Old Town Bar
Address: 45 East 18th Street
Phone: 212-529-6732
Website: oldtownbar.com
This old pub is such an essential part of New York culture that it was once featured in the opening sequence of David Letterman. It's still the same as it was two generations ago down to the huge wooden bar and the tin ceilings. The beer and drink selections are quite limited, but the historic atmosphere, good basic burgers and other traditional grub continue to make it a local favorite.
Olives, W Hotel
Address: 201 Park Avenue South (at East 17th Street)
Phone: 212-353-8345
Website: www.toddenglish.com
Not to be confused with its late-night Underbar sibling in the same hotel, this chic little lobby bar offers cushy seating, interesting martinis and caters to a youngish professional crowd. The location right off of the Union Square Park is hard to beat.
Veritas
Address: 43 East 20th Street
Phone: 212-353-3700
Website: veritas-nyc.com
Thousands and thousands upon thousands of bottles of wine. Really. Veritas claims to have over 3,000 wines available for your sipping pleasure. Many of them are also available by the glass. If that's not enough to get you going, you can also sample Chef Scott Bryan's awesome dishes. A gourmand's dream.