PJ Clarkes

Although the history of this building is somewhat shrouded in myth and mystery, it is known that it was constructed at sometime during the 1860s. A mixed use building, it became the bar and restaurant known as PJ Clarkes in 1912. Although this neighborhood has changed drastically since this bar opened, transforming from a rough neighborhood of Irish and German immigrants who lived in the shadow of the elevated Third Avenue train line, into the thriving business district that it is today, PJ Clarkes has changed very little and still offers up good food and drink, packing them nightly into its cramped bar.

Nearest Subway Stop: 51st Street/Lexington (4) 6 E (V)

Scenes at this Location

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  Photo Copyright Paramount Pictures 1945
  The Lost Weekend
  Directed by: Billy Wilder
  Starring: Howard Da Silva, Ray Milland
  Although the scenes of Don Birnam drinking in this bar were actually shot on a soundstage in Hollywood, the set was a very detailed and faithful replication of the interior of PJ Clarkes, right down to the stuffed cat in the corner. It was here that Don returned again and again to feed his alcohol fueled weekend.