Top Places For Someone’s First Night Out In NY
We actually ran into this problem not too long ago. It was our friend’s first time in New York and we had to give some recommendations as to where to go. We really wanted something that was unique to New York but not something that had a really tough door policy (we’re talking Provocateur status) that they would be discouraged to try anywhere else. At first we were a bit stumped since we wanted to “wow” our friends on their first night out without having them think New York is some pretentious place where you have to buy your “coolness” to get in. But after some thinking we thought of a few places that would be perfect for someone’s first night out on the town. [Photo via]
#1. Le Bain: As far as nightspots go, Le Bain is perfect for anyone who isn’t from America. Though on Tuesdays the crowd can be a little bit out there for some, on other nights the crowd is very international and you get to meet a very diverse group of people. Also, the hot tub in the middle of the club is something that you really don’t get at most places and the rooftop lounge has stunning views of the Hudson River and the rest of the city. We’d recommend Le Bain over its neighbor The Boom Boom Room since Le Bain’s door policy is much more relaxed than their pretentious neighbor (though we must say, as pretentious as it is, they do make some of the best cocktails in the city). Oh and you can’t leave without seeing the bathrooms. [Photo via]
#2: La Esquina: We know La Esquina is a restaurant but it’s also a great place to grab drinks after dinner. The atmosphere is unparallelled and the food is shockingly good. as well You can make reservations by calling 646.613.7100 and we haven’t had too much trouble snagging a table during the weekday at 8 PM or 9 PM. Through the door marked employees only and through the kitchen lies a restaurant that looks more like a chic Mexican dungeon. Grab a cocktail with Tequilla since that’s their specialty and make sure to order the Rotisserie Chicken with the Green Beans…and you might want to order a second side of green beans as well…because they’re just that good. [Photo via]
#3. Lavo: Let’s all be honest, there aren’t many big clubs in New York City and even fewer actually provide a good time. Strategic Group‘s Midtown Las Vegas import, Lavo, is one of those few big clubs that draws in a good crowd. The DJs that play at Lavo are some of the best in the city and the service provided at Lavo is outstanding as well. There usually is a cover charge and what ever you do, don’t leave your ID at home. Lavo is the closest thing New York has to a big and grand club and we’ve always had a great time whenever we come here. [Photo via]
#4. Not Your Standard Bingo: This really is one of the most, if not the, most unique party in New York City. Make reservations about a week to two weeks in advance for Sunday night bingo at The Standard Grill. This party is actually quite inexpensive and provides a great time that you really won’t experience anywhere else in New York. To participate in bingo, cards are provided for free and the only thing you pay for is alcohol (we recommend the punch bowls for $55 that can serve about 6-8 people). After bingo ends, the restaurant turns into a full on dance party so it’s almost like you’re getting to parties in one. You can make reservations by calling The Standard Grill at 212.645.4100. [Photo via]
#5. PDT: We know everyone and their mother knows about PDT (Please Don’t Tell) but you have to admit this is a pretty damn cool speakeasy. You enter through the hot dog shop called Criff Dogs and look for a phone book. You enter the booth, pick up the phone, dial 1 and wait for someone to open the other side of the phone booth. Once you’re inside you’ll get to sample some great cocktails in a cozy atmosphere. PDT accepts reservations but only for the same day which you can make by calling 212.614.0386. [Photo via]
