Madeline's Martini

Madeline’s is a grown-up bar in a part of town that isn’t known for grown-up bars—and from the outside this speakeasy-ish spot on Avenue C does look more like a graffiti-covered dive. But behind a little red lamp embossed with “MM” is a sophisticated, candlelit lounge with high tops, a vintage cigarette machine, and a big peacock mural. A darker back room with a DJ and comfortable leather and velvet seating is ideal for a first date. So are Madeline’s martinis, mixed with things like blackberry liqueur and coconut rum, which you'll want to order like scoops of ice cream. Try a few different kinds along with a caviar sandwich, but note that these cocktails are bigger than most. You might just be on second-date talk by the second drink.