F & B
Raising the Bar
TOP TIPS TOUTING TIPPLES.
At Waldorf Astoria New York, Hilton reimagined the famous Peacock Alley following the hotel’ s renovation.
By TATIANA VALENZUELA
Ahotel bar has the potential to turn a good stay into an extraordinary one. Success comes from a clearly defined concept that’ s executed with intention, said Allison Kafalas, director of beverage & operations support, Americas at Hilton.“ A bar’ s identity isn’ t just the menu; it’ s the total experience,” she said. Everything, from glassware and plateware to cocktail garnishes and lighting, and, of course, staff,“ working together to create a cohesive concept,” Kafalas said.
Consider the newly opened and renovated Waldorf Astoria New York. It was essential for Hilton to reintroduce the famous Peacock Alley bar while ushering it into a new era. Every element of the experience was reimagined, getting a boost via a partnership with renowned mixologist Jeff Bell.“ We paid close attention to the details that shape the atmosphere,” Kafalas said, including uniforms and evening entertainment: a Cole Porter piano is now back in the Peacock Alley lounge.
How a bar feels should mirror the hotel. For Marcus Hotels & Resorts, whose portfolio spans historic landmarks and lifestyle properties, that alignment is critical.
At the Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, guests find an elegant, traditional vibe that matches the property’ s legacy. At lifestyle-driven hotels like Saint Kate, also in Milwaukee, or The Lofton Hotel in Minneapolis, the bar scene skews more eclectic and trendforward.
The CUT steakhouse by chef Wolfgang Puck in Rosewood Washington, D. C.
The CUT Above rooftop bar at Rosewood Washington, D. C., overlooks the Kennedy Center and Washington Monument.
52 hotelsmag. com Mar / Apr 2026