Clemente Bar

Clemente Bar is tucked away upstairs from the main dining room of Eleven Madison Park, occupying what used to be the restaurant's private dining rooms. You enter through the main doors on the ground floor and head up to a space that’s a direct collaboration between chef Daniel Humm and artist Francesco Clemente – a fusion of gastronomy and art. The bar is split into two distinct concepts. The first is The Lounge, a walk-in area for cocktails and small plates that feels like a classic European salon. Deep burgundy tones and walnut panels define the room, but the real focus is the art. Massive, ethereal murals by Clemente wrap around the walls, lit by distinctive mushroom-shaped lamps from artist Carsten Höller and other custom furniture. It’s an inviting, casual space for drinks. The other half of the concept is The Studio, an intimate nine-seat counter for a more structured tasting experience where you can watch the chefs and bartenders prepare a five-course menu with pairings. Everything here is entirely plant-based, following the philosophy of the main restaurant. The beverage program centers on technically complex cocktails with an elegant, simple presentation – like the Clemente Martini, garnished with green curry-infused olive oil and saffron. A full menu of non-alcoholic pairings is also available. Food in The Lounge comes as refined, handheld bites, including an Agedashi Tofu "Dogg" and maitake mushroom skewers. The Studio’s menu is a more involved, 90-minute affair based on seasonal ingredients. While The Lounge is designed for spontaneous visits, getting a seat at The Studio requires a reservation, which can be made up to three weeks in advance.