Just because summer is over does’t mean you’re out of haute options. Fall is here and the city is bursting with openings; here are the five you don’t want to miss.
Rumpus Room
In an adult version of Where The Wild Things Are, Rumpus Room takes form. The iconic Lower East Side venue was formerly the Sapphire Lounge and has now re-emerged as an exotic spot for drinks and dancing. Gulla Jónsdottir of G+ Designs is responsible for the Rumpus Room’s haute new look. Here burnt wood and bamboo walls, light coconut color floors and a sleek copper bar will surround you. Amidst the décor will be a revolving cast of notable downtown DJ’s, prosecco on tap and cocktails. So if you feel like letting lose in a place as wild as you are, head to this new mini-nightclub. Let the wild rumpus start.
249 Eldridge Street
The Garret East
If you haven’t heard of The Garret, you should probably get out a little more. And if you do decide to go out, make sure to check out their new East Village outpost The Garret East. Your host for the evening will be the brand’s spirited and sly Raccoon mascot, Rocco. As a haute host he shares his treasure trove of his eclectic yet sophisticated tastes. As his guests, patrons are invited to sip cleverly crafted cocktails in an eccentric yet cozy environment. The narrow space, designed by Jeffrey White, is equipped with haute new bar features like whitewashed brick, hand sculpted stucco and re-purposed mother of pearl. Don’t miss out.
206 Avenue A
Xanadu
Just when you thought rooftop season was over, it isn’t. Xanadu is the haute new year-round rooftop spot overlooking McCarren Park and the Manhattan skyline. You will find this sleek champagne lounge located on the roof of the McCarren Hotel. While they have small bites, their cocktails are the true stars. Think Amaretto Sours with Caffo Amaretto, NY Distilling Rock & Rye, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, and Orange Juice. Delicious.
8th Floor Rooftop, McCarren Hotel and Pool, 160 N 12th St
Bar Goto
This new cocktail den is ideal for an intimate outing. Bar Goto is the creation of Pegu Club alum Kenta Goto. While they also feature Japanese tapas, we’re here for the cocktails. Try unique feats like a “Improved Shochu Cocktail” with barley shochu and aged gin, and surprising concoctions with miso, shiitake, and tomato. It’s like nothing you’ve ever tried before.
245 Eldridge St
Drexler’s
This new East Village option boasts an endless bar with seemingly endless possibilities. In a two-story venue on Avenue A you’ll find Drexler’s. One floor features a 35-seat bar and the other a lounge is complete with a piano. It’s a rustic vibe for modern drinks; like their Mezcal Especial with Ilegal Mezcal, falernum, ginger, lime. They also have a simple food menu to satisfy your drunchies in the form of charcuterie served with breads and spreads. The struggle is not real.
9 Avenue A
