NYC's 3 Best New Bars: Fall 2011 Edition
JBird at the Hilton Garden Inn
251 W. 48th St.
New York, NY
(212) 956-1300
jbirdny.com
Getting to JBird will take some advance planning--not only is the bar hidden below penthouse bar XVI, you'll also need to make a reservation first. Take the hotel elevator to the top floor, follow the bird logos, and head down a staircase past two exit doors. Once inside, you'll find a handsome lounge fit for the cast of Mad Men featuring leather banquettes, two fireplaces and crafty cocktails mixed by skilled bartenders. Try the Lavender Lining (blanco tequila, lavender-infused bianco vermouth, orange curacao, lime juice and lavender froth) or the Sadie Hawkins Sling (bourbon, falernum, pear brandy, apricot liqueur, lemon juice, pineapple juice and tiki bitters), which is served in a pineapple for two. For reservations, send an email to reservations@jbirdny.com.
Silver Lining
75 Murray St.
New York, NY
(212) 513-1234
Tribeca adds another gem to its selection of nightlife destinations with the opening of Silver Lining. Beneath a cast iron townhouse you'll find a 102-seat jazz and cocktail lounge from Little Branch veterans with a baby grand piano taking center stage. Silver Lining's array of small tables draped in white tablecloths makes it a swanky alternative to the modern bar, as well as a great spot to bring a date and catch live performances.
Café de La Esquina
255 Wythe Ave.
Brooklyn, NY
(718) 393-5500
esquinabk.com
The 1952-era Wythe Diner has been transformed into the Williamsburg outpost of the trendy Esquina taqueria. Grab a stool or a booth in the chrome dining car and pair your Mexican fare with sipping tequila, draft beer or spiked shaved ice. Cocktails include the Luchador Fizz (Siembre Azul Tequila, egg white, cream, lemon juice, lime juice, simple syrup and a dash of orange flower water) and the Margarita Sandia (Gran Centenario Plata, watermelon, mint and agave nectar).
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Selena Ricks-Good writes about drinks and produces events as The Dizzy Fizz.