L'Americana

At L’Americana in Gramercy, you can rack up a big bill on yuzu-mustard-gin sours without trying too hard. But the $21 drinks are thoughtful, balanced, and worth your cash. The Italian spot comes from the team behind Martiny’s, one of our favorite special occasion cocktail bars in NYC. L'Americana feels a bit more lived-in though, with comfy leather booths, exposed wood from the building’s foundation, and a marble bar. In addition to expertly made cocktails, they have Italian snacks and pastas. You’ll end up spending an arm and a leg if you have a full dinner, and the food isn't the reason you're here. So come with a date or a few friends and stick to snacks like black arancini brightened up with citrus zest.

photo credit: L'Americana