Famous Literary Figures and Their Favorite Bars
The world of literature has long been intertwined with the world of libations, and many famous authors have found inspiration, solace, and camaraderie in the bars they frequented. From classic cocktails like the beloved Negroni to unique cocktail recipes born of literary genius, this exploration delves into the favorite bars of renowned authors and the drinks that fueled their creativity.
Ernest Hemingway and La Floridita, Havana, Cuba
Ernest Hemingway, known for his love of adventure and strong spirits, found solace in the historic La Floridita bar in Havana, Cuba. The establishment's famous Negroni served as the backdrop for some of his most memorable works. Hemingway's connection with La Floridita is so legendary that a bronze statue of the author now stands at the bar, commemorating his patronage.
F. Scott Fitzgerald and The Plaza Hotel's Oak Bar, New York City
F. Scott Fitzgerald, the author of "The Great Gatsby," was no stranger to the allure of the bar scene. His favorite haunt was The Plaza Hotel's Oak Bar in New York City. While there, he often enjoyed classic cocktails like the Negroni, immersing himself in the decadence and glamour of the Roaring Twenties.
Jack Kerouac and Vesuvio Cafe, San Francisco, California
A central figure of the Beat Generation, Jack Kerouac found his creative muse at Vesuvio Cafe in San Francisco. Kerouac, author of "On the Road," frequented this historic bar, where he indulged in conversations with fellow writers and occasionally sipped on a Negroni while contemplating his next literary journey.
Raymond Chandler and Musso & Frank Grill, Los Angeles, California
Raymond Chandler, the master of hard-boiled detective fiction, had a preferred watering hole in Los Angeles: Musso & Frank Grill. While Chandler's characters often enjoyed whiskey, he had a penchant for unique cocktail recipes. His favorite was the Gimlet, a simple yet satisfying mix of gin and lime juice.
Dorothy Parker and The Algonquin Hotel's Round Table, New York City
Dorothy Parker, renowned for her wit and sharp tongue, was a fixture at The Algonquin Hotel's Round Table in New York City during the 1920s. While sipping on her preferred Martini, she engaged in spirited discussions with other literary luminaries, including F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway.
Hunter S. Thompson and Woody Creek Tavern, Woody Creek, Colorado
Hunter S. Thompson, the father of gonzo journalism, had an affinity for the Woody Creek Tavern in Colorado. While his preferences leaned towards Wild Turkey bourbon, he often experimented with his own unique cocktail recipes, including the notorious "Chivas and LSD" concoction.
Oscar Wilde and Café Royal, London, England
Oscar Wilde, the wit of the Victorian era, found inspiration at Café Royal in London. While he was known to savor absinthe, he also enjoyed the occasional Negroni, reveling in the vibrant intellectual and artistic atmosphere of the establishment.
Tennessee Williams and Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, New Orleans, Louisiana
Tennessee Williams, the iconic playwright, frequently sought refuge at Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop in New Orleans. Known for his love of Southern culture, Williams was often seen sipping a Sazerac, a classic cocktail rooted in New Orleans history.
Charles Bukowski and The Frolic Room, Los Angeles, California
Charles Bukowski, the gritty and unapologetic writer, was a regular at The Frolic Room in Los Angeles. While he was more inclined towards cheap beer, he occasionally dabbled in cocktail experimentation, blending his own concoctions in the seedy corners of the bar.
Edgar Allan Poe and The Horse You Came In On Saloon, Baltimore, Maryland
Edgar Allan Poe, the master of the macabre, was no stranger to the allure of a good drink. His favorite haunt was The Horse You Came In On Saloon in Baltimore, where he was rumored to have enjoyed a drink before his mysterious death. While his preferred libation remains a mystery, he undoubtedly found inspiration in the dimly lit corners of this historic establishment.
Exploring the Literary Connection to Libations
The connection between famous literary figures and bars is a testament to the power of libations as a source of inspiration, solace, and camaraderie. These authors, each with their unique preferences and quirks, found their muses in the corners of these establishments, where conversations flowed as freely as the drinks.
As you sip on a Negroni, Martini, Gimlet, Sazerac, or any other classic cocktail, take a moment to toast to the writers who found solace and inspiration in the world of bars. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of Fitzgerald's Oak Bar, the bohemian spirit of Kerouac's Vesuvio Cafe, or the timeless allure of Wilde's Café Royal, remember that the legacy of these authors lives on in the pages of their works and in the ambiance of their favorite watering holes.