A Guide to JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's New York City Hangouts

From The Odeon to Indochine, here are some of the New York spots where the famous couple spent their time.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy were New York icons in the 1990s, known for frequenting various restaurants, bars, and nightclubs around the city. While their goings-on captivated the public, the couple enjoyed visiting a roster of go-to spots, many of which are still open today.

Why it matters

Kennedy and Bessette-Kennedy's lives and relationship were heavily scrutinized by the media, making their favorite New York City haunts of interest to the public. Understanding where they spent their time provides insight into the couple's private life and the city they called home.

The details

The couple was known to visit a variety of establishments, from casual neighborhood bars like Walker's to high-end restaurants like Indochine. They were also spotted at now-closed nightclubs like Tunnel, Nell's, The Limelight, and Palladium that Bessette frequented before meeting Kennedy. The show "Love Story" by Ryan Murphy depicts the couple's first date at what appears to be Panna II, an Indian restaurant in the East Village.

  • In the 1990s, Kennedy and Bessette-Kennedy were a prominent New York City couple.

The players

John F. Kennedy Jr.

The son of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who was known for his high-profile relationship with Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy

The wife of John F. Kennedy Jr., who was known for her fashion sense and the couple's high-profile life in New York City.

Ryan Murphy

The creator of the television series "Love Story", which depicts the relationship between Kennedy and Bessette-Kennedy.

Elizabeth Beller

The author of the book "Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy", which serves as the source material for the "Love Story" series.

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The takeaway

Kennedy and Bessette-Kennedy's favorite New York City haunts provide a glimpse into the private lives of two of the city's most famous residents in the 1990s, highlighting their appreciation for the diverse range of dining and nightlife options that the city had to offer.