Why Did You Drink That?

More coming soon!

Whether catching up with a girlfriend, meeting for a first date, or cutting loose with colleagues after a rough day at the office, New Yorkers enjoy a good cocktail! Here are a few places to drink up and let your hair down:

Dive Bar:

Raccoon Lounge

59 Warren Street

212-227-9894

They will laugh at you for trying to order a glass of wine, the bartender looks like Weird Al Yankovich, and they have the best jukebox in the city.  Need I say more?

Themed Bar:

Rusty Knot

425 West St. (near 11th St.)

212-645-5668

Brought to you by the same owners as Spotted Pig, this hidden oasis serves up mai tais and $1 beers.  Rustically nautical, there is a fishtank, pool table, and well-equipped jukebox. If you get hungry while sipping on your dark and stormy, try the pickles (yes, a bowl of pickles) or the mini sloppy Joe’s.

Hidden Gem:

The East Side Company

49 Essex St. (near Grand St.)

212-614-7408

If you don’t know what you’re looking for, you will absolutely walk right by this place.  This dark and cozy hideaway is owned by the same people as the legendary Milk and Honey.  It is much more low key (and drinks priced much lower).  It’s a great place if you want to just be left alone. Fun fact- since they don’t serve food there, you can order in whatever your little heart fancies.

Exotic Cocktails:

Macao Trading Co.

311 Church St. (near Walker St.)

212-431-8642

Anyone who knows me, knows this is one of my favorite places right now. The crowd is good looking, the door is discreet, and the drinks are out of this world. My favorite on the list is the Kaffir Jimlet, but also try the Drunken Dragon’s Milk and if you really want to take it to the house try a Dr. Funk.  After you’ve had a few and snacked on some of their delicious small plates, head downstairs to the sexy lounge. 

Clever Door:

PDT (Please Don’t Tell)

113 St. Mark’s Place (b/t Ave. A and 1st Ave.)

212-614-0386

After entering through the phone booth located inside of Criff Dog’s, you will be welcomed by a swanky speak easy type of bar serving up bacon flavored scotch and specialty hot dogs from next door. If you’re looking to have a sit down, be sure to call ahead for reservations.

Sports Bar:

Warren 77

77 Warren St. (near W. Broadway)

212-227-8994

If you’re looking to watch the game with a somewhat civilized crowd, this is the place for you. Brought to you by the same folks at Smith and Mills and Beatrice Inn, they’ve somehow managed to create a “chic” sports bar (sounds like a total oxymoron, I know). The place can get crowded quickly, so calling in advance for a table is probably your best bet.