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Great pool halls are the ones with lots of brass, oak, and tables with those frilly leather pockets, right? The kind of joint where you introduce yourself as Mad Dog Sharky the Cat and no one bats an eye? Nowadays, such places feel contrived, as the gruff hearts of most old-time pool sharks have likely stopped beating. Which is what makes the un-saloon-ish Fat Cat the ideal place to hang out, drink beer, and talk plenty of shit over a few rounds of eight ball at a bargain $5 per hour. Located underground, it has the ratty psychedelic feel of a saltwater aquarium circa 1976. The 11 pool tables, though, are all kept in top shape.

Tuesdays feature live Salsa music starting at 8:30 p.m. The rest of the week, Jazz combos take the stage. (There is a $3 cover.)

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Best of New York Awards

• Best Pool Hall (2001)