The Campbell

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In 2017, the exclusive semi-secret bar in Grand Central Station re-opened under new ownership to the dismay of its coterie loyal fans, however they needn't have worried: The original bar, now called simply The Campbell  has been left untouched. As a historic landmark—the bar is in the one-time private office of wealthy railroad executive John Williams Campbell—new owners The Gerber Group couldn’t have changed it if they wanted to. Instead, they opened two more additional spaces. Each of the three bars now boasts entirely different vibes but shares one drink list. And it’s best to stick to the classics here. The martini is excellent, but— even though a whole section of the menu is dedicated to them — you’re better off giving the Old Fashioneds a miss, they are watered down and far too sweet.

Just down the stairs from the apartment, Campbell Palm Court has the feel of a lobby in a turn of the century colonial hotel: classy but casual, exuding a low-key exuberance. The third bar, the Campbell Terrace, is the one most likely to offend purists’ sensibilities: the very casual outdoor seating in what used to be a taxi rank wouldn’t seem out of place catering to the lunch crowd on Wall Street. Still, it is fun, and easy-going, and come summer is likely to be a welcome addition to the sometimes-staid train station. — Charley Lanyon

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