This little French-Morroccan restaurant is a perfect place for meeting artist friends and, of course, great escargot.

Perfect cocktails, chicken fat rice, and a REAL fireplace. One of the coziest spots in Greenpoint, particularly in the winter. Its "off the beaten path" location keeps out the bridge and tunnel goons, so you're likely to meet actual locals. Good for dates, solo thinking, or a small group. 

A masterpiece of LGBT art has been restored in what may now be the most valuable restroom in America.

The Ear Bar has been in New York longer than any of us. In a city of vacuous fleeting trendy bars the Ear Bar (which is really called the Ear Inn but I've never called it that) is the real deal.

Their coffee—all brewed from carefully sourced Nicaraguan beans—is truly delicious.