whose pianists and staff have memorized the Broadway songbook. Stars have been known to drop in for a song, but the staff steals the show here, spontaneously belting out tunes while working the room.

And if these options don't strike your fancy, there are piano bars with a broad range of guest performers and themed nights, like acoustic, pop diva and Billboard 100. So if "I Feel Pretty" doesn't strike the right note tonight, perhaps "…Baby One More Time" tomorrow will be exactly the melody you need.