Best Hotel Bars 2016

Hotel bars have long had a reputation for serving over-priced, unremarkable cocktails, and are usually frequented only by guests too tired or unadventurous to brave the streets of a new city in search of something better. But over the last few years, a wave of incredible new hangouts has come onto the scene to change that perception. For proof, look no further than some of the Squire’s favorites in Australia, Los Angeles, New York and Las Vegas.

Head down under to the hip boutique hotel QT Sydney and grab a seat at their stylish restaurant Gowings Bar & Grill.  Located in the heart of the city, this dark, sexy restaurant offers a world class wine list to pair with brasserie dishes.  The open kitchen provides views of the behind the scenes action while you lounge in retro style seating.  Perfect for both singles and small groups, Gowings Bar & Grill gives you a true taste of the Sydneysider scene.  Local celebs like Toni Colette and Nicole Kidman can often be spotted having a cocktail at the bar.

Stop by one of LA’s trendiest hang-outs in the heart of Westwood.  Known for its out of the box hospitality experience and top notch entertainment, the W Hotel has its finger on the pulse of quality dining.  With a sleek design and uncomplicated menu, STK LA offers guests the ultimate LA experience. Sip on hand-crafted cocktails and savor world renowned cuisine from Chef Robert Liberato. The moody ambience is perfect for a couple’s romantic evening out and the plush white banquettes are cozy enough for small groups to toast the night away. Celebs spotted include Reese Witherspoon, Johnny Depp, Brittany Snow and Wiz Khalifa.

When you’ve finally had enough of Times Square, head over to Rock & Reilly’s New York in the Renaissance Midtown Hotel.  This 8,000 square-foot rooftop gastropub and restaurant is the newest thing to hit NY with and its massive terrace faces the Empire State Building.  As if the views are not enough, indulge in a variety of shareable appetizers and specialty items like a 28 oz. bone-in Tomahawk Rib Eye, Roast Halibut, and Brick Chicken. Sip decadent cocktails, small batch Irish whiskeys and a plethora of craft beers from around the world.

Take a stroll down the iconic Las Vegas Strip and grab a seat at the ultra-hip cocktail lounge at The Cosmopolitan. CliQue Bar & Lounge is an escape from the outside world, offering artisanal cocktails with house-made mixers.  Decorated in dark woods with comfortable sofas and posh finishing touches, the lavish décor epitomizes all things swanky about Las Vegas. Mixology from a most innovative bartender, Mike Monreal, takes center stage here as CliQue Bar & Lounge reinvents the lounge experience with tableside mixing. Choose from classic cocktails or one-of-a-kind creations, all incorporating fresh juices and garnishes.