Profile

Once a sleepy old man's neighborhood bar, Spring Lounge (better known as the Shark Bar—take a peek in the back room to find out why) has had a modest make-over that hasn't really changed anything but its coterie. Sure, the generic tap options have been replaced by a blackboard draft menu featuring a rotating, semi-exotic variety of pints, but with the same low prices in place, this type of gentrification doesn't seem like such a bad idea. That said, with the restless, fun-seeking foot traffic streaming among Spring Street's new or improved drinking destinations, this corner tavern feels more like a funky tourist joint on Bourbon Street than a Nolita local. — Bruce Bennett

 Spring Lounge now offers free bagels at brunch starting at noon on Sundays, while supplies last.