In 1986, sibling owners Maguy and Gilbert Le Coze opened Le Bernardin in New York after finding phenomenal success with their flagship restaurant in Paris, established in 1972. The duo won numerous accolades at the helm of this culinary destination, and it has continued to thrive under Chef Éric Ripert, named executive chef in 1994. Seafood has been the inspiration behind the menu at Le Bernardin since its conception. The tasting menu takes diners through courses filled with delicacies like Osetra caviar, Dungeness crab, Lobster Tail, and Black Bass. Patrons can also enjoy delectable small plates and handcrafted cocktails from the lounge if they wish to do so.
For those who crave for a little IPA with their Donkey Kong, Barcade just might be the place. The lovingly designed space combines hand-crafted pub furnishings with several truckloads of classic arcade games. Draft craft brews are the specialty of the house featuring East Coast heavy hitters like Peekskill and West Coast humdingers like Lagunitas, but there is also a full bar. So whether you like a shot of Jim Beam before a round of Centipede or a goblet of Belgian-style strong ale to accompany a rousing Ms Pac-Man tournament, Barcade can probably accommodate you. See website for frequently updated draft list, special event announcements, Happy Hour info and more.
PDT (which stands for Please Don't Tell) is a "secret" bar on St. Mark's Place. A call from a phone booth in Crif Dogs (the adjacent restaurant) is the only way to get in. Once accepted, a secret door opens up in the phone booth, leading to PDT. It's not much of a secret anymore though, because the club is hugely popular. Once inside, you'll find a crowded bar area steeped in darkness. The inventive cocktail selection is superb and a major draw. If you're hungry you can also order from the Crif Dogs food menu, which gets delivered to the club via a small pass. A visit to PDT is quite an interesting experience indeed.
Le Bain is popular both amongst regular party-goers as well as celebrities, with its unique interior design making lounging both luxurious and fun. Le Bain, which translates to "bath" in French, is also popularly known for the plunge pool located on the dance floor during the summertime. Although extremely exclusive and often requiring invites to get in, those who manage to enter are rewarded with a beautiful view of the city from the rooftop and excellent service from professional bartenders mixing up great cocktails and concoctions.
Apothèke is one of the many "speakeasy" type bars found throughout Manhattan. This sanctuary located on this hidden alley in New York's Chinatown has plenty of old-fashion panache, though the drinks may be a bit on the pricey side. The bar replicates an old-world apothecary, proudly displaying antique medicine bottles and old-fashioned chemistry equipment. This bar is manned by expert bartenders who sport white lab coats and dispense alcoholic "prescriptions" (as they call them) like the Mata Hari, Femme Fatale and Dr. Ruth, which are created with the Apothèke's house-blended absinthe and other elixirs.
This upscale sports bar-styled nightclub offers patrons a classy place to enjoy the finer things in life, most notably cigars, drinks and sports. Comfortable leather couches, large high definition screens and a selection of sports memorabilia give the 40/40 Club an inviting environment. For the true sports fan, keep an ear to the bar to find out about exclusive events like signings and personal appearances by the creme de la creme of the sports world, including Barry Bonds, Alex Rodriguez and Jose Canseco.
Edison Ale House is situated near the indoor arena, Prudential Center. It is popular in Newark for its tangy burgers and wings, as well as craft beers. Savor hamburgers like Ale House and Margherita, accompanied by sides like Crispy Calamari and Edison Wings. Your meal is complemented by a selection of draft beers, including the citrus-flavored Blue Moon and the fruity Goose Island Honker's Ale. Unwind with inventive cocktails like their tequila-infused 1800 Italian Margarita and the rum-based Coco Beach. If you haven't had enough of sports at the Prudential Center, more than 10 television screens broadcast major sporting events. Head here during their Happy Hours for the best deals on drinks.
Located in the center of Newark, this famous bar has a long history with the locals. The atmosphere remains the same with the murals of Ireland on the walls, but the clientèle is forever evolving as the decades change and a cross section of Newark crowds the bar. The chef's special recipes of Chili Cheese Burger and Southwestern Turkey Wrap are worth trying. Voted one of the best bars in America by Esquire, this place is a must visit for the sense of nostalgia felt here.
Located on the Rutgers campus, Kilkenny Alehouse is a popular college student hangout. Their "Recession Specials" are a great deal, especially the two dozen mussels. On tap you'll find Guinness (of course), along with a variety of other imported and domestic beers. Besides beer you'll find tasty and reasonably-priced pub food and frequent live music--all perfect for a great night out.
The atmosphere at Mompou is reminiscent of a European bistro, with exposed brick walls and wooden beams. The food is just as delightful. Featuring Portuguese tapas and entrees, you'll find such things on the menu as Spicy Chorizo and "Vierias Santiago" - seared scallops over a bed of corn and pequillo salsa. There's an extensive wine list and wine bar as well, to complement the delicious fare.