Once your eyes adjust to the dark, you’ll see why New Yorkers covet the mysterious charms of NoHo’s Temple Bar.
For most, it’s love at first sight of the stained wood, black marble and dim deco sconces, which is why fans refuse to have a drink here with just anyone.
Tucked in the shadows, you get the feeling this timeless asylum has been here a lot longer than you, and will be here long after. It’s a feeling worth saving for an escapade with real potential. At the very least, it’s a good place to look for one.
The draw aside from the elegant atmosphere?
There are the strong drinks (try the mango martini), a staggering vodka list, bowls of popcorn on the tables, fluid piano music and lovely lady legends of jazz murmuring in your ear.
Without gimmick or theme, here’s a bar for adults that says you’ve made it.
Temple Bar, 332 Lafayette St. (between Bleecker and Houston streets), (212) 925-4242.