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This venue is closed.

There are eight million stories in the naked city...and at least as many bands. Up-and-coming venue Rothko's genius bookers cull the best and showcase them every night: indie darlings like The Killers and The Shout Out Louds honed their acts on this starworthy lofted stage just before hitting MTV. Red lighting and red walls create a color-field effect that vaguely recalls the bar's dead-artist namesake. The name is the only pretentious thing in evidence: cheap, generously boozy drinks are served up sans attitude at the large wooden bar, and the young, earnest crowd is usually too busy having a good time to bother posing. In addition to a balcony area and a more intimate second bar downstairs, there's lots of floorspace for fans to stand as they nod appreciatively. Monday night's Hip-Hop Karaoke draws crowds with an hourlong, stage-fright-eliminating open bar. — Emily Gould

Trademark Drink:  Vodka tonic