An Oscar Wilde-theme pub gives New York its longest bar

Thanks to a newly opened bar in New York, fans of Oscar Wilde now have their very own spot to celebrate the creations of the Irish novelist, essayist and playwright. With one of the longest bars in the Big Apple, the place beautifully combines wit, wisdom and, well…booze.

Considered one of the most successful playwrights of late Victorian London, Wilde often incorporated themes of debauchery and beauty within his works. Driven by the spirit of the Irish playwright, the bar pays homage to his prolific story. He is remembered for his epigrams and plays. His most lauded creations include 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' 'The Selfish Giant', 'The Happy Prince and Other Tales', etc. 

Today, Wilde's legacy lives on through the virtue of his talent and philosophy and now, of course, this extravagant bar.

There are roaring fireplaces, over-the-top statues, a piano dating back to the 1800s, pieces of imported Murano glass, and eccentric antiques scattered in various corners along with the writer’s quotes decorating the space too.

However, the feature that Wilde would have most enjoyed as a non-conformist, is perhaps that the bar is in a building that previously housed Prohibition Enforcement headquarters.

Other Features include:

• New York City’s longest marble bar at 118.5 feet, handcarved in Vietnam
• French fireplace, 1840s, acquired on Bond St. from Bonhams and Phillips Auctioneers
• 26 antique clocks, multiple collections, all set to 1:50, the time of Oscar Wilde’s death
• Wall-paper made in Mexico by Annette Monter
• Wainscott inspired by 17th century design and made from sesame seeds, manufactured by a factory in Wales
• Chairs made in Mexico, inspired by the Irish exit with one arm
• Player Piano, 1819 comprises the back of the Whiskey Bar
• Mens room based on Leslie Castle, Ireland where Paul McCartney got married.
• Women’s restroom plays talk radio transmitted from Hope Castle

And in a city where the rat race never stops, the Oscar Wilde bar surely justifies Wilde’s wisest words of all:

“Too much work, and no vacation, deserves at least a small libation. So hail! my friends, and raise your glasses, Work is the curse of the drinking classes.”