The Rum House: A Midtown Escape

On 09 April 2024 by Kevin Phinney

Looking to minimize the distance between the midtown Manhattan rat race and the nearly instant relief of a swank neighborhood watering hole? The Rum House at the Hotel Edison provides a warm and inviting solution to your quest.

rum house

Images courtesy The Rum House.

Known for their deep understanding and presentations of All Things Rum, this unassuming spot has a lot going for it—not the least of which is a warm and inviting staff, libations that provide ample social lubrication, and a steady stream of musical acts to relieve any residual stress.

They're the home of a terrific Rum Hot Toddy (made with Santa Teresa 1796 Rum, fresh ginger, cinnamon and honey), and their always-in-demand Rum Punch, which includes white and dark rum, lime juice, pineapple juice, simple syrup, Peychaud’s, and Angostura bitters.

rum house interior

There are snacks, including pretzels (from Sigmund's), a nut dish that's really more a cracker-based party mix, and, although we missed it when we visited, a just-the-basics hot dog. No matter. This is a wood-paneled haven in halflight, where great cocktails are made and friendships are forged, and whether you're looking to avoid New York's winter chill or beat the heat of a summer day, you can't go wrong with a Rum House rendezvous.

228 W. 47th St,, 646-490-6924, therumhousenyc.com

Sunday-Thursday: 4pm-1am
Friday-Saturday: 4pm-2am
Happy Hour: 4pm-6pm

About the Author

Kevin Phinney is a journalist/broadcaster who has worked in print and online, in radio and television. He is the author of a book that examines black and white race relations seen through the prism of music, from 1619-present called “Souled American: How Black Music Transformed White Culture,” published by Billboard Books. He is also a former staff member of The Austin American-Statesman and The Hollywood Reporter. His work has appeared around the world in PREMIERE and Metrosource magazines and liner notes for Rhino Records and other labels. He is one of the former hosts of “Kevin & Kevin,” an award-winning morning drive radio program on KGSR-FM in Austin, Texas.

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The Rum House: A Midtown Escape

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