full bar

The inviting Clinton Street bar serves small plates: cheeses, oysters, salads and tartare. The bartenders are friendly and the room cozy. 29 Clinton, near Stanton 212-979-8471 Hours Sun and Tue-Thu, 6pm-1am; Fri-Sat, 6pm-3am; Mon, closed Web site

Rayuela means "hopscotch" in Spanish, which tells you pretty much everything you need to know about the food here. It's a creative Latin menu, drawing from many different countries. Among the best entrees: fried-plantain “mofongo” balls stuffed with pork,...

Wylie Dufresne brought fine dining to Clinton Street in the 90's. Now at WD-50, he continues to innovate, creating some of Manhattan's most outlandish and surprising dishes. For full effect, choose the 12-course tasting menu for $140. 50 Clinton Street,...

A French bistro with Brazilian and African accents, a laid back vibe and a party atmosphere in the late evenings. The grilled steak marinated in spices from the Ivory Coast, a Brazilian seafood stew and the lamb shank tajine...

The popular Austrian spot features tasty homemade sausages, cured meats and cheeses, interesting salads and a great selection of imported beers and wines. 79 Orchard (near Grand) 212-219-9545 Hours: Daily 4pm-1am Web site

A German couple, Amrei Schmitt-Fumian and David Wiesner, patterned this hidden gem on the memorable island restaurants frequented on their many trips to southern...

At the end of Freeman Alley (off Rivington), Taavo Somer and William Tigertt created an enchanting hideway, offering fancy comfort food in "hunting lodge" surroundings.  "A rugged, clandestine, colonial American tavern," as they call it.  There are three bars...

A Scottish gastropub featuring a large selection of scotch and whiskeys, plus a pretty ambitious menu (including a number of chactuterie plates). 115 Allen Street, near Delancey 212-460-0915 Hours: 6 p.m.-11 p.m, Sun-Thurs; 6 p.m.-midnight, Fri-Sat Menu

A gussied up taqueria and tequila bar (150 varieties) from the Spitzer's Corner team. The exapnsive lower level has a clubby feel. Private rooms are available. 109 Ludlow, near Delancey 212-228-8383 Hours 5pm-4am Web site

Known best for its rollicking weekend brunch, Essex serves an American menu with Jewish and Latin touches. The restaurant also has weekday happy hour specials. 120 Essex, at Rivington 212-533-9616 Hours Mon-Thu, 6pm-midnight; Fri, 6pm-1am; Sat, 11am-2am; Sun, 11am-11pm Web site