VIBE

Though the name “The Ten Bells” name isn’t exactly uplifting for those who catch the reference (it alludes to the London pub where Jack the Ripper singled out his victims), this 30-seat LES wine bar actually dishes up feel-good factor with its organic wines and bites. Its short but sweet selection of all-natural wines is scrawled in tiny print on a chalkboard along the wall, and all pair well with the curated menu of small plates. The dimly lit space (read: romantic!) is set beneath a stairwell and features a pressed tin ceiling and rustic bare brick walls. Result: despite its sinister label, cooing couples continue to be lured to this romantic semi-hideaway, where mellow jazz and flickering votive candles only enhance the quality organic flavors of both sips and snacks.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

It’s fairly casual here; we’d wear a chic top and jeans or capris. (If on a date, we’d posh it up a bit more with a flirty dress.)

GO HERE WITH

A friend; date; significant other

CROWD

Trendy Francophiles, local neighborhood types, daters, and a handful of oenophiles.

WHY WE LIKE IT

The wines are always distinctive, and we like how there are always interesting surprises on the constantly rotating wine list.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The cash-only policy is inconvenient.

GOOD TO KNOW

This charming venture comes from the owners of the now-closed Le Pere Pinard (one of our old haunts). The organic wines on the rotating list of 50-ish selections are supplied by small producers from across Europe (mainly France). Happy Hour runs from 5:00pm-7:00pm, with USD 1 oysters. Cash only.

CLOSEST COMPS

the room (New York); the otheroom (New York)

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