A Classic NYC Bar, 18 Stories Up.

18 stories high atop The James Hotel in Soho, Jimmy is a contemporary interpretation of the classic pub, with a 1970’s New York twist. The atmosphere is intimate and refined, with lingham wood floors, swank modular furniture, dark cinnamon glazed tile walls, and a working fireplace – all surrounded by 14’ windows with panoramic views of Midtown, Wall Street, the Hudson River, and the bridges spanning the East River.

Unlike typical rooftop bars, Jimmy is a year-round destination. In colder months, guests gravitate towards the inside conversation pit – a freeform lounge area with plush upholstered seating, midcentury era Arco lamps, and exotic wood side tables. In warmer weather, the experience spills onto the roof deck, where guests can enjoy chaise lounges, and unparalleled city views.

Cocktails, served from a freestanding central bar, are based on classic American inspirations, each expertly prepared using syrups and bitters made in-house, fresh-squeezed juices, and garnishes and herbs picked fresh from the hotel’s own organic garden.

Jimmy was conceived and developed by hospitality veterans Larry Poston, Johnny Swet, and David Rabin, with a design by three-time James Beard Award winner
Thomas Schlesser.

Team

Johnny Swet

Johnny Swet moved to New York City in 1992 to establish a career in art, but instead found himself climbing the echelons of the food and beverage industry. Quickly rising to management ranks by ensuring quality food and service at such New York landmarks as The Bowery Bar, Balthazar and Pastis, Swet became a well-recognized fixture in the industry, working as Front of House Manager for The Park in Chelsea and as General Manager of Freeman’s restaurant. Swet has used his strong sense of style to create the interiors of the Marlin Hotel and Rex Restaurant in Miami. He is currently a partner in as well as the Food, Beverage and Service Manager and Director of Art and Design at Hotel Griffou, which he founded with Larry Poston.


Swet maintains his passion for art and has had many solo and group art shows across the country. He attended Arizona State University and served 7 years in the US Navy.

  

Larry Poston

Larry Poston is one of the most sought after and respected names in New York’s food and beverage industry. For the past 10 years he has managed and developed such famed restaurants as Keith McNally’s Pastis in the Meatpacking District, Geoffrey Zakarian’s Town in Midtown and The Waverly Inn in the West Village. His experience and deep knowledge of fine dining and service have led to increasing customer volume, earning him the top positions at his previous positions. He is a partner and front-of-house manager for Hotel Griffou in the West Village, which he founded with Johnny Swet.


Poston has also worked at Andre Balazs’s Los Angeles hotel Chateau Marmont. He holds a degree in theater from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

  

David Rabin

David Rabin brings many years of experience to this newest collaboration at Jimmy.  Most recently David has partnered in the opening of The Lambs Club in midtown.  Prior to that, he was a partner in the nightclub and restaurant Lotus, as well as The Double Seven, a cocktail lounge which will re-open later in early 2011 in a new location.  David was also an original owner of Union Bar, which he and his partners sold in 2004.  Prior to that, they developed Vbar in Las Vegas; Manhattan Express; the first “Western” supper club in Moscow; and began his career at Rex, a small club and restaurant that in many ways was a predecessor to Lotus.


David entered the hospitality field after several years as an attorney, having attended Columbia Law School and Tufts University.  He served as President of the NY Nightlife Association for 9 years and is currently President Emeritus, and is the Founder and President of the Meatpacking District Initiative.