Tour de Lafayette

Pravda
SoHo
281 Lafayette Street (between Houston and Prince Streets)
New York, NY 10012
212-226-4944
www.pravdany.com

Follow the red light into Pravda, but don't expect any smutty shenanigans in here. Pravda provides a laid-back, slightly sexy European feel, but an all but non-existent pickup scene. Come with friends to enjoy the wide range of international and infused vodkas, amazing Martinis (especially the "French"), and cute bartenders. That is, if you can actually push your way to the bar. Pravda gets pretty crowded on weekends with very little standing room, and tables are a hot commodity and not for those who wish to drink at a leisurely pace. Still, the atmosphere is truly unique, so come prepared to spend the evening on your feet being jostled...just not by any friendly strangers.
Rating: 3 stars


Puck Fair
SoHo
298 Lafayette Street (at Houston Street)
New York, NY 10012
212-431-1200
www.puckfairbarnyc.com

Irish bars are a dime a dozen in New York, but Puck Fair is by far one of the better ones. I'll put it out there, it's even far superior to its sister bars Ulysses and Swift. Named after one of the oldest street festivals in the Emerald Isle, this tri-level bar stays true to its roots in decor, libations, and overall good times and good people. The mural above the bar on the main level is quite impressive with images of Irish life and sheet music for folk songs. Puck's "Fare" (yes, they went there, don't laugh at the messenger) is of the traditional Irish variety, and the patrons and staff are just as friendly and social as those you would expect in the countryside pub of your daydreams. My night at Puck Fair is filled with fond but hazy memories, and I blame it on the extensive and ever changing selection of beers including everything from international seasonal brews to the ole standbys of Guinness and Bud Light. If you're coming with a group try to procure one of the semi-private wooden nooks, some of which are adjacent to the bar and thus eliminate standing up to refill...perfect for us Irish lasses who would prefer to rest our feet while we drink ourselves giddy!
Rating: 4 stars