01/26/2026
History came alive last Wednesday night at Pete’s Tavern as owner Steve Troy hosted an unforgettable evening of dedications and storytelling. We traveled back 120 years to the NYC of O. Henry with a captivating conversation between Abe Yagoda (author of Alias O. Henry) and NYU professor and historian Martha Hodes.
But the magic didn’t stop at the history books. We were honored to have Barbara Bemelmans—the real-life inspiration for Madeline—alongside Ludwig’s grandsons and great-granddaughter, as we officially declared Table 2 the “Bemelmans Booth.” It was at this very spot that Ludwig conceived the first pages of his beloved masterpiece.
The Highlighlights:
• The Towles Booth: We officially renamed Table 18 in honor of our friend and contemporary literary giant, Amor Towles, whose family broke in their namesake booth.
• A Trip Down Memory Lane: Barbara Bemelmans shared heartwarming memories of dining at Pete’s in the 1940s. While her parents enjoyed after dinner drinks, a cigar and lively conversation in the back dining room, a young Barbara would sneak down to the old basement kitchen to chat with the cooks and dishwashers.
• The Atmosphere: Between the soulful sounds of The Patience Higgins Trio, the Pete’s Old Fashioneds, the veal stroganoff, and the spirit of Old New York, it was a night for the ages.
Next time you’re at Pete’s, grab a seat at Table 2 or Table 18—you never know what masterpiece might be sparked there next. ✍️✨
OHenry Madeline NYCClassic GramercyPark
