Hoy Wong

Hoy Wong (born August 22, 1916) was an American bartender. He was a notable media personality in New York City. Born in Hong Kong, he was the oldest person to hold such a position in New York.

Biography

Wong fled Hong Kong in 1940 during the Japanese invasion of China and ended up in San Francisco, California, where he joined the US Air Force and learned English. Wong served in both China and India until he was discharged due to war injuries. He then established himself in New York City; afterwards he began his lifelong bartending career. Over the years he has served celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, who he remarked "...was very nice", and Judy Garland, "...[who] was lovely. She liked to drink. She liked it a lot." He also served Joe DiMaggio, John Lennon, and Henry Kissinger.

He worked at the Algonquin Hotel, in one of the oldest bars still operating in the city. He was commemorated for 27 years of work in 2006, which made headlines; some of the over 300 guests at the ceremony were previous customers, including some who were underage at the time. Wong had served them anyway and they came to give him thanks. Wong credits his longevity to healthy living and a relaxed attitude. "It doesn't matter what happens," he said. "Turn around, I can forget it."

Hoy Wong retired in 2009.