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Set on a bustling Upper West Side block, this popular bar has a reputation for inspiring bibulous bemusement, whether among the post-grads who refuse to give up the beer pong; or the slightly less-rowdy 30-something locals who scream over a game of billiards or foosball after being lubricated by a daily half-price special on everything the fully stocked bar offers: more than 35 bottled beers and 15 drafts to start. If this sounds overwhelming, Jake's offers a backroom for chatting. No TV. No games. No Pearl Jam. Just a mishmash of sunken armchairs and old estate-sale couches. The neatly shelved ancient books (which are clearly for décor), and low, red ceiling add to the feeling that you’re quaffing a pint in an old-moneyed family's library. That is, until the screams and drinking chants from the front room start to bleed in. — David Farley