Seemor
Clemente BarAMust Try
11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010
· Cocktail bar, Bar, Restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (178 reviews)
Reservations
Destination cocktail bar above Eleven Madison Park delivering creative drinks and refined vegetarian bites in an intimate, art-filled space; pricey, often booked, and better for adventurous palates than classic-only drinkers.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Clemente Bar exemplifies grade A standards through expert bartender knowledge, inventive vegetarian cuisine, and an iconic art-forward setting that justifies its destination status. Warm, attentive service and creative cocktail execution elevate the experience, though occasional seating discomfort and peak-hour pacing prevent it from reaching the highest tier. This is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts and adventurous diners seeking refined hospitality in a deliberately cinematic space.
Restaurant Summary
Slip upstairs from Eleven Madison Park into a jewel-box room where Clemente’s artwork frames a moody lounge and Studio counter. Service reads as warm and polished, and the tone is quietly celebratory. One guest summed it up: "The hospitality felt effortless, and the room just glows." Expect intimate vibes and a setting that feels deliberately cinematic. The cooking and mixology lean contemporary and creative—think Japanese-influenced flavors, plant-based plates, and cocktails that favor balance and texture over brute strength. Highlights like Endive Goddess, avocado inari, and a maitake skewer pair beautifully with thoughtful drinks such as Negroni Colada or Koji Café. If you worship the classics bone-dry and spirit-heavy, you may prefer the house martini while skipping a few sweeter, playful builds. For families, this is more of a grown-up lounge than a kid stop. The menu is entirely vegetarian with vegan options, featuring soba, potatoes, and inari pockets—great for adventurous eaters but not designed for children. No kids menu and low lounge tables make it better suited to date nights than family dinners.
At a Glance
- Art-forward, intimate lounge with exceptional hospitality
- Inventive, balanced cocktails and refined vegetarian snacks
- Premium pricing and strict cancellation policy
- Some seating uncomfortable and space can feel tight
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- art_curated_cocktail_space
- plant_based_bar_menu
- cocktail_paired_tasting_counter
What People Love
- The moody, art-led design that feels special
- Cocktails that surprise without gimmicks
- Attentive bartenders who guide choices
- Plant-based snacks that punch above bar-bite weight
- The Studio’s intimate chef-bartender interaction
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($24-30+ cocktails, $14-30 bites) which may surprise casual drinkers
- Some cocktails skew sweeter or lighter than classic-leaning palates prefer
- Seating can feel low or cramped; a few uncomfortable stools/ottomans reported
- Strict cancellation fees and timed reservations frustrate some guests
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$70-95 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Vegetarian diners should prioritize Endive Goddess and Avocado Inari; classic-cocktail fans start with the Clemente Martini and request drier builds; consider truffle add-on only if you enjoy rich flavors.
Perfect For
- A celebratory date night with cocktail lovers
- Pre- or post-dinner drinks in an artful setting
- Food-and-drink pairing enthusiasts seeking the Studio
- Impressing clients with a refined lounge experience
Location Insights
Area: Upscale, culture-and-dining heavy district by Madison Square Park; draws date nights, industry folks, and pre/post-dinner crowds.
Safety: Well-lit, high foot traffic, business and leisure mix; generally safe late into the evening.
Nearby: Above Eleven Madison Park; near tech offices, boutique hotels, and Madison Square Park.
Flatiron DistrictThe Flatiron District offers a lively dining scene with a variety of upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and trendy cafes. It attracts a mix of office workers during weekdays and a diverse crowd including locals and visitors on evenings and weekends, fostering a bustling yet approachable social atmosphere.
NoMadNoMad (North of Madison Square Park) is known for its boutique hotels, stylish bars, and innovative dining spots, creating a chic and somewhat upscale vibe that appeals to both locals and travelers seeking a refined yet relaxed experience.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–01:00
Tuesday17:00–01:00
Wednesday17:00–01:00
Thursday17:00–01:00
Friday17:00–01:00
Saturday17:00–01:00
Sunday17:00–01:00
Available: Reservations
View full analysis on Seemor →