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The W Hotel chain's "Whiskey" bar franchise is (inexplicably) a powerful draw for drinkers, but Rande Gerber's non-Whiskey lounges at these hotels are much more appealing. While Whiskey Blue, the Lexington W's other bar, is all attitudinal staff and throngs of rowdy, drunken suits, at the Oasis, you might actually be able to snag one of the shabby chic lounge chairs—not to mention a smile from a bartender. The space offers upscale bar food, such as Thai grilled shrimp. A few hotel guests are thrown into the mix, adding to the roster of business people and the poorer yet better-dressed publishing corps. — Matt Dobkin