We have all come to appreciate the endless free-flow of beer in the taprooms of our favorite eating clubs. But for the more adventurous types willing to shell out some cash, the monotony of Princeton's nightlife leaves much to be desired. If Ivy Inn and Triumph Brewery aren't your scene, take a quick one-hour train ride into New York City.
Even the most finicky socialite will find the perfect nightspot among the countless bars, lounges and clubs New York has to offer. Whether you desire cheap drinks or crowded dance floors, we have compiled a list of ten of the most popular bars and lounges in Manhattan.
Hudson Bar & Books, 356 W 58th St. between 8th & 9th Aves, is the laid-back version of the more trendy, busy Hudson Bar (the main bar in the Hudson Hotel). If a posh place is what you desire, check out the main bar, since celebrities and models are known to make an occasional appearance. A lot more dancing goes on at the main bar, since the "library bar" attracts those who just want to chill. But beware, drinks are not cheap by any means. That said, the "library bar" offers a very cozy and comfortable ambiance with a fireplace and couches where patrons can play chess or simply sip, or chug (if you so choose) drinks. And who can resist playing pool on a purple pool table lit by an oversized dome light?
The Ear Inn, 326 Spring Street in Soho, is a great dive bar dating back to 1817. Though there is no dancing, it still attracts large crowds with its relaxed atmosphere. Formerly known as the James Brown Inn, this Irish pub provides a laid-back environment and cheap drinks. The outdoor seating is another plus as spring rapidly approaches. If you love good Guinness, this might be the spot for you.
K-Lounge, 30 W 52 St. between 5th & 6th Ave., is the new Kama Sutra-themed lounge above the popular Indian restaurant Bombay Palace. Aside from the Indian-inspired decor, the DJs play practically anything from jazz-funk fusion to old-school Prince along with the typical DJ sets. As "kama sutra" essentially means "story of love," K-Lounge has become an ideal place to take a date. The comfy pillow room in the back is an added bonus, not to mention the delicious mini kebab and samosa snacks.
Vol de Nuit, 148 4th St & 6th Ave, is the perfect place to just sit back and have a few good drinks with friends. As a Belgian beer house, it has an endless amount of tasty beers to try, and you can even get them in yard glasses! If beer is not your thing, it also provides a good selection of wines. Though it is trendy and great for socializing, it doesn't get overcrowded which is always a plus. The imported Euro music tops off the intimate ambiance, making it a great place to meet people.
Sway, 305 Spring St. near Greenwich & Hudson St., is a small, trendy west Soho lounge that is great for dancing! Moroccan-Turkish inspired décor gives it an added flair and draws a large crowd. Though there is no cover charge, it might be difficult to get in if you are not dressed fashionably. But if you are looking to meet new people, you should check this place out because it is known to attract a huge meat market.
Brass Monkey, 55 Little W 12th St. between Washington & West St., is the new trendy pub in the meatpacking district. Its great location and friendly vibe attract a big crowd, especially with its choice of 20 beers on tap. Still can't find your beer? No problem. They also have 35 bottled varieties from which to choose. Check out brassmonkeybar.com for more information.
The Magician, 118 Rivington St, is an ideal spot for those of you just looking to relax with friends and have some cheap drinks. Not at all pretentious, this bar may bring some relief for those of you looking to get away from the stress of passes and members-only nights at the Street. Rumor has it they have happy hour on Sundays from around midnight till closing, so those of you who don't have Monday classes — or who don't plan to attend — may want to check this place out.
Glass, 287 10 Ave. between 26th & 27th St., is a hip lounge down on the Lower East Side. The colorful drinks, like caipirinhas and mojito rosa, attract a trendy crowd, so make sure not to wear sneakers. Appealing to an eclectic audience, the music ranges from house to hip-hop. It boasts an outdoor area as an added incentive. Best of all, their unisex bathroom has a one way mirror. So when people are busy adjusting themselves, everyone in the bar can see what they are doing. Though everyone knows this little fact, after a couple of drinks, few actually remember, making for some hilarious entertainment!
XL Lounge, 357 W 16th St., is an ideal spot for those of you looking to visit a gay bar. This trendy lounge is a great place to meet people, though the drinks may be slightly pricey. The relaxing atmosphere is conducive to socializing with friends. The décor is also unique, with a fish tank in the bathroom and a VIP room hidden behind a 2-way mirror. Henrietta Hudson at 438 Hudson St, a lesbian bar, may be more your thing if you are looking to dance.
Madame X, 94 W Houston between Thompson & Laguardia St., is a trendy lounge covered in velvet reds. It has an upstairs lounge and cozy alcoves ideal for conversing with friends or dates. The bar's diverse music selection includes jazz, dancehall, hip-hop and reggae. For you smokers out there, don't worry about the hassle of getting back in after a smoke — the outdoor garden in the back is a great spot for those necessary breaks.
Other popular bars/lounges include Opal on East 52nd St., Fiddlers Green (now known as C4) on West 48th St., Whitehorse Tavern on Bridge St., Whiskey Blue in the W Hotel, and Fat Black Pussycat on Macdougal St.
If dance clubs are what you desire, you may want to check out: Bungalow 8 on West 27th St.; Lotus on 14th St. and 9th Ave.; P.M. on Gansevoort and Greenwich; Suede on 23rd St. and 7th Ave.; Marquee on 10th Ave. and 27th St.; Culture Club on Varick and King; Aer on 13th St. and 9th Ave.; APT on 13th St. and 10th Ave.; Le Souk on Ave. B and 4th St.; and what list of clubs would be complete with mentioning the ever popular Copacabana on 34th St. and 11th Ave. Be forewarned, clubs are always more difficult to get into than bars/lounges, so make sure to dress to impress — no sneakers!
Read More
Princeton Zoning Board of Adjustment approves renovations to Tower and Charter Clubs
Sena Chang and Isaac BernsteinOn March 27, the Municipality of Princeton’s Zoning Board of Adjustment approved construction developments for Tower Club and Charter Club. Renovations for both clubs are aimed towards improving accessibility.
On March 27, the Municipality of Princeton’s Zoning Board of Adjustment approved construction developments for Tower Club and Charter Club. Renovations for both clubs are aimed towards improving accessibility.
Students support local businesses with new platform Zage
Jack AllenAfter hearing about the struggles faced by a number of these restaurants after students left campus in mid-March, Dilbagi created Zage, an online platform that allows community members to send money to local businesses now to redeem as credits on their purchases in the future.
This fall, go beyond the 'Bubble'
Dora ZhaoEven though classes are picking up, weekends are the perfect time for students to escape the Orange Bubble. While going out to eat on Nassau is enjoyable, there is so much to see beyond Princeton. For those looking for a day trip or a chance to explore the area outside of Princeton, here is a list of ideas to do this fall.