Blake Olmstead: Either I'm oblivious to lechery or this place really is just a great place to spend a night out without pretense. Even if you don't like country music it's still a fun, energetic spot.
70 Lincoln Center Plz (at Columbus Ave), New York, NY
Opera House · Lincoln Square · 218 tips and reviews
Blake Olmstead: Because you can't not like it. I've sat in the last row and the first, I've had partial view balcony seats. It's beautiful and humbling no matter what.
280 Bedford Ave (btwn Grand & N 1st St), Brooklyn, NY
Ramen Restaurant · Williamsburg · 33 tips and reviews
Blake Olmstead: The tonkatsu broth is tops, but next time, I'm ordering extra chashu. Some of the tastiest I've had. The decor isn't terribly exciting but they make ramen right.
30 Water St (btwn Broad St & Coenties Slip), New York, NY
Cocktail Bar · Financial District · 487 tips and reviews
Blake Olmstead: If you can find the elbow room in this always-lively joint, you won't be disappointed with the abundance of whiskey and perfectly-balanced cocktails.
Mexican Restaurant · Crown Heights · 291 tips and reviews
Blake Olmstead: Worth the trip to the neighborhood. Tamales and a side of rice and beans makes for a killer light dinner. Polish it off with a mescal cocktail.