You need to make a reservation for L'Artusi years in advance... or at least the week before, if you try a walk-in then ask to be seated at the bar, as always in New York that is the best seats at any of my favorites restaurants.

Bluestockings Cooperative is a community-supported bookstore and activist space.

Make sure you know the size of your party when you arrive, or the formidable looking bouncer may give you a hard time at the door (they prefer no standing inside, all parties must be seated), but once you’re in, the drinks are fantastic and the staff is friendly and accommodating. In addition to cocktails, Pouring Ribbons features an impressive selection of Chartreuse.

Good vibes bar with some of the best food-next-to-your-drink in the city.

Patisserie Tomoko is a French/Japanese bakery tucked away at the base of a condo building on Union Avenue. Patrons are seated at a U-shaped bar that overlooks their busy open kitchen, allowing you to feast on their sweet delights, while you sneak peeks at how pastry Chef Tomoko and her talented staff create. Known for their Prix Fixe menu that pairs wines, teas, or coffee with three courses of sweets as divinely delicious as they are beautiful, Tomoko also offers à la carte desserts like my favorite year-round pumpkin pie (unlike any you’ve tried before), or you might choose layered yuzu or green tea cakes, divine cream puffs, and a variety homemade ice creams and sorbets. Freshly baked yuzu doughnuts appear on the weekends. And no matter when you visit, Billie Holiday will likely be singing soulfully to you as you sup.