[Flickr/Live The Lush Life]
Looking for love in all the wrong places? Below is a list of some NYC bars that not only attract singles, but the sort of people you may actually want to date for longer than a New York minute. And hey, if it doesn’t work out this Valentine’s Day, at least you can enjoy the scenery and lick your wounds with some delicious drinks.
Kingswood: This Aussie-owned West Village restaurant is known for its attractive staff at both its main level restaurant and downstairs lounge. For a relaxed scene, sit under the skylight at the U-shaped main bar where you can easily make eye contact with other singles, or for a more scandalous vibe, head to the dark, sexy basement, furnished with plenty of nooks for impromptu makeout sessions. Great for guests staying at the Washington Square Hotel. 121 W. 10th St.
Von: Although the secret is out that this wine bar with a new liquor license attracts smart, sexy singles, it’s still a great place for scouting new prospects. Cozy and candlelit with lots of interior brick, the bar oozes a mellow vibe that makes approaching strangers seem so nonchalant. That, and there’s minimal seating, so you’re almost forced to mingle. A quick walk from the cozy Bowery Hotel. 3 Bleecker St.
The Summit Bar: A relaxing mix of understated cool and serious cocktail lounge, this bar has ambiance that attracts couples and the unattached alike. Everyone looks good under the warm glow of the stunning chandeliers, and the cocktails, with intriguing ingredients such as cinnamon bark and shiso leaf, are conversation starters in themselves. 133 Ave. C.
Macao Trading Co.: The main floor is an Asian fusion restaurant, but downstairs is a sultry lounge designed to look like a 1930’s opium den. Sophisticated late-night crowds come for the cocktail menu, created by the people behind Employees Only. Exotic libations like the “Drunken Dragon’s Milk” (green tea vodka, coconut puree, Thai basil, and five-spice bitters) will loosen you up for some flirtatious encounters. Stay at nearby Tribeca Grand Hotel for a quick walk (or stumble) home. 311 Church Street
Rusty Knot: At this nautical-themed bar with sunset views of the Hudson River, the scene steers young, attractive, and hipster. Between the kitschy rec room decor, low-priced tiki drinks, jukebox, and 50-cent pool table, this bar has the sort of casual vibe needed to approach otherwise-intimidating cuties. And if you stay at the economical Jane Hotel around the corner, you can afford to splurge on an extra round or two of drinks. 425 West St.
– Selena Ricks of The Dizzy Fizz
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