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 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 as well as Rogue & Canon. Swet is also a partner at JIMMY at The James New York and Chicago and formerly at Cole’s Greenwich Village. He also serves at the head mixologist for The Skylark and cocktail curator for The Elm at King & Grove in Brooklyn and The Roger Hotel in Manhattan.


Swet maintains his passion for art and has had many solo and group art shows across the country.

  

David Rabin

David Rabin brings many years of varied nightlife and hospitality experience to this collaboration at Jimmy. Most recently David has partnered in the opening of The Skylark in midtown and Cafe Clover in the West Village, as well as the launch of Jimmy at the James Chicago. In 2010, David partnered in the launch 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. 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 (now NYCHA) and was the Founder and President (6 years) of the Meatpacking District Initiative (now MPIA). He currently serves on the executive board of the Times Square Alliance.