240 E 9th St
(Cross Street: Between 2nd Avenue and 3rd Avenue)
New York, NY 10003
(212) 979-2733
Directions: 6 at Astor Pl; N, R, at 8th St; L at 3rd Ave

This is one of those places you can't see from the street, it's a hidden, rustic, sake bar below ground level. They have Stevie's favorite sake (Bishonen) and tasty snacks (the okonomiyaki is exceptional). A fun place to go and stay awhile but don't try it with more that four people, it is small and doesn't work for larger groups. Not open until after 8pm.

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42 Rivington St
(Cross Street: Between Eldrige Street and Forsyth Street)
New York, NY 10002
(212) 254-1675
Directions: F, V at 2nd Ave

A cozy wine bar with a wide selection of reasonably priced wines. They have great light (not lite) fare; French sandwiches and quiche and a fantastic charcuterie plate.

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506 13th St
(Cross Street: Between Avenue A and Avenue B)
New York, NY 10009
(212) 254-0979

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8 Stuyvesant St
(Cross Street: Between 9th Street and 3rd Avenue)
New York, NY 10003
(212) 777-5415
Directions: 6 at Astor Pl; N, Q, R, W to 8th Street

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27 Ave A
(Cross Street: 2nd Street)
New York, NY 10009
(212) 505-2466
Directions: F, V at 2nd Ave

This is the place where we met. It's a block from our apartment. Michal works there. It's pretty much a perfect bar. Needless to say, it is our favorite.

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website
End of Freemans Alley
(Cross Street: Rivington Street, between Bowery and Chrystie Street)
New York, NY 10002
(212) 420-0012
Directions: F, V at 2nd Ave

The unusual location would be enough to make a trip to Freemans worth it but they back it up with some of the best food we've had on a regular basis in the city. If you go, you MUST order the artichoke dip. Reservations only for parties 6 or more.

Great old-fashioned cocktails at the bar (there are two, one in front and a second in the back room).

Also check out their off-shoot retail store, Freemans Sporting Club, with men's bespoke clothing and barbershop, located at the entrance to the alley.

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