Hot child in the city

Let’s face it, not all of us are glamorous enough to jet away to Fire Island, the Hamptons or Montauk on the weekends.  So, I’ve created a short list of places to stay cool in the HOT city:

SOHO Grand, The Yard (SOHO)

I loved the SOHO Grand bar before… with the elegant décor, luxurious sheer white curtains, Alice in Wonderland-like furniture and too-chic-to-let-me-in crowd, but it got even better with the recent opening of an outdoor bar and lounge area called “The Yard.”  Twinkle lights, garden showers, and lounge chairs make this the sexiest summer happy hour and evening spot in town. 

Be sure to tell the manager Aron hello and compliment him on his ability to look cool and strapping while sporting a three-piece suit in humid, ninety degree weather.  Yeah, we’re impressed.

http://www.sohogrand.com/dining-nightlife/the-yard/

Smith & Mills (TriBeCa)

If you can locate it, and squish inside, you may find yourself stuffed into a two-top next to the likes of a celebrity… or five while sipping a delish and kitschy cocktail of the season.  This small, and I mean tiny, bar manages to serve fantastic little bites too.  Personally, I like oysters and prosecco.  You’ll fall in love and make this place a regular.    

http://www.smithandmills.com/

Apothéke (Chinatown)

I’ve always had an obsession with European apothecaries, so when I went to Apothéke, I felt like all my ailments were cured.  This tiny old-world bar is tucked down a quiet alley in Chinatown and is sure to have a line of patrons waiting for a “prescription,” as they label their cocktails.  The bartenders all wear pharmacist frocks and pour delicious concoctions from antique glass pharmacy bottles.  Best part, the prescriptions are created with fresh fruits and herbs grown on the rooftop!      

http://www.apothekenyc.com/

Little Branch (West Village)

The first time I paid Little Branch a visit I thought that they must have closed their doors or relocated.  Found on the corner in the basement of an abandoned looking building, you would never know that a bustling speakeasy hides below.  I highly suggest that you let the bartenders recommend a drink for your palette.  I tried a twist on the traditional gimlet.  I love the metal stirrer straws and the evenings when Little Branch hosts live jazz bands.  Guaranteed to satisfy!  But be sure to bring cash.

http://littlebranch.net/