October 15, 2009

Bill’s Bar & Burger New York

Tiny new corner spot for patties and dogs serves some of the best beef between two buns (a classic, simple burger at its sublime best).

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Cheap, Hangover Cure

September 8, 2009

Blue Ribbon Bakery New York

Downtown’s beloved brunching, lunching, and supping staple never disappoints. Convivial atmosphere has guests lingering for hours (with the waitstaff!) — enough time to justify ordering chocolate chip bread pudding for dessert.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Brunch, Good for Groups

September 8, 2009

Hugs New York

Late-night spot where a young crowd with asymmetrical haircuts dances to electro-pop and indie bands while sipping local beers (if their budgets allow). The long, tunnel-like space has a stage at the back and games like Skee-Ball in the front.

  Brooklyn, Food & Drink, Divey, Hipster

September 8, 2009

Joseph Leonard New York

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Breakfast, Brunch

September 8, 2009

La Esquina New York

Saddle up to the corner taqueria or reserve a table at the tequila-friendly speakeasy below the street (enter through the kitchen). Beware of overly styled patrons swarming the sidewalk.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Birthday Parties, Celebrity Sightings

September 8, 2009

Pegu Club New York

A new-school sanctuary for old-school cocktailing. Mixologist Audrey Saunders sets a new standard for drinking and swilling at this cool, upstairs, vaguely colonial bar and lounge. The emphasis is on historic, researched, meticulously crafted drinks and snacks that lessen their devilish impact.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Classic Cocktails, Late Night

September 8, 2009

Smith & Mills New York

Tiny gem in an otherwise quiet neighborhood. Nautical touches and homemade drink recipes make you feel like a stowaway. Note the deco elevator that’s been turned into a bathroom. Clever (if small) dining menu hits the spot after a hard drink.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Brunch, Design Junkies

September 8, 2009

Bar Carrera New York

Simple, cozy, concrete bar with high stools, small Basque plates, and plenty of strawberry sangria.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Late Night, Light Bites

September 8, 2009

Blue Ribbon Sushi New York

The aptly named downtown sushi joint is modern, intimate, and wonderfully satisfying. The sake box spilleth over (until 2 a.m. nightly).

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Celebrity Sightings, Hot Date

September 8, 2009

Corner Bistro New York

Always packed and catering to the post-party scene with good, greasy burgers, fries, and more beer if you need it.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Cheap, Late Night