scene: Slightly funky old/new vibe; skylight keeps the dining room light, and the big dark wood bar in the bar is impressive; the library will be cozy in the winter but is a little dark now
sip: A list of 30 custom cocktails is offered; when we asked for some guidance we were met with slight attitude, but the bartender eventually came around; well-rounded wine list full of surprises
savor: Trout; Snap pea salad; Winner Winner Chicken Dinner
sit: With at least one other person to share the chicken; with your parents, foodie friends from out of town, friends who live in the neighborhood
scene: Cozy and airy at the same time, with dark wood floors, light walls, bright art and large scale flowers
sip: Speciality cocktails are offered, and they are more than happy to let you try any wine by the glass before you commit
savor: Bacon and cheddar biscuits; Pulled Pork sandwich
sit: With anyone really, but it needs to be people that are open to waiting for a table; good for co-workers, a date (if the date is a foodie), or even parents for an early bite
spend: $$
address: 42 East 20th, between Broadway and Park Avenue South
scene: Hong Kong in the Financial District; a rich, warm bar gives way to a hallway with glass enclosed wine cellars and private rooms on each side, which leads to the main dining room; best seats are the deuces against the wall of the glass enclosed kitchen, the action there is worth watching
sip: Sparkling Sake for dessert; champers, wine
savor: Lobster, Escolar, ANYTHING
sit: With anyone who appreciates a fine dining experience; for a special occasion; JUST GO
scene: Spaniards to the left of me, Germans to right, stuck in the middle with you; Dressed up visitors and UES residents alike sharing bottles of wine make this place feel very adult; tons of servers running around and managers creeping keep it sophistcated but not stuffy; there are several rooms but no Siberia that we noticed
sip: The Anniversary Cocktail, which is a belini with raspberry and lychee
savor: The menu changes seasonally, but the egg, the truffle pizza, and both cheeseburgers are staples that will never lead you astray
sit: Anyone who appreciates the Shmance; with out of town visitors or family; seems like a great place to eat prior to carrying on an illicit affair in a room upstairs, but UES cheaters might need to beware
spend: $$$
address: The Mark Hotel, 25 East 77th Street, between 5th and Madison
Pants at a Glance
