Now that I am familiar with many of the bars and lounges in my area–The East Village and Lower East Side–it is becoming more difficult to find somewhere new to try. I force myself to seek out restaurants & bars I haven’t tried but often gravitate to the places with great service and a fun crowd. 
The Horsebox on Avenue A has become my staple game watching spot. During the entire NBA Playoff series I watched many a game at this stark Alphabet City bar. Why do I love this spot? Come once and shake hands with the bartenders and they ALWAYS remember your name. They have great drink specials and every Wednesday night is ladies night which means all well drinks, select beers, and house wine are only $3. Do you want to actually hear the game you came to watch? They will often turn it on the speakers for you if you ask nicely. They don’t serve any food though so hop across the street for a slice or grab a pie and bring it back to the bar. This bar isn’t anything fancy but it has definitely become one of my favs.
Much to my dismay I was convinced to watch a few NBA Final games in Williamsburg at Mulhollands. I assumed that no bar in the ‘Burg would be a good sports bar. After all, most hipsters don’t know anything about sports. I was proven wrong and fell in love with this bar; so much that we decided to watch the final Heat vs. Thunder game here. This bar was so loud and packed with fans from both sides. The chanting and cheering continued throughout the game. I felt like I was at the game! I hear that during the NFL season this is a great Sunday spot and they’ve got good wings to boot!
V Bar has been one of my go to spots for awhile now. I love bars that aren’t dark and make you feel like you’ve stepped into a cave. I think that’s what strip clubs and casinos do so you don’t know what time it is. This bar is great because half the bar is windows. In the winter you can stay warm but still enjoy the daylight and in the summer they open the windows and you can sit on the couch and enjoy a cold beer at happy hour or grab a bite from their delicious menu. They also have a nice bar and after you’ve had a few drinks you can throw back a shot of espresso and keep the night going. If you just want to catch up with a friend there is a lot of seating and it’s not insanely loud.
Bleeker Bar is for you if you like billards and cheap beer. They boast a happy hour with $4 16-ounce Yuengling and Bud Light. Throw the bartenders a ten dollar deposit and they’ll give you darts to play on one of their three boards. Put a couple bucks in the jukebox and jam out while you try to hit the bullseye. They also have several pool tables, Buck Hunter, and a Photo booth! What more could you ask for!? 
If you are dying to dance in the East Village than Ella should be on your list. While there is a velvet rope they seem to be less concerned with what your wearing and more concerned with the evening of the guy/girl ratio. I’ve been here to just lounge and grab a cocktail and another time to watch a friends show. I had a great time both times I went there but I had no idea the downstairs area turned into a crazy dance party. The music was great and our crew had a blast dancing the night away. It was 3 a.m. before I even looked at my watch!
If your in the mood for an unpretentious, good time then hit up these East Village & Williamsburg locations. What are some of your go to bars and lounges in your area?
Great post. I’ll have to check some of these out!
Thank you! I hope you do. (o: