An invitation to discover something truly special.Set moments from Buckingham Palace, the New York Bar at The Rubens at the Palace offers a collection of drinks experiences that blend refined luxury with warmth, theatre and approachability. Designed for curious locals and discerning travellers alike, these experiences go beyond the expected - combining storytelling, craftsmanship and indulgence in one of London’s most characterful hotel bars.Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning an elegant afternoon, or simply seeking a memorable way to gather, each experience is hosted by expert bartenders who bring depth, personality and flair to every moment.All experiences are available for private and group bookings, with the option to host in a private room. Perfect for birthdays, hen parties, intimate celebrations or pre-dinner occasions, and easily paired with Afternoon Tea or dinner at The Rubens
The new york bar signature drinks experiences
Prices include VAT at the current standard rate. A service charge of 15% will be added to your final bill.
The Negroni Trolley ExperienceTailored tableside theatreA fully personalised cocktail performance, created tableside just for you - not a standard tasting. A signature experience that sets The New York Bar apart. Your bespoke Negroni trolley is wheeled to your table, where our mixologist creates each cocktail before your eyes, adapting flavours, aromatics, and balance to suit your preferences.This is cocktail-making elevated into a performance - interactive, elegant, and entirely personal. Includes:A glass of Champagne on arrivalTwo Negronis per person, prepared tablesideExploration of classic and contemporary Negroni stylesA curated selection of aromatics and bittersTwo small plates to shareIdeal for celebrations, date afternoons, or anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind London bar experience.Time: Daily at 1pm, 3pm, or 5pm Price: £270 for two peopleThe Art of SabrageChampagne, ceremony and celebrationOne of London’s most theatrical champagne rituals, blending history, skill and celebration.An elegant ritual steeped in history. Experience the thrill of sabrage as our expert demonstrates the ceremonial opening of a Champagne bottle using a sabre, before you enjoy the Champagne at leisure in refined surroundings.This experience is effortlessly celebratory - perfect for marking a special moment or simply indulging in something extraordinary.Includes:One bottle of ChampagneLive sabrage demonstrationFour small plates of your choice from the bar menuTime: Daily from 12pm (approximately one hour)Price: £161 for two people
iconic experiences
Immersive Cocktail ExperienceFrom guest to creatorA hands-on masterclass where you don’t just taste cocktails - you make and understand them.Hosted by one of our expert mixologists, this hands-on experience invites you behind the bar to explore the craft of cocktail-making. Learn about balance, technique, and flavour, then put your knowledge into practice as you create your own drinks. Relaxed, engaging, and highly sociable, this experience is equally suited to celebrations or an indulgent afternoon in the city.Includes:A glass of Champagne on arrivalGuidance from a professional mixologistTwo cocktails of your choice per personFour small plates to enjoy during the experienceTime: Daily at 1 pm, 3 pm or 5 pmPrice: £135 per person or £270 for two peopleThe Gin ExperienceA refined journey through Britain’s favourite spiritAn elegant, guided tasting that focuses on storytelling, botanicals and balance - not just pouring samples. Set within regal surroundings, this guided gin tasting explores the craftsmanship, botanicals, and character behind some of England’s most celebrated gins. Your host will lead you through styles and flavour profiles, pairing each gin with the perfect tonic and garnish. Elegant yet approachable, this experience is ideal for gin lovers and those looking to discover something new. Includes:Three premium gin tastings per personCarefully matched tonics and garnishesExpert-led insight into production and flavourFour small plates to complement the tastingTime: Daily at 1 pm, 3 pm or 5 pmPrice: £135 per person or £270 for two peopleWhisky Tasting ExperienceDepth, character and discoveryExpert-led and paced for enjoyment, this tasting balances education with indulgence. Led by our resident whisky expert, this tasting explores a carefully selected range of premium whiskies - from smooth and fruity single malts to deeper, peated expressions. Guided nosing and tasting techniques reveal the nuances of each whisky, making this an immersive yet accessible experience for both newcomers and enthusiasts.Includes:Three premium whisky tastings to shareGuided tasting and aroma explorationA sharing platter of four small plates from the bar menuTime: Daily at 1 pm, 3 pm or 5 pmPrice: £220 for two people
Guided Tastings & Masterclasses
Small Plates at The New York BarAll experiences include a selection of small plates, designed for sharing and to complement your drinks. Our menu is seasonal and may include:Seasonal arancini with truffle or heritage tomatoSmoked salmon blinis with crème fraîcheCrispy chicken or cauliflower bites with house-made saucesBritish cheese with chutney and crackersArtisan charcuterie with breads and accompanimentsThe small plates listed above are examples. Our team will be happy to share the current menu in advance, or you may view the full selection on the day of your visit.Private & Group ExperiencesEvery experience can be hosted as a private event, either within the New York Bar or in one of The Rubens’ elegant private rooms.Perfect for:Birthdays and anniversariesHen partiesCorporate entertainingPre-dinner or pre-theatre gatheringsPairing with Afternoon Tea or dinner in The English Grill or Curry Room Our team will be delighted to tailor timings, menus, and formats to create a seamless and memorable occasion.Advance booking is recommended for all these experiences to avoid disappointment. For private events or group enquiries, please contact our events team to discuss bespoke arrangements. Visit: rubenshotel.com/dining-and-drinks/the-new-york-bar