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This Macdougal Street staple manages to fit right in with the falafel stands and local dives, while never taking itself too seriously. The front bar is indistinguishable from the neighborhood’s countless touristy pubs, but the back room, with its liberal seating and Vegas floor lighting, is a great spot to hear live music and drink $15–$25 pitchers. Acts range from bluegrass to folk to belly dancers, with karaoke after ten that’s at its drunken best on Saturday nights. It’s heavy NYU territory, so count on $8 Jameson shots and a beer list that’s uninspired but gets the job done. Food is standard nachos and wings, at college-friendly prices. Beware the nasty bathrooms—those living in a dorm should feel right at home. — Melissa Lafsky