If in search of the location that the cool kids of the Lower East Side naturally migrate to once they land a full-time job, look no further than the glamorous Lobby Bar and lounge, located within the hip Ludlow Hotel. Always over-packed with movers and shakers nutting out deals over cocktails from Major Food Group’s acclaimed bar director, Thomas Waugh, the venue’s atmosphere teeters between rustic antique and flashy brasserie bling, with mood lighting throughout being seductive enough to make you let down your defense plan in front of your would-be takeover target. From the Muddy Water creation – a mix of cumin-rye, Irish whiskey, cinnamon, xocolatl mole bitters and absinthe rinse – to the Pigalle – a bourbon and ancho chile concoction, given a tangy edge with a splash of fresh orange and lemon juice – the ambitious menu is as delicious as the people-watching eye candy of your surrounds. Playing on classic cocktails with a European-inspired riff, the lineup is heavy on the use of French aperatifs like pastis, absinthe and more. A block north of Soho House offshoot, Ludlow House, the space is said to be a second working space for creative folk in need of a bit of downtime from playing cool.
If planning to stay once happy hour dies down, grab yourself a reservation at Dirty French, a Parisian fusion bistro from the chefs Rich Torrisi and Mario Carbone, the space has a distinct lived-in appeal, with well-worn burgundy leather banquettes, ‘70s-style floral arrangements and high, wood-beamed ceilings, with hot-pink felt roosters peppered throughout making a subtle nod to the hedonistic sensuality of the infamous cabaret house Moulin Rouge. Ironically, the iconic martini of the same name is notably off the menu, but with such an inventive twist on the originals on offer, your palette will thank you for the upgrade. Grab an Instagram shot under the florescent pink sign emblazoned with the restaurant’s name outside and opt for a late-night visit to experience the restaurant’s transformation into a swanky supper club.
