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"The Riv" makes a persuasive argument for the kind of buffalo-wings-and-draft-beer lifestyle associated more with Big Ten college towns than with the West Village. Though 16 TVs show non-stop gridiron and hoop action, the real sport here is people watching: The Riviera's split-level, glassed-in layout affords an unobstructed panorama of the always-bustling street. Draft choices are pre-microbrew unimaginative, and the menu is tailored to those who think fried is a food group. The happy hour deals extend to most top-shelf booze, but the best offer yields a burger the size of a softball on a Kaiser roll, with fries and a pint for $8.95. — Bruce Bennett

Sat.–Sun., 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; $11.95 prix-fixe, includes one drink.