VIBE

West Village locals pack into the communal tables at this inviting spot for chef Roberto Passon’s Venetian tapas and glass after glass of the interesting vinos on offer. In case you’re not in the mood for cozying up with a glass of something vintage in the homey wood-floored dining area, the white tiled bar offers a decent number of seats and is staffed with savvy mixologists who specialize in Prohibition-era cocktails.

CROWD

A hip mix of foodies, wine lovers, and the cool kids out for a cocktail.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

We’d go for an upscale casual look that’s got some European or West Village style to it, like a sweater, silk scarf, jeans, and knee high boots.

GO HERE WITH

A date - for a romantic glass of wine and sharing small plates; friends - for chatting around one of the communal tables

WHY WE LIKE IT

Two words: Venetian meatballs. Oh yeah, and the great wine picks, comfortable atmosphere, and reasonable prices are pluses too.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

It’s ALWAYS packed, so expect to be squeezed.

GOOD TO KNOW

Many of the wines have interesting back stories, like they’re from funky organic vineyards or made by fearless female vintners.

CLOSEST COMPS

AOC (Los Angeles); Turks & Frogs (New York); The Ten Bells (New York)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.